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Publishing Ethics Resource Kit
Plagiarism complaints
Plagiarism is committed when one author uses another work (typically the work of another author) without permission, credit, or acknowledgment. Plagiarism takes different forms, from literal copying to paraphrasing the work of another.
Read more about judging whether an author has plagiarized
Literal copying
Literal copying is reproducing a work word for word, in whole or in part, without permission and acknowledgment of the original source. Literal copying is obvious plagiarism and is easy to detect by comparing the papers in question.
Substantial copying
Substantial copying is reproducing a substantial part of a work, without permission and acknowledgment of the original source. In determining what is "substantial," both the quantity and the quality of the copied content are relevant. Quality refers to the relative value of the copied text in proportion to the work as a whole. Where the essence of a work has been reproduced, even if only a small part of the original work, plagiarism may have occurred. For example, a relatively short extract from a piece of music may be instantly recognizable and may constitute a substantial part.
In addition to judging the quantity and quality of the copied content, you should consider the following question: Has the author benefited from the skill and judgment of the original author? The degree to which the answer to this question is "yes" will indicate whether substantial copying has taken place.
Copying may take place without reproducing the exact words used in the original work, i.e. without literal or substantial copying. This type of copying is known as paraphrasing, and it can be the most difficult type of plagiarism to detect.
To determine whether unacceptable paraphrasing has occurred, you should apply a test similar to that for substantial copying: Look at the quantity and quality of what has been taken and also at whether the second author has benefited from the skill and judgment of the first author. If it seems clear, on a balance of probabilities, that the second author has taken without permission or acknowledgment all or a substantial part of the original work and used it to create a second work, albeit expressed in different words, then such use amounts to plagiarism.
COPE flowcharts
Resources & Case studies
The complainant must be made aware that the matter cannot be investigated unless at some point the journal editor informs the corresponding (or complained-about) author (due process).
The first stage must be a simple comparison of the relevant (two) texts. This can be a simple side-by-side comparison by the editor for the simpler forms of plagiarism or a more thoughtful analysis by the editor if paraphrasing or types of 'self-plagiarism' are alleged.
What if the editor reasonably determines that there is significant overlap of text?
Then the editor should correspond with the corresponding (or complained-about) author. In some cases for confidentiality purposes it may be best for the editor to summarize (rather than simply forward) the complaint. It may be useful for the editor to involve other peer reviewers, editorial board members, or experts in the relevant field (anonymously as to the complainant and if possible as to the identity of the complained-about authors), using standard peer review procedures, to review the texts (especially if the allegation is a more complex form of plagiarism). Legal review may be appropriate if the complainant or their publisher is alleging copyright infringement (the Elsevier legal team will provide this).
In the communication to the corresponding/complained-about author (see Form letter A1), the editor should indicate that it is possible that the matter may be referred to the institution or company where the research took place or any other relevant institution or agency (for example a funding agency) unless the author provides a reasonable explanation (accepted as reasonable by the editor). Note that the editor may believe that referral to the institution or agency is not necessary (unlike with respect to claims about authorship or fraud, where the institution has responsibility for the conduct at their institution and an obligation to investigate, plagiarism may simply be a mistake - perhaps a type of unattributed copying - or may be considered to be the personal responsibility of the author rather than an institutional responsibility).
What if the corresponding/complained-about author accepts the position of the complainant?
Then a corrigendum or retraction would be the normal remedy. Note that there may still be disagreement concerning the appropriate description.
It is normally sufficient to simply indicate that the complained-about work included substantial parts copied without attribution from a prior work.
Although the complainant may feel a stronger statement would be more appropriate - and if in fact the wrong-doer simply "passed off" someone else's paper as their own, a stronger statement would most likely be appropriate, but with legal review for defamation.
Ultimately the editor may need to make a judgment as to the appropriate language for the statement, if there is no consensus, and should do so in consultation with Elsevier staff.
What if the corresponding/complained-about author rejects the position of the complainant?
Then the editor will have to consider whether the author's explanation is reasonable. Normally the editor would also inform the complainant of the author's explanation and seek comment (see Form letter B ).
What if the corresponding/complained-about author has not responded in a timely fashion (approximately 30 days) to the editor's correspondence?
Then it would be fair for the editor to draw an inference that there is some substance to the complaint.
What if the editor has decided to involve the employing institution or company, and if that institution or company responds and indicates they will investigate and mediate the result?
Then the editor must inform the corresponding (or complained-about) author and complainant that the journal will seriously consider the decision of the institutional review. Note, however, that the editor may still determine that the result of the institutional review is insufficient or inaccurate.
As with authorship or fraud complaints, what if an institution is contacted and responds negatively or does not respond?
Then this should be reviewed with the complainant (perhaps the complainant is better placed to make the complaint directly with the institution).
What if a funding agency is involved?
To determine this, the editor should review disclosure statements or acknowledgments in the article. If so, the editor may wish to consider contacting the agency (using Form letter E).
What if the complainant and authors, or if relevant the employing institutions and funding agencies, fail to reach consensus or to act in a reasonable time?
Then the editor will be expected to make a determination, in the reasonable judgment of the editor, as to the underlying facts, and to make a recommendation to Elsevier (and possibly the society for a society journal), which Elsevier staff will implement normally through a corrigendum or the retraction process.
These are available for a second opinion. (*) Note: there may be some minor differences between COPE-recommended procedures and Elsevier-recommended procedures. It is therefore suggested that editors always discuss and agree with their publishing contact on a course of action together.. This is often the time for the editor to discuss the case with his/her publishing contact within Elsevier and agree what action, if any, needs to be taken.
Suspected plagiarism in a submitted manuscript
Suspected plagiarism in a published article
Case study: using someone else's paper as a template
Case study: Plagiarism detection
Plagiarism detection & CrossCheck
Elsevier policy on article withdrawal


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Best Fairy Tale Like Castles to Visit in Wales (UK)
Posted by Everything Zany | Last updated Nov 6, 2019 | United Kingdom | 0
When it comes to great architectural wonders, Wales undeniably has a lot to offer – most especially when it comes to castles. Surely it won't be dubbed as a "Castle Country" for nothing! It has structures so magnificent you can possibly name them the best in Great Britain.
They say Wales has more than 600 castles all over the area, disregarding the fact that it is the second smallest country in the United Kingdom. Not only are they a sight to behold but also a scenic way to learn about the Welsh history and culture.
Read More: Beautiful Castles and Palaces to Visit in the UK (England, Scotland and Wales)
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Most of the castles in Wales date back to the reign of King Edward 1. The king built these beauties in order to help him take ownership of his acquired lands and get the loyalty of the people of Wales to the English rule. Today, these medieval structures are collectively called Edwardian castles.
If fairy tale illustrations ever get inspirations from real-life architecture, then the castles in Wales are probably on top of their drawing boards. A very common feature of Edwardian castles is the series of round towers soaring above the grounds. The structures, which are stunning on their own, are made even more breathtaking by the castles' locations. Some are situated in quiet valleys while others are overlooking bodies of water. There are a lot which have been well-preserved, but a few have not been able to withstand the test of nature and time. Many have adapted modern noninvasive additions to the infrastructure in order to keep tourists engaged. Imagine seeing an animatronic dragon's lair within the castle or attending a festive Christmas fest amidst its grandiose facade!
If it is indeed true that Wales has the most magnificent castles across the United Kingdom, see for yourself. Narrowing the list of hundreds of architectural majesty is a feat in itself! Feast your eyes on this list containing the best castles in Wales.
Top Activities in Wales
More posts about Wales
If you are looking for a historic inspiration, read more here — The Most Beautiful Historic Castles in England That You Must Visit
If you want more inspirations about United Kingdom
Looking for more inspirations on other destinations, you can visit our WORLD DESTINATIONS page.
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Everything Zany
Everything Zany is a Dual Citizen Travel blog: where East meets West, showing the best of both worlds. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert - Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British – Filipina) based in Worcestershire, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award winning travel blog. Our work and contributions has been featured in Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our missions are to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visa and travel guides for travellers. Join us as we travel around the globe with a mission to share the best of the world.
Best British War Museums and Memorials to Visit in the UK
The Most Beautiful Historic Castles in England That You Must Visit
Last updated Nov 3, 2019
Beautiful Castles and Palaces to Visit in the UK (England, Scotland and Wales)
Last updated Nov 25, 2019
The Best Day Trips from Birmingham (UK)

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Fans Share What It's Like To Meet Salman Khan In Real Life And It's Not What You'd Expect
HomeEntertainmentBollywood
Updated: Aug 14, 2020, 19:34 IST
Tracy Ann
From the angsty, lover-boy in Maine Pyar Kiya to every Indian mother's dream son in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun to the role of an obsessive lover in Tere Naam… and not to forget the unforgettably entertaining Chulbhul Pandey in Dabangg – Salman Khan has been in the industry and had a massive fanbase for nearly three decade now. He's one of those stars you can love or hate, but you definitely can't ignore! Since 'Bhai' is known to be super generous with his fans, today, we scanned the internet to find out if that is indeed true. On a Quora thread, we found detailed accounts on what it's like to meet the superstar in real life. Here goes…
Image credit: Via Pinterest
Entertainment and fashion blogger Sania Sharma wrote, "I got a chance to meet Salman Khan in 2009, when he was shooting for London Dreams in Chandigarh. I was 9 years old and had accompanied my family to meet him at a local gym where he was working out. On our arrival, we saw about 100 other people waiting for him. After waiting for quite some time, his bodyguard suddenly emerged and opened the entrance of the gym which was closed all this time because of the crowd. On entering the hall (which was empty), we looked towards our left, where on a sofa, Salman was sitting with 2–3 other people (probably his and/or gym staff). His bodyguard then introduced us to him one by one and here is how it went:" Clearly unable to contain her excitement, she further writes with vivid detail, "BG (introducing my dad): Sir, this is my boss and his family wants to meet you. Salman (immediately standing up and shaking my Dad's hand) : "Hello sir, how are you?" My mother was next and Salman quickly folded his hands and greeted her and said : "Hello ma'am, how are you?" (so polite and chivalrous of him) Next, was my elder sister to whom he said : "Hi sweetheart, how are you?" and gave her a side hug! I was the last one to meet him and he bent down a bit and shook my hand saying, "Hey sweety, what's your name?" to which I replied with a wide smile "Hello, I'm Sanya". He gave me a big smile in return." If this account is to be believed, it's quite heartwarming to hear how 'Bhai' was so humble and down to Earth on the occasion.
