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HomePalo AltoSchool board approves reopening plan over objections of teachers
School board approves reopening plan over objections of teachers
BY SARA TABIN
Daily Post Staff Writer
The Palo Alto school board voted unanimously last night (Sept. 29) to a reopening plan that will return students to the classroom for the first time since the coronavirus outbreak closed schools in mid-March.
The plan is to have kids in kindergarten and first-grade come back Oct. 12, second- and third-graders return on Oct. 26 and fourth- and fifth-graders come back Nov. 9. Middle and high schoolers won't return until next semester.
Parents can keep their kids in remote learning if they want.
The two student representatives on the board voted against the plan but their votes are symbolic and have no legal weight.
Many teachers spoke against reopening at the meeting because they say they don't feel safe returning to the classroom.
Paly teacher Sheri Mulroe said the school board shouldn't force teachers to go back to school in person when the board is still meeting virtually over Zoom.
A number of parents had complaints about the reopening plan. One complaint that came up multiple times is that the district is asking elementary school parents to commit to either remote or in-person learning for the year.
Nate Blair said the reopening plan is a colossal failure of leadership. He said parents shouldn't be forced to commit when the reopening plan is still half-baked.
Roxanne Patel said she wants to be allowed to revisit her choice about her child's schooling in January.
Other parents are upset that kids will be reshuffled into new groups when the in-person learning starts.
Greg Brail said he doesn't care if his second-grader learns remotely or in-person as long as the child gets to stay with the same teacher and classmates.
Board member Jennifer DiBrienza asked Superintendent Don Austin if the district will try to keep kids with the same teachers or at least in the same school.
Austin said he will meet with the nine elementary school principals tomorrow (Thursday) to create cohorts for in-person and remote learning. He said they will try to keep as many kids with the same teachers as possible, but it won't be possible in every case.
Under the current plan, kindergarteners will come to school every day, but half the kids will only come in the morning while the other half only comes in the afternoon.
Older elementary students will be broken up so half the kids come Monday and Tuesday while the other half come Thursday and Friday. Everyone will attend class on Zoom on Wednesday.
Classes such as music, PE and art, which are normally taught to kids in different classes by one teacher, will take place over Zoom on days kids are at home. Only kindergarteners will get these classes in person.
Kids will have two or three live classes on two of the days they are at home. Other classes will be asynchronous, meaning kids learn the material on their own.
Student representative Thomas Li said he voted against the plan in part because he is concerned that kids will have to spend some of their time in asynchronous learning. He said he isn't sure there will be enough support for elementary school kids trying to learn without a teacher to help them in real-time.
The meeting was held on the Zoom platform, and some parents who called in told the board they wanted to plan approved so kids can start going back on campus.
Ryan Elliot said remote learning has been a disaster for his son. He said the board has support in reopening from many parents who are afraid to speak out because it is such a politically divided issue.
Kids and teachers will have to wear masks at school. Lunch and recess times will be staggered.
Assistant Superintendent Anne Brown said playgrounds will be sectioned off so kids in different cohorts play apart from each other.
The principals of each school will designate entrance and entry points for each classroom to try and prevent large groups. Parents won't be allowed on campus and will have to stay in their cars during drop-off.
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Gunn Parent says:
Many essential workers have been on the job throughout this pandemic — grocery clerks, healthcare workers, daycare providers, car mechanics, police, firemen. It's time for our well-paid teachers to return too. Follow safety precautions but get back to work. Our kids can't afford to lose another year.
Karen Saunders says:
Are you unaware that children are super spreaders of this disease?
Are you unaware that despite closures and quarantines in place, adults and their children are STILL going to people's houses and attending social events as if there were no pandemic?
Are you unaware that there is no vaccine in place?
Are you aware that if you step foot on any single random elementary school campus, how unprepared these schools are to address social distancing and safety measures?
WAKE UP! READ THE SCIENCE, READ THE RESEARCH.
You won't know how terrible coronavirus is until you read the damn newspapers, until you read the stories of those who actually had the disease. Because guess what? IT WREAKS HAVOC ON YOUR BODY, ON YOUR PULMONARY SYSTEM, EVEN ON YOUR BRAIN.
October 1, 2020 2:23 am at 2:23 am
You sound hysterical with no factual basis to any of your points.
Children do not spread CV to adults. Schools are open in Europe and Asia except here and there is no evidence of children spreading to teachers in those places.
The so-called pandemic ended a long time ago. There has never been a cold virus or flu epidemic in the summer – the conditions are just not ripe for it. Hardly anyone died from CV. They died mainly from old age causes like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Stop with the phony scare-mongering. [Portion deleted — no personal insults. Be polite.]
October 3, 2020 7:49 pm at 7:49 pm
The teachers must be finding it easier to teach from home versus confronting an entire class and trying to keep the peace with some with behavioral issues, etc. But it's good for the children and parents for the children to be on campus. Isn't that why they chose to teach children in the first place? Sadly, some teachers in middle and high schools are definitely there for the 6-figure paycheck with 3 months off per year. There isn't much COVID in Palo Alto and the intellectual residents are conscientious about the situation.


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Pontio
Split over six levels, Pontio is Bangor University's brand new arts and innovation centre. The Grimshaw-designed building in the centre of Bangor is home to a flexible mid-scale theatre named after the world-famous bass-baritone Bryn Terfel, a studio theatre which holds up to 120 people, a 200-seater digital cinema, a cutting-edge Innovation Centre and a wide range of facilities for students, including a new home for the Students' Union and numerous learning and teaching spaces. It also offers food and drink at Gorad restaurant, Ffynnon bar, food kiosk Copa and Cegin café.
Pontio offers an eclectic mix of entertainment seven days a week, from the latest film releases to music and drama, gigs, contemporary circus and aerial theatre, cabaret shows and more. We can't wait to welcome you to the most spectacular new building that Bangor has seen in decades.
Pontio, Bangor University, Deiniol Road, Bangor, LL57 2TQ UK

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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RICHARD C. RUSSELL wanted by Niagara Falls authorities for the murder of three innocent dogs
A reward is being offered in exchange for information leading to the arrest of 50-years-old RICHARD (RICHIE) C. RUSSELL (pictured) for murdering three innocent dogs on the morning of Thursday, January 5, 2023, in Burt, a hamlet in the Town of Newfane.
The Niagara SPCA said in a Facebook post that RUSSELL, previously of Niagara Falls, faces three animal cruelty charges after he shot and killed two Beagle mixes named Lucy Lou and Moo, and a Pitbull-type dog named Princess.
According to the Niagara SPCA, RUSSELL and his wife were evicted from an apartment on Whitney Avenue in Niagara Falls on the night of Wednesday, January 4, 2023, and while they took the three dogs with them, they left behind a cat, two fish, and two turtles. The animals who were abandoned, have since been removed by SPCA agents and are receiving medical care.
As stated by the Niagara SPCA, SPCA Investigators recovered the lifeless bodies of Lucy Lou, Moo, and Princess, on the morning of January 6, 2023, in the backyard of a home in Burt. The Niagara County Sheriff Crime Scene Unit was onsite to assist.
"Examinations and x-rays of the remains of the three dogs confirmed that all three were shot at close range with a .22 caliber rifle. Fragments of bullets were removed from one of the dog's jaws during examination," said the Niagara SPCA.
Reportedly, RUSSELL and his Russell and his wife were later dropped off at a bus station in Buffalo and the nonprofit was told that the couple were heading to the Burlington, North Carolina area to stay with relatives.
If you have any information about the filthy murderer and his despicable wife, who is just as guilty, I beg you come forward and speak up for Lucy Lou, Moo, and Princess. You can submit your tips to Investigator Salisbury at (716) - 731 - 4368 ext. 311. Thank you!
