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Business Times 02 Oct 07
URA aims to conserve up to 228 Katong/Joo Chiat buildings
More developers, owners expending resources to buy and restore their old buildings: Mah Bow Tan
By Arthur Sim
The Straits Times 2 Oct 07
Over 200 more buildings in Katong area may be conserved
By Tan Hui Yee
Today Online 2 Oct 07
An eastern charm in S'pore
Another 228 buildings in the Joo Chiat/Katong area identified for preservation
Zul Othman
FROM landmark churches to picturesque pre-war shop houses, the Joo Chiat and Katong area is an undisputed hotbed of architectural diversity and the historical home for the local Eurasian and Peranakan community.
Given its unique mix of exquisite architecture, history and culture, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has identified another 228 buildings for preservation. These are in addition to the more than 700 historical landmarks located along key roads such as Joo Chiat Road and East Coast Road, as well as 15 bungalows on Mountbatten Road, that have already been gazetted for conservation.
Speaking at the URA Architectural Heritage Awards presentation ceremony at the National Museum of Singapore yesterday, Minister for National Development Mah Bow Tan said that the URA recently embarked on public consultation with the owners of the 228 buildings earmarked for conservation.
Said Mr Mah: "The aim of this conservation proposal is to complete conservation of the street block and add to the critical mass of heritage buildings and rich architectural diversity in Katong and Joo Chiat."
Seeking the individual owners' views, he added, was in line with the URA's consultative approach.
"It also contributes to a more transparent process in gazetting buildings for conservation (and) will take into account the owners' feedback," he said.
Among the buildings targeted in this proposal will be the bungalows, terrace houses and shop houses in Koon Seng Road, Onan Road and Carpmael Road, as well as landmarks such as St Hilda's Church at Ceylon Road and the single storey Bethesda (Katong) Church at Pennefather Road.
Mr Mah also announced plans to build a new 4.9km waterfront promenade stretching from Punggol Point to Sungei Serangoon, as well as projects to revitalise the older housing estates of Woodlands and Siglap Village "in order to enhance the distinct character, identity and overall environment of each area".
These improvements are targeted for completion between 2008 and 2010.
"As a land-scarce nation, we have to take a pragmatic and balanced approach towards conservation," he said.
"Creating an endearing home goes beyond individual heritage buildings, it is also about strengthening the identity of places where we live, work and play."
Since 1989, the URA has gazetted more than 5,600 buildings for conservation. In addition, 55 buildings with historical significance have been earmarked as national monuments.
THE rich heritage of Katong and Joo Chiat district will get more protection from the wrecking ball with a further 228 buildings earmarked for conservation status.
The buildings include landmarks such as St Hilda's Church, the Bethesda (Katong) Church and the former Grand Hotel in Still Road South.
Three bungalows - in Marine Parade Road, Chapel Road and Joo Chiat Road - have also been selected.
The buildings were selected to serve as markers of the area's heritage.
St Hilda's Church, for example, was built in 1949 and is designed in a simple English parish church style while the former Grand Hotel building was built in 1917 in the ornamented Victorian style with a slight Indian influence.
There are already about 700 buildings under conservation orders in the East Coast area, traditional home of Singapore's Eurasian and Peranakan communities and a haven for food-lovers.
The plan was announced by National Development Minister Mah Bow Tan yesterday at the Urban Redevelopment Authority's (URA) Architectural Heritage Awards ceremony.
The URA has told the building owners about the conservation plan. Its final decision will be made after feedback.
Conservation orders mean owners cannot demolish the building or make major alterations to structures or facades.
But the URA noted that most can be redeveloped to their full economic potential even if conserved.
One owner, Ms Lyn Lee, 34, wants the certainty a conservation order would bring. Ms Lee, who owns the Awfully Chocolate cakeshop chain, lives in a pre-war, three-storey shophouse in Tembeling Road, one of a row of 10 houses.
She and her husband bought the ageing freehold property for $880,000 six years ago and have spent about $500,000 renovating it into a home for themselves and their three children. They do not intend to move.
'It's very important that someday, somebody won't come and mow down three houses and build a pink-tiled monstrosity,' she said.
Some of her neighbours are considering upgrading the neighbourhood if it is eventually conserved.
The 228 buildings proposed for conservation were chosen from about 1,000 buildings in the area that are more than 30 years old. More than 6,500 buildings have been conserved in Singapore.
The announcement was bittersweet for interest group Historic Architecture Rescue Plan, which has been lobbying the Government to conserve various properties in the district.
One - a 95-year-old Amber Road bungalow - could only be partly conserved. Earlier this year, its developer agreed to build a hybrid apartment block incorporating some elements of the old building, but it plans to tear down its much vaunted crescent-shaped section.
Mr Mah told the ceremony guests that Singapore had to strike a constant balance between redevelopment and conservation.
Six projects were singled out in the URA awards yesterday for sensitive or innovative restoration work, including the National Museum and Chek Jawa Visitor Centre in Pulau Ubin.
Mr Mah also announced the URA would be enhancing various districts next year. These include a 4.9km waterfront promenade from Punggol Point to Sungei Serangoon and a coastal promenade in Woodlands.
It will also improve roadside infrastructure in Siglap and Upper Serangoon Road.
2007 Architectural Heritage Award winners
# The National Museum: Restored to its former glory, with a new rear extension. Part of the original tiled roof was cut away for a glass connector, offering an unhindered view of its historic dome.
# Chek Jawa Visitor Centre: Believed to be the only remaining authentic Tudor- style house with a fireplace here, it was sensitively restored.
# National University of Singapore Law School: Home to various institutions for more than 80 years, it had to be adapted to meet the functions of the NUS law faculty.
# Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa: The former military barracks were converted into an eco-sanctuary with a tropical feel.
# 13 Martaban Road: This transitional style terrace house has been restored into a modern home filled with natural light and ventilation.
# 62 Niven Road: This squat shophouse has had a four- storey extension built at the rear, where full-length glass windows and a steel-mesh sunscreen add a modern function.
THE East Coast may be a hive of new construction activity right now, but the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is also working to keep some old buildings conserved for posterity.
Minister of National Development Mah Bow Tan revealed yesterday that the planning authority was looking at conserving up to 228 buildings in the Katong/Joo Chiat area. The URA is seeking feedback from the owners.
The area already has 700 gazetted conservation buildings. Most of the additional buildings under consideration are shophouses or terrace houses. The addition will make Katong/Joo Chiat one of the larger clusters of conserved residential buildings.
Mr Mah said: 'The aim of this conservation proposal is to complete conservation of the street block and add to the critical mass of heritage buildings and rich architectural diversity in Katong and Joo Chiat.'
Mr Mah was speaking at the presentation ceremony of the URA Architectural Heritage Awards (AHA) 2007. Awards were presented to the owners, architects, engineers and contractors of six buildings. These were: # National Museum of Singapore; # The 1930s holiday home on Pulau Ubin of the former chief surveyor, Landon Williams; # Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa; # National University of Law, Bukit Timah Campus; # 13 Martaban Road, Balestier; # and 62 Niven Road, Mount Sophia.
Since the awards' inception in 1995, a total of 77 buildings have received the AHA.
Mr Mah said: 'Increasingly, more and more enlightened developers and owners have willingly expended resources to buy and restore their conservation buildings for the benefit of the larger society and our future generations.'
One such person is Lyn Lee, who together with her husband bought a house on Tembeling Road six years ago for about $800,000 and then spent another $500,000 on restoring it. This house and others like it on the same road are now being considered for conservation - and Ms Lee is all for it.
Getting conservation status will increase the value of the building as its future is guaranteed. But more important for Ms Lee is that the conservation status means owners who want to alter their homes beyond conservation guidelines will not be allowed to do so.
'Right now, there is a beautiful symmetry to the street,' she explained. This sense of identity of place is exactly what URA hopes to do by restoring or creating 'markers' in housing estates as well. Mr Mah also said that apart from plans to rejuvenate Queenstown, the government is proposing to build a 4.9km promenade to link Punggol Point and Sungei Serangoon to enhance the 'rustic coastal character'.
Other areas being looked at include Woodlands, Siglap Village and Upper Serangoon Road. Mr Mah said these projects could be completed by around 2009-2010.
Related articles on Singapore: general environmental issues


