You don't have to die well.
My grandfathers are dead. My biggest crush from college died six months after I kissed her for the first time. All of us, no matter our age, have been bullied by the undeniable fact that this is all quite temporary.
I bring all of this up because my grandmothers are getting older and their health has been variable for a while now. My friends are getting older, and we are all pushing ourselves dramatically to be successful. My parents are reaching that age where if something happened it would be shocking, but they're sixty-years old now, which means that nothing would be shocking. So, should we expect the awful? No. Should we do our best to stay healthy and happy as long as possible? Of course.
My main concern is how we react to aging and the failing of one's health. There seem to be a lot of offers of medical tune-ups once you reach a certain age. There is an easy surgery to fix your eyes a little bit. A small heart procedure? Pill after pill, and there are side effects with each one. The balancing act of prolonging life while living in the present is an epic formula, and I'm not certain what the right way to go about that is. I do know this though, as long as you've lived well (loved, been loved, tried to do good, reached for something more than your own desires), then you don't owe anyone a good death. If you're afraid of a surgery or don't like how your physical being is being treated by the passing of time, then it's a decision not an imperative that you accept those treatments.
I think what doctors can do is actual magic at this point. Well, it's science to nth degree of science. They understand almost everything about the mechanics of the body now, and they are using that to give us an extremely long life. It's incredible what they can do with pharmacology and surgery. We care for ourselves now from an early age. I take a multi-vitamin and fish oil pills every day because it will prolong my life. I work out every day, and the parts of that which aren't tucked in vanity are in pursuit of better health for longer. I want fifty more years of this life, at least, but what if I get sick before that? What if my body is actually rigged to reject my energy far before that?
It's incredibly emotional when someone we love starts to have consistently bad health. Older people make jokes about it, because if they don't then where would they find the elbowroom to swing their bodies with any happiness? I think if someone makes it eighty or ninety years in this world, and their thoughts and opinions are completely colored by the pain they feel, then they can refuse to take extra chances. Please know that I'm not talking about suicide, though I do understand that to be a personal right, I'm talking about just standing pat with what you have left.
I love both of my grandmothers. I love my wife's grandmothers. All four of them are the best of what you could expect from a matriarch of a family. None of them are doing well, but they all have some good time left. I want to expect them to live longer, but they don't owe me that. They have given and given beautifully, always, and for me at least they don't have to take this last bit of journey well. I'm going to be pissed when I die. I'm going to be sad and hysterical about it. I'm going to ask for unreasonable things or I might ask for nothing at all. I'm going to earn that passing. You don't have to die well if you've lived well enough.