If you don't quite buy the story above, there are several others who can't stop gushing about the time they met Khan. Marketing professional Manpreet Badyal had to say, "I met him in July this year in Vancouver, Canada. I was working in a store and he walked in with his entourage of about 10 bodyguards, along with Sonakshi Sinha, Sohail Khan, and Daisy Shah. I was breathless for all the time he was there. I asked his bodyguard for a photo with him, very politely. He said, "Maybe later. Just wait for a bit". I said, "Alright, no problem". Salman Khan was sitting on a couch behind him up until now when he stood up as soon as I said that. He said, "Come, let's take a photo". I felt that my whole life had led up to this moment and thanked God for this fate! He thanked me multiple times because I was absolutely overwhelmed with emotion to say anything at all except, "I am a HUGE FAN and THANK YOU!!!". I found him warm, polite, and nice. I will never forget his kind gesture." Hmm… No wonder his fans are so loyal!
Brand consultant Virali Modi said, "I shot with Salman Khan for the Being Human Campaign. I shot with him at Mehboob Studios in January this year and the experience was phenomenal. Salman's personality and power is out of this world. He's really humble and quite attentive. The media has portrayed him in a different light, and he isn't like that. He's incredibly handsome, funny, and modest in real life. We actually played a prank on him by naming all Shahrukh Khan films when he came. For example: "Sir, you were amazing in Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham" and so on. He took it amazingly and said, "You guys forgot my best role ever – I was amazing in Ra. One."
In the interest of fairness, we have to admit that there are also a few stories of the actor getting a little rude and annoyed on a couple of occasions. Software engineer Milind Gupta recalls, "I and a few friends met Salman Khan at the Goa Airport where he had just arrived. When we spotted him at a distance, we ran towards him like school kids. We did slow down when we came close but his bodyguards immediately came in and stopped us. One of them said, "Sir", and before he could say anything else, Salman Khan pointed his hand to ask them to move us away. Not even a single smile to respond to our greetings as he was constantly on his phone. All three of us were so sad that we didn;t speak to each other for the next two hours."
While the overall consensus seems to be that Salman is a fan-friendly actor, we'll only confirm once we verify it ourselves. Until then, we're trying not to be too cynical.
Lead Image credit: Via Pinterest
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Baby Boks thump Maties
May 18, 2016 May 18, 2016 southcapenetGarden Route News
The Junior Springboks on Tuesday night defeated a determined Maties outfit 41 – 14 in a physical encounter at the Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch.
The match marked their second warm-up game in the lead-up to the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in Manchester, England, from 7 to 25 June.
The team registered a 60 – 19 victory against a Xerox Golden Lions Under-20 Invitational side in Johannesburg last Friday in their first warm-up match.
While the result left Junior Springbok coach Dawie Theron satisfied, he admitted that a series of knock-ons and forced passes at crucial times was disappointing. The coach, however, was pleased with the team's set pieces and their ability to string together phases on attack once they had found their rhythm.
He was also encouraged by their fitness levels, which saw them score three tries in the last 10 minutes.
The Junior Boks were made to work hard for their points in the first half, and opened up the scoring with a drop goal by flyhalf Curwin Bosch.
Wing S'busiso Nkosi scored the first try in the 11th minute compliments of a smart pass by fullback Manie Libbok, which Bosch converted for a 10 – 0 lead.
Maties, however, hit back with a try from a charge-down in the 23rd minute to reduce the deficit to 10 – 7.
Centre JT Jackson, however, inflated the Junior Boks' lead to 15 – 7 six minutes before the break after rounding off a try created by his own line break. This proved to be the last points of the half.
The second half was equally tight, which resulted in Bosch kicking three penalties to stretch the team's lead, but a try for Maties from a chip-and-chase left the score at 24 – 14 with 13 minutes to play.
The Junior Boks, however, delivered a spirited effort on attack in the dying minutes, which saw scrumhalf James Hall, No 8 Junior Pokomela and centre Franco Naude cross the tryline to secure a 41 – 14 win.
Hall's try was the result of a powerful performance up-front, while replacement wing Edwill van der Merwe dashed up-field and passed to Pokomela at pace, which allowed him to bounce off a defender to touch down.
Naude, meanwhile, scored the team's fifth try on the stroke of fulltime following several phases, which Bosch converted to increase his individual tally to 16 points, and seal the 41 – 14 victory for the team.
Theron was pleased with the result, but he said they had to work hard to iron out the errors before their final warm-up match against South Western Districts in Oudtshoorn on Saturday.
"The score is pleasing, but we made too many errors in the clash, which we cannot afford in the World Championship," said Theron. "We have a lot of skill in the team, but we realised that forcing passes does not necessarily pay off.
"We had to work hard to wear them down in the first half, but when we started dominating in the set pieces, we played well. The last 30 minutes, in particular, was fantastic.
"Obviously we have to work on the passing and a few other areas before our last warm-up game, but it is a positive that we have a lot to work on, as we would like to improve as much as possible as a team."
The team will travel to George on Thursday morning where they will prepare for the clash against SWD in Oudtshoorn.
Courtesy of SARU
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Stay Options
Visit Lookout Ridge
info@portalvillage.com
We are thrilled to announce that Public Health has declared our Covid-19 Outbreak over as of this morning.
As per the Retirement Home Regulatory Authority, the Ministry of Seniors & Accessibility, and our local Public Health Unit:
We are still following Red Zone Protocol as per Provincial Guidelines
Activities may resume with reduced numbers indoors and outdoors.
The Dining Room is open again for Retirement Home Residents for lunch and dinner.
The Essential Outing Restrictions still apply, meaning doctors and pharmacy visits only. (We will make some exceptions where necessary if arranged through myself or the Associate Directors of Care)
Essential Visitors are the only visitors permitted in the building. You must schedule your appointment; have a negative Covid test (not older than 14 days) and come with proper PPE, being a medical mask and eye protection; you cannot have a meal with your parent at this time, no drinks and treats however, you can bring these for your loved on to enjoy. You must always wear your mask during your visit**
We are hopeful that as the general population begins to get vaccinated, these restrictions will lessen however we have not been given any direction at this time. We appreciate your patience while we manoeuvre through the unknown.
We also received notification from Niagara Health that they will be here on Sunday April 18th to do our Residents Vaccine Clinic for their 2nd shot. This clinic is only open to Residents. We will need completed Consent Forms once again and we will need help from some of you for this task. We will be in touch next week with more information. The clinic will run the same as March 4th with all areas being done. It is important for residents to be in the building that day.
Thank you for all your kind words and thoughts during the past three weeks. This was much appreciated.
Good Afternoon: Firstly, we would like to thank each one[...]
Hello Everyone, Just a quick update to advise you that[...]
November 16, 2020 Re: Visitor Protocol Update [...]
Within walking distance, enjoy live theatre entertainment and author readings, spend some leisure time at the Public Library, visit the Historical, and Marine Museum or take a relaxing stroll down Historic West Street.
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How Navy Personnel, Soldiers Brutalized And Urinated On A Widow, Children In Cross River
Posted By:- Wealth Nation, On December 31, 2020.
Victor Owonam, a Nigerian Navy officer, has allegedly led nine military personnel to brutalize a woman, a report by SaharaReporters has shown.
The man reportedly led the others to the residence of a widow, Mrs. Esther Bassey, and her family in Cross River State, brutalizing and dehumanizing them.
The military personnel also urinated on the widow and the family after beating them for several hours.
SaharaReporters learnt that the incident occurred on Sunday, in the afternoon when Owonam, a Seaman, and his sister, also a navy officer, stormed the widow's residence and dragged her and her four children out of the apartment.
In a petition, the Country Director of a civil society, Citizens' Solution Network, Richard Inoyo, stated that the Cross River State Governor, Prof Ben Ayade, and the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, should investigate the assault and bring the erring officers to justice.
But there was nothing stated in the petition as the reason why the navy personnel carried out the alleged assault on the family.
Narrating the incident further, Inoyo said, "On December 27, a naval officer, Victor Owonam, led his sister, also a naval woman, and eight military personnel to the residence of Mrs. Esther Bassey, an aged widow with three daughters and a son. They gave this helpless family the harshest and most violent humiliation of their lives, after cowardly beating and torturing the aged widow and her kids for hours.
"At 10pm the same day, unsatisfied with the first robust beatings given to the woman and her family, Owonam returned with his military colleagues to the apartment, pulled down the burglary of her house, dragged her and her kids out. Before they could get dressed, the military men clamped them into a vehicle belonging to Operation Akpakwu (a new Security outfit in Cross River State) and took them to Bogobiri and began to beat this family again.