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After Life Season 3 Release Date, Cast And Plot - What We Know So Far
By Helen A. Lee/Updated: Aug. 11, 2021 8:51 pm EST
The British TV series After Life has been a big hit for Netflix ever since it launched on the streaming service in March 2019. Creator and writer Ricky Gervais stars in the black comedy, portraying a man trying to get on with life after the death of his wife by ending his reputation as a nice guy and saying exactly what he thinks. The show heads into a much-anticipated third season this year.
After Life's first season was described by NME as "a raw, moving stand-alone portrait of human pain and endurance." Netflix ordered a renewal just a month after it dropped, according to The Hollywood Reporter (THR). NME noted that the second season, which debuted in April 2020 right as the pandemic was causing people all over the world to isolate themselves, was a victim of timing — tackling issues of death and loss that seemed too close to home. Despite this criticism, After Life performed well enough to earn another renewal: Netflix UK & Ireland's Twitter page reported in early May that the series was getting a third season. Gervais followed it up with a post of his own, confirming he would begin production on more After Life.
THR noted that the renewal was part of a new overall deal between Netflix and Gervais, which would include new scripted series and stand-up comedy specials. But now, almost a full year after the show was renewed, that third season seems nowhere in sight. So, what's the deal with season 3 of After Life?
What is the release date of After Life season 3?
In July 2020, Gervais posted an image of himself to Twitter, showing After Life's first draft of series 3, episode 1. However, production appears to have slowed, likely as a result of the pandemic.
In February, the comedian made an appearance on British network ITV's show Lorraine, indicating that production on the show is probably starting right now. ""Everything going well, we film in April and May and then it takes a few months to edit and then it takes a couple of months to put into a 160 languages," he said (via Tyla). He believes the series will be available for viewers by the end of 2021.
However, don't expect much more After Life. British television seasons tends to end quickly, and After Life's have included just six episodes of about 30 minutes each. Furthermore, the third season will likely be the last. "I've never done a third series of anything," Gervais told ITV. "But it felt right, and I fell in love with the characters, and I think this should be it."
Who's in the cast of After Life season 3?
The cast list of After Life isn't expected to change much in the season 3, although the death of Tony's father, Ray (David Bradley) may be the one exception. The show stars Gervais as Tony Johnson, and Tom Basden plays his boss and brother-in-law, Matt, who is having marital problems. The cast also includes Tony Way (Lenny), Diane Morgan (Kath), and Mandeep Dhillon (Sandy). Ashley Jensen is Emma, a new romantic interest for Tony and his father's nurse.
Kerry Godliman portrays Lisa, Tony's late wife, who appears mostly through a video guide-to-life she's left for her husband after her death from breast cancer. Penelope Wilton is also in the cast as Anne, an older widow whom Tony meets at a graveyard. She helps him gain a new perspective on life.
When the cast list was announced in 2018, BBC America noted that it "reads like a who's who of modern British comedy and drama." Gervais gave some insight on the casting in a statement (via Deadline), saying, "This cast combines the best of the new breed of great British comedy talent with some of the wonderful alumni of my previous shows."
What is the plot of After Life season 3?
Describing the plot of the show in a tweet from before pre-production of the first season, Gervais wrote, "It's a 6 part, dark comedy, in which I play a man who, after the death of his wife, becomes suicidal but decides to live long enough to punish the world by saying and doing whatever the f*** he likes from now on." While his character Tony has grown a bit from that description since the first season, he continues to suffer many ups and downs during the course of his recovery from his wife's death.
That includes taking drugs, dealing with the death of his father, embarking (in fits and starts) on a new romance, and attempting to commit suicide — twice now, since the final episode of the second season. While the endings of both seasons have injected some hope into his life, he still seems to be in a dark place that he's not ready to leave. The question that will hopefully be resolved is whether or not he'll finally gain some emotional stability, with help from his quirky and fun work friends and his faithful doggo.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Recap/Cinderella
Recap / Cinderella
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A storybook prologue tells how the young Cinderella's father remarried after her mother's death to Lady Tremaine, who brought along her own daughters Anastasia and Drizella. They were kind to Cinderella at first, but after her father also died they revealed their true colors, taking over the house and treating her as a servant.
Cinderella is woken in the morning by Jaq, the leader of her mouse friends, who tells her a new mouse has been caught in a trap. She frees the new arrival and names him Gus, and Jaq takes up explaining to him how they survive in the house while avoiding Lady Tremaine's cat Lucifer. The group launches an elaborate plan to swipe breakfast under Lucifer's watch, which also involves Cinderella's dog Bruno who dreams every night of taking care of Lucifer.
In the nearby palace, the King despairs of his son seeming to have no interest in finding a wife, as he's getting old and wants to meet his grandchildren. He and the Grand Duke decide to force the issue by holding a grand ball with every eligible woman in the country required to attend. When the news comes to Cinderella's house, Lady Tremaine claims to agree she should come too, while actually scheming to work her so hard she won't have any time to put a formal gown together.
The mice decide to make the dress themselves, and surprise Cinderella with it on the very night of the ball. However, when she comes down to go with her stepfamily, they drop the whole act and Anastasia and Drizella violently rip the dress to pieces, leaving her sobbing as they head off to the palace. But she still retains enough hope to be visited by her Fairy Godmother, who magically makes her perfectly presentable with a coach made from a pumpkin, the mice as fancy stallions, and Bruno as the coachman, plus a fancy new gown and glass slippers. She sends Cinderella off with a warning that the magic will all wear off at midnight.
At the ball, the Prince is utterly bored as he greets each lady, and is especially not taken with Anastasia and Drizella. But just then Cinderella arrives and he's immediately drawn to her. They have a dance with Cinderella marveling at her new love for this man she doesn't even realize is the Prince. She's ultimately so swept up that she loses track of time, and has to race away from any witnesses as the clock begins to strike midnight, in such a rush that one of the glass slippers is left behind, and they don't go back to normal like everything else.
The King is overjoyed to hear the Prince made an attachment with one of the guests, but then dismayed that all they have to go on is the slipper. The Grand Duke is promptly set out to find a woman whose foot fits it, and alerts the whole country to the search. When word reaches Cinderella's house, she's still in such a lovestruck daze that she starts reliving her dance, causing Lady Tremaine to realize who the woman who stole the Prince away from her daughters was. She locks Cinderella in the attic to keep her from trying the slipper.
When the Grand Duke arrives, Jaq and Gus get the key to the attic door from Lady Tremaine's pocket and make the arduous trek up the stairs with it. But then Lucifer arrives and they have to fight for their lives, to which Cinderella alerts Bruno, who finally gets to fight his nemesis and ends up sending him out the window. The door is unlocked and Cinderella gets downstairs just as the Grand Duke is leaving, but Lady Tremaine makes one last spiteful move and trips him, causing him to drop the slipper so it shatters. But the despair is short-lived as Cinderella reveals she still has the other slipper, and she and the Prince are quickly married.