LOS ANGELES — A Burbank police officer's discrimination lawsuit against the department has no merit and cannot go forward, a Los Angeles Superior Court judge ruled Friday.
Judge Joanne O'Donnell ruled that Elfego Rodriguez, who is of Guatemalan descent, demonstrated no evidence of discrimination, and that claims of retaliation and harassment did not warrant a trial.
The ruling does not affect the remaining three plaintiffs on the case, who allege several instances of race and gender bias, harassment and retaliation, and that the department allowed the atmosphere to thrive.
The same judge dismissed another officer, Jamal Childs, from the case in March, ruling that racial epithets directed at him fell outside the statute of limitations, and that more recent comments were not directed at him personally.
The department in the last year has been jolted by a federal probe into allegations of excessive force and five civil lawsuits filed by a total of eight current and former officers.
Rodriguez, along with Lt. Omar Rodriguez and Officers Childs, Steve Karagiosian and Cindy Guillen-Gomez, also charged in their May 2009 lawsuit that the department has for decades pursued hiring practices that favor heterosexual white men.
Rodriguez, in court documents, said he was passed up for a promotion after making the complaints, despite being among the highest scorers of an aptitude test for the department's Special Response Team, known commonly as SWAT.
He later joined the Special Enforcement Detail, a unit responsible for making high-risk arrests, until it was disbanded last year.
Gresen argued that reasons why the unit was dissolved should be explored at trial.
The phrases were regularly made through a thick Armenian accent, Gresen said.
Within weeks of fielding complaints about the white board, then-Chief Tim Stehr cited budgetary concerns as his reason to disband the Special Enforcement Detail.
Rodriguez was returned to the patrol division and assigned to a schedule typically reserved for rookies and officers with limited experience, according to court filings.
"Statements made to the officers about their complaints were disregarded, and they were told that it could adversely affect their career," he said.
Rodriguez joined the Burbank Police Department in 2004.
Throughout his tenure, he was up for four elite assignments, all of which he received, according to court records.
Lawyers for the city argued that an officer's failure to receive a particular work assignment exactly when wanted was not an adverse employment action.
Attorney Lawrence Michaels, representing the city, said the question before the court was whether evidence of harassment was so pervasive and severe that it altered working conditions, and that a reasonable jury could reach the conclusion that it met the legal standard.
A police captain recommended shuttering the Special Enforcement Detail because the unit could not be fully staffed, and Stehr endorsed the request, Michaels said.
"There is not one shred of evidence that it was made for any discriminatory or retaliatory reasons," he said.
The white board incident did not involve offensive language, lawyers for the city said, and the sergeant's comment, which came within 18 months of Rodriguez joining the force, were in reference to the classic Chevrolet owned and driven by Rodriguez.
"It's this remarkably innocuous comment that has no expressed racial or ethnic content to it," Michaels said.


Aircraft are a major threat to submarines because they have no air defense. Long-range anti-submarine patrol planes and helicopters can loiter around dropping sonar buoys as though casually fishing, while sophisticated billion-dollar submarines hide like fish awaiting death from above.
Since modern submarines can fire cruise missiles while underwater, it is amazing that Sub-Surface-to-Air Missiles (SUBSAMs) have not been developed, although rumors persist that they secretly exist. The idea was tested in the 1980's using SEACAT missiles. The Soviets also tested the idea: Soviet SUBSAM. These tests failed because they used infrared seeking anti-aircraft missiles, which have a very limited ability to find targets. This is why they are usually aimed by the shooter and "locked-on" to a heat source prior to launch.
Submarines need SUBSAMs to shoot down or scare off anti-submarine aircraft like P-3 patrol planes (above) and helicopters like the SH-60 Seahawk (left). Submariners know when anti-submarine aircraft are searching nearby but they cannot get a precise fix. What they need is a missile that can acquire its own target, like the AMRAAM air-to-air missile, which uses an internal radar. The BGM-109 submarine-launched Tomahawk missile (below) could carry a 335 lb AMRAAM instead of a 1000 lb warhead. A SUBSAM would have two stages, like the SUBROC missile, fired straight up and then level off to fly a pre-programmed search pattern over the submarine while the AMRAAM operates in the seek mode looking for airborne targets for up to an hour. Once a target is detected, the AMRAAM fires and breaks away from the cruise missile to pursue the aircraft.
Submarines should not give away their presence attempting to bag an aircraft unless they have already been detected. If a submarine successfully stalks a fleet and launches torpedoes, its general location is known as it makes an attempt to escape. Therefore, submarines may routinely launch SUBSAMs after firing torpedoes to cover their escape. Anti-submarine aircraft would notice the Tomahawk launch and probably flee the area.
A submarine detected by aircraft is extremely vulnerable, but a roaming SUBSAM should keep aircraft away for up to an hour as it flies an 8-track pattern over the area until its fuel is depleted. Meanwhile, the submarine has plenty of time to escape. On the other hand, inexperienced or aggressive anti-submarine pilots may continue their hunt after they see the cruise missile fly away, and face death a few minutes later as the SUBSAM returns during its pre-programmed search pattern.
SUBSAMs may also be used offensively against airbases. A Tomahawk missile striking an airbase may damage aircraft on the ground with luck. However, a SUBSAM flying a pattern over a busy airbase may find something to shoot down. They may also be fired at distant aircraft carriers while attacking a fleet with anti-ship missiles to down aircraft and distract fighter pilots as they try to shoot-down the incoming anti-ship missiles. SUBSAMs do not require new technology, just the combination of two proven missiles.