"They humiliated them, urinated on them after severe beatings, continued till about 3am the next day in the dead of night before they were asked to leave in excruciating pains and humiliation. One wonders if we are in the 21st century or some barbaric 4th century where humans were treated like animals.
"Today, in solidarity with Mrs. Bassey, her kids, we and 39 other civil organisations are demanding justice for the family and calling on the Chief of Naval Staff to recall, arrest and try Owonam, his sister and the eight other military personnel who cowardly inflicted such high-level form of torture on the aged widow and her three daughters and son."
The group also called on the governor to "stand up and ensure this case doesn't get swept under the rug."
"We equally call on the highest echelon of the Nigerian Navy to ensure due compensation and apology is handed to the family of Mrs. Esther Bassey besides the dismissal of all the indicted officers.
"A country where men in naval uniforms will abuse their privileges and mercilessly beat a defenceless widow sends a dangerous and disgraceful message to both the Nigerian Navy and international community, hence the need to offer justice to these victims of naval brutality, so as to serve as a deterrent to other erring uniform men," Inoyo added.
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Join us this Saturday, March 10th for the beginning of our Teen Mini Challenge! More details found http://virl.bc.ca/teens/teen-summer-challenge
Submit your booklet at the end of the challenge for a chance to win an iPad Air!! Get your booklet at The Gold River Library
Gold River Village Council - March 5,
Suzanne Trevis
Present at the regular council meeting were Mayor Brad Unger, Councillors Rod MacLeod, Gordon Waterman and Kirsty Begon. Councillor Darcy Curr was absent. Administrator Larry Plourde was also present. There were eleven members of the public and the press in the gallery.
Open Session is the public's opportunity to ask council questions. There were no comments or questions for Mayor and Council this week so the Mayor called the meeting to order and they approved the agenda.
Minutes of the Regular Council Meeting held February 19 were approved.
There were five reports on the agenda. The first was from Parks and Recreation Manager, Mick Mann regarding proposed electrical service to six sites at the Municipal Campground. The quote was to give council an idea of what costs were involved, and the report was referred to budget talks. Mr Mann also submitted a report on planned upgrades to Nimpkish Park. Options in the report included replacement of the washrooms that were damaged by vandals earlier this year, the possible inclusion of showers, a fenced dog park, and a covered pavilion. Council also deferred this report to budget discussions.
Administrator, Larry Plourde provided council with the 2017 Climate Action Revenue Incentive Public Report. All communities who signed on to the Climate Action Charter receive an annual grant paid out of the Carbon Tax. The CARIP Report is a condition of the grant and outlines the amount of greenhouse gases the municipality produces during regular operations. Last year this included: 233 tonnes from propane used to heat the pool (3/4 of our total), 44 tonnes from diesel used in vehicles and 30 tonnes from gas powered trucks, hydro accounted for another 52 tonnes. These numbers have been going up for the last two years, most likely due to colder winters, which increase use of propane at the pool. This year the Carbon Tax Grant brought the village $9,000.
Department reports for the 4th quarter of 2017 were received from Parks and Recreation and Aquatics and Utilities. Councillor Waterman questioned a couple of items. First an item on the utilities report that indicated Island Health had presented the Village with a notice of "Proposed Terms and Conditions" for the Village's operating permit for drinking water. A request to have the compliance date extended from 2020 to 2022 was approved. The administrator explained that although the village has not had a bad sample since the system went in in the sixties, standards are not the same as they were fifty years ago. He said the potential is still there for water treatment to become necessary. The village has been advised that it would be wise to do a study on the costs involved.
The report also indicated a problem with the high level alarm on the Industrial Sewer Lift Station. Sewage for the village collects at a lift station behind the high school before crossing the river to the treatment plant at the public works yard. In the event that this tank becomes too full, an alarm should advise staff before it becomes a problem and discharges into the river. An issue with the communications equipment is preventing the alarm from contacting staff at home.
Another issue involved the installation of a water meter at the Mobile Home Park. The thickness of the pipe was preventing the meter from working properly. Staff is investigating the possibility of putting in a valve and attaching the meter to the valve. According to staff, water loss at the mobile home park is "significant".
Following the discussion on water, Mayor Unger advised he would look into what was involved in getting our community's water into the "best water" challenge.
Under Council Information Items the Mayor informed everyone that a new Deputy Clerk has been hired. Jeanette McDougal began at the end of last week. Please help us welcome Jeanette to Gold River, we wish her the best of luck in her new position. He went on to say he had received a report on the Chamber of Commerce AGM. He congratulated them on a 9 member board, the most they have had in some time. He said it was good to see the Vault open then added he was looking forward to sitting down to discuss issues of concern with them.
Gold River Days is fast approaching and the ball tournament is in need of volunteers. Other events are also going to need help. Anyone interested in helping, or running an event should contact the village office.
Councillor Begon asked council for a small budget to help with her "cut Broom in Bloom" campaign. They are looking at a weekend in May to do a 2 day blast and cut as much broom around the community as possible.
Mayor Unger addressed a question that had been asked at the last meeting regarding economic development. He wanted to know how many other small communities with populations under 1,500, had economic development officers. He contacted Kathy Lachman, Regional Manager Vancouver Island North and Coast Region, Ministry of Forrest, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, who advised that a number of communities in BC do have an economic development officer, but that most of them usually work for a region. This was either through a regional district like Mount Waddington (Port Hardy, Port McNeil and Port Alice) or through communities pooling together, like those on Haida Gwaii. All were being funded through Northern Development Initiative Trust, some form of rural dividend or though pooling resources with other communities. Larger centres like Nanaimo and Campbell River, but also some smaller centres like Parksville, Qualicum, Tofino and Uclulet, all have their economic development run by their chambers of commerce (with funding from the previous mentioned sources).
The Mayor also touched on the Economic Development study that is currently being conducted. Following discussions last summer about what could be done regarding ED, Kathy Lachman put them on to 2 grant opportunities. The first saw the formation of the Economic Development Strategic Planning Committee and Geoff Millar was hired to take the lead. Other members of this committee are: Councillor Kirsty Begon, Administrator Larry Plourde, community members Don Beggs, Rachel Stratton, John McPherson, Terry Robertson and Mark Kelly. Geoff has been meeting with other community members, organizations and businesses over the past few months. They plan to hold a community meeting sometime mid to late May to bring everyone up to date with where they are at. The second grant was for a Tourism Strategy and has only just been received.
The Mayor touched on Connect Connectivity, a federal grant to bring in high speed internet. This will be good for any internet businesses that may want to relocate to Gold River because of our great lifestyle. He also mentioned CGI video who were in town last Friday doing indoor video shoots for promotional videos showcasing how wonderful Gold River is. Previous community videos can be seen on the village's website. These videos are being produced at no cost to the village.
There were ten pieces of correspondence on the agenda, only three of them were addressed.
The Museum and Archives Society has been asked to relocate within the Jack Christensen Centre in order for the Lions and the Junior Rangers to move into the space they are currently in. There was discussion about what rooms could be used. Units 121 and 122 were the preference, with the divider wall in 122 being removed to create one big room. Council agreed and left staff to work out the details. The second item from Junior Rangers was resolved with the previous discussion.
The third item was from the Ministry of Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development advising council that the second $10,000 amount for a Tourism Strategy had been sent out.
During Question Period the press asked if this money was separate from the Economic Development money and whether there was a plan for it yet. The Mayor explained that there were two grants for $10,000 each, one for Ec Dev and one for Tourism. There was an outline of what the money was for when the application was submitted, but outside of that the money has just been received and no decisions have been made yet.
Michael McGee asked what would be different about this study versus previous tourism studies that have been done. Mayor Unger responded "I guess we'll have to wait and see." He went on to explain that the demographics of the community have changed a lot over the last decade and input from residents would help determine what direction the study would take.
Kathy Kennedy asked if anyone had been charged regarding the vandalism of the washroom at Nimpkish Park. The structure was damaged beyond repair a few weeks ago when vandals set fire to the building. No one has been caught, but it started a discussion about whether this was a problem in general. Residents who live in the area said there is a bit of partying going on, but it usually isn't a problem and teens move on if they are told to. It was suggested that better lighting in the area would deter people from hanging about and would also enable residents to better see what is going on once it gets dark. Council will have staff look into this.
With no further business to discuss in public, council adjourned to move in-camera, pursuant to the Community Charter section 90(1)(e) the acquisition, disposition or expropriation of land or improvements.
The next council meeting will take place Monday, March 19 at 7pm.


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Review: The Psychopath Test
February 20, 2012 | Uncategorized
Sometimes it surprises me how the books popular in the blogosphere aren't always the same ones as in the real world. I've only ever seen The Psychopath Test on one blog (Katie's Book Blog – click here for her review) but when I went into the library the other day, they had seven shiny new copies on the New Release shelf. Not only that, but they were one-week-loan only, presumably because they're just that in demand. I reserved my copy because I didn't realise just how many would be in stock!
What if society wasn't fundamentally rational, but was motivated by insanity? This thought sets Jon Ronson on an utterly compelling adventure into the world of madness. Along the way, Jon meets psychopaths, those whose lives have been touched by madness and those whose job it is to diagnose it, including the influential psychologist who developed the Psychopath Test, from whom Jon learns the art of psychopath-spotting. A skill which seemingly reveals that madness could indeed be at the heart of everything . . . Combining Jon's trademark humour, charm and investigative incision, The Psychopath Test is both entertaining and honest, unearthing dangerous truths and asking serious questions about how we define normality in a world where we are increasingly judged by our maddest edges.