Pictures shared from Niagara SPCA
#animalcruelty #crueldadanimal #cruautéanimale #tierquälerei #animalslivesmatter #murder #reward #deathpenaltyforanimalabusers #newyork #northcarolina
The Buffalo News – January 9, 2023
Niagara-Gazette – January 9, 2023
CHRISTOPHER LEE DONITHAN facing charges after an extremely emaciated Pitbull was found at his home
- Virginia, USA -
After the Twin County Humane Society took custody of an extremely emaciated Pitbull mix, 46-year-old CHRISTOPHER LEE DONITHAN was charged with one count of animal cruelty.
The agency received an anonymous tip prompting them to investigate a dog's safety at DONITHAN's residence on 515 South Main Street in Hillsville.
The Carroll News reported that sources close to this case told the news agency that the furbaby, an 8-year-old male now named Chance, "was being held in a cage 24/7 and was within days of death from starvation and dehydration, and had bed sores from laying too long. It was also noted it took two days for the dog to be able to walk again from laying so long in the cage."
Carroll County Animal Control Officer Terry Woods said he was contacted by the Twin County Humane Society after Chance was signed over to them by DONITHAN on December 27, 2022.
According to ACO Woods, Chance weighed only 26 pounds, being more than 20 pounds underweight.
GalexGazette reported that Twin County Humane Society Board Member Sarah Griggs said she went to DONITHAN's residence, quoting: "The owner brought the dog out to me, and signed to surrender it to the Humane Society." She observed three other dogs inside the home who appeared to be healthy. It is currently unclear where the furbabies are.
Ms. Griggs immediately took Chance to the Carroll Veterinary Clinic for medical attention.
DONITHAN said he had taken Chance to the vet and had been treating him with over-the-counter worming medication. However, ACO Woods reported that after a medical evaluation, "no parasites or other factors were found for the dog to medically be in the condition that it was in."
Chance was later transported to Waggin' Train Pet Services in Carroll County, owned and operated by Jennifer Roberts, who has been helping him to make a speedy recovery.
Ms. Roberts told GalexGazette: "He is supposed to be flying out of Twin County Airport on Jan. 28 to a pit bull rescue in New York, called Out of the Pits."
DONITHAN was charged with animal cruelty, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code 3.2-6570(A). His arraignment is scheduled to take place on January 13, 2023, in Carroll County General District Court.
Online court records show that DONITHAN is due back in court on February 3, 2023, at 10:30 a.m.
Some of the pictures were shared from Jennifer Roberts's Facebook account.
#animalcruelty #crueldadanimal #cruautéanimale #tierquälerei #animalslivesmatter #deathpenaltyforanimalabusers #dogs #virginia #newyork
YEMEENA ANDERSON arrested for leaving her cats in a car for several days in frigid temperatures
Following an investigation by the Albany Police Special Operations Unit, 18-years-old YEMEENA ANDERSON was arrested and charged with animal cruelty.
ANDERSON is accused of leaving her cats in her car for several days.
From the investigation it emerged that on the afternoon of Saturday, December 10, 2022, ANDERSON had left a 6-month-old male kitten and a 1-year-old female cat locked inside of her car on Livingston Avenue and Terminal Street "for several days despite frigid temperatures."
In a press release, Albany Police said that "both cats were dehydrated, malnourished and covered in both their own urine and feces."
Both furbabies were evaluated by a veterinarian at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society where they currently remain.
I have emailed the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society to inquire about the cats' well-being and requested the names and the pictures of the VOICELESS VICTIMS but Marguerite Pearson, Director of Marketing and Communications, responded: "As this is part of an ongoing investigation, we are unable to share any addition info about the case."
ANDERSON was charged with two counts of animal cruelty and is scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday, January 12, 2023, in Albany City Criminal Court.
#animalcruelty #crueldadanimal #cruautéanimale #tierquälerei #animalslivesmatter #deathpenaltyforanimalabusers #cat #kitten #newyork
WNYT – January 8, 2023


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Where to Stay in the Badlands: 6 Best Areas & Places
By: Author Kyle Kroeger
Categories South Dakota
The South Dakota Badlands are an untamed region of extreme landscape with sheer cliffs and little vegetation. While the name may put some folks off the idea of visiting the Badlands, the fact is the unusual and uncommon beauty and challenging terrain also draw many outdoor enthusiasts.
Recognizable by high cliffs, the Badlands National Park is roughly an hour's drive from Rapid City, South Dakota, making it easily accessible for a long day trip or a weekend adventure. The Badlands were initially shared by over 22 indigenous tribes who considered the land sacred, if unforgiving. The Lakota dubbed the area Makȟóšiča, which literally means "bad lands".
The small cities and towns surrounding the Badlands are perfect for a more rustic adventure. They are home to awesome outdoor activities and landmarks such as the Badlands Observatory, geological museums, the Watiki Waterpark, decommissioned missile silos, and even a rodeo.
So, if this is your first time visiting South Dakota and you are considering the best area to stay in the Badlands, here are a few options. Whether you're looking to lodge in a rustic cabin, a boutique beauty, or a classic Badlands motel, we've got you covered!
1. Mount Rushmore and the Big Badlands Top Recommendation
South Dakota is an exciting place to visit, and with this full day tour you get to enjoy the best of Mount Rushmore and the Badlands National Park. Highlights include a private tour of Mount Rushmore National Memorial, a self-guided visit to Crazy Horse Memorial and a drive through Badlands National Park, as well as lunch at Wall Drug Store.
2. Badlands National Park Private Tour
Badlands National Park Private Tour is an easy way to explore the Badlands and see the rare geological formations in this fascinating park. This tour takes you through some of the most scenic areas of the park, including Sage Creek Basin, Door on the Prairie, White River overlooks, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and more.
3. Rapid City: Badlands National Park Tour with Museum Ticket
Visit Badlands National Park and discover the incredible history that culminated into its formation. After, delve into the Cold War at the Minuteman Missile National Historic Site and marvel at the iconic Minuteman Missile. Marvel at the spectacular landscape of Badlands National Park. Learn about the fascinating history from your local guide. Admire native wildlife species and unique scenery.
Best Areas to Stay in the Badlands
Places to Stay in the Badlands
1. Badlands National Park
2. Wall
3. Kadoka
4. Interior
5. Hermosa
6. Rapid City
What is the Badlands known for?
What is the best area to stay in the Badlands?
Where is a good place to stay in the Badlands near the Delta-09 Minuteman Silo?
Best Luxury Hotel in Badlands: Hotel Alex Johnson
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Badlands: Badlands Frontier Cabins
Best Budget Hotel in Badlands: Americas Best Value Inn Kadoka
Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in the Badlands: Best Western Plains Motel
Best Resort in the Badlands: Watiki Indoor Waterpark Resort
Best Camp Grounds in the Badlands: Badland White River KOA
Best Family-Friendly Hotel in the Badlands: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rapid City
Best Vacation Rental in the Badlands: This Badlands ranch, complete with campsites
Best area for first-timers/tourists: Hermosa
Best area for budget travelers: Wall
Best area for luxury travelers: Rapid City
Best area for safety: Rapid City
Best area for families: Hermosa/Interior
Best area for food: Rapid City
Best area for nightlife: Wall
Badlands National Park is a 242,756-acre park located in southwestern South Dakota. Badlands National Park features dramatic landscapes, awe-inspiring layered rock formations, spires, and canyons. Roaming throughout the Park are herds of bison and bighorn sheep. Prairie dogs also love the region and can be found in one of the country's most expansive, untouched open prairie grasslands.
Want to learn more about the park's natural history? The Fossil Exhibit Trail is a boardwalk with uncovered dinosaur bones and tracks. The Badlands National Park is jointly managed by both the Oglala Lakota Tribe and the National Park Service. A wholly independent island of land in the western quarter, the Palmer Creek Unit, is the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
While tours of Badlands National Park are available, you may want to explore it on your own. The park has several entrances. The main gate, Pinnacles entrance, and the Northeast Entrance are easily accessed from Interstate 90.