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Coronavirus FAQ: Is It OK To Reuse Masks?
WBEZ answers your questions about staying at home, kids, public transit, medical information and more.
By Vivian McCall
Mar. 19, 2020, 12:53 p.m. CT Updated April 27, 2020, 6:47 p.m. CT
Paula Friedrich / WBEZ
WBEZ is answering your questions about the coronavirus in Illinois. Have a question? Ask us here.
Since the coronavirus outbreak in Illinois, WBEZ has received hundreds of questions on everything from symptoms to eating safely to getting tested if you're uninsured. We'll continue to update this story with answers to your questions about how COVID-19 is impacting daily life. So, check back often.
Keep in mind that what's known about the coronavirus and COVID-19 is still evolving. Additionally, this information doesn't constitute professional medical advice. For questions regarding your own health, always consult a physician.
See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's guidance on travel, how to care for the sick and those at higher risk for severe illness (like the elderly).
Here are answers to some of your most frequently asked questions.
Is it OK to reuse masks? If so, what's the best way to keep them safe and sanitized for reuse?
Yes, non-medical-grade cloth masks can be reused as long as they're washed regularly. There are a few different ways to properly wash cloth masks before reuse, said Dr. Mia Taormina with the DuPage Medical Group.
Wash and dry it with your laundry. "Any detergent that we're using will break down the virus similar to washing our hands," Taormina said. This is also the CDC's recommended tactic.
Boil the mask for 10 minutes to sanitize it.
However, Taormina warns that washing or boiling a cloth mask will eventually "degrade the integrity of the mask." She suggests replacing cloth masks after 8 to 10 wash or boil cycles.
Find questions by topic: Symptoms and COVID-19 fast facts / Testing / Social distancing / Coronavirus and the flu / Protecting yourself and others / Illinois' plan / Advice for the high risk / Travel
A Suburban Chicago Hospital System Can Now Test For COVID-19
Symptoms and COVID-10 fast facts
What's the difference between coronavirus and COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the illness caused by the coronavirus causing the pandemic.
Coronaviruses are nothing new — it is a generic term. They have existed for a long time and are the culprit for most common colds. Health experts are referring to this new coronavirus as a "novel coronavirus" because it was previously unknown to science. COVID-19 is the specific illness caused by this new virus.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19 and how do they progress?
There are several symptoms, but the most tell-tale signs of COVID-19 are a high fever with a dry "unproductive" cough. Other symptoms include shortness of breath and persistent fatigue.
Here's what's not a sign of COVID-19: Symptoms of the typical common cold, like watery eyes, runny nose and congestion.
University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman said COVID-19 symptoms don't progress in stages, but instead lead to different severities of illness. And there are lots of variables, like age, underlying health problems and the availability of hospital resources.
In general, at least half the people who get sick will be asymptomatic, Gluckman said. Those showing any symptoms are likely to be mild, such as a sore throat. And a relatively small percentage of people will become seriously ill with breathing problems. The World Health Organization estimated one in seven cases will need to be hospitalized, and 5% of those patients will need ventilators to survive.
How long are people contagious after they've been infected?
Scientists remain unsure. To be safe, public health officials recommend that people who suspect they have COVID-19 stay home unless they need medical care.
If you have not been tested, the CDC said you can leave your home after:
You've had no fever for three days (without help from medication)
Your symptoms have improved
At least a week has passed since your first symptom
If you have tested positive, the CDC said you should get two negative test results (at least 24 hours apart) before you leave your home.
You can find more from the CDC on when to stop isolating here.
How long does it take to recover from COVID-19?
Typically one to two weeks from when symptoms show up, but people who are hospitalized with more serious complications may take longer.
Starting the count when symptoms first arrive is important. When a person comes in contact with the coronavirus, it takes an average of five days to become ill, University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman said. That's when the two week countdown should begin.
Can the coronavirus be transmitted by a person not showing symptoms?
Yes, and scientists say asymptomatic people are driving the spread of the virus.
Will I become immune to coronavirus if I get it?
A likely yes, but scientists are not 100% percent certain, said University of Pennsylvania Professor of Medicine Stephen Gluckman.
"There are many, many, many coronaviruses, and in fact it's one of the more common causes of the common cold," he said. "We do know from other coronaviruses that protection is lasting."
Scientists are working on developing a test that would indicate if a person already had the virus, but for now Gluckman said the priority is distributing tests to find out who is currently sick, and therefore contagious.
Is there a test to detect whether I've had COVID-19?
Yes. The FDA approved the first COVID-19 antibody test for use in the U.S. on April 2, but they are not widely available.
Scientists believe these antibodies — proteins the body develops in response to viruses and infections — show up two weeks after infection and may protect the body against the virus for at least a year, according to Dr. Mia Taormina with the DuPage Medical Group. But how much protection COVID-19 antibodies could offer still needs to be researched, according to the New York Times.
Antibody tests could also help public health officials know how protected the population will be going forward, in the absence of a vaccine. More reliable antibody testing will help researchers "truly see the impact of how many people had this virus," Taormina said.
But the tests that are currently available were only approved through an emergency use authorization from FDA. And FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn told Meet The Press he was concerned the antibody tests may be inaccurate.
How does canceling events and staying home help slow the spread of the virus?
Through social distancing. Scientists say COVID-19 is mainly spread through both close contact and the respiratory droplets expelled by infected people when they cough or sneeze. Those droplets can travel about six feet through the air and live on surfaces for 24 to 72 hours, according to STAT.
That's why social distancing, the practice of avoiding public spaces and maintaining physical distance, is our best way of stopping the spread of the virus, Georgetown Microbiologist Julie Fischer said.
The goal of social distancing is to spread out the total number of cases over a longer period of time to prevent an overload on the healthcare system. STAT reports on why flattening the curve is so important.
How does COVID-19 kill?
Several ways. In severe cases, COVID-19 infects the alveoli, a very thin layer of cells inside of the lungs. This infection can cause pneumonia, Georgetown University microbiologist Julie Fischer said.
To save the lungs, the body sends white blood cells to destroy the infected alveoli cells. However, that immune system response can lead to an inflammation of lung tissue, which prevents the lungs from absorbing oxygen. And without oxygen, organs shut down. Patients in desperate need of oxygen can be put on a respirator to help them breathe until the inflammation goes down, but Fischer said there is only a 50% chance at survival at that point.
In other cases, people die from the infection weakening their heart — even if their lungs improve, said Stephen Gluckman, a University of Pennsylvania medical professor.
How is COVID-19 different from other diseases?
A lack of immunity. Unlike influenza or measles, there is no vaccine for this coronavirus. And unlike some other infections — like common colds — no human on the planet had a preexisting immunity to this new virus, said Julie Fischer, a Georgetown University microbiologist. That's what makes COVID-19 so dangerous.
Because of that lack of immunity, infections can spread through the population much more rapidly.
While the U.S. has millions of influenza cases every year, they are spread out over a flu season. The risk with COVID-19 is that the healthcare system will be severely strained if even a small percentage of the population becomes severely ill in a short period of time, Fischer said.
What is the mortality rate of COVID-19?
It's complicated. Calculating an accurate worldwide mortality rate is difficult because there are so many variables.
At this time, many countries are only testing the very sick, a higher percentage of whom die. Because asymptomatic people and those with mild symptoms aren't being tested, the estimated mortality rate could currently be inflated.
In regards to specific countries, doctors say the mortality rate will be affected by things like social distancing measures, the medical resources available (staff, beds and respirators) and the average age of the population in a country (the mortality rate is much higher for patients over 80).
Where can I learn the number of cases in my area?
You can search by zip code here.
Can anyone get tested for COVID-19?
No, you must be referred for testing by a physician. Commercial and hospital labs do not need health department approval to conduct a test.
As of April 8, the state's three labs are testing:
Anyone hospitalized with COVID-19 symptoms
People with COVID-19 symptoms who live or work in group settings, such as nursing homes and homeless shelters
First responders and healthcare workers with COVID-19 symptoms
Can I get tested if I don't have a healthcare provider to give a referral?
Yes, but call ahead to an urgent care center or emergency room to tell them you're coming, said Beth Squires, Public Health Program Coordinator at Northern Illinois University.
Don't go unannounced, otherwise an entire waiting room could get infected, she said. Doctors and nurses need time to prepare for patients who may be contagious with COVID-19.
States and hospitals are gearing up for drive-thru testing, but I don't have a car.
Beth Squires, Public Health Program Coordinator at Northern Illinois University, said to contact your county health department for options. She advised against using Uber or Lyft, especially if you are showing symptoms.
For now, drive-thru testing is only available in Illinois for first responders, healthcare workers and people over the age of 65 who have symptoms. Gov. JB Pritzker said testing will continue to expand in the coming weeks.
Can I get tested if I am uninsured?
Yes. The federal Families First act guarantees that uninsured people will not have to pay for testing and anyone who is experiencing symptoms should seek testing knowing they will not be responsible, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The state is awaiting specific federal guidance on reimbursing providers.
Private insurance carriers like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and Cigna have also said they will cover the costs. But it's still best to check with your insurance company to make sure.
And the Chicago Tribune reports that Aetna would waive copays for coronavirus-related hospital stays.
Will there be a special enrollment period for insurance?
No. President Trump decided not to broadly reopen the healthcare.gov marketplace to new customers, reports The New York Times.