Photos from the Bierkeller Division 2 & 3 Cup Final at Fletwood Town FC on 13/05/2012. Many thanks to Steve Knight for the images.
Photos from the Bierkeller Premier & Division 1 Cup Final held at the ground of Fleetwood Town FC on 13/05/2012. many thanks to John McNicholas for these images.


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Yet again I have written a whole chapter in a week, yet again it is a short one. I managed to write it and have it edited by Wednesday so considered doing a bonus update this week. Instead I focused on furthering some other projects. The great news is that my comedy fantasy novella set in a moustache, 'A Close Shave with Destiny,' is ready to be formatted for release. Anyway, back on to 'Islands of Hope.' This week's update is a rather uninspiring one where Eliana is trying, and failing, to contact Kira. It may seem a pointless scene but will become more important later on. For now you can read Chapter 29 on wattpad by going here, or start from the beginning here.


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Dark Shadows Every Day
The 1960s vampire soap opera, one episode a day.
Best of DS Every Day
Tag Archives: indicating
Episode 1162: The Tribulations
March 10, 2019 December 1970, Sam Hallindicating, justice, logical explanation, point of view, time travel, worst actorDanny Horn
"Counselor, I do not need you to tell me the laws of this state that I am honor-bound to withhold!"
A death, a dream, a Trask yelling witchcraft — yep, just another episode of Dark Shadows.
Today, Trask finds Quentin kneeling over a dead body, just like he did in episode 1156, a little over a week ago. Then Gerard casts a spell that sends Daphne a sexy dream, just like episodes 1146, 1151 and 1158. And Desmond says that the evidence against Quentin is circumstantial, just like he did yesterday and the day before, and for all I know he's going to say it again tomorrow, and every day for the rest of our lives.
Man, I wish something would happen today that we haven't seen recently, and I'm sure I will never regret making that wish.
Continue reading Episode 1162: The Tribulations →
Episode 896: Help Wanted
July 9, 2016 December 1969, Violet Wellesantique shop, crazy lady, hypnosis, indicating, lovecraft, music cue, the bookDanny Horn
"I don't believe that she's not worried about Philip, either."
Things look bleak for the global Leviathan conspiracy. The ancient book of prophecy has been stolen. The child is sick. The boss is spending all his time punishing the Chosen Ones. It's only been two weeks, and the organization is falling to pieces.
We need a firm hand at the wheel, a steady leader in an unsteady world. We need a thirteen year old.
Continue reading Episode 896: Help Wanted →
Episode 871: Give Me Back My Talent
June 2, 2016 October 1969, Violet Welleschromakey, grave soil, icarus, indicating, logical explanation, lookalike, mirror, ta-dahDanny Horn
"The time is over when no one would listen to you. The time is over when you were alone."
"Angelique!" he gasps.
The wicked witch smiles. "Hello, Quentin."
"How did you escape from Petofi?"
She looks away. "I just did," she shrugs.
Okay. Well, screw you too, I guess.
Continue reading Episode 871: Give Me Back My Talent →
Episode 617: Roger to the Rescue
April 2, 2015 November 1968, Ron Sproatindicating, roger to the rescue, the pastDanny Horn
"I was just having one of my moments of inexplicable hysteria."
Here's what the world sounds like before Roger shows up:
"I don't understand you, Jeff, really I don't!" says girl governess Victoria Winters, starting off the episode inexplicably petulant.
Jeff flashes a casual grin. "Well, I don't know what could be plainer. I think we should get married next month, at the latest."
"You know what I mean," she frowns, and he doesn't, and neither do I.