The Interior entrance is south of the park. The Badlands Loop Road, Highway 240, connects scenic lookouts and historical markers. And there are extensive hiking trails throughout the park, beginning at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center.
If you want to stay the night in the area, there are several choices for the Badlands National Park hotels. One of the best places to stay in Badlands is a seasonal resort, Badlands Inn. Near the Park is the Badlands budget motel, Days Inn. Just make sure you check availability before you book!
Things to do near Badlands National Park
Creston Dinosaur is a roadside dinosaur attraction aching to share some selfies with you. It stands 60 feet long and 20 feet tall and was originally painted pink and red. Erected in 1933, some claim it to be the world's oldest roadside dinosaur.
Oglala Lakota Living History Village is open daily. This unique living museum details the past and present culture of the Oglala Lakota Country.
The Delta-01 Launch Control Facility is one of many Cold War relics and silos you can find in the Dakotas. This landmark provides an eerie snapshot of the United States' recent past and can be accessed on this Badlands Park tour.
Harry's Hideaway Restaurant is one of the closer restaurants to the Park. Hearty portions of American fare and comfort food at affordable prices highlight this unassuming local favorite.
Sage Creek Wilderness Area is a unique animal preserve in the heart of Badlands National Park. Herds of Bison roam the open grasslands, making it a prime destination for wildlife lovers.
Kids love Roberts Prairie Dog Town. Also part of Badlands National Park, this is the largest prairie dog town in the park. Open flat grassland with small mounds indicates the underground homes of these critters, and the high-pitched squeaks let you know the animals are watching!
Places to stay near Badlands National Park
Best Budget Hotel in Badlands National Park: Badlands Motel & Campground
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Badlands National Park: Days Inn
Most Unique Hotel in Badlands National Park: Circle View Guest Ranch
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Rapid City, South Dakota
Steve Cukrov – stock.adobe.com
Wall, South Dakota, is a small but bustling town straddling U.S. Highway 14, with iconic restaurants and plenty to do while you are in the area. One of the town's main attractions is Wall Drug. This monster, cowboy-themed drug store-cum-shopping mall is one of South Dakota's most popular attractions, seeing millions of visitors each year!
Grab a cup of coffee or a burger, or a glass of their free ice water (which for some reason has its own cult following) do some shopping, admire some artwork, and take in the sights at this South Dakota institution. It also has a dinosaur statue: its very own brontosaurus. I'm sensing a theme here…
Other unique landmarks in the area are the Delta-09 & 10 Minuteman Missile Silos. Free and open to the public, these historical landmarks, both decommissioned nuclear missile silos played a vital part in America's nuclear deterrent strategy during the Cold War.
Intriguing, no? If you are interested in visiting these uniquely South Dakotan destinations, you can take them all in on this Badlands guided tour.
Things to do in Wall
Wall Drug & Dinosaur is a South Dakota institution. Founded in 1931, this landmark drug store greets 2 million guests yearly. Shop, dine, marvel!
Free to the public, the National Grasslands Visitor Center is a beautifully constructed museum and visitor center that tells you all about America's grasslands.
Badlands Saloon & Grille is a rustic local favorite tavern and restaurant, serving regular pub fare, located on Wall's main street just a minute from Wall Drug.
If you are looking for open green space to stretch your legs and let the kids run, Wall Public Park in downtown Wall is the perfect place. Kids can play on the equipment while adults can sit watchfully in the shade. Bring a picnic along!
New Wall Lake is a nature preserve southeast of downtown Wall. The artificial lake is excellent for fishing or spending a day on the water.
Visitors of a golfing persuasion can reward themselves with a glorious walk around the 9-hole Wall Community Golf Course.
Visiting Wall in the summer? Be sure to check out Wall Rodeo Grounds for the Annual Wall Celebration Rodeo!
Places to stay in Wall
Best Budget Hotel in Wall: Super 8 by Wyndham
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Wall: Badlands Frontier Cabins
Best Vacation Rental in Wall: This secluded ranch, complete with campsites
Best Pet-Friendly Hotel in Wall: Best Western Plains Motel
Kadoka is roughly 20 minutes from Badlands National Park and is best known for the Badlands Petrified Gardens. Often overlooked, it is always fun to explore Kadoka. Popular local attractions include a nine-hole golf course, a city park, and an outdoor pool. Rockhounding (collecting pretty and interesting rocks) is a popular activity in this tiny town.
Badlands Distillery is also located in Kadoka and offers tastings and tours. If liquor ain't your thing, they can hook you up with a quality cup of Joe.
Within walking distance of the distillery is the Americas Best Value Inn, Kadoka. Across the I-90 cloverleaf is the Lakota Lodge. However, if you are wondering where to stay overnight in the Badlands with kids that are pet friendly and on a budget, the Budget Host Sundowner Motor Inn is a great option, coming with a free breakfast.
Things to do in Kadoka
Kadoka was initially built as a stop on the Milwaukee Railway. The one-story depot is now a historical landmark and museum highlighting South Dakota prairie artifacts.
Jackson County Library is a small old-fashioned library that houses roughly 23,000 volumes. On top of being a place to catch up on some peaceful reading, it is also the center for meetings and other town events.
An iconic roadside stop, the Sunset Grill serves hearty food in a small-town setting and is one of the only restaurants in town. Consequently, it's pretty popular!
Scrappy, the Whitetail Deer, made of crushed car parts, is a quirky statue and something fun to break up the Badlands scenery. Despite being made of old scrap, the statue itself is remarkably beautiful.
Places to stay in Kadoka
Best Budget Hotel in Kadoka: Lakota Lodge
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Kadoka: Budget Host Sundowner Motor Inn
Best Luxury Hotel in Kadoka: Americas Best Value Inn Kadoka
See Related: Best & Fun Things to Do in Deadwood, South Dakota
image by Jenn C/TripAdvisor
Interior is an unincorporated town in Jackson County, South Dakota, established in 1907 as a spur stop for the Milwaukee Railroad. Interior is the closest area to several popular trails, including the Fossil Exhibit, Saddle Pass, Cliff Shelf, Door, and Notch Trailheads for those in the area to hike. This entrance is also closest to the Ben Reifel Visitors Center (found on the scenic loop), and is open all year round. The center provides general information and has a book, gift store, and picnic area.
This neck of the Badlands is ideal if you're looking to sleep under the stars. A few miles south of Interior, on the banks of the White River, are substantial campgrounds, such as the Badland White River RV Park and Campground (KOA).
Things to do in Interior
Hurley Butte Ranch offers the opportunity to see the Badlands from horseback. This iconic working horse ranch provides guided tours of Badlands National Park via horseback.
Native West Trading Co. combines handcrafted items with a museum highlighting the Great Plains Native Cultures. This unique trading post highlights various artists, their heritage, and multi-medium talents.
The Wagon Wheel Bar is an iconic Great Plains bar and restaurant serving local favorites, including their beloved hamburgers. The outside looks like an old west town building, and the inside is decorated with area items and knick-knacks, but the food is famous.
One of 16 overlooks in the Badlands National Park, Big Badlands Overlook, sits just inside the Park from the side entrance near Interior. This overlook spotlights the eastern view of the Badlands.
Places to stay in Interior
Best Campgrounds in Interior: Badland White River Cabins and Campground KOA
image by RDS/TripAdvisor
Hermosa is often quoted as the "Hub of History and Adventure" – by whom, we do not know, but it's a moniker well deserved. This small yet bustling town iswest of the Badlands, roughly 20 miles northeast of Custer State Park, and east of Mount Rushmore. The area is great for fossil hunting or panning for Fairburn agates, which is great fun for the kids.
Speaking of fun for the kids, Hermosa is famously home to Bear Park. This incredible wildlife park is known for its black bears. If you're lucky you can see tiny, baby bear cubs frolicking!
If you are traveling with kids, Hermosa is one of the best areas to stay in the Badlands for camping with the wee ones. Hermosa has a couple of great campgrounds, including Heartland Park & Campground and Southern Hills RV Park & Campground.