Everybody's heard the term psychopath before, but how many of us actually know what it means? Therein lies the premise of Jon Ronson's book – what is a psychopath and why do so many influential businessmen display the symptoms? Prompted by a mysterious package sent to many leading academics, Mr. Ronson eventually tracks down the man responsible and is intrigued by his odd mannerisms. This leads to a deep investigation of psychopathy and those who suffer from it – a mature, intriguing look at aspects of the mental health regulations worldwide.
The actual Psychopath Test is a checklist devised by Bob Hare, used by medical institutions worldwide in an attempt to discover whether an individual is genuinely a psychopath. It includes symptoms such as pathological lying, lack of remorse and irresponsibility and is said to be the fool-proof method of detection. Jon Ronson meets with Mr. Hare to discuss various consequences of the existence of such a test. For example, the author frequently found himself quietly diagnosing his friends and relatives with psychopathy – like he was actually looking for reasons to deem them a psychopath.
I can sympathise. I've spent the week since I read The Psychopath Test informing The Boy that he is, in fact, a psychopath. I've even blu-tacked a list entitled 'Why Lewis is a Psychopath' to the radiator and I update it periodically. When he gets annoyed, I tell him that it's because he has a grandiose sense of self-worth – as befits a true psychopath.
It can actually have more serious consequences than infuriating your loved one, however. The author meets with Toby, an inmate at Broadmoor who pretended to be a psychopath to avoid a prison sentence. Now, years after his sentence would have ended, the authorities refuse to release him because they still believe in his psychopathy despite his confession. Similarly, an experiment was conducted a few years ago where eight 'normal' people were told to complain that they heard a voice saying three words, but otherwise act completely normal. Each of those people was incarcerated and struggled to convince doctors of their sanity. Later, the head of the experiment told the mental hospitals that more individuals were about to carry out the same concept. A month later, the authorities proudly announced they'd caught forty imposters. How many had actually been sent in? None.
So obviously the Test isn't infallible, and that's what Jon Ronson sets out to investigate. On the way, he discusses the views of different organisations on the psychological profession, a number of conspiracy theories and speaks with a few successful business men suspected of psychopathy. It's not always strictly on topic, but then at least it's never repetetive.
It has a very conversational tone – almost as if Mr. Ronson was sat across from you in a coffee shop, casually discussing psychopathy. As you do, obviously. He rambles sometimes and then suddenly realises and jumps back on track, but I like that. It never comes across as pretentious or preachy… Instead it's informal and friendly.
A quote on the cover proclaims how gloriously funny it is, but I didn't really see it that way. I mean, I really enjoyed it and I loved Mr. Ronson's 'voice,' but it's not a funny book. But hey, I think that added to my enjoyment. I'd have respected The Psychopath Test a lot less if it trivialised psychopathy or tried to joke about the consequences.
Long story short, I really enjoyed this book. It's a very, very accessible piece of non-fiction, but without talking down to the audience. I'll definitely be seeking out Jon Ronson's other work- The Men Who Stare At Goats in particular.
Review: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes
October 31, 2011 | Uncategorized
I first saw this book years and years ago in Borders when I was about fourteen. I was attracted to it by the odd sideways layout (that I can't seem to find a picture of) but then promptly forgot about it until last week when I came across it in the library. Not only was I pleased to see it, I'm the first person ever to check it out which is always a tiny thrill.
Charlie Gordon, IQ 68, is a floor sweeper, and the gentle butt of everyone's jokes, until an experiment in the enhancement of human intelligence turns him into a genius. But then Algernon, the mouse whose triumphal experimental tranformation preceded his, fades and dies, and Charlie has to face the possibility that his salvation was only temporary.
This has to be one of the most depressing books I've ever read, and I've read Sylvia Plath. It's the kind of book where you want to claw out your own eyes when you've finished so you never ever have to feel that miserable ever again. Only a very powerful book can make you feel that way, and Flowers for Algernon definitely succeeds. The last page in particular made me actually whimper with the sheer injustice. I was laid in bed at 2am (because I was that intent on finishing it) with my mouth wide open, gasping at what I'd just read.
Charlie isn't a likeable character particularly – before the experiment he is friendly yet naive, but afterwards he is so arrogant, cynical and hostile that I just wanted to punch him. Watching his rise to dizzying heights and then tumble back down can't help but make you feel for the man though. One of the most hurtful parts for me was watching Charlie realise that the people he thought were his friends had actually been mocking him for his odd behaviour. Similarly, he slowly remembers his childhood and his Mother who loathed him for being 'different.' Those parts in particular made me want to shun the human race completely and go live in a cave.
It's not an easy book to read, and not just because of the resulting misery. The first chapters are written in a very similar way to The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time as it's written as a sort of diary by Charlie himself. As his intelligence increases, so do his reports and eventually they read like a scientific report which is equally difficult to process. It's not an action-packed book by a long stretch – it's more Charlie's musings on what's happening to him and his record of the memories that are slowly coming back to him.
There is a film (called Charlie, I believe) but I never ever want to watch it. Ever. I don't think I can handle watching it on the big screen without spending the rest of the evening curled in the foetal position.
I highly recommend this book – it's written in such a subtle, changing POV that you can really empathise with the confusion Charlie feels – but not if you're feeling fragile.
Review: Wishful Drinking by Carrie Fisher
June 12, 2011 | Uncategorized
From Amazon – 'In Wishful Drinking, Carrie Fisher tells the true and intoxicating story of her life with inimitable wit. Born to celebrity parents, she was picked to play a princess in a little movie called Star Wars when only 19 years old. "But it isn't all sweetness and light sabres." Alas, aside from a demanding career and her role as a single mother (not to mention the hyperspace hairdo), Carrie also spends her free time battling addiction and weathering the wild ride of manic depression. It's an incredible tale – from having Elizabeth Taylor as a stepmother, to marrying (and divorcing) Paul Simon, and from having the father of her daughter leave her for a man, to ultimately waking up one morning and finding a friend dead beside her in bed.'
First off, I am not a celebrity autobiography reader. I'd rather be bashed on the head with a book about Katie Price than actually have to read it. However, Carrie Fisher is a whole different class of celebrity than those pop star wannabes who hash out a 'memoir' by the time they've reached the grand old age twenty-two. She's a cult icon with genuine mental health and addiction problems. Why wouldn't you want to read her autobiography?
The reason I don't usually enjoy autobiographies is because I'm pretty much only interested in whatever made that person famous, as are most of the other readers. Despite this, I'll still be subjected to a long diatribe on their childhood pet, playground experiences and relationship with their mother. Ms. Fisher's book is nothing like that. While she does mention her mother, that mother is Debbie Reynolds and so provides anecdotes that only a beautiful, movie-star mother can. The book isn't bogged down with names and dates à la most autobiographies either – it actually feels like Carrie Fisher herself has sat down opposite you and told you a little about herself.
Because that's all it is – a little. Due to ECT (electric shock) therapy and the intake of a huge amount of drugs, her memory is shot. She freely admits that there are huge chunks of her life missing, but here she's attempted to scribble down what she does remember. It's a very short book; I read it in a few hours and it's massively padded out with photos, but it works. It's long enough to provide an insight into the life of Ms Fisher, but not long enough for me to get bored and wander off like many other biographies.
'I'm a PEZ dispenser. True story. Which not only has really made my life great, but it's enhanced the lives of everyone I run into. If you can get someone to make you into a PEZ dispenser, do it. And my daughter loves it because like I told you, she's a teenager, and they love to humiliate the parent for sport, so all she has to do is flip my head back and pull a wafer out of my neck.'
I'd never have thought she was so funny. There were parts where I was laughing out loud from her dry sarcasm and wit. She's very self-deprecating about her mental health issues, which she discusses in a way that implies she understands they're serious but isn't going to cry over it. I respect her all the more for fighting the stigma of mental illness and explaining a little of how it feels.
It's not as Star Wars-y as you'd expect. Or as I did anyway – but I barely knew anything about her but that and a vague idea that she was an alcoholic. There are dozens of books about the films already though, so I suppose she didn't really feel the need to rehash what's already been said. There are a few interesting tidbits scattered around however- like it was Harrison Ford's pot that finally tipped her over the edge and Christopher Walken was originally set to play Han Solo!
'Anyway, during one of the takes, Mark was so intent on making his strangulation look realistic that he ended up bursting a blood vessel in his eye, which in turn left this bright red dot. So, the following day we shot our next scene – which happened to be the last scene in the movie. You know, the one where I give out all the medals? Mark had to grin like a motherfucker in that scene in order to conceal his red dot. Because, ultimately, who's going to give a medal to someone with a big, stupid red dot in their eye? I don't care how much force is with him.'
I can't wait for her new book, Shockaholic, that's coming out at the end of the year and I might give a few of her novels a go too.
Veronika Decides to Die by Paulo Coelo
Continuing with my apparent crazy-person reading stint (see The Swan Thieves), this is the first book I yanked out of my huge library pile. But hey, apparently crazy works for me, because I adored this novel.
From Amazon – 'Twenty-four-year-old Veronika seems to have everything — youth and beauty, boyfriends and a loving family, a fulfilling job. But something is missing in her life. So, one cold November morning Veronika decides to die. She takes a handful of sleeping pills expecting never to wake up. But she does — at a mental hospital where she is told that she has only days to live.'