How exactly could you get yourself into this particular conversational logjam? Jeff comes bounding in, all smiles, and she's just staring daggers at him. Jeff says, Hello, Vicki! So happy to see you. He gives her a kiss. She glowers at him. He says, Guess what I've been thinking about. She sighs and frowns. He persists: I think we should get married next month, what do you say?
And that, apparently, is where we came in. I can't really picture it. It's possible that I'm over-thinking this.
Continue reading Episode 617: Roger to the Rescue →
Episode 611: The Love Object
March 24, 2015 Gordon Russell, October 1968doomed romance, fashion, indicating, leave me alone, postulateDanny Horn
"Now I understand why I have the urge to kill Adam."
So here's the latest: Eve, the Bride of Frankenstein monster who used to be a French psychopath named Danielle Roget, is in love with Jeff Clark, the amnesiac who used to be an 18th-century lawyer named Peter Bradford, and she killed her lover to be with him, only to have him reject her and fall in love with a time traveling governess who's on trial for witchcraft.
Now, I adore the absurdity of this plot point, but it's only been around for three episodes so far, and already I'm checking the episode guide to see how often I'm going to have to explain it. The answer, fortunately, is not very often, so I'm not sure why I'm even bringing it up.
Because it's not exactly one of the great romances of our time, is it? It's soap opera mate-matching at its most cynical — just taking two random characters and saying, "This one is desperately in love with that one," even though they have nothing in common and it doesn't seem like it's in character.
Continue reading Episode 611: The Love Object →
Episode 589: In the Fewest Words Possible
February 19, 2015 Ron Sproat, September 1968ancient truce, indicating, lampshadeDanny Horn
"Did you see his face?"
It's a Ron Sproat episode today, which means that nothing really happens, and the dialogue is functional rather than decorative. Plus, it's Thursday, so they're really just setting up for the Friday cliffhanger.
I have now watched this episode three times, trying my hardest to find something worthwhile to say about it, and it simply can't be done. The first act is the same thing that happened yesterday, the third act is the same thing that's going to happen tomorrow, and the second act is an entirely inert substance.
It's the kind of episode that you can recognize as being an example of the thing that it is, but it's so ordinary that it ceases to exist as soon as the credits roll. In other words, this is the Jeremy Renner of Dark Shadows episodes.
So you know how some days I manage to scrape together a blog post that's a beautiful little slice of postmodern lit-crit poetry, with funny observations and random 1960s trivia and it leads up to a stunning insight that makes you look at the show in a new and surprising way? Well, this is going to be the other kind.
Continue reading Episode 589: In the Fewest Words Possible →
Episode 582: The Can't Let Me Know What Scene
February 11, 2015 Sam Hall, September 1968get out, indicating, lies, one life to liveDanny Horn
"I wish I understood why this table is the way it is."
Okay. Gosh. Lots to do today, and I'm not really sure how it's all going to come together. I'm gonna start with Jeff's surprise face, and then see how it goes from there.
Continue reading Episode 582: The Can't Let Me Know What Scene →
Episode 484: Chekhov's Gun
September 19, 2014 Gordon Russell, May 1968beckoning, buffy, chekhov, dreams, indicating, speed bump, worst actorDanny Horn
"Julia! Why am I leaving the room, Julia?"
So it's been a rough ride, this returning to the present day. Deciding to do a lengthy 18th-century time travel story was a leap into the unknown, but once they'd started, they had a general outline to work from. They needed to turn Barnabas into a vampire, get Josette to jump off a cliff, kill pretty much everybody else in the cast, and hang Vicki as a witch. That was a plan that they could execute, if you'll pardon the expression.