Things to do in Hermosa
Doane Robinson Tunnel is one of three frame tunnels on the road to Mount Rushmore, offering a unique view of the mountain as you approach from the south. Since Mt. Rushmore is less than 30 minutes away, you'd be crazy to miss the opportunity to see this famous American landmark.
Four Mile Old West Town Museum is a family-run historical old west site with over 50 outbuildings and an authentic ghost town. Great for the whole family and is a pet-friendly site.
Lazy R Bar and Grill is a family-run, favorite local restaurant serving steaks and hamburgers, among its hearty American fare.
Bear Park is home to the largest privately owned bear population in the U.S.A. Housed on 200 acres, the three-mile drive through several enclosures with black bears, elk, reindeer, cougars, bobcats, bighorn sheep, and buffalo.
Places to stay in Hermosa
Best Campground in Hermosa: Heartland Park & Campground
Best RV Park in Hermosa: Southern Hills RV Park & Campground
See Related: Best Things to Do in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Rapid City, South Dakota, is a great jumping-off point for many of the area's attractions, with the R.C. Regional Airport only nine miles away. It's roughly an hour from the main gate to the Badlands National Park and a half-hour from the world-famous Mount Rushmore National Monument. And just outside of town is Spearfish Canyon, a creek-carved gorge and limestone cliffs, older than the far more famous Grand Canyon and home to beautiful views.
This is the place to be if you want to break up your outdoor excursions with some culture, history, fine eats, and retail therapy.
The Rapid City Executive Golf Course is less than three miles from downtown near Shipwrecks Bar & Grille where you'll be able to source some tasty food.
Some of the best hotels and lodging options in South Dakota can e found right here. If you are looking for rooms with character, perfect for couples and solo travelers, the Hotel Alex Johnson, in the heart of Rapid City, is the best hotel in town to bed down. It is a charming historic hotel with onsite dining at Paddy O'Neill's Irish Pub.
Things to do in Rapid City
Haven't had your fill of dinos yet? Constructed in 1936, Skyline Wilderness Park Dinosaur is a quirky stop and one of the area's original attractions. Dinosaur Park is located on a sandstone ridge with panoramic views of the Black Hills and is free to the public.
Journey Museum covers the Black Hills' history and the indigenous peoples' complex cultures. The Journey Museum & Learning Center's vast collection chronicles humanity's journey through time and takes about three hours to tour.
Colonial House Restaurant & Bar is a Badlands icon, serving hearty American breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts that your tastebuds will thank you for.
Mount Rushmore National Monument is one of America's national treasures, and a perfect way to see the cliffs and the surrounding Custer State Park is through a private tour.
Whether staying at the resort or just playing for a day, Waitiki Indoor Waterpark offers 30,000 square feet of water-centric fun and is the Dakotas' biggest indoor water park.
Places to stay in Rapid City
Best Budget Hotel in Rapid City: Courtyard by Marriott
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Rapid City: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Rapid City
Best Luxury Hotel in Rapid City: Hotel Alex Johnson
Best Resort in Rapid City: Watiki Indoor Waterpark Resort
The Badlands are known for harsh conditions. The Badlands National Park is known for challenging trails, archeological finds, and big game hunting. The area is the largest stretch of undeveloped grassland in the United States. The Badlands are also known for a uniquely prominent cliff features, which stretch a hundred miles through Badlands National Park.
If you are looking for a home base to take in all the Badlands area has to offer then Rapid City is the best place to stay. A range of hotels to fit most budgets and a list of things to do and places to eat make this the best choice for families, RVers, or solo travelers. If you want to be in the thick of things in the Badlands National Park, several campgrounds will offer basic amenities without breaking the bank.
The town of Wall is closest to the decommissioned Minuteman Silo – and offers a couple of great options. If your visit to the area is on a budget, the Super 8 by Wyndham checks all the boxes, while the coolest place in Wall is the popular Badlands Frontier Cabins. For clean beds with great amenities at a reasonable price, the Best Western Plains Motel is the best place to stay in Badlands.
Best Family Vacation Spots in the World
Best Cheap Places to Travel in the US
Most Beautiful & Best Vacations in the US
By Author Kyle Kroeger
Where to Stay in Nashville: 10 Best Areas & Neighborhoods
Where to Stay in Washington DC: 12 Best Areas & Places


I've finally got round to writing a page on this site about social media consulting – helping out other artists, labels, students etc. with understanding how having a conversation with your audience is preferable to shouting at them.
I've been doing this kind of work for years – over the last 7 or 8 years, I've had various musicians come to me asking for help with releasing their own music, both the logistics of getting CDs pressed etc. and then how to make their music available and talk to their audience. A lot of people confused new tools with old media, and spent ages trying to rack up as many 10s of thousands of Myspace friends as they could before realising that all of those friends were using them in the way they themselves were being used – as someone to try and broadcast at.
So after the disappointment of trying that, a fair few musicians – from singer-songwriters to fellow solo bassists came to me for some help.
More recently, I've been talking about this stuff in Universities, writing about it here and on sites like MusicThinkTank and Creative Choices, and running informal sessions with groups of musicians, as well as continuing to consult with individuals.
So I've written a page, bringing all that stuff together – if you or someone you know needs some help and advice on such things, read the page, then drop me a line!


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LTE defects let hackers 'quickly' spoof presidential alerts
flaws Hackers
Security vulnerabilities in LTE can allow hackers to "easily" spoof presidential alerts sent to mobile phones in the event of a national emergency. Using off-the-shelf equipment and open-source software, a working exploit made it possible to send a simulated alert to every phone in a 50,000-seat football stadium with little effort, with the potential of…
By John Pierce / June 21, 2019
Security vulnerabilities in LTE can allow hackers to "quickly" spoof governmental signals sent out to mobile phones in case of a national emergency situation.
Utilizing off-the-shelf equipment and open-source software, a working make use of made it possible to send out a simulated alert to every phone in a 50,000- seat football stadium with little effort, with the potential of triggering "waterfalls of panic," said scientists at the University of Colorado Boulder in a paper out today
Their attack operated in 9 out of 10 tests, they said.
In 2015 the Federal Emergency Management Firm sent out the very first "governmental alert" test using the Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA) system. It became part of an effort to test the brand-new state-of-the-art system to allow any president to send a message to the bulk of the U.S. population in case of a catastrophe or civil emergency situation.
However the system– which also sends weather warnings and AMBER alerts– isn't perfect. Last year amidst tensions in between the U.S. and North Korea, an erroneous alert cautioned locals of Hawaii of an incoming ballistic rocket danger. The message erroneously said the alert was "not a drill."
Although no system is completely secure, a lot of the problems throughout the years have been as an outcome of human error. However the researchers said the LTE network used to transmit the broadcast message is the biggest weak point.
Because the system utilizes LTE to send out the message and not a standard text message, each cell tower blasts out an alert on a specific channel to all gadgets in range. A false alert can be sent out to every gadget in variety if that channel is determined.
Making matters worse, there's no method for devices to validate the authenticity of received notifies.
The scientists stated repairing the vulnerabilities would "need a large collective effort in between providers, government stakeholders and cellular phone producers." They added that adding digital signatures to each broadcast alert is not a "magic service," but would make it far more tough to send out spoofed messages.
A similar vulnerability in LTE was found in 2015, allowing scientists to not only send out emergency situation notifies however likewise be all ears on a victim's text and track their place.
Tags: flaws, Hackers
Hackers went undetected in Citrix's internal network for 6 months
Today in tech history: Microsoft reveals us the Surface area
Daimler to remember 60,000 Mercedes diesels in Germany over emissions – Reuters


England wicketkeeper/batsman Matt Prior has signed a two-year extension to his contract with Sussex.
The 32-year-old, who made his first-class debut for the club in 2001, will remain at Hove until the end of 2015.
Prior has won 75 Test caps since making his England Test debut in 2007 against the West Indies but lost his place in Australia over the winter.