However, you may qualify for new insurance coverage if you can prove "life qualifying event," such as losing your job. A special enrollment period would have made that process faster, and insurance coverage available to more people.
Why are we waiting for people to show symptoms before they are tested?
Tests are not sensitive enough to detect low levels of the virus in a human body, according to Irfan Hafiz at Northwestern Medicine. And a team of German researchers discovered that people are shedding high levels of the virus early on in their sickness, when showing only mild symptoms.
How do I know if my favorite activity is safe?
Don't participate in activities that require touching anyone, using shared equipment or sharing an indoor space with others. Safety comes down to physical contact, doctors said.
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot banned contact sports like football, basketball and soccer. And doctors say the risk is equally high for card games, board games and video games with shared controllers.
If you normally do group activities with friends, try to do them remotely instead. Using services like Zoom, Discord or Google Hangouts are just a couple ways to hang virtually.
Is it safe to take a walk?
Yes — and it's a good idea as long as you don't have symptoms of COVID-19, said University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman.
Walking past someone on the street carries almost no risk as long as people stay six feet apart. Gluckman suggests walks or runs to reduce stress during this time
But staying apart is crucial. On March 26, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot closed the city's lakefront, Riverwalk and The 606 trail because of overcrowding. She also banned contact sports like football, basketball and soccer.
Are small gatherings safe?
No. Slowing the spread of the virus requires keeping your distance, said University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman.
Don't invite people over, he said. Meet your friends outside and stay six feet apart.
Can I go to the laundromat?
Yes, but use a disinfectant wipe to clean surfaces like machine handles, coin validators and the table for folding clothes, said Northern Illinois University public health expert Beth Squires.
Don't worry about the inside of the machines, she said. The heat and soapy water should prevent transmission.
Can I make baked goods for my friends?
Yes, but keep your distance when delivering them, said Northern Illinois University's Public Health Program Coordinator Beth Squires. Contracting COVID-19 is not a risk unless you're in direct contact with someone who has it.
When baking for friends, Squires suggested washing your hands often. Then, call ahead and drop the treats by the front door. To be extra safe, your friend should throw away the packaging and wash their hands before eating.
Lowell Seyburn, who wrote to WBEZ with a similar question, suggests asking your friends if they are willing to accept your baked goods before you drop them off — some may be nervous.
My friend and I have been sheltering in place separately, can we see each other yet?
No, even if you have stayed home for two weeks, visiting friends is still dangerous because every essential trip to the store carries the risk of exposure, thus resetting that counter, said Northern Illinois University's Public Health Program Coordinator Beth Squires.
"If you do want to get together, drive your cars to a parking lot and maintain physical distance," she said. "Or, if you go to their house, sit at least six feet away in the front or on the porch. You and your friend are staying in place. Don't start increasing the risk and start meeting up."
Can I "stay at home" with my family? What about my grandparents?
Yes, as long as you live in the same home.
Northwestern Chief of Geriatrics Lee Lindquist suggested calling your grandparents instead of visiting if they live in a different home. The risk of infection is too great for casual visits.
Because the elderly can be more vulnerable, she said grandparents should still consider self isolating even after public officials relax some social distancing guidelines.
Can I transmit COVID-19 by kissing or having sex?
Yes. Coronavirus is absorbed through mucosal membranes. That's your eyes, nose, throat and more. The New York City Health Department issued this guide to safe sex during the pandemic.
If you live with your partner, it's safe to be intimate, said University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman. But if you live apart, it's safer to keep your distance.
WBEZ has this guide to intimacy during the pandemic.
Can I move during the stay at home order?
Yes, moving and relocation services are considered a critical trade during the pandemic, according to Gov. JB Pritzker's order.
Can my employer stop me from wearing a mask?
No. If you are being prevented from protecting yourself or asked to work in an unsafe environment, the Illinois Department of Public Health says to file a complaint with the federal or state Occupational and Health Safety Administration (OSHA).
File a complaint here with federal OSHA if you work for a private employer. File with state OSHA here if you work for the government.
Is my workplace required to close if an employee is diagnosed with COVID-19?
Maybe. When a business finds out that an employee has tested positive for COVID-19, it should consult with local health officials to determine next steps. Because each case may be different, the Illinois Department of Health said there is no generalized guidance for businesses in this situation.
Can I obtain power of attorney for an older relative without doing anything in person?
Yes, but there are some logistical challenges, according to lawyer Mike Drabant.
Gov.JB Pritizker's has issued an order that allows for "virtual witnessing," where the witnesses and notary can watch the signing via webcam, but all parties must co-sign within 24 hours.
And e-signatures are not allowed by the state for legal documents, therefore documents must be signed by hand then emailed or faxed. This requirement can present difficulties because these documents sometimes can be more than 100 pages long, and many older people don't have access to computers or know how to compress large files.
"Many of our documents require two witnesses and a notary," Drabant wrote in an email. "We basically have a 24-hour window to compile the signatures from all four people. If one person is late in getting the documents sent, we have to re-do the signing."
Should I do my errands all in one day or on multiple days?
One day.Beth Squires, a public health expert at Northern Illinois University, recommends that you limit your number of outings per week to reduce exposure.
Can I leave home to donate blood?
Yes. Giving blood is a vital service and COVID-19 shutdowns have threatened the blood supply. The American Red Cross, the Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC and the FDA have all issued statements encouraging blood donation.
Is it safe to go to the grocery store? Can I still get take out? Delivery?
Yes, but try to shop less often and at off-peak hours. Our Curious City team put together a guide for eating safely during the coronavirus pandemic with tips on grocery shopping, takeout and delivery. You can also read the CDC's guide to COVID-19 and food safety.
Coronavirus and the flu
Am I protected from coronavirus if I got my flu shot?
No, the coronavirus is different from the flu. But reducing the number of flu cases could improve the overall response to COVID-19, reports LiveScience.
Can I get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time?
Maybe, but coinfection is rare, according to Northwestern Medicine infectious disease expert Irfan Hafiz. Beyond anecdotal evidence, no studies have been done.
I just recovered from the flu. Am I more or less susceptible to COVID-19?
Neither, the flu has no positive or negative effect on contracting COVID-19, said University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman.
Is COVID-19 worse than the flu, in terms of infections and mortality?
Yes, with the data currently available. But it is hard to compare the two because there are antiviral remedies, vaccines and some natural immunity to the flu.
With expanded COVID-19 testing, public health workers will be able to identify asymptomatic people who are not getting sick or dying. The average mortality rate will likely decrease as a result.
A new study in the journal Nature shows the mortality rate in Wuhan is closer to 1.4%, rather than the initial 2% to 3% initially projected. But that's still more than ten times higher than the 0.1% death rate of the flu.
This report from the New York Times is a helpful in-depth comparison.
Should I be stocking up on food and medicine?
No, both will remain available, according to Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and Northwestern Memorial Hospital's director of pharmacy Desi Kotis. Hoarding keeps others from getting what they need.
Can coronavirus be transmitted over surfaces?
Yes. The coronavirus can remain on surfaces for 24 to 72 hours. As a general rule, it sticks to hard surfaces (like metal) for far longer than soft, porous surfaces (like clothing or carpet).
Can I get coronavirus from letters, newspapers or packages?
Unlikely. The CDC says it is possible to contract the virus by touching a surface and then touching your face or mouth. But washing or disinfecting a package is overkill, according to a Wirecutter report.
To be extra careful, you can dispose of external packing outside the home and wash your hands after, Wirecutter says. People in high-risk groups should consider this.
Will wearing a mask stop me from getting COVID-19?
No, but it can prevent spreading the virus if you are infected. President Trump, the CDC and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker now recommend that all people cover their faces with non-medical masks when outside. Some health experts say it could reduce transmission from people who are not showing symptoms. The new recommendations are not mandatory, and Trump said he will not wear one.
However, the World Health Organization still only recommends masks for people who are sick or are caring for someone who is sick.
Northern Illinois University's Public Health Program Coordinator Beth Squires cautioned that face masks can also make people feel too safe.
"You still need to take the standard precautions, you still need to wash your hands," she said.
Can pets transmit COVID-19?
Yes, and it's best to take precautions, said Dr. Mia Taormina with the DuPage Medical Group.
There have been documented COVID-19 infections in animals, including a tiger at the Bronx Zoo. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says "the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low," yet it advises being cautious when caring for your pet.
"This is why social distancing is going to be important when we're walking our dogs as well," Taormina said.
But Taormina said it's unlikely a pet could get the virus from sniffing around objects outside.
"That would mean that that non-person object had to have the virus, then the dog would have to get exposed to the virus, then it would transmit to the person who lives with the dog," she said. "It would be extraordinarily challenging for that to happen."
If someone in your household is infected with COVID-19, Taormina advised treating pets "like family members" and making sure they stay out of the room the sick person is using to isolate.
Can common household items kill the virus on skin and surfaces?
Yes. The CDC said washing hands with soap for at least 20 seconds is still the best method to curb transmission.
For surfaces, Stephen Gluckman, Professor of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania, recommends bleach. The American Chemistry Council also has a list of common household cleaners effective against COVID-19.