But returning to 1968, the writers face another weird challenge. They've decided to pretty much reboot every ongoing storyline that they had — hastily wrapping up, reversing or straight-up ignoring all of the old story threads.
This is a very unusual move for a soap opera. These last five weeks have basically been the equivalent of a season premiere, a narrative structure that even night-time shows weren't doing in the late 60s. Dark Shadows has changed some core relationships, introduced new characters, and brought back Angelique as this season's Big Bad. Structurally, this is Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but thirty years early and from the monsters' point of view.
Continue reading Episode 484: Chekhov's Gun →
Episode 482: Witches Be Crazy
September 16, 2014 April 1968, Sam Halldreams, fashion, indicating, mulder, plan A, rummaging, shaggy dog, talisman, the problem with the dream curse, worst actorDanny Horn
"I should go to Collinwood, and drag her from the house, and BURN her!"
So, what do you do with a guy who just refuses to understand what kind of story he's in?
I'm not talking about a Mulder-Scully dynamic, where the tension between belief and skepticism is the whole point of the series. I'm talking about a guy who's standing smack in the middle of a spook show, and he can't get his mind around the fact that there's a witch who's trying to kill him, even though she's already openly attacked him using her magic powers. I'm talking about a guy who needs to have the situation explained to him over and over, plus he's obnoxious and a terrible actor and he shouts all the time.
All right, it's Lang. I'm talking about Dr. Eric Lang. He's driving me crazy, and he's got to be stopped.
Continue reading Episode 482: Witches Be Crazy →
Episode 336: Talk Show
February 24, 2014 Gordon Russell, October 1967accidental depth, crypt, indicating, interview, linkletter, mausoleumDanny Horn
"Some people see pink elephants. He saw Sarah Collins."
Young David has been running around for the last couple of weeks telling everyone some inconvenient truths, like for example that his cousin Barnabas is dead and sleeps in a coffin in his basement. This has not been the rocket sled to popularity that you might expect. Eyebrows have been raised.
But David has an adult ally, at last — Dr. Dave Woodard, who's finally realized that something weird is going on. Unfortunately, the actor who plays Woodard just left the show unexpectedly, and the part has been recast in a hurry. Let's see how it goes.
Continue reading Episode 336: Talk Show →
Episode 1170: This Place Is Not a Place of Honor
Episode 1169: This Wonderful Little Gathering
Episode 1168: How I Long to Be Wrong
Episode 1167: The English Way of Death
Episode 1166: The Proceedings
backacting
fridspeak
gunplay
make a friend
narrative collision
police futility
satan's favorite tv show
WATCH DARK SHADOWS on Amazon Prime, Hulu Plus and YouTube!
AMAZON PRIME has every episode of Dark Shadows available for streaming!
HULU PLUS currently has the first two DVD collections (episodes 210-290) available for streaming, as well as a rotating set of five sets of 40 episodes. It looks like they're only licensed to have a certain number of episodes up at one time, so periodically, they take down some sets and put up another batch.
YOUTUBE is offering every Dark Shadows episode for pay-per-episode. Individual episodes are $2, or you can get 40-episode sets for $1 per episode.
© Danny Horn and Dark Shadows Every Day, 2013. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog's author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Danny Horn and Dark Shadows Every Day with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Q: Is it possible to force a type to a class in Haskell? As an example, say I wish to implement a function which sums up a list of Nums. Halfway through coding it, I wish to debug it with Debug.Trace:
module T where
import Debug.Trace