"I am very much looking forward to helping Sussex compete for trophies again this season," he said.
The former Brighton College student has scored almost 13,000 first-class runs during his career, over 7,500 of them in 144 appearances for Sussex, including 18 centuries.
Prior made 60 consecutive Test appearances for England, but was dropped ahead of the fourth Ashes Test in December in favour of Yorkshire's Jonny Bairstow.
However, who should keep wicket in this summer's Tests is one of the main discussion points for the selectors, and the Johannesburg-born gloveman begins the new season hoping that strong county performances will help him regain his place in the national side.
"Hove is a very special place to me," Prior added.
"I hope to be a part of future success, something I know that everyone connected with the club works very hard for."


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site: media | arena: nfl | pageType: stories | section: | slug: aaron-rodgers-is-reportedly-very-upset-at-backlash-for-being-unvaccinated-didnt-expect-criticism | sport: football | route: article_single.us | 6-keys: media/spln/nfl/reg/free/stories
Aaron Rodgers is reportedly 'very upset' at backlash for being unvaccinated, 'didn't expect' criticism
Rodgers missed the Packers' game against the Chiefs on Sunday because he tested positive for COVID-19 and is not vaccinated
By Shanna McCarriston
Nov 9, 2021 at 11:29 am ET 1 min read
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers is upset. No, it's not just because his Packers lost without him on Sunday. It's also because of the reaction the public has had to learning the QB is not vaccinated against COVID-19.
The QB's unvaccinated status become public earlier in November when he tested positive for COVID-19. Rodgers then went on "The Pat McAfee Show" and elaborated on why he isn't vaccinated. He said he took ivermectin, a drug used to treat or prevent parasites in animals and one that the FDA has said not to use to fight COVID.
Rodgers also said he did his own research, spoke to doctors and was also taking advice from podcast host Joe Rogan on fighting the virus. According to PEOPLE, Rodgers did not think the public reaction would be negative to him being unvaccinated. He reportedly "feels like he just shared his point of view, and now he's being crucified for it," PEOPLE wrote.
Via PEOPLE:
"He knew some people would disagree with him, but he didn't know that it would become the s---storm it became. People who he thought were friends are turning on him. He's upset. He's very unhappy with the response to him."
Rodgers was placed on Green Bay's reserve COVID-19 list after testing positive for the virus and missed the Packers' game against the Chiefs on Sunday. He had previously noted he was "immunized" against COVID-19, but as it turns out, him saying that did not mean he received the vaccine, because he never did.
Rodgers said the main reason he did not get the vaccine is because he is allergic to an ingredient in the Pfizer and Moderna mRNA vaccines. He noted that he did not want Johnson & Johnson, because he had heard of multiple people who had had adverse events "around getting the J&J."
A CDC study earlier this year said the risk of COVID-19 infection was reduced by 91 percent in those who are fully vaccinated.
Rodgers did not play in the Packers game against the Chiefs on Sunday because he was in the mandatory quarantine, leaving Jordan Love in at QB. Green Bay lost 13-7.
Report: Rodgers upset at response to being unvaccinated
Shanna McCarriston 1 min read


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Confessions of an Economic Hitman
Reading this autobiographical, tell-all book by John Perkins seemed surreal.
I am not someone who is very naive about manipulations; I would at least be able to discern between genuine attempts of foreign support, with those of attempts towards hegemonic domination, better than a lot many of us who are blinded and fooled by the corporate media.
But, this detailed reporting from an insider sends shivers down my spine.
A "superpower", pushing beyond the realms of being anything but ethical in order to dominate countries under its vindicative goverment, run by selfish, greed mongers in the background is hard to believe. The USA with its ancient Manifest Destiny and other crap, now has accomplished an indomitable position, where it has the say about anything and everything about every country.
While even countries like India (ironically the largest democracy in the world) is far from being soveriegn, as revealed in the recent WikiLeaks cables, where a cabinet reshuffle in Indian Ministers portfolio was instigated by the lobbyisits of US. When such is the case with the largest democracy, other countries in the middle east, African continent and Latin America, except for a 'few nations' are all entangled in this web unleashed by the aspirations of one country in its distopian dreams of a global empire with a "free" world market, based on exploitation of the majority for the benefits of a small minority, increasing the disparity ruthlessly at a global scale, including amongst its own people.
Instiutions such as the IMF, World Bank and even the UN have evolved to become primary tools used by this superpower and its allies to arm twist countries retaliating against the submissive nature of their hegemony.
This book gives a scintillating account of all the dirty tricks, evil ploys and inhumane nature of functioning of the system as it is today.
Defying the system when it is this hostile is the most natural response anyone who recognizes this hostility would end up doing. But, the efficacy of this system has been its subtle and orchestrated perpetration which keeps all of this hostility hidden from us.
That system is our enemy. But when you're inside, you look around, what do you see? Businessmen, teachers, lawyers, carpenters. The very minds of the people we are trying to save. But until we do, these people are still a part of that system, and that makes them our enemy. You have to understand, most of these people are not ready to be unplugged. And many of them are so inured, so hopelessly dependent on the system, that they will fight to protect it.
Something on the lines of what Morpheus says to Neo in The Matrix, is the current state of the world.
Nonetheless, this ain't no movie - People are dying, countries are getting impoverished and future is getting bleaker. We are all part of this megaplan of hegemony and exploitation,both by getting exploited and exploiting at various levels.
Defy and change!
We need to change it to a different world: A world as we dream of it, as John perkins puts it in the book.
Now what is the dream of the world we wish to live in is upto each individual to choose upon.
Labels: book review, corruption, society, world
Less personal,More social
A personal observation about the contents I'm discoursing on my personal blog: It certainly is getting unbalanced. Unbalanced in terms of the contexts of the content being discoursed.
My initial posts, if some of you have read/ been reading, would make it obvious that those were primarily venting out of personal experiences, with a narrow scope in the content. Those posts, if read now seem trivial, nonetheless seem special and cute to me. They imbibe some of the best moments of my life: Rendering those moments immortal.
Off late, the content of the discussions in my posts are seldom pertaining to anything intimately personal at all, and seem to be digressing into wider realms of understanding everything around me, keeping myself as the observer. This again is a phase, which I attribute to the growth I have had. An evolution into mindsets which are capable of comprehending some crucial aspects which shape our lives and mould the society. This again is important and I am glad to be able to doubt, understand and critique these subtle, yet powerful forces honing us.
This stop and look back post was instigated by the observation that my audience is getting diversified, and some of you have been part of this journey seeing me metamorphose into someone that you think that you know.
Be it personal or social, ideas will forever remain immortal.
Labels: abstract, introspection
Life and works of Acharya PC Ray
Talk by Prof.S Chatterjee
Science can afford to wait but Swaraj cannot ...
P C Ray
The prolonged Indian Freedom struggle, and its chronicling in retrospect seem to focus only on the efforts by a select few national heroes. Whereas the freedom struggle itself was brought to its momentum by hundreds of intellectuals and revolutionaries, thousands of toilers and millions of the masses. Reminiscing the contributions by many other great minds are certainly needed to expand the understanding of our History, legacy of our struggle, to further interpret the current state of affairs.
Prafulla Chandra Ray, the entrepreneur and scientist behind the Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, who was dearly called as Acharya Ray played an important role. Acquainting with his life and works, certainly help us to understand the Indian freedom struggle better from other necessary dimensions.
On the 15th of August, 2011 a talk about the Life and Works of PC Ray by Prof. Chatterjee was organized at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, IISc,Bangalore. This informative talk, followed by a detailed discussion session certainly threw light upon the life of the great confluence of an academician, entrepreneur, scientist, historian, nationalist, pacifist and patriot that Acharya PC Ray was.
Prof.Chatterjee traversed through the life, ideals, work and accomplishments of Acharya Ray in an exhilarating talk which span for about an hour. Prof.Chatterjee communicated all the dimensions of this multi-faceted being in the most convincing manner. The correlation that was brought between science, scientists and their social responsibilities were elucidated in a comprehensive and riveting manner.