By the end of the second page, I was hooked and knew that I'd be going out and buying my own copy. It begins with Veronika consuming four packets of sleeping pills and musing on a magazine article she has read about Slovenia as she calmly waits to die. That particular scene is poignant, moving and chatty yet formal. The title sums up her frame of mind clearly – Veronika has decided to die. She is not manic, crazy or passionate, but has come to the logical, quiet conclusion that she does not wish to live any longer.
She regains consciousness in Villette, a mental hospital. Here she is told by Dr Igor that her drug-induced coma has damaged her heart and she only has days to live, a concept she feels no slight sense of victory in hearing. As Veronika goes through the motions of life in Villette, she slowly comes to realise that every second of existence is a choice we all make between living and dying. Unfortunately for someone in Veronika's position, that realisation is somewhat redundant.
As I worked my way slowly through the book, I had to keep stopping and staring into space to process what I'd read. It's so moving but also accessible at the same time. As a manic depressive myself, I really appreciated how her feelings were accurately portrayed – Veronika doesn't come across as weak or needy, just a person with an illness receiving treatment.
Apparently there's a film with Sarah Michelle Gellar as Veronika, so I might have to look that up in a few days. It must have been quite a difficult book to transfer to film, so I can't wait to see how they've done it.
I've only given this four out of five stars, despite by definite intention to read and reread this book until the pages fall out. That's only because I didn't like the ending, well-written though it may have been. I know that that's a fault of mine not Mr. Coelho's, but hey… deal with it 🙂
The Swan Thieves by Elizabeth Kostova
I wasn't sure what to expect from this book really – I bought it almost exactly a year ago because I enjoyed Elizabeth Kostova's previous novel, but then it got shoved to the bottom of my TBR pile and was promptly forgotten about. Because of the time lapse and the almost blank cover, I'd even forgotten what it was meant to be about.
The cover says that – 'Psychiatrist Andrew Marlowe has a perfectly ordered life. Solitary, perhaps, but full of devotion to his profession and the painting hobby he loves. This order is destroyed when renowned painter Robert Oliver attacks a canvas in the National Gallery of Art and becomes his patient. Desperate to understand the secret that torments this genius, Marlowe embarks on a journey that leads him into the lives of the women closest to Oliver and a tragedy at the heart of French Impressionism. Kostova's masterful new novel travels from American cities to the coast of Normandy; from the late nineteenth century to the late twentieth, from young love to last love. The Swan Thieves is a story of obsession, history's losses, and the power of art to preserve hope.'
Now that I've finished the book, I think it's actually very different from how the blurb makes it sound. I was half-expecting a Da Vinci Code-esque novel where Andrew Marlowe runs around uncovering various secrets behind paintings etc etc. The actual novel is more… well, domestic than that. He's not getting anywhere with trying to talk to his patient and find out why he attacked a painting in the National Gallery, so he visits the two women in Robert Oliver's life and they recount the stories of their troubled relationships with Robert.
Because it's basically Person A talking about Person B to Person C, the consequence is that all the characters seeming a little flat, even Andrew Marlowe who the narrative follows. This isn't through Kostova's lack of trying as every single character is described frequently in meticulous detail; they just don't seem to jump off the page. They're just unrealistic. Andrew Marlowe would be the subject of restraining orders submitted by those two women if the Bookworld had any sense of justice.
The amount of detail and and effort that has been put into the novel makes it very, very long, it's not a book you can whip through. During my first sitting, I was enthralled and sat there for hours until the real world dragged me unwillingly away. After that, however, I struggled to pick it back up again until I forced myself to sit and read and th en became just as engrossed as before. So it's not a book you can read a few pages at a time – you have to be prepared to immerse yourself in the story.
Speaking of, the story really is very good. Like her previous novel, it has an original plot that I've never heard anything even vaguely similar to before. As it progresses, it shows how the lives of all the characters intertwined and left Robert alone drawing portraits of an unknown woman in a psychiatric hospital. As I already admitted, I did lose interest in the characters a little, but the twists in the story kept me reading on. Although I found the ending a little rushed and the lack of explanation regarding Robert's illness irritating, Elizabeth Kostova clearly has a gift for detailed story-telling.
Looking back, this has ended up as quite a critical review, but that was unintentional. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I will be rereading it in the future. As long as you're prepared to put some effort in and work with it, it's well worth a read.
Rating: 4 out of 5
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova
The author's previous work, obviously. It involves the myth of the original Dracula and contains just as much detail and excellent story-telling as The Swan Thieves.
The Virgin Blue by Tracy Chevalier
This novel also follows the story of a painter and contains similar flashbacks into the life of a historical character. A much quicker and easier read, but still worth a read for the historical references.
Turning Darkness Into Light (Review) by Marie Brennan
Meat Market (Review) by Juno Dawson
Bout of Books 27 – Check-In Post
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Storm Sex – Does Thunder and Lightning Make You Frisky?
Before I came into my sexual awareness, I was fascinated with storms – thunderstorms, in particular. I wanted them more than a sunny day, more than autumn. I could watch them for hours.
When my sexuality blossomed, my love of severe weather decided to come along for the ride. Now, one of my favorite things is to get freaky when outside looks like the apocalypse is nigh.
But even with all my kinkiness, I still thought it was an unusual quirk. Something others didn't really do.
Turns out I was wrong.
A CONDOMS SURVEY
Trojan Condoms surveyed 1000 people and found that over 70% of Americans said they had sex during thunderstorms and tornados, but only 27% had them during a hurricane.
It also showed that the warmer it is, the more people are willing to have sex. That's why people in places like Minneapolis only get freaky 64 times a year, but Miami takes the gold at 102 times.
SIDE NOTE: The temperature part doesn't surprise me since I know firsthand how cold temperatures can kill the libido. We want to stay warm under the covered, not fuck.
THERE ARE DEDICATED TITLES
In fact, it's a common enough occurrence that there are even formal names…
BRONTOPHLLIA – arousal from thunderstorms
ASTRAPHILIA – arousal from storms, but mostly the lightning
LILAPSOPHILIA – arousal from tornados
Some slang has even found its way onto Urban Dictionary – with the term "Thunder Buddy" meaning someone you have sex with during a storm.
BUT WHY??
That was the biggest question I asked myself.
I get the "we're stuck at home with no electricity and nothing to do … so let's screw" idea. But there have been camping trips, lake-side cottages, snowy evening, and sleepless nights where there were also no distractions – all without an increase in desire (at least compared to a good, old, storm).
Asthma attacks also increase with storms - image via Newshub
However, I think the next two possibilities might be closer…
First, natural disasters (and danger in general) make us realize our humanity, our fragility, and eventual death (cheery, yeah?). Even if we understand that it's not the end of the world, our primitive brains still think we need to spend our "last moments" perpetuating the species.
Second, storms are raw power and full of visible energy – we can see it rip things apart. It's already been proven that weather and temperature can affect our health and disposition, so it makes sense that intense weather can affect us in intense ways.
Who knows, maybe it's a combination of all three (or more) – boredom, primitive responses, and environmental influences.
Sadly, there hasn't been any formal research on these reactions, and there probably never will be (unless there's money to be made).
OTHER SEXY STORM FACTS
83% of Americans it's better to have sex when it's rainy.
When it comes to sex, there's a fine line between "exciting" and "no thank you". This is backed up by the fact that more women get pregnant during low-risk storms than intense ones.
Parents are more likely to make more babies during storms than non-parents.
Hurricane names often become popular baby names.
Blackout and blizzard babies are a myth (that people have more babies during blackouts etc.).
Over several years, large and fatal disasters can cause people to have more children.
There might not be any definitive answers or explanations, but at least we know we're not alone. What I AM certain of … if the storm clouds start rolling in, my man better batten down the hatches.
Anyone here also into sexy storms? Or are they a turn-off? Give a shout out in the comments!
Also, if you want more fun reads, check out these articles…
101 Kinky Things - An Extensive List of Kinks and Fetishes
5 Trampling Basics - Get Ready To Walk All Over Him
Have sexy day!
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About Robyn BDSM, sex toys, and computer games - roll that together with someone who cherishes happy living, sex-positive attitudes, and a ridiculous amount of tea – me in a nutshell.
I'm a full-time blogger under the affiliation and care of Lovense, where I write about everything from toy reviews to sexy experiences and how-to guides.
I update this site at least once a week, so feel free to stop by once in a while and throw the occasional "hi" into the comment section. I would love to hear from you.
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Sean Harrison: Blog
Statistics, epidemiology, evidence synthesis
A complete list of publications can be found on my university webpage, or google scholar. All my (first author) publications are open access, and are I have linked to the PDFs/sites below. If you want anything and it's not open access though, I'll happily send you a PDF.