dosum :: (Num a) => [a] -> a
dosum xs = dosum' 0 xs
    where
        dosum' n [] = n
        dosum' n (x:xs) = trace (show n) $ dosum' (n+x) xs

The problem is that this will not compile:
Could not deduce (Show a) arising from a use of dosum'
from the context (Num a)

I can add (Show a) to dosum and then remove it when I am finished debugging (in real life, I will want to have a type which is not necessarily in Show, but I will debug with integers). This can get cumbersome if there are a few functions involved and I keep adding removing Show a statements.
I want to have a function unsafeShow
unsafeShow :: a -> String

which works if a is Show a and is free to crash if it is not. Is this possible?

A: This is not possible. (note 1)

1: An exception is that you can dump the heap structure of GHC's heap, via an a -> String function. You can e.g. always turn a value into a hexadecimal pointer value, via vacuum. This is unlikely to be what you want. This functionality is the same as that used by the GHCi debugger to show arbitrary heap values.

A: It's not possible to implement your unsafeShow function in pure Haskell. The GHC could provide one, but currently it doesn't.
You might check out the GHCi debugger, however. This allows you to print stuff out that doesn't have a Show instance. (Further, it allows you to avoid evaluating something that wouldn't otherwise be evaluated, which can be useful.)

A: No, this is not possible. It would violate parametricity; a polymorphic function is not allowed to behave differently based on the specific type it is called with. It would also break the open world assumption, in that adding a Show instance for a type would change the behaviour of your program.
It could be a useful debugging aid, as something explicitly marked unsafe, but GHC does not support such a function, and I don't think its current implementation would permit the easy addition of one.
A possible alternative, if you have many functions with the same typeclass context that you want to do this with, and there is a conceptual semantic grouping to, would be to have a class like
class (Num a) => Number a
instance (Num a) => Number a

which you can use instead of Num in signatures, changing the declaration to (Num a, Show a) when debugging. (It would be better to pick a more meaningful name than Number, however!)

A: The really really terrible answer is to use unsafeCoerce from the Unsafe.Coerce module. It is as it sounds – it is a general tool for bypassing the type system, and if you get it wrong, you won't get a type error or an exception, you will get a segmentation fault.
In this case, you can unsafeCoerce a value that you already know is an Integer to Integer so that the type system can recognise that it's an integer too. Then you can show it as usual (make sure to give an explicit type signature, so show knows what it is showing – it can't infer, since unsafeCoerce can return any type!)
But if you accidentally call the code with unsafeCoerce on something other than an Integer, crashes, memory corruption, anything could happen – you've just completely thrown away your safety net.
In general, the only "safe" uses of unsafeCoerce are between types that you already know are equal, but the typechecker doesn't (or some other specialised use-cases, see the docs). Even then it will be heavily frowned upon by anyone reading your code unless your comments explain why it is the only option.

A: Usually I would comment out the type signature, but if a function is deep in the tree that gets annoying.  You can try using rewrite rules to replace your polymorphic function with the modified variant.
-- original function, should add NOINLINE to make sure your rule gets a chance to fire.
{-# NOINLINE dosum #-}
dosum :: (Num a) => [a] -> a

-- a version with added debugging
dosumShow :: (Num a, Show a) => [a] -> a

{-# RULES "sub/dosum" forall x. dosum x = dosumShow x #-}

A: It's GHC version 7.4.1? From it release notes:

The Num class no longer has Eq or Show superclasses. A number of other classes and functions have therefore gained explicit Eq or Show constraints, rather than relying on a Num constraint to provide them.
You can make code that works with both Haskell98/Haskell2010 and GHC by:

*

*Whenever you make a Num instance of a type, also make Show and Eq instances, and

*Whenever you give a function, instance or class a Num t constraint, also give it Show t and Eq t constraints.

Your code works well in previous versions of GHC (I try in 7.0.4).

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


The deadline to apply for readmission for the fall semester is August 1; the deadline to apply for readmission for the spring semester is December 1. Because it is not in the student's best interest, readmission is generally not granted for summer I or II sessions.
Students on probation or extended probation who fail to achieve at least a 2.00 grade point average for the enrollment period, or students on final probation who fail to achieve a 2.00 overall GPA, will be dismissed from Western Michigan University. Academic standing policies are available from the registrar's office.
To be considered for readmission to the university through the Haworth College of Business, students should contact the advising office to set up an appointment with Jane Westra, assistant director of advising. At this meeting, an individualized readmission plan will be devised. You may also email Jane Westra for general readmission questions.
Pre-business students will be expected to attend community college for at least one semester and successfully complete the courses outlined in the individualized readmission plan. During that semester students should enroll based on the enrollment they plan to take upon their readmission to WMU, for example the student should be full-time at the community college if planning to be full-time at WMU.
Students will be expected to complete the semester at community college with a semester GPA of 2.50 or higher and a "C" or higher in each course taken.
Students at the B.B.A. level will not be asked to attend community college. Readmission decisions at this level will take into consideration the likelihood that students will be able to achieve and maintain good standing to meet graduation requirements, with a minimum GPA of 2.00.
Upon meeting with Jane Westra and fulfilling requirements of any readmission plan, students should complete and submit an application for undergraduate readmission online on the admissions website.You will be required to attach a type-written essay (maximum of two pages) which includes a statement of your educational and career goals, an explanation of the circumstances that led to your dismissal and a detailed summary of any steps you have taken to change or alter these circumstances and resolve your past academic difficulties.
To learn about the possibility of a hardship withdrawal from past semester courses, review information from the Office of the Ombudsman.