PC Ray apart from being the entrepreneur behind the Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, was one of the important scientific visionaries of pre-independent India. Under his guidance, his students would go on to expand the realms of scientific contribution in India. His students were of the likes of Meghnad Saha, Atul Chandra Ghosh, and others who made significant contributions to develop science and technology in India.
Acharya PC Ray was contemporary to Rabindranath Tagore, Jagadish Chandra Bose, Subhash Chandra Bose, MK Gandhi and other influential personalities during the Independence movement. PC Ray had his own crucial contributions to the Freedom struggle. Apart from propagating science and grooming technology, PC Ray was known to have sheltered numerous revolutionaries and provided them with support for their work.
Prof. Chatterjee in his talk brought out the contradiction between today's statesmen and the so called 'intelligentsia', with that of the statesmen and intellectuals of the era of PC Ray, using PC Ray's notions about self-reliance and sovereignty as examples.
The audience resonated to this contradiction, when excerpts from Acharya PC Ray and another modern statesman were quoted for comparison.
PC Ray in his Essay "India before and after the mutiny" written in 1885, makes a profound analysis of the British rule in India:
"England unfortunately now refuses to recognize the hard and irresistible logic of facts and does her best to smother the nascent aspirations of a rising nationality. The selfish, and therefore, harsh and cruel exigencies of an alien rule have imposed various disqualifications and disabilities upon the children of the soil.... The lamentable condition of India at present is due to England's culpable neglect of, and gross apathy to, the affairs of that Empire. England has failed, grievously failed in the discharge of her sacred duties to India... Tomorrow you will be the arbiters of the destinies of 250 millions of human beings, your fellow subjects. We fervently hope your advent to power will be a death knell to the existing un –English regime... I was a believer in those days in the doctrine of mendicancy and with child like simplicity held that if the wrongs and the grievances under which our country groaned could be brought home to the British people, they could be remedied. The disillusionment was not long in coming...
The great mutiny had entirely unhinged the financial equilibrium. In 1857 the public debt had stood at 60,000,000 pounds. In 1863 it rose to the incredible sum of nearly 110,000,000 pounds. Thus the indirect expenditure incurred for mutiny amounts to almost 45,000,000 pounds. And it is notorious that England did not contribute a farthing to India as financial help.... India is a famished nation rather than of Rajas and Nababs....A government which can squander 10,000,000 pounds on palatial barracks, but cannot spare a farthing for laboratories should forfeit the title of a civilized government....The Indian government is essentially a tax squeezing machinery and not a government for the people...."
And here's an excerpt from one modern Indian statesman, who has the following perception of the same relationship, and was quoted by Prof.Chatterjee towards the end of his talk:
Today, with the balance and perspective offered by the passage of time and the benefit of hindsight, it is possible for an Indian Prime Minister to assert that India's experience with Britain had its beneficial consequences. Our notions of the rule of law, of a Constitutional government, of a free press, of a professional civil service, of modern universities and research laboratories have all been fashioned in the crucible where an age old civilization met the dominant Empire of the day. These are all elements which we still value and cherish. Our judiciary, our legal system, our bureaucracy and our police are all great institutions, derived from British-Indian administration and they have served the country well. Of all the legacies of the Raj, none is more important than the English language and the modern school system. That is, if you leave out cricket!
Like in the audience at the talk by Prof. Chatterjee, it is hard to guess that the above mentioned statesman is the Dr.Manmohan Singh, exhibiting what could be termed an anti-nationalist stand.
This instigated a good round of discussion amongst the panel members. Arguments whatever arose, ultimately ended up rebuking the statements that were made by Dr.Manmohan Singh in his convocation speech at Oxford University in 2005.
Also detailed questions about Acharya PC Ray's principles happened to be discussed, during which again the multifaceted maverick that PC Ray was was much discussed and reminisced further.
One important aspect of the talk itself was the manner in which it was presented by Prof.Chatterjee. The audience present can be categorized conveniently as the intellectual elite and mostly apolitical. Prof. Chatterjee, nonetheless was able to communicate all the aspects of the life of Acharya PC Ray in a subtle but impacting manner, which certainly got the audience thinking in relation to the current scenarios. And that was the objective of the talk, which was well accomplished.
Slides of the talk by Prof.Chatterjee: http://bit.ly/rrek5w
The God Delusion
How lucky we are to be alive, given that the vast majority of people who could potentially be thrown up by the combinatorial lottery of DNA will in fact never be born. However brief our time in the sun, if we waste a second of it, or complain that it is dull or barren or (like a child) boring, couldn't this be seen as a callous insult to those unborn trillions who will never even be offered life in the first place?
Think about it. On one planet, and possibly only one planet in the entire universe, molecules that would normally make nothing
more complicated than a chunk of rock, gather themselves together into chunks of rock-sized matter of such staggering complexity that they are capable of running, jumping, swimming, flying, seeing, hearing, capturing and eating other such animated chunks of complexity; capable in some cases of thinking and feeling, and falling in love with yet other chunks of complex matter!
-Excerpts from the book "The God Delusion" by Richard Dawkins
I have already attributed Richard Dawkins to have facilitated my transition to become the ardent and absolute atheist that I am now, in previous posts. And like in his documentaries, he is cleverer and super accurate with his arguments in The God Delusion.Impeccably convincing!
Turning towards the book itself, it is a quick and joyous read in the literary sense. But, this book symbolizes an apprehension of serious scale and it ain't just the literature one needs to ponder about. What actually dawned upon me while reading the book was the intent of the book itself. Pushing science and rationality amidst the infinite bandwidth white noise of religion, Gods, and the related blah blah!
Religion is ubiquitous, and it certainly is perilous, whatever small subjective positives one might have experienced. This ancient dogma has to be stigmatized for, eradicating it would take a long long struggle against many maniacs.
Nevertheless, increasing the consciousness of people pertaining to the futilities encapsulated in religion as a whole will slowly evolve to eliminate this weird but natural seeming, artificial digression of us humans.
While Science is what has given us answers, drawing us out from the shrouded clouds of ignorance, into light and still leading, Religion is that strong regressive force holding back majority of the Homo sapiens , bound to the shackles of faith, blind faith and dumb blind faith!
The God Delusion is a must read for everyone: Of course it will be offensive to the strong theists. But, for anyone who's just swaying away from the absolutism attached to religion, it will certainly help and enable them start drifting farther away from religion and closer to rationality - All for the good.
I might personally want to see religion eliminated from the face of the earth; But, it is even more complexly interleaved than even Dawkins himself projects.
Let's hope there's light, sometime soon, if not spontaneously!
I don't try to imagine a personal God; it suffices to stand in awe at the structure of the world, insofar as it allows our inadequate senses to appreciate it.
Labels: atheism, book review, dawkins, god, science
Totem revolutions
The exaggerated rumours during the Egyptian revolution, that the revolution itself was a ramification of the existence of social networks like Facebook and Twitter is preposterous, and indicates the myopic understanding of such analysts.
While Facebook and Twitter did influence the rate of information dissemination and to some extent online mobilization, the idea that if for no Facebook and Twitter the Egyptian revolution and the Tahrir Square struggle would not have occurred is simply ridiculous.
The reason I am delving upon this example is to show the contorted reasoning people end up believing in. The idea that a revolution/ a change/ metamorphosis could be instigated and perpetuated via social networks or some other online token actions has been imbibed into the minds of people by the media, and a majority of the gullible have certainly endorsed this idea.
The Facebook Campaigns like Save Tigers, Support Anna Hazare, Stop Corruption, and others are to be treated as awareness increasing campaigns, using a new means of reaching out to people:Online Networks.
Unfortunately, posting up these campaigns on one's page and clicking the 'LIKE' button seems to be the end of this campaign to a lot many.