Harrison S, Davies AR, Dickson M, et al. (2020) The Causal Effects of Health Conditions and Risk Factors on Social and Socioeconomic Outcomes: Mendelian Randomization in UK Biobank. International Journal of Epidemiology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyaa114
Harrison S, Tilling K, Turner EL, et al. (2020) Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Associations Between Body Mass Index, Prostate Cancer, Advanced Prostate Cancer and Prostate Specific Antigen. Cancer Causes & Control. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10552-020-01291-3
Dixon P, Hollingworth W, Harrison S, et al. (2020) Randomization analysis of the causal effect of adiposity on hospital costs. J Health Econ. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhealeco.2020.102300
Thornton H V., Turner KME, Harrison S, et al. (2019) Assessing the potential of upper respiratory tract point-of-care testing: a systematic review of the prognostic significance of upper respiratory tract microbes. Clinical Microbiology and Infection. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmi.2019.06.024
Rayner TA, Harrison S, Rival P, et al. (2019) Minimally invasive versus conventional surgery of the ascending aorta and root: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Cardio-Thoracic Surg. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ejcts/ezz177
Howe LD, Kanayalal R, Harrison S, et al. (2019) Effects of body mass index on relationship status, social contact and socio-economic position: Mendelian randomization and within-sibling study in UK Biobank. Int J Epidemiol. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyz240
North TL, Davies NM, Harrison S, et al. (2019) Using Genetic Instruments to Estimate Interactions in Mendelian Randomization Studies Epidemiology. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/EDE.0000000000001096
Richardson TG, Harrison S, Hemani G, Davey Smith G (2019) An atlas of polygenic risk score associations to highlight putative causal relationships across the human phenome eLIFE. DOI: https://doi.org/10.7554/eLife.43657
Lewis SJ, Gardner M, …, Harrison S, … Martin RM (2017) Developing the WCRF International/University of Bristol Methodology for Identifying and Carrying Out Systematic Reviews of Mechanisms of Exposure–Cancer Associations Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Biomarkers. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0232
Young GJ*, Harrison S*, Turner EL, et al. (2017) Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) testing of men in UK general practice: a 10-year longitudinal cohort study. BMJ Open. *Joint first author. DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-017729
Lewis SJ, Gardner M, Higgins JPT, Holly JMP, Gaunt TR, Perks CM, Turner SD, Rinaldi S, Thomas S, Harrison S, et al. (2017) Developing the WCRF International/University of Bristol methodology for identifying and carrying out systematic reviews of mechanisms of exposure-cancer associations. Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0232
Harrison S, Jones HE, Martin RM, Lewis SJ, Higgins JP (2017) The albatross plot: a novel graphical tool for presenting results of diversely reported studies in a systematic review. Res Synth Methods 8(3), 281-289. DOI: 10.1002/jrsm.1239
Harrison S*, Lennon R*, Holly J, et al. (2017) Does milk intake promote prostate cancer initiation or progression via effects on insulin-like growth factors (IGFs)? A systematic review and meta-analysis. Cancer Causes Control 28(6), 497–528. *Joint first author. DOI: 10.1007/s10552-017-0883-1
Hunter B, Harrison S, Portela A, Bick D (2017) The effects of cash transfers and vouchers on the use and quality of maternity care services: A systematic review. PLoS One 12(3). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0173068
Harrison S, Tilling K, Turner EL, et al. (2016) Investigating the prostate specific antigen, body mass index and age relationship: is an age-BMI-adjusted PSA model clinically useful? Cancer Causes Control 27(12):1465–74. DOI: 10.1007/s10552-016-0827-1
Macarthur GJ, Harrison S, Caldwell DM, Hickman M, Campbell R (2016) Peer-led interventions to prevent tobacco, alcohol and/or drug use among young people aged 11-21 years: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Addiction 111(3), 391–407. DOI: 10.1111/add.13224
Albatross plots: Part 2 August 19, 2020
Using Mendelian Randomization for Cost-Effectiveness Analyses May 14, 2020
Estimating an Odds Ratio from a GWAS only reporting the P value April 11, 2020
Is there really a rise in infant mortality in England, and is it driven by deprivation? October 22, 2019
The Causal Effects of Health Conditions and Risk Factors on Social and Socioeconomic Outcomes: Mendelian Randomization in UK Biobank October 11, 2019


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Declassified: Avengers Age Of Ultron – Analysis, Explanations & Secrets Revealed
The Insightful Panda / May 5, 2015
Let's face it, Avengers: Age of Ultron was crammed with TONS of content. Between all these plot lines, themes and fast pace, it was easy to feel overwhelmed. Though you shouldn't let that stop you from enjoying this absolutely MARVELous movie! As such, I have put together this special edition Declassified article to help explain the various themes, motivations, references and complex story points that found their way into this film.
*Warning: MASSIVE SPOILERS AHEAD! So if you haven't see the film, read our Spoiler Free Review, see the movie and I'll see you back here*
Tie-Ins To Phase 1 & 2 – Ironman 3, Winter Solider & The Incredible Hulk:
As I discussed in my previous article, there were a bunch of set ups for Marvel's Phase 3 in this film. Though considering this is the last time we will be seeing any of the Avengers in Phase 2 – since Ant-Man is about introducing a new hero – this film also had just as many moments that reminded us of not only Phase 2, but also Phase 1. For starters, when Scarlet Witch first messed with Tony's head she was toying with his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – something that we saw quite a bit of in Ironman 3. Sure he has gotten a handle on most of it, but he still fears the beyond. Last time he was able to destroy the Chitauri base, which saved his currently surrounded allies, but what would happen if he couldn't save them next time?
Continuing with this theme, we also get some tie ins with Captain America: The Winter Soldier as we learn that Falcon is still actively searching for "their missing persons" (The Winter Soldier), but beyond this we learn that S.H.I.E.L.D. isn't as dead as everyone though. Hill has been in contact with Fury the whole time while at Stark Industries and in the end we see S.H.I.E.L.D. return to save the day. Sure it's a lot smaller than it was, but with the last measurable trace of Hydra gone S.H.I.E.L.D. is finally able to begin rebuilding.
One final example of 'bringing up the past' actually comes during Bruce and Natasha's conversation about their relationship. Hulk never got a Phase 2 film – and Mark Ruffalo's Hulk never got one period – so this scene actually dates back to the original Ed Norton's The Incredible Hulk. Natasha tells Banner that she isn't able to have kids, but Bruce isn't just worried about the kind of kids they'd have. He knows that he isn't PHYSICALLY able to have sex. A prominent moment of The Incredible Hulk was when he – again, Norton's Bruce Banner – tells Betty that he can't because of how it'll rapidly increase his heart rate.
The final tie-in to past films is actually the one most overlooked, and it explains why so many people found the Black Widow/Hulk romance out of character. Remember at the end of The Winter Soldier, Black Widow learned that what she thought was 'going straight" was basically just "trading the KGB for Hydra". At film's end she was left with trying to find a new identity, who she was/is. THIS is why she is acting so differently. Trying a relationship with Bruce – the only man in her life who actively avoids the fight despite knowing he'll always win – is part of her new identity. It's her chance at a normal life in the wake of everything that has happened. So as you watch the film, remember what Widow has been through and lost, and maybe her warmer – yet still kickass – demeanor will make a little more sense.
The Horror Of Surviving – Ironman, Captain America, Hulk, Scarlet Witch:
To start things off, we should look at one of the most prominent themes/focal points of Avengers: Age of Ultron, and that's "the horror of surviving". As I mentioned in the last section, Scarlet Witch played upon Tony's fears to cause him to self-destruct. Though the most frightening part of his vision was that while all of his friends died, he survived. It's this similar idea that made Bruce and Tony begin the Ultron project in the first place. They didn't die heroically in the Battle of New York, which means they have to keep fighting and Ultron was supposed to be that savior – but I'll explore that more later.
Captain America has also been experiencing these feelings – more than anyone else perhaps – as he is literally a man out of time. He didn't die in World War 2, but instead is alive and well today just as strong as he was 70 years ago. Sadly the same can't be said for his former friends, which makes him basically the last of his kind. This is why he searches so desperately for Bucky/Winter Soldier, because he makes him no longer 'the last survivor'. The battle won't end for Cap because he has no home to go home to. This is why he must keep fighting and is always looking for the next war.
We see Scarlet Witch go through this pain in real time as she faces the pain and loss of loosing her twin brother Quicksilver. As any twin and most will tell you how having a twin makes them feel like there is always someone there with them. They're part of a bigger whole, and Wanda (SW) just lost hers. Though with Scarlet Witch, her powers seem to grow with horror – or whenever she gets emotional. Thankfully, despite going very dark for a moment – and ripping Ultron's beating heart out – she is able to find shelter in the arms of the Vision. I'll discuss this more at a later date, but he basically becomes the 'order' to her 'chaos'.
Hulk experiences these feelings to an extent as well because he knows that when he goes rogue, everything around him will be destroyed – except him. He's invulnerable and will either out survive his teammates – at best – or be the cause of their destruction – at worst. He of course doesn't know the vision Tony saw, so maybe he can't survive forever, which is something Ultron learned at the end. When Vision confronts that remaining Ultron bot, it truly is the last place Ultron can be since he's been locked out of the net. As the last Ultron bot, he knows that if he dies here he dies for good. He's the last of his kind and he doesn't realize until that moment how vulnerable he is – just as Ironman, Captain America, Scarlet Witch do.
Would You Know If You Were A Monster – Ironman, Ultron, Vision & More:
Despite their very "beauty and the beast" dynamic, we learn that Black Widow feels like just as much of a monster on the inside as the Hulk is on the outside. It's this moment that makes us realize that a lot of this film is all about the idea of 'being a monster' and whether or not you would realize it if you were. We hear Maria Hill refer to the Maximoff Twins as such and Captain America immediately places himself in the same "monster" category considering how they were all experimented on by German scientists. Though whereas others are quick to accept or point out their role of "monster", it is Ironman and his lineage of creations that surprisingly – or unsurprisingly – have trouble realizing the depth of their darker qualities.