You can also make homemade hand sanitizer. The CDC recommends this simple r recipe: Stir 2/3 cup rubbing alcohol and 1/3 cup aloe vera gel in a small bowl until blended. Add 8 to 10 drops of an essential oil for a nice fragrance if you wish.
Once the virus is inside your body, you can't use bleach, alcohol, Lysol or intense heat to kill the virus at that point, according to Sarah Connolly, associate professor of health sciences at DePaul University.
Other alternatives that are spreading online don't work — and could hurt you:
Bleach + vinegar = chlorine gas, which can cause coughing, watery eyes and breathing problems
Bleach + ammonia = toxic chloramine gas that causes shortness of breath and chest pain
Bleach + rubbing alcohol = highly toxic chloroform, which can knock you out
Hydrogen peroxide + vinegar = makes the very corrosive peracetic/ peroxyacetic acid
Why do we use antibacterial products to kill a virus?
All soaps — including those with antibacterial chemicals — pull apart the outer layer of the virus.
Julie Fischer, a microbiologist at Georgetown University, said two outer layers of fat give the virus its stability, allowing the virus to move from one cell to another and begin the infection cycle.
Soaps disperse those fats — a process you've probably seen in the kitchen, she noted.
"If you drop dish soap into a pan with a fat floating on the top, you immediately see the sheen of that fat disappear and crumple up" she said. "The fats are still there, but they aren't holding a structure. The same thing is happening to the virus on a microscopic level."
Once the outer layer is weakened, scrubbing your hands then shears the virus apart. Soaps also disrupt the fats on our hands, which is why frequent washing dries them out.
Should I get a pneumonia shot?
Maybe, but it's a little complicated. Pneumonia is a generic term for lung infection, and there are many kinds. While pneumonia is a severe complication of COVID-19, the "pneumonia vaccine" protects against a specific bacterial infection — pneumococcus.
The pneumonia vaccine does not protect against COVID-19, according to the World Health Organization.
However, University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman is suggesting the vaccine to his patients for a different reason.
"As an infectious disease doctor, it's hard to argue against vaccines — they're wonderful," he said. "People have been talking about reducing all complications. Getting the vaccine makes sense in that, if you happen to get COVID, it may prevent a superimposed problem of pneumococcal pneumonia."
If someone in your household is diagnosed with the coronavirus, does everyone need to stay home?
Yes, and public health officials may ask you to self-quarantine. More on that here.
Does heat or cold kill the coronavirus?
Probably not. Based on what we know about other viruses, University of Pennsylvania Professor of Medicine Stephen Gluckman said he would be surprised if it had any effect.
Temperatures need to reach at least 140 degrees to kill a virus. The reason viruses spread more during colder months isn't because of the temperature, but because people spend more time indoors "sneezing and coughing on each other," Gluckman said.
"That's almost surely the mechanism of why viral infections peak in the winter," he said. "They have the flu on the equator. It's just not seasonal."
Is there anything I can do to ease symptoms?
Yes, acetaminophen, like Tylenol, and cough medicines are best for treating symptoms at home, said University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman.
A widely circulated comment from France's Health Minister claimed ibuprofen, like Advil, exacerbated COVID-19 symptoms. The Federal Drug Administration states it's unclear if the drug has adverse effects. The World Health Organization said there is no evidence that Ibuprofen has a negative impact on COVID patients.
When in doubt, always consult a physician to make decisions about your own health.
There are also medications, like hydroxychloroquine, being tested in clinical trials, but Dr. Mia Taormina, a doctor with the DuPage Medical group, said it's "too soon to tell reliably how much benefit we are seeing from that medication."
Is Illinois prepared?
Does the U.S., and Illinois, have enough hospital beds for a COVID-19 pandemic?
Maybe. There are less than 100,000 staffed beds in the U.S., according to the American Hospital Association. Using a conservative estimate, where 20% of the U.S. population is infected over 18 months, hospital beds would be about 95% full.
And if the infection rate is higher? ProPublica created these maps to show hospital bed shortages at various infection rates.
In Illinois, the number of available beds changes daily. On March 26, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot warned the city could see "40,000 hospitalizations in the coming weeks," which will "break the back" of the area's health care system. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has also set up a medical facility at McCormick Place.
Is the CTA cleaning more thoroughly?
Yes. The CTA has a "rigorous cleaning schedule" where vehicles and stations are cleaned daily — including surfaces like seats, handrails, turnstyles and ventra machines, spokesperson Brian Steele said in an email.
The CTA, which Steele said is in daily contact with the Illinois Department of Public Health, created a website to outline its cleaning efforts.
Are Chicago-area hospitals looking for facemask donations?
Yes. Illinois is accepting donations of masks and other equipment, but it needs to be unopened and can't be homemade. More info on that here.
Other private organizations are asking for equipment here. You can contact them directly about donations.
Has the state tax filing deadline been extended?
Yes. Illinois residents have until July 15 to file federal and state taxes.
When will schools reopen?
Unclear. Gov. J.B. Pritzker said schools are closed for the remainder of the academic year. Find more answers to your questions about schools and COVID-19 here.
Where do retired healthcare workers sign up to help the state fight COVID-19?
Here, on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website.
How is the state handling unemployment claims?
A record number of Illinoisans have filed for unemployment benefits during this pandemic. That demand for benefits is overburdening the system, and Gov. JB Pritzker told reporters that the program doesn't have the money to keep up.
The Illinois Department of Employment Security is handling the influx of claims by assigning days to apply online by last name. Claims will also be back-dated to the day the person lost their job due to COVID-19.
Check this website for updates. The site has crashed before and, for now, you can't file online between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
Has wildlife been affected?
Yes, but animals are quick to adjust, said Forest Preserves of Cook County Biologist Chris Anchor.
And Cook County's most common species are highly adaptable, Anchor said. With people largely indoors, these animals are taking advantage of the space. For example, Mallard ducks are nesting in planters outside the entrance to Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. And normally nocturnal coyotes are travelling more frequently in the daytime, but they haven't yet expanded their territory.
When people return to normal life, Anchor said the animals will be forced out of those spaces again. But he anticipates some exciting close encounters.
"I could envision people witnessing mother coyotes or mother foxes running down the sidewalk with their pups to an alternate den," he said.
Protecting yourself if you're at higher risk for severe illness
Who is "high risk" and what does that mean?
High risk people are the most likely to get very sick from COVID-19.
According to the CDC and the doctors, "high risk" people include:
Older people (especially 65+): Age is the most significant factor. Doctors say stay home.
People with asthma: COVID-19 can cause asthma attacks and exacerbate respiratory problems.
Immunocompromised people: This is a large category that encompasses people with autoimmune diseases or anyone on immunosuppressant medications. Consult your physician about your specific illness.
People with AIDS: People who are not taking antiretroviral medications to treat HIV have weaker immune systems. Those undergoing treatment are no more at risk than the average person, says University of Pennsylvania medical professor Stephen Gluckman, who treats patients with HIV.
People with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions: In serious cases, COVID-19 threatens heart and lung function. Underlying issues puts this group at risk.
Note that people who are not in any of these categories can still become seriously ill from COVID-19. No person is completely safe, just more or less susceptible.
If I am in a "high risk" category, should I be behaving differently than those who are not considered "high risk"?
Yes, according to the CDC.
Anyone who is more susceptible to the virus should take social distancing measures seriously. Avoid leaving the house if possible and have friends and neighbors run errands for you. The CDC has detailed guidance for those who are high risk.
How does the virus affect pregnant women and pregnancy?
That's unclear. Scientists say we need more data.
The CDC does not yet know whether pregnant women have a greater chance of getting sick from COVID-19. However, pregnant women have been more susceptible to respiratory illnesses, like influenza and other coronaviruses. For example, SARS was 25% more deadly for pregnant women.
Florida Epidemiologist Sonia Rassmussen told The Guardian that scientists don't yet know if that's the case with COVID-19.
"It does suggest that even though the small amount of data we have so far on pregnant women is reassuring, it always reminds me that we can't be too sure of this early on," she said.
Malikah Shah, director of Northwestern's newborn nursery, said there is some evidence the virus can be passed from mother to infant before birth, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
And mothers who come into contact with coronavirus should not breastfeed their children for at least two weeks, according to The Lancet scientific journal.
NPR also has this guide for pregnant women during the pandemic.
Are people who smoke at higher risk?
Yes. The National Institutes of Health said people who vape or smoke tobacco and marijuana are at higher risk for serious illness because their lungs are compromised. Users of other drugs are also at a higher risk.
There's some evidence that men in China were more likely to have COVID-19 than women because more than half of them smoke, compared to just 2% of women in China, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Beth Squires, a public health expert at Northern Illinois University, said if the lungs are already busy fighting off the chemicals from smoking, they are more vulnerable to infection.
Should I be traveling right now?
No. Boarding a plane is dangerous for older adults because it's impossible to know who they will come in contact with — not just on the plane, but in the airports, the tram and the parking lot, Northwestern Chief of Geriatrics Lee Lindquist said. The CDC offers detailed guidance on travel here.
Should I attend funerals?
No. It's not an ideal time to gather with others — even at funerals, weddings or baptisms, said Northwestern Medicine Chief of Geriatrics Lee Lindquist.
"I'm sure your loved ones will understand," Lindquist said. "Even though it hurts your heart."
Vivian McCall is a news intern at WBEZ. Reset producer Stephanie Kim contributed to this report.
Coronavirus In Illinois: Millennium Park Reopens, But Restrictions In Place
Updated June 15, 2020 read more
Illinois Issues 'Disaster Proclamation' Over Coronavirus
Mar. 10, 2020 read more
Empty Shelves Greet Chicagoans Stocking Up For Coronavirus