While nothing can replace the basic ground work in terms of understanding the problems, mobilizing people beyond the online networks (for, there is at least three quarters of the country out of this reach), contemplating pragmatic solutions and persuading the authorities to implement them, or in compelling cases (like in Egypt, and middle east) involving in struggles will what reap benefits. And certainly not just the Likes, reposts and shares of links and tweets.
The tendency of individuals to have executed their duties of being a citizen by performing these token actions online is highly increasing. People, I guess are considering this to be an extrapolation of online payment of taxes. Performing your duties online!
And such tendencies is what I am terming as "Totem Revolutions".
The token-like actions, the symbols which rise to become powerful totems in the current context are futile. Manifestation of the the cliche: "Means mistaken to be the ends". The acts of sharing web links, retweeting, forwarding mails, display picture badges, giving out one-ring calls (!?) and other product marketing-like strategies are most efficient in attracting the less concerned crowds, for the ones who really bother wouldn't require any of these wake up calls. These tokens, growing into totems should not be given anymore reverence than treating them for their worth,i.e, they are the newer means of mobilizing and awareness increasing methods at our disposal. I again reiterate, these are no ends by themselves!
"Symbols are given power by the people. Alone a symbol is meaningless but with enough people blowing up a building (symbol) can change the world."
And a converse of this is also true. People who only cling on to a symbol forget the reality and are busy obsessing the totems! This, off late, has become the ubiquitous behavior of the 'concerned citizens'.
Online protests like the Anonymous groups, and the DDoS attacks in support of WikiLeaks had some tangible results, for, they didn't only mobilize online, they were conducting their struggle online, for they were fighting a peril being perpetuated online!
The arenas were different.
Further, using centralized and Government monitored networks like Facebook, Twitter would cripple any such movements. WikiLeaks versus VISA/Paypal/Amazon incident is a manifestation of this apprehension.
Here's the link of the manual circulated during the Tahrir Square protests, urging people not to use Facebook/Twitter!
http://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2011/01/egyptian-activists-action-plan-translated/70388/
Cumulative observations on these lines, through months has made me sit down and write this post. The increasing tendencies of the online activists, to trigger campaigns online is perfect. But, the aspect of clarifying that the means aren't the end have not been profoundly proclaimed by many of them.
And please, no more of Totem Revolutions.
Labels: change, internet, revolution
Understanding the Information Economy: ITEC Seminar
ITEC has been around for sometime now and has been taking up some important tasks pertaining to the 'elusive' IT industry. Attempts at increasing the awareness about the pitfalls in the industry using instances to be concerned about, like fraudulent IT companies, work pressure and related issues have already been basis of their work.
In the recent campaign ITEC had organized a seminar on understanding the "Information Economy". It certainly was an eye-opener to all the 50 participants. Suresh Kodoor and Vasantharaj were the speakers, highly apt for lecturing on the lines of "Information Economy", moderated by Prof S Chatterjee.
The seminar was arranged at the new Jaaga, on an overcast Sunday afternoon.
The gist of the talk, as I have understood would be as follows:
The transition from a manufacturing and product based economy, which primarily produces tangible products, to now an economy extensively 'speculative' in their own jargon has turned out to be more on the lines of selling out information as products, driven by finance capital. This new era (which is at least a few decades old) has brought in a paradigm shift in the businesses of the world.
To understand the contradiction between the two ways, look at the growth rates: The information economy mammoths show 20% + growth on a normal basis, while the veterans of the manufacturing industry still are steady with their 8-10 % growth.
To understand the differences that have been ushered in by the Information economy a brief comparative study in the way these two business models are run was explained by both the speakers. The common contention putforth was the lack of innovation in India, even in terms of self-reliance of software products to cater to our domestic needs. Secondly, the lag in investing in hardware manufacturing for telecom, defense and other critical sectors needs was discussed. The need to resuscitate the dying PSU's was mentioned as well.
On Sunday, when day the seminar was held is when the news of the S&P downgrading of the US creditability from AAA to AA+ had occured and we were only speculating what else could go wrong. It seems as if most of the talk that proceeded on that day was as if prophesizing the subsequent hours which were to put the financial world at unrest. Once the markets reopened on Monday the symptoms of the second dip recession have surfaced visibly and lot of suppression tactics are being implemented, as I am speaking of it. There's turmoil and apprehension filling in the air.
And this time, in case a second wave of global recession would hit, India wouldn't be as immune as it was in 2008! The 'outsourcing' menace as naturally seen by the people of the US and other European countries has taken its toll and now stands at the threshold of a breakpoint. Unemployment, public benefits cut down , inflation, taxation and dipping stock market are gelling up to become a dangerous threat to the global stability.
The ITEC seminar did certainly help us to comprehend both sides of the stories, while the speakers convicned us of what could be the solution as well: Self Reliance!
Labels: event, itec
Secluded in the cities
Over a casual chat, a friend discussed an observation to me, which was rather very interesting, and worth pondering further, beyond the discussion.
According to him,in the daily urban chaos, the aspect of socializing (in the real terms), which is the essence of all humanity is being lost, and that we are getting narrowed down to really small, shrinking diaspora, which consists of very few people.
And after thinking some more on these lines, I tend to agree with his observation. It ain't even individualism that is being practiced. These conditions which are getting so ubiquitous around us, I might want to term them as a kind of forced urban seclusion, and that has come to be the widely agreed standard. Each is left with little, or no time to bother about anything apart from very personal matters.
Socializing (only) on online networks has deteriorated the already bad situation. While it can never be a replacement to interpersonal rapport, these networks have played the subtle but hostile roles of alienating the social beings within us.
Coming back to the point of forced urban seclusion, it is a convergence of the hectic and reckless lives that the city drives one to lead, with no care whatsoever to the conditions around. It is a pathetic state to be in, for, it breeds cynicism about the (world minus us), and an expanding void within.
There is little that the 'bhag bhag' lifestyle has ultimately showered us with on the bright side. While there's a lot more it has forced upon us to crib about.
All said and done, if one wants to break free, there's all the control given, but then aren't most of us either way, comfortably, or uncomfortably numb about it ?
Labels: abstract, society, unsocial
Understanding the Information Economy: ITEC Semina...


FAIRFIELD, Conn.- The Sacred Heart University Softball team fell to Fairfield this afternoon by a final score of 5-2. The Pioneers will return to action on Saturday, April 4 when the Pioneers host LIU Brooklyn. First-pitch is set for 1:00 p.m.
Top of the 4th inning- An error in right field would score in Amanda Ulzheimer to give Fairfield a 1-0 lead.
Bottom of the 5th inning- Senior Stephanie Mangiameli would rip a double to left center scoring in fellow senior Hailey Desrosiers to even the game up at 1-1.
Bottom of the 5th inning- Junior Kateyln Christian would knock a single to right field scoring in Mangiameli to give the Pioneers a 2-1 lead.
Top of the 6th inning- A three run homer by Mikayla Rubin to left field to give the Stags a 4-2 lead.
Top of the 6th inning - A single by Drew Westford would score in a run to give Fairfield the fifth run of the game and the win 5-2.
The Pioneers and Fairfield would each tally eight hits in the ball game.
At the plate, senior Hailey Desrosiers led the way for the Pioneers going 3-4 with three singles.
In the circle, senior Kristen McCann would tally the loss dropping her record to 6-8 on the year as she gave up five runs on seven hits and struck out four batters.


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DocuSign stock price analysis: buy the dip or sell the rip?
By: Crispus Nyaga
Crispus is an active trader, where he is followed and copied at Capital.com. He lives in Nairobi with his… read more.
The DocuSign stock price crashed hard on Friday.
This performance happened after the company published weak guidance.
We explain whether to buy the dip or sell the rip.
The DocuSign (NASDAQ: DOCU) stock price crashed by more than 42% on Friday as investors reflected on the relatively weak forward guidance. The stock ended the week at about $135, which was the lowest level since June 2020.