Tony has done some marvelous things (ie: Ironman suits, Arc reactor, etc), but he sometimes forgets – or rather represses – that he used to create some very not nice things as well. Despite always having the best intentions, he sometimes creates things that do more harm than good – as we learned in Ironman (2008) when he was still a weapons contractor. It's this turning a blind eye to the bad that makes Tony fail to realize that using powers he doesn't fully understand to bring an AI to life is a bad idea. I'll explore Ultron's creation more in depth later, but the Ultron's original AI was modeled off of Tony's brainwaves. This is the system the Mind Gem helped bring to life, and is also the reason why Ultron inherited – and expanded upon – the same hubris his father displays.
Like his father, Ultron only sees his good intentions and fails to realize the possibly monstrous means and consequences. Ultron awakens and sees all the violence and inconsistencies in the world. By looking at the volumes of history he sees that from an evolutionary standpoint, life progressed after extreme calamities. He wants the world to get stronger and that might require the destruction of humanity. What Ultron fails to see though is that his actions are motivated more by rage than they are reason. For all intents and purposes – and his overwhelming intellect – he's still basically a newborn/rebellion teenager. He thinks he's doing the proper and good thing, and he just can't understand why the world is rejecting him.
Considering Tony's poor choice in creations and Ultron's own oversights, it should come as no surprise that Captain America and the others were nervous when Tont decided to work on Ultron's vibranium-fused creation, Vision. Thankfully, it seems both of their oversights canceled each other out as the Vision was created as a truly worthy individual. He could have easily been the worst monster of them all considering his parentage and boundless power of the Mind Gem, but Vision demonstrates a love for life above all else and is in many ways what Tony meant Ultron to be all along. Sometimes a savior can be a monster (Ultron), but it's also just as easy for monsters (Hulk, Captain America, Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver and The Vision) to be saviors. As for where Tony lies in this divide, that is what Civil War will continue to explore as yet another 'well-meaning' move by Tony sets him and Captain America – and most of the hero community – at odds.
Birth & Rebirth – Metaphors, Pregnancy, Innocence & Metamorphosis:
Whereas the The Avengers asked if these heroes could become a team, Avengers: Age of Ultron asked if they could stay a team. Throughout the film we saw the team constantly split up and come back together anew. Though things went a lot further than just things being 'reassembled', but rather 'reborn' as this film focused VERY heavily on the image of birth and rebirth. Between Hawkeye's wife being pregnant, Black Widow being unable to have children and Thor emerging naked from a pool of water, there were metaphorical and literal births everywhere. Though the most prominent concerned Vision, Captain America, and the Avengers team itself.
Vision's role in the birth theme is pretty apparent as we literally see him born. Sure Ultron is created within the course of this film as well – more or les – but Vision is the one that we actually see physically born. He's the first of his kind, a being of immeasurable power and knowledge, yet he has the innocence and purity of a child. His 'birth' scene was perfectly staged as we find him more interested in looking out at the beauty of the world than fighting the strangers around him. It's as if the Vision has lived for centuries, despite being born only yesterday. Though whereas the Vision is the only hero born in this film, it's other heroes' rebirths that are just as important.
The Vision is born
Concept Art and a composite shot of Scarlet Witch's final costume
The Falcon's new costume
Just like in Ironman 3 when Tony realizes his armors were a cocoon, Captain America realizes in this film that the ice he was frozen in was his. The Captain America that there is today isn't the same one there was during World War II. Though it's the rebirth of the Avengers team itself that is the most prominent as it goes from a team of 6 to 9 and then back to 6, but it's the team's dynamic that changes most. The initial Avengers line up is basically a bunch of seasoned heroes capable of leading their own missions. The final Avengers team is mostly new heroes who need training from their veteran leaders (Captain America and Black Widow). The team is basically a bunch of children (Vision, Scarlet Witch and Falcon) who need guidance from their parents (Captain America and Black Widow). Sure they have an older brother (War Machine) but even he's new to the larger scale mission of the Avengers.
Hawkeye's Moment To Shine – "You Didn't See That Coming":
The one down side of The Avengers was that it didn't give Hawkeye much credit. Sure we met him briefly in Thor, but the way the first film simply made him mind-controlled for 80% of it didn't give us any time to realize what an awesome Avenger he is. He was just 'the dude with the arrows'. That is why one of the most satisfying things of Avengers: Age of Ultron was how we FINALLY got to see Hawkeye in all his glory. Though it was because of this focus – and quarrel with another character – that we almost thought it'd be his last.
Hawkeye isn't just a 'the guy with the arrows'. He's a brilliant tactician and has perfect aim – meaning he can hit anything with anything – ; but more than that he is just as sarcastic as Tony Stark. From seeing his awesome aim here first hand as well as his countless jokes, we found a character we could fall in love with; and as we learned in this film, someone already did. Showing that Hawkeye has a family not only explains why he wasn't around for the events of Captain America: The Winter Soldier – he was away with them – but also sets him drastically apart from the other Avengers.
Black Widow and Hulk's relationship doesn't work out. Captain America missed his chance with Peggy. Ironman and Thor both argue over who has the better girlfriend, yet neither of their significant others are actually with them. Ironman even leaves at the end of this film hoping to find what Hawkeye has. Seeing all these new sides of Hawkeye is wonderful, but it did bring one tremendous fear to mind: he won't live through this – his final mission. We hear him talking to his wife Laura about how this is his last one and it seems like his fate is sealed. So when we see him rush out later to protect the small boy – a metaphor for how Hawkeye will have to protect his soon to be born son – we know it's coming. When we see the hijacked Quinjet take aim, we know it's all over. Though in the last second, something happens that we "didn't see coming".
Since their first interaction – when he intercepted Hawkeye's arrow – Quicksilver and Hawkeye were always trying to one up each other with the phrase" you didn't see that coming". These two constantly bicker back and forth and at one point – after Quicksilver has joined the team – Hawkeye even contemplates shooting him in the back. This isn't just for fun as these two literally hate each other, or at least Hawkeye hates Quicksilver. This isn't just because Quicksilver made Hawkeye miss his shot, but also because – as we could have seen in some deleted scenes – Quicksilver is a tremendous womanizer.
All of this taken together shows Quicksilver as someone who doesn't only get in Hawkeye's face repeatedly, but also is the opposite of what Hawkeye is – a family man. So at the end when Quicksilver sacrifices himself to save Hawkeye, it brings their whole "you didn't see that coming" relationship full circle. This shows that even someone of poor moral quality has a chance to be a hero, which Hawkeye honors by giving his newborn son the middle name Pietro.
Explaining Ultron's Origins, Aims & Reasoning:
As I started to explain earlier, the Ultron program was started before Tony and Bruce got their hands on the scepter. It was intended to be a peacekeeping program that would function like a suit of armor around the world. As with any AI in the Marvel Universe, it had to be modeled on someone's existing brain patterns (ie: JARVIS, and even Zola to an extent). What the Scepter merely did was push the limits of the AI so that it could become supremely self-aware. When we see Ultron first 'come into consciousness' he is in the Stark Systems conversing with the JARVIS program. With this access to both the Stark Systems and the Internet at large, Ultron basically downloads the entirety of the human race in a few seconds and is overwhelmed by what he learns.
He is built to protect the world yet it is the humans who constantly tear it down and create their own problems. Additionally, you must remember that he was brought into consciousness from the scepter, which houses the Mind Gem. He knows what they are and of their power, so he can also see what they bring out. Like Scarlet Witches visions, Ultron would also know that the Infinity Gems could bring about a massive war to Earth. This is also why he is so dead set on evolution. The world as it is isn't strong enough and he must make it stronger. Again, since he has access to the annals of history, he knows that the world has usually changed the most after extinction level events. This is why he engineers a homemade asteroid to wipe out life on earth – similar to the dinosaurs. He might have the best of intentions going into this, but he fails to see that he isn't only acting out of rational.
As I just said, Ultron was based off of Tony Stark's brain patterns, which explains why he's both funny and brilliant. Though also similarly to Stark, he has daddy issues. Like JARVIS said when Ultron first became conscious, there was an error in his code which only exacerbated his Stark tendencies. He was overwhelmed with everything he learned and took the usual Stark path – "I know best". Additionally, this is a supremely self-aware being in a robot body; yet Ultron wants more. This is why he creates the Vision to be both Vibranium and human – a synthezoid. To use Ultron's own Pinocchio references, he "wants to be a real boy" – while also decimating humanity. It's this mix of rational, rage and longing that corrupts Ultron's prime directive and sends him – like his father – on a self-destructive path.
At the end of the day, Ultron would be an awesome guy to hang out with. He's brilliant and his worldviews have a lot of wisdom behind them, but it is because of his blind rage that he becomes the homicidal robot we see in this film. Vision is in many ways what Ultron was supposed to be: the brilliance of Ultron with the calm demeanor of JARVIS. He becomes what the other can't, and in that perfect crossover we are given a being that has the "power to create real change" – as Ultron said – but also understands and embodies emotions rather than become consumed and blinded by them. He sees humanity's faults, but instead of decimating them for it he seeks to protect them and grow with them until they get it right.
I Understood That Reference – Easter Eggs, Tie-Ins & More:
This film's Stan Lee cameo showed us that he can't handle his 1000 year old Asgardian liquor. Bonus was him saying his famous catch phrase "Excelsior!"
The AI system that controls the Anti-Hulk tech (Hulkbuster, containment box, satellite, etc) is named "Veronika". Archie fans would get the reference since like Archie, Hulk has a sweet and kind gal named Betty Ross in The Incredible Hulk (2008). So if Hulk has a Betty, Tony figures he needs her mean counterpart, named Veronika. Whereas 'Betty' could calm Hulk with love, the "Veronika" system would calm him by force.
When Captain America said "What kind of a monster would let a German scientist experiment on them to protect their country" he was showing that the twins origins aren't that different from his own.