text:
// ============================================================================
//
// Copyright (C) 2006-2015 Talend Inc. - www.talend.com
//
// This source code is available under agreement available at
// %InstallDIR%\features\org.talend.rcp.branding.%PRODUCTNAME%\%PRODUCTNAME%license.txt
//
// You should have received a copy of the agreement
// along with this program; if not, write to Talend SA
// 9 rue Pages 92150 Suresnes, France
//
// ============================================================================
package org.talend.daikon.security;

import java.io.UnsupportedEncodingException;
import java.security.spec.AlgorithmParameterSpec;
import java.security.spec.KeySpec;

import javax.crypto.Cipher;
import javax.crypto.SecretKey;
import javax.crypto.SecretKeyFactory;
import javax.crypto.spec.PBEKeySpec;
import javax.crypto.spec.PBEParameterSpec;

import org.apache.commons.codec.binary.Base64;

/**
 * Encrypt and decrypt strings, encapsulating the cryptography algorithm and configured by a passphrase.
 */
public class CryptoHelper {

    private static final String UTF8 = "UTF8"; //$NON-NLS-1$

    private static final String EMPTY_STRING = ""; //$NON-NLS-1$

    private Cipher ecipher;

    private Cipher dcipher;

    // 8-byte Salt
    private byte[] salt = { (byte) 0xA9, (byte) 0x9B, (byte) 0xC8, (byte) 0x32, (byte) 0x56, (byte) 0x35, (byte) 0xE3,
            (byte) 0x03 };

    // Iteration count
    private int iterationCount = 29;

    public static final String PASSPHRASE = "99ZwBDt1L9yMX2ApJx fnv94o99OeHbCGuIHTy22 V9O6cZ2i374fVjdV76VX9g49DG1r3n90hT5c1"; //$NON-NLS-1$

    /**
     * @param passPhrase the pass phrase used to encrypt and decrypt strings.
     */
    public CryptoHelper(String passPhrase) {
        try {
            // Create the key
            KeySpec keySpec = new PBEKeySpec(passPhrase.toCharArray(), salt, iterationCount);
            SecretKey key = SecretKeyFactory.getInstance("PBEWithMD5AndDES").generateSecret(keySpec); //$NON-NLS-1$
            ecipher = Cipher.getInstance(key.getAlgorithm());
            dcipher = Cipher.getInstance(key.getAlgorithm());

            // Prepare the parameter to the ciphers
            AlgorithmParameterSpec paramSpec = new PBEParameterSpec(salt, iterationCount);

            // Create the ciphers
            ecipher.init(Cipher.ENCRYPT_MODE, key, paramSpec);
            dcipher.init(Cipher.DECRYPT_MODE, key, paramSpec);
        } catch (Exception e) {
            // do nothing
        }
    }

    /**
     * @param str The plaintext string to encrypt.
     * @return The ecrypted string, or null if an error occurred.
     */
    public String encrypt(String str) {
        if (str == null) {
            return null;
        }
        try {
            byte[] utf8 = str.getBytes(UTF8);
            byte[] enc = ecipher.doFinal(utf8);
            return CryptoHelper.encode64(enc);
        } catch (Exception e) {
            return null;
        }
    }

    /**
     * @param str The encrypted string to decrypt.
     * @return The plaintext string, or null if an error occurred.
     */
    public String decrypt(String str) {
        if (str == null) {
            return null;
        }
        // if empty, no need decrypt.
        if (EMPTY_STRING.equals(str)) {
            return EMPTY_STRING;
        }
        try {
            byte[] dec = CryptoHelper.decode64(str);
            byte[] utf8 = dcipher.doFinal(dec);
            return new String(utf8, UTF8);
        } catch (Exception e) {
            return null;
        }
    }

    /**
     * @param str Binary data to encode.
     * @return The string encoded in Base64, or "" if an encoding error occurred.
     */
    public static String encode64(byte[] str) {
        try {
            return new String(Base64.encodeBase64(str), UTF8);
        } catch (UnsupportedEncodingException e) {
            return EMPTY_STRING;
        }
    }

    /**
     * @param str A Base64 string to decode.
     * @return The decoded binary data, or an empty array if a decoding error occurred.
     */
    public static byte[] decode64(String str) {
        try {
            return Base64.decodeBase64(str.getBytes(UTF8));
        } catch (UnsupportedEncodingException e) {
            return new byte[0];
        }
    }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Restaurants.USALocalData.com offers a categorized list of the best restaurants in Idaho.
Located below are the best and cheapest restaurants and dining locations in Idaho. A total of 2,494 chefs, catering, food options currently exist in Idaho so feel free to treat yourself and eat somewhere you love! Highly rated and ranked Idaho Dining options exist so don't cheat yourself when it comes to food.


Webb's AC anglers didn't have the best of days over at Rookery Waters fishing the new Raven Pool, although match winner Ted Rowe was the exception to the rule.
He romped home with 79lb 14oz, most taken on a small feeder with red maggot.
Andy Perry took the runner-up spot with 22lb 10oz, again most falling to the feeder approach.
Then it was Alan Forrest on 22lb 1oz and Colin Clarke completed the frame with 20lb 10oz.
One of the biggest turnouts of the year saw a very strong field fishing the Saturday Rookery Waters Qualifying open which was spread over both the Jay and Magpie pools.
Spalding angler Dan Abbott took first place from peg 27 on Magpie.
He started on banded pellet fished on the long pole shallow before switching to his two margin lines on his left-hand side with meat and maggots for a match-winning 150lb 5oz. He went home a very happy angler as he also scooped the £200 golden peg prize.
Runner-up on Jay Lake was city rod Steve Freeman from peg 11. He alternated between meat and pellets in the edges and long to the far bank for 114lb 6oz.
Third place went to Josh Pace on a level 96lb.
Strong winds made presentation very difficult for the anglers fishing the Thursday £1,000 Qualifying Open on Jay Lake.
First was Rob Wright with an all-meat catch of 176lb 12oz.
Runner-up with 129lb 12oz was Simon Skelton, followed by Andrew Rayment in third place with a weight of 106lb 8oz.


LOVE BEING A NONNY!: These Babies Are TWO!!!!
HJ loves: Her paci. Her *Sally* doll. Frozen. Bossing her brothers.
B loves: Goldfish crackers. His mommy. Any riding toy. And ducks.
Happy Birthday to these two amazing twins.
Thanks for your comment on our blog. Can't wait to read your response to the questions.
Thank you for mentioning me! I am honored! Took a little break and just posted after a crazy few months!


Developing Self-Awareness is a chosen journey that for some is about further personal growth and development and for others is about healing, recovery, getting to know themselves and then taking the journey of further personal growth and development. It is about finding, knowing, and living in and through your authentic self in a way that flows with life and not against it. It is knowing that you are interconnected to all beings and things in the universe.
Life Coach, BPD Mental Health and Self Improvement Coach, A.J. Mahari in this 2 hour and 50 minute Audio, that is accompanied by a Workbook, takes you on a positive, enlightening, and empowering motivational journey of just how you can begin or continue to develop self-awareness and why it is so important that you do. How to begin to empower yourself to create the change that you want in your life and the role of the journey that developing awareness plays in change and personal growth.


The item Haven, The complete first season, an Entertainment One / Big Motion Pictures production in association with Universal Networks International ; written by Sam Ernst ... [et al.] ; directed by Adam Kane ... [et al.] ; developed for television by Sam Ernst, Jim Dunn, (videorecording) represents a specific, individual, material embodiment of a distinct intellectual or artistic creation found in Austin Public Library.