DOCU quarterly results
DocuSign is a cloud computing company that operates in the fast-growing e-signature industry. This business did relatively well in 2020 as more companies embraced the cloud. For example, many property buyers used its software to close deals.
This year, however, things have changed and the DocuSign stock price has lost more than half its value. Analysts are worried about the company's growth as the world's economy reopens. Besides, colleagues in the same company won't need to use e-signatures.
On Thursday, the company released relatively strong quarterly results. The firm's revenue jumped by 42% year-on-year to $545 million. Its operating margin rose to 22% while the number of customers using its service rose to more than 1.1 million. This was about 59,000 more customers than it had in the second quarter. Most importantly, the company was more profitable, as its non-GAAP net income soared to more than $121 million.
The DocuSign stock price crashed because of the weak forward guidance. The firm expects that its revenue will rise to between $557 million and $563 million. For the year, it expects its revenue will rise to more than $2 billion. This guidance was lower than what it guided before.
The toughest thing for DocuSign is that its industry has gotten more competitive in the past few years. The biggest competitor is Adobe, which has an edge because of the popularity of its documents business. Other cloud computing companies like DropBox and Box have also launched their signature solutions. As such, the firm will likely see an erosion of market share.
DocuSign stock price analysis
The daily chart shows that the DocuSign share price crashed hard on Friday. Still, a closer look shows that there were warning signs before this crash. Besides, the company had formed a descending channel pattern. It also formed a small head and shoulders pattern, which is usually a bearish sign. At the same time, the stock made a bearish crossover.
Therefore, I believe that this is not the time to buy the dip owing to the company's weak results. In addition, this price action has a close resemblance to that of Snap, which has continued to decline after its weak results.
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Excuse me for a moment while I boast, but in fourth grade I discovered that I had a knack for selling stuff. You know those candy bar drives schools put on to raise money? Every student was saddled with an inventory of 2 cases of inexpensive chocolate and charged with hawking what they could to neighbors, friends, and family. It was a ritual despised by parents and kids alike. But when I saw the prizes I could win by selling these mediocre treats I was inspired to do whatever it would take to make my candy campaign successful. So I hatched a plan to offer free samples of the chocolate bars to potential customers, and then charge a little bit more for the candy bars to make up the difference. At the end of the drive, I had managed to sell sixty cases of chocolate bars! Not bad for a ten-year-old kid! But before my head swells too big, let me admit that I've also had a few failures in my work career. I've even been fired from a job. It sure didn't feel good, but the lessons I've learned have stuck with me.
Here's the point of these personal illustrations: kids need jobs! And no amount of after-school activities, social clubs, sports programs, or music lessons can replace the education and life skills gained at work. These days, parents may be tempted to focus too much attention on their kids. We used to call this "spoiling" our kids. But doing too much, or giving too much to your teens without asking any responsibility from them in return may result in an entitled teen, who becomes an entitled adult. There's no better way to teach responsibility than requiring your teen to have a job. Sure, maybe the pay off is not immediate, but the void left when kids don't work is felt later on in life.
What happens when your son or daughter gets married and the clash of finances begins? It's one of the main reasons marriages dissolve. Young couples that haven't had much experience handling their own finances don't understand how to create and live under a budget, so they fight about who is spending what or they use credit cards to supply all their wants and needs. Pretty soon, they're in a financial hole that takes decades to escape!
Mom and Dad; now is the time to start instilling the value of work and the principles of financial management. When your teenagers begin a job, they can look forward to learning a few lessons along the way that will help them succeed throughout their lives.
Parents often tell me, "My kid just won't listen to me!" However, this bad habit will start to wither away once your son or daughter starts working for a boss. They'll understand quickly that respect and attention are essential in order to earn that paycheck at the end of the week. You can't mouth off to a superior (well, you can, but you won't have a job very long). You have to listen to instructions and have the maturity to carry them out. If your teen is not grasping this lesson at home, he will definitely be able to learn it at the workplace.
What's that old proverb? Give a man a fish, and he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he'll eat for a lifetime. Applied to the area of finances, this time-tested bit of wisdom holds water. We can give teenagers an allowance of money, pay their bills, finance their hobbies, and supply their needs and wants. But when we do this, we are really robbing them of the chance to earn and handle money on their own. I'm not saying you shouldn't provide anything for your kids. As a parent, it's your responsibility to care for their basic needs. But it's possible to take this too far. Some parents never turn down their teens' requests for cash, and are always buying them bigger and better toys. It's wiser to encourage your teens to earn money and budget for what they want. A dollar earned is more valuable than a dollar given. When teens realize the effort that goes into making money, they'll understand the value of being good stewards of what they have. So every year, slowly step back from financing their lives. One year, let them pay for gifts for Christmas and birthday parties. The next year, have them help pay for school clothes. When they get a license, let your son or daughter pay for their car insurance. In college, have them pay for books or the interest payments on their school loans. Of course, they'll need a job to pay for all these things. But that's good! Give them the opportunity to handle money at an early age, and you'll be preparing them for a financially healthy life later on.
It's not all about the dollars and cents. Having a job can instill a sense of accomplishment and purpose in a teen's life. Your child can learn what it means to be devoted to doing quality and valuable work. There's nothing quite like the feeling that comes from a job well done. So start early, and give your child chores around the house and praise him or her for a good job. If your teen mows the lawn, comment on how good the yard looks. If your kids are in charge of feeding and walking the animals, let them know that you appreciate their work. Reinforce the idea that working with your hands is worthwhile and meaningful. Work is not something to be avoided, but something to be embraced and done with an eye towards excellence.
There may be some moms and dads reading this thinking, "Frankly, Mark, I think teenagers shouldn't have to jump into the working world so soon. I mean, they're just kids! They don't have the tools necessary to handle that type of responsibility."
But that is just not true. Teenagers have more potential then we often give them credit for. Let's go back a hundred years. What would we find? Seventeen-year-olds running the family farm. Fourteen-year-olds managing large animals. Nineteen year-olds leading armies into battle. Sixteen-year-olds getting married (Of course, this doesn't mean your high-school daughter should run off and marry her boyfriend). Were kids inherently different back then? I don't think so. Teenagers today are not all that different from the teenagers of yesterday. The problem is, we expect less of them or don't give them the opportunities to earn maturity. Give a teenager a project that has substance, or meaning, or adds value, and you'll find them rising to the challenge and displaying levels of character you might have never seen before! Work can bring out the hidden potential in your child.
Mom and Dad, let me ask you this "have you replaced your teen's work with after school activities?" Now, there's nothing wrong with soccer practice, violin lessons, or being in the chess club. Will every child who shoots hoops after school become a basketball star? Probably not. But every child will eventually join the workforce. Instead of forcing activities on your child that he or she may not continue later on in life, why not give them a chance to develop the skills they will need to have a career one day?
If your teens' schedule is too packed for a part-time job, it's time to evaluate the priorities. Provide the time needed to take on a construction job, or fold clothes at the GAP, cook fries at the drive-thru, or groom neighborhood animals. Let your teens find work. In that way, you're supplying them with needed skills they will use for the rest of their adult life.
In this culture, work is being viewed as a lifetime punishment with no possibility of parole. And while our teens are over exposed to the issues and subjects of adult life, they are under exposed to needed responsibilities. We have teens that can build complex software from the ground-up, but can't socially interact with supervisors or people in charge.
A job can change that. And you're not a bad parent for making your teenager get a job. In fact, you're giving them a priceless gift. You're teaching them the value of work.


Thesis: Why are explicit images called pornographic in context of art, but not in advertising?
Already at age 15 Vita traded her green hometown to attend M.K.Ciurlionis school of arts in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania. After that it was a straight road to Rietveld, determined to exchange a rigid, conservative world for one representing freedom and progress. Unshakeable in her predisposition for fashion, she found it much harder and much more fun then she'd ever imagined. To Vita fashion is always out to explore, always ready for what's next, always being young.