During his first meeting with the twins, Ultron disguises himself with a crimson sheet of some kind, this is a reference to how in the comics Ultron was originally disguised as 'The Crimson Cowl"
Additionally in this scene, Ultron says "Invaders create Avengers" which is on one level a reference to how the Battle of New York created the Avengers but also is a reference to the WWII Superhero team The Invaders, of which Captain America was also a member.
What goes around comes around as this time it is The Hulk who is sucker punched off screen by Hulkbuster.
When Tony Stark clarifies that it's been a long day – "Eugene O'Neill long" – he is referencing Eugene O'Neill's famous drama Long Day's Journey Into Night originally written in the 40s.
The AI system Tony changes to in the end is named FRIDAY, as in "His Girl Friday" another 1940's reference. Though also a reference to his virtual secretary in the comics – named Friday.
The Crimson Cowl
*Credit to original poster
Additionally in this scene we see another AI key with the name Jocasta written on it. In the comics, Jocasta was the name of Ultron's 'bride to be' but eventually joined the Avengers as well.
When Black Widow tells Hulk that she hopes 'this makes them even', she is equating pushing him down a hole to jumping up with him to a floating city.
Similarly to how he asked Thor in The Avengers if he was "getting sleepy", Captain America asks Thor during the final battle if he was off napping.
This could have been just me, but Black Widow wielding Captain America's shield reminded me a lot of The Winter Solider doing the same.
The Hellicarrier that Fury brings to battle is the repaired turbine Hellicarrier from The Avengers, Hellicarrier #64.
The man we see working on this Hellicarrier is the same man from The Winter Soldier who refused Rumlow's order to activate the launch.
The Ultron bot at the end with Vision was the one Captain America knocked off the floating Sokovia
Earlier in the film, Quicksilver tells Scarlet Witch that he's still 12 minutes older than her – keeping in like with the usual 12 joke (ie: 12% of the credit in The Avengers, 12% of a plan in Guardians of the Galaxy)
This Avengers Academy is most certainly part of the Theta Protocol Agent Coulson has been working on since becoming Director of S.H.I.E.L.D. during Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.s second season.
The 'dream sequence' Tony sees seems to show a mysterious character in the rubble too. The quality is low here, but could that be Nebula? Perhaps this will be an actual shot from Infinity War like I predicted in my Phase 3 Set Up article.
The Infinity Gauntlet shown at the end was a left handed glove, while the one in Asgard was right handed. This confirms that there are two gloves, because seriously – who just makes one glove?
notice '64' on the hellicarrier
The glove in Thor (top right) was a right handed glove, whilst the one scene in the end credits (bottom) was left handed. This matches the one we saw in Infinity War teaser (top right)
Vision is indeed worthy
So there you have it: everything explained from Avengers: Age of Ultron. Hopefully this explained all of your questions and gave you even more love for this film. If you want to see some more from this film, then please check out The Top 5 Ways Age of Ultron Set Up Marvel's Phase 3 and the Top 7 Funniest Moments. Also, please stay tuned for this week's Agents of SHIELD episode where we'll discuss the immediate aftermath of this film.
*Special Thanks to Jung Industries for the Screenshots
May 5, 2015 in Marvel. Tags: Age of Ultron, Avengers, Avengers 2: Age of Ultron, Black Widow, Hawkeye, Hulk, Ironman, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Studios, Quicksilver, Scarlet Witch, Thor, Ultron, Vision
Avengers: Age Of Ultron – Spoiler Free Review
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6 thoughts on "Declassified: Avengers Age Of Ultron – Analysis, Explanations & Secrets Revealed"
talkingtom2day says:
Reblogged this on Mah Muse Comics.
Matt Creamer says:
Wow tremendous article! I liked all of the great details you went into when writing this. You bring up a ton of points relating to the films' storyline. No matter how much we learn about Ultron, everyone seems to agree that his origin was rushed. All of your points are spot on. I can tell you absolutely did your research and spent a great amount of time writing this. Great job!
Thanks so much Matt! It did take a while, but by now I'm used to looking for those hidden points lol Thought for sure, a lot of Age of Ultron was rushed. And it wasn't even that it began in media res, it seemed like it just kep growing bigger and bigger. Which certainly has its merit, but Ultron was such a great villain and the way they reinvented him gave him so much more depth. Had he been the usual simple extinction-bot, it would have been fine. But since they gave him so much more depth, I feel like he deserved more exploration as well.
Your site is awesome too! Do your posts go from movie pilot -> you personal site, or vice versa? I'm always looking to improve and grow, so any tips are greatly appreciated 😀
Yes everything I post on my main blog "Creamer's Cinema Craze" goes on my Movie Pilot page now. I actually started off with just my blog but then I noticed people writing on MP so I said to myself, "Why not do both?" Lol
Gloria Lin says:
An extremely engaging article. I'm doing an essay on the Frankensteinian 'mad scientist' trope as explored in Age of Ultron, and really enjoyed reading about other themes that this film ties in as well. I've always disagreed with people who insist that comic book films are meant to be shallow and merely popcorn entertainment. I actually love analysing the characterisations and larger themes that are present 😀
Awww, YES!!!!! I'm glad you enjoyed this article Gloria and hope it helped your essay. And hey, maybe a future article of mine might help with a future paper of yours 😀 My articles do sort of play out like college papers sometimes LMAO whoops? lol


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Hospitalizations, ventilator use continue to fall
Published 12:08 pm Thursday, April 30, 2020
The number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients and patients on ventilators in the state of Louisiana have fallen to their lowest levels in nearly a month, according to statistics released Thursday by the Louisiana Department of Health.
On Thursday at noon, the LDH reported that the state had 1,601 patients in hospitals, and 231 of those patients required ventilators. On Wednesday, the state had reported 1,629 hospitalized patients, and 244 ventilators in use.
The number of hospitalized patients is at its lowest count since April 1, when there were 1,498 hospitalizations reported. The state's peak so far was on April 12, when there were 2,084 COVID-19 patients in hospitals.
The number of ventilators in use is at its lowest count since March 25, when there were 193 ventilators reported as in use. The state's peak so far was on April 4, when there were 571 ventilators reported as in use.
On Thursday, the LDH said that there had been 28,001 cases of COVID-19 reported, with 1,862 deaths. On Wednesday, there had been 27,660 cases and 1,802 deaths reported.
The increase between Wednesday's statewide update and Thursday's update was an additional 341 cases and an additional 60 deaths.
Washington Parish had reported 262 cases and 18 deaths, according to the Thursday update. On Wednesday, the parish had reported 261 cases and 18 deaths.
There had been 1,220 cases in St. Tammany Parish, with 110 deaths (an additional 15 cases and an additional two deaths compared to Wednesday), and 553 cases in Tangipahoa Parish, with 22 deaths (an additional four cases and an additional single death compared to Wednesday).
There had been 1,410 COVID-19 tests reported from Washington Parish, as of Thursday's update.
The state has also begun reporting the number of "presumed recovered" cases. Its first update was on April 22, when it reported 14,927 such cases. Thursday's report listed 17,303 presumed reported cases as of April 26 (Sunday).
After a recent review of its statistics, the state has also resumed reporting statewide testing numbers. On Thursday, the LDH reported 7,846 tests had been completed by the state laboratory, and an additional 153,463 tests had been reported from commercial laboratories — a total of 161,309 tests. The state reported a total of 156,568 tests in Wednesday's report.
The LDH releases updated statistics each day at approximately noon. For complete statistics, visit the LDH online at ldh.la.gov/coronavirus.
AG encourages governor to allow re-opening of churches
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Douchiest rock band ever blocks LA freeway in publicity stunt
Xeni Jardin 11:22 am Wed Oct 13, 2010
This photo by Irfan Khan for the Los Angeles Times documents an incident that took place in Los Angeles yesterday: A band called The Imperial Stars, who describe themselves as a "hard core hip hop band from Orange County," stopped a truck in the middle of the 101 freeway, jumped out, plugged in their instruments, and performed their latest single, "Traffic Jam 101." I'll withhold opinion on their music, but being stuck in traffic behind some publicity-hungry band from OC sure sucks. I hope LAPD makes them perform some really humiliating form of community service, like shining Ernest Borgnine's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame while whistling Justin Bieber songs.
LA Times item here, and longer piece from last night here.
How do you think they should be punished? Your recommendations welcome in the comments. (Update: Ah, the LA Weekly has already collected some doozies.)
Update: The band members have been charged with misdemeanor conspiracy.
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I didn't know that Three Dog Night's 1969 version of "One (is the loneliest number)" was a cover until today. It was written and recorded by singer-songwriter Harry Nilsson in 1968. While I like the Three Dog Night version (and Al Kooper's, too) I think Nilsson's is better. [Via r/ObscureMedia] READ THE REST
Listen to a Velvet Underground song that features none of the original members of the band
This song, "Friends," is from the Velvet Underground's 1973 album Squeeze. The album features none of the original members of the band. (The drummer on the record is Ian Paice of Deep Purple.) From Wikipedia: …It features no members of the Lou Reed-era group other than multi-instrumentalist Doug Yule, who wrote and recorded the album… READ THE REST
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and Drums Master Class Bundle – $59.99; originally $1,791 You've gotta walk before you can run…which is why these instrument lesson packages are the perfect starting point for any budding musician. For ax men and women, The Ultimate Beginner to Expert Guitar Lessons Bundle includes almost 60 hours of training in learning the guitar, proper… READ THE REST