One of the most picturesque cities in Northern Greece, Kavala is the northern region's capital and main port. The ever lush slopes of Mt. Symvolo create a majestic backdrop for the city. Warm Mediterranean air sweeps through the ancient buildings that blend perfectly with the modern city. The city has a rich history that dates back to the pre-historic times. Strategically located in Via Egnatia, which links the East and West, the city has a vibrant economy and a colorful culture.
The Kavala Airport is the gateway to the city. Being an international airport, it caters to thousands of arrivals and departures throughout the day. The airport has regular flights to Athens as well as many other European cities. If you are heading to Kavala via its airport, get yourself ready for some delays.
Make sure to plan your trip well ahead so you can maximize your time. The picturesque scenery, the interesting routes, and the numerous tourist spots make renting out a car commonsensical. There are many rent-a-car service providers at Kavala airport. Avance car rental has a large fleet of cars that you can choose from. At Avance Car Rental, you can certainly find a vehicle that will meet your transportation needs while in the city.
We run a website where you can choose the right vehicle that meets your needs. Our website guarantees an easier, faster and hassle-free travel arrangement; you can even book your vehicle in advance while you are still planning your itinerary. This way you will not have any worries in mind. Moreover, since you have a car, you can maximize your entire stay in the city. Our online booking and reservation portal provides you with a real sense of security.
Booking a car well in advance is really advantageous for travelers, whether for business or pleasure, and especially if you are travelling on a tight schedule. When you rent out a car earlier, you will know exactly what vehicle to look for once you arrive at Kavala airport.
Don't ruin your Greek holiday by making necessary rental car reservations early. The last thing you'll ever want is to get stranded at the airport, searching for a vacant taxi or car rental. Car rental is a very practical way to go around this majestic Greek region. Do yourself a favor by making a reservation well ahead. Make your online reservation at least four weeks before your planned trip so that we can make necessary adjustments.
Rent the best car for your trip and discover the great adventures the region has to offer. Explore the lush Mount Paggaio and check out the lovely beaches at Kavala. For a hassle free stay in Kavala, trust Avance!


text:
Plan to get ripped for summer put off until August
A MAN'S plans to get himself a beach-ready six-pack in time for summer have been postponed until August at the absolute latest.
Joe Turner, aged 28, still believes he will have a toned torso for summer despite the fact it is already, technically, summer.
Girlfriend Emma Bradford said: "Joe's planning a soft launch for his body improvement plans in July, which means he'll leaf through a copy of Men's Health while trying to remember if he's already in a gym.
"He claims that his body responds really well to exercise and 'the core strength is still there' from a few years ago, but I think his body's been responding a bit too well to crisps and lager."
Turner said: "I can't wait to be absolutely shredded on the beach and have all that body confidence inspiring everyone around me.
"Though it doesn't look like it'll clear up this year, so by summer I mean those warm weeks we get in early May meaning realistically I can relax until at least February 2020."
Britain not drunk enough to accept Boris Johnson will be next prime minister
THE UK has demanded that confirmation that Boris Johnson will be prime minister be delayed to around 1.30am on Saturday.
With the final two candidates to be decided later today, Britons have requested that the news be held until at the very least 11pm tonight so they can numb it with alcohol.
Nathan Muir of Hitchin said: "Boris Johnson. Prime minister. I can't handle that sober.
"Yeah, he's got to beat Hunt or Gove. But let's face it, if you find yourself placing any hope or faith in those clueless w*nkers it's already too late.
"I'm going to begin with beer to quell the dread in my stomach, move on to whisky to head off the terrible despair, then finally blot it all out completely with tequila.
"Hopefully I'll wake up in the morning having accepted the fact that he's going to be the leader of the country without having to suffer all of the debilitating effects that come with that realisation. It's the responsible thing to do."
Dr Francesca Ryan of the General Medical Council said: "We're rescinding all warnings about minimum units. And daytime drinking. And drinking at work."


Travelling On is a course of study for use in small groups of adults with a leader. Its aim is to help Christians to become more confident as followers of Christ, and more effective in the Church's life and mission.
The course is in two phases, each of which has a number of parts made up of several sessions (the number varies from part to part). Some of it is based on material previously published as part of the Bishop's Certificate Course in the Diocese of Lichfield, which is © the Lichfield Diocesan Board of Finance and reproduced under licence. Several thousand people have found this material to be an important journey of Christian discovery since it was first published in 1986. Other parts of the course make use of re-edited material previously supplied as course-work resources for the Middlesex University BA in Contextual Theology at the North Thames Ministerial Training Course, which was validated as a programme of training for ordinands and lay readers by the Ministry Division of the Church of England. This material is © the North Thames Ministerial Training Partnership and reproduced for use at St John's with permission.
Because the material is copyrighted, access is restricted to members of the Travelling On group at St John's. Access is via this password-protected link. Members of the wider public wishing to view the material should contact David Sceats by email.
In which we explore the resources that Christians draw on for their discipleship in the Bible and the Christian tradition of faith, reflection and mission.
An exploration of the part the Bible plays in Christian experience. Our own approach to the Bible, and that of others, what we expect when we read it, how it was compiled, the story the Bible tells, and the kinds of literature ot includes. How all this helps us to understand it.
The Old Testament records the story of Israel, and how its experiences as a people shaped its understanding of God. How the Old Testament came to be written, what its main themes are, what, if anything, it may have to say to Christians today.
The New Testament records how the earliest Christians tried to make sense of Jesus of Nazareth and his impact on them. The kind of community the early church was, how it thought about Jesus and how Christians today can find their faith nourished and developed by these texts from the past.
The next phase of the Christian story. In the 400 years between the middle of the first century and the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the middle of the fifth, Christians went through a series of climactic, formative experiences.
The Christian story from the disintegration of the Western Roman Empire in the mid-fifth century to the establishment of mediaeval Christendom by the twelfth. The heyday of the Byzantine Empire, the emergence of monasticism, and the rise of Islam.
The story of the western church in the high middle ages. Crusades, cathedrals, reform movements, monastic religion, the friars, scholasticism, popular piety, the renaissance.
The implosion of mediaeval Christendom in the sixteenth century and its consequences for the church in England and Scotland. The protestant reformation, church and state, presbytery and episcopacy, puritans and covenanters, the English Civil War, the Enlightenment.
The story of the Scottish Episcopal Church from the eighteenth century to the present, and its relationships to the Church of Scotland and the Church of England. Episcopalians and Jacobites, the church in America, the struggle to survive the Jacobite connection, the nineteenth century expansion, the Oxford Movement, the 'English' church, 'punching above our weight'.
In which we explore the Christian world-view in order to understand in greater depth what is the good news that Christians have to make known in the world of today.
Part 5: Who on Earth are We?
Christians claim that the universe is God's creation and that human beings are in God's image. What does this really mean, and what are its implications? What is being human all about?
Part 6: What in the World is Wrong?
Few people would argue with the view that all is not well with our world. The Christian message claims that God invites human beings to join his project for putting things to rights. But if we're to make sense of that invitation, we need to know what the nature of the problem is.
Part 7: How, in God's Name, can Things Change?
The good news that Christians share is that God is at work to transform the world into his kingdom, and that this is all focussed in Jesus. What kind of change is it? Where does the life, death and resurrection of Jesus fit in? And what needs to happen for God's project to be realised?
Part 8: Where, for Christ's sake, are we Going?
If this is the good news, how are we involved and what do we need to do about it? And what does the future hold? The final part of Travelling On explores the nature of Christian discipleship and mission, the Christian hope, and the idea of a world to come.


The stomach sleeping position is the least common and most finicky of the sleeping positions. Whereas back sleepers can sleep on just about any mattress, and side sleepers do well on medium or soft mattresses, stomach sleepers need a specific mid-range comfort to ensure healthy, restful sleep. The problem with being a stomach sleeper is you need a mattress rigid enough to keep your spine properly aligned, but soft enough to reduce pressure on your ribs and stomach. With a mattress that is too plush you are liable to sink in and overextend the arch of your back, but with a mattress too firm your ribs and stomach won't have enough pressure relief.
The medium-firm range is ideal for stomach sleepers. The sweet spot is between a 3 and a 6 on our Comfort Scale. These mattresses are firm enough to be supportive and keep you from sinking in, but padded enough to avoid feeling hard and uncomfortable. You should still think about where in this range is best for you, as some stomach sleepers will find a Comfort Scale rating of 3 too firm and others will find a 6 too plush. Straying too far in either direction is bad news for a stomach sleeper. Stomach sleepers risk their lower back locking up if they were overextending it all night or may not even be able to fall asleep if the mattress is too firm on their stomach and ribs.
So for you stomach sleepers out there struggling to find the perfect mattress, we know it isn't easy, but we're here to help! We have experts standing by to help guide you toward the mattresses that will accommodate your needs and fit your budget. Use our revolutionary Comfort Scale to help narrow down the mattresses that will work best for you, and let us know if you have any questions! You can give us a call at 1-800-455-1052 or contact us through our website.


Maximum fastening torque of 440N.m.
Same fastening torque in forward and reverse rotations.
Compact provides more control and manoeuvrability.
Large bumper protects workpiece from scratches.
Easy to operate by large rocker switch.
Reversing, Built-In Job Light and Carry Case.
Tool does not come with socket.


Hi, my name is Robert. I'm 23 and in the military. My hobbies are sports, video games, movies, and the beach. I'm looking for an women that knows what she wants in life and has goals in life. I prefer blonde hair and brunette girls.
Exact name of German article]]; see its history for attribution. Besides the 48 conterminous…. This article may be expanded with text translated from the corresponding article in Spanish. This Department of Casanare location article is a stub.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. Learn More in these related Britannica articles: Location of the municipality and town of Yopal in the Casanare Department of Colombia. Unfortunately, our editorial approach may not be able to accommodate all contributions. Colombia , country of northwestern South America. Any text you add should be original, not copied from other sources. Official website in Spanish.
Yopal: Yopal, town and capital of Casanare departamento, eastern Colombia. The original settlement (caserío) of Yopal was founded in by Pedro Pablo González, and it has been the seat of Casanare intendency (now departamento) since the creation of . Media in category "Yopal" The following 37 files are in this category, out of 37 total.


We've mentioned how to turn an old bike into a cargo bike, but if you're more concerned about transporting yourself, you can easily make your own recumbent trike out of old bike parts, even with no welding or bike maintenance experience.
Oddly enough, the only skills you do need for this project are those involving heavy duty tools: a hacksaw, electric drill, rotary tool, and a few bicycle tools. If you have an angle grinder or drill press, you'll be even better off (though they aren't necessary). You'll also need parts from three old bicycles, which shouldn't be hard to find. All in all, it cost the original builder less than $250 Canadian and only took a month to build, with no previous bike maintenance experience whatsoever. Hit the link for detailed instructions.


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December 18, 2018 2:33PM ET
How '90 Day Fiancé' Summed Up America in 2018
TLC's reality juggernaut about quickie marriages between foreigners and U.S. citizens is the cynical portrait of America we deserve
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Fernanda, who is from Mexico, and her fiance Jonathan, who lives in North Carolina, on '90 Day Fiance.'
This was the year I fell in love with 90 Day Fiancé. There's something so strangely soothing about stepping into this reality-TV hellhole for an hour or two every week, then turning it off. It was one of those imaginary Americas that stole my heart. Didn't we all spend 2018 looking for imaginary Americas to believe in, then feel wildly betrayed by, then keep clinging to even as we fall messily out of love, knowing all along it's a cynical fraud? That was our America in 2018, and nobody got to the core of it as brutally as 90 Day Fiancé. It's more than just a perfect reality show — it's also a bizarrely accurate state-of-the-union address.
You can't really call this show a Dumpster fire, because those rarely go on for four years, while 90 Day Fiancé has been raging since 2014, and it's already up to Season Six. TLC has built the reality-trash juggernaut into a Game of Thrones-size franchise, with a labyrinth of spin-offs like Before the 90 Days and Happily Ever After. Like anybody else who wanders into 90DF, I thought it would be so simple — a cheap laugh or two. I wasn't planning to get involved. But then I found myself in over my head, with no escape. Getting hooked on 90DF is like falling for a stranger you found online, then leaving your homeland to meet your new soul mate, then the next thing you know, you're stuck in Baraboo, Wisconsin, surrounded by hostile folks arguing in a language you barely understand, while planning your quickie wedding at the local Dunkin Donuts. Who among us, right?
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The premise: It's about couples with the K-1 visa, which allows a U.S. citizen to bring over a future spouse from another country. But once the fiancé acquires the visa and arrives in the U.S., the clock is ticking. The couple has 90 days to get married, or else the visa expires and the fiancé must go back to their home country, sadder but wiser. So there's pressure on these lovebirds to get hitched fast, even though they usually barely know each other. The foreigners come from all over — Jamaica, Jakarta, Mexico, Russia. They rush through all the rituals of courtship, like meeting the family. There's culture shock. Language barriers. And, needless to say, lots of screaming and crying — all while being followed around by a camera crew.
The show requires that the American partner believes, or at least semi-believes, the foreign spouse might sincerely fall in love with them. You may well ask, who could be capable of such delusional self-deception? Rest assured: TLC has no problem finding these people. These are couples who met abroad, often during a vacation, or online. There's always family drama, because the in-laws can be surprisingly judgy when you announce you're marrying a total stranger. The foreigners get a crash course in American life, whether that means Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, or Lumberton, North Carolina. They grew up watching glamorous depictions of America on TV, so they're confused. It doesn't look like they imagined. As one bride said this season, "It's not my American dream. My expectation was like a movie."
This season's stars include Larissa, a Brazilian loudmouth who makes the perfectly sane decision to move to Las Vegas and marry a computer programmer named Colt. At 33, Colt still lives with his mom Debbie and their three cats: Baby Girl, Sugar and everybody's favorite, Cookie Dough. Larissa hates the cats — and that's the least of her problems. Colt and his mom have a very special bond; as he says, "A man's first best friend would be his mother." But as soon as Larissa moves in, there's trouble. She yells at Colt constantly, even when they're shopping for wedding cake. "You don't care about cake!" she sobs. "You don't care about anything. You act like an attention whore!" On a show like 90DF, that might be a redundant accusation.
There's Eric, an extremely sweaty forty-something divorced dad and former Marine who suffers through a midlife crisis ("I was thinking about going out to Syria or Turkey to fight ISIS") until he finds true love online — meet Leida, a former runner-up in the Miss Indonesia pageant. This season's most romantic couple: Kalani is a nice Mormon girl from Orange County who went on a vacation to Samoa, met Aseulu in the tiny fishing village where he's spent his whole life, got pregnant, then went home to tell her family the happy news. Asuelu, who is very glad to be here, greets Kalani at LAX by ripping off his shirt, kicking off his shoes, and doing a semi-naked traditional Samoan love dance in the middle of the airport.
Everybody is here because they have their eyes on the prize: The Americans want love, sex and romance, while the outsiders want the green card. And of course, they all want to be famous on TV. The age-old Bachelor conceit of "the right reasons" never shows up on 90 Day Fiancé, so the pressure's off in that department. There are no innocent bystanders here. As viewers, we go into this show knowing it's a mercenary scam, just like they do. These people are grifters out to use each other — they volunteered for this con because they figured they were smart enough to out-think the game. Yet that turns out to be exactly what makes them all authentic Americans.
Because it's 2018, the question of who gets to be American and who doesn't is more politicized than ever. Up in North Carolina, when Mexican teenager Fernanda goes out to dinner with her meathead fiancé Jonathan and his friends, the conversation turns to immigration. They explain to Fernanda how immigrants take jobs and commit crimes. They also describe why they're delighted with the current president and his speeches about building a wall along the U.S./Mexico border. The families often don't bother to hide their racism and xenophobia. In this season's most infamous moment, one bride explains in a voice-over why her father disapproves of her chosen partner: "My dad didn't want us to struggle the way he did, so he wanted us with white guys." (She claims she didn't say it, insisting the producers edited several of her comments together.) The America that hates and fears the outside world — it's right there in the open on 90 Day Fiancé, because in 2018 there's no way to avoid it.
90DF might be a heartless and sleazed-out portrait of the country, but that's what makes it feel like an honest one, and that's why it got me. No matter where they were born, everybody in the cast is here because, on some level, they're in love with their own personal American dream. They signed up for this experiment, this imaginary republic, knowing the risks and dangers. But they find themselves stranded in an alien dystopia they don't recognize, so far from their hopes, they can barely remember what their hopes looked like. These days, we all know how that feels.
In This Article: Marriage,	tv reality show
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