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Home » Towns » New South Wales » Hunter Valley » Nelson Bay, NSW
Nelson Bay, NSW
The major township and port on Port Stephens.
Nelson Bay is the most important township on the southern shoreline of Port Stephens. It is a substantial coastal resort town just inside the mouth of Port Stephens and its marina and wharf are the departure points for the ferries across to Tea Gardens and the excellent whale watching tours which head out to the Tasman Sea.
Nelson Bay is 18 m above sea-level and 209 km north of Sydney via the Pacific Motorway and Nelson Bay Road. It is 59 km north-east of Newcastle.
No one is sure whether the town was named after Admiral Nelson or a vessel named Lady Nelson. The name may have come from the Lady Nelson which was used by Governor Lachlan Macquarie when he visited Port Stephens in 1812 or it may simply have been named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, the hero who died at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
Cruises and Boat Hire
Nelson Bay is one of the premier locations on the New South Wales coast for dolphin and whale-watching cruises. It is also possible to hire boats for deep-sea and big-game fishing cruises and there is a delightful ferry across to Tea Gardens. Humpback whales pass by the coast between September and November headed for the Antarctic and can also be seen heading to the tropics to breed between late May and July. Other migrants include right whales and minke whales. It is claimed by the local operators that the first whales heading north meet the stragglers heading south and consequently there are only four or five days a year when the cruises do not see whales.
There are two major tour operators
1. Imagine Cruises
The company is proud of its eco-accredited status and it specialises in dolphin and whale watching although it also offers "Marine Discovery/Snorkel tours, Bay and Beach Swim tours, a Fingal Island and Lighthouse tour as well as a Sunset Dinner Cruise." For more details, prices and times check out http://www.imaginecruises.com.au.
2. Moonshadow TQC Cruises
This company has the largest vessels in Nelson Bay. It has whale watching from May to November and Dolphin Watching every day. For more details, prices and times check out https://www.moonshadow.com.au.
Beyond the daily cruises the d'Albora Marinas offers a wide range of nautical activities including dive charters, diving lessons and equipment. There are a number of offshore wrecks to explore, as well as Broughton Island which is well known as a diving, fishing and bushwalking location. The waters off Halifax Park and Fly Point are an aquatic reserve and are the most popular diving locations at Port Stephens. Houseboats, catamarans, runabouts, jet skis, parasailing and power boats can be hired.
The Ferry from Nelson Bay
One of the modestly priced pleasures of the area is the ferry trip across Port Stephens to Tea Gardens. Apart from being a delightful journey it also travel past pods of dolphins who seem to enjoy racing the ferry and gambolling in its wake. The dolphins are remarkably reliable - the website says travellers on the ferry are 95% certain to see them. Not only do travellers get scenic views of the port they also get a free show from the local dolphins. Check out http://www.portstephensferryservice.com.au/web/timetable/ for more information.
Nelson Head and Nelson Bay Lighthouse
The road east from Nelson Bay (Victoria Parade and Beach Road) leads to Nelson Head which separates Little Nelson Beach to the west from Shoal Bay to the east. On Nelson Head, some 53 m above sea level, is the Nelson Head Lighthouse (known as the Inner Lighthouse), dating from 1872 and classified by the National Trust. Originally lit by three kerosene lamps, electric lights were installed in 1946. It was operated by light house keepers until 1985. The system was automated in 1995 and shut down in 2003. The cottage was built in 1875 and today includes a cafe/tea rooms and an exhibition of photographs, maps and information on marine rescue. It is managed by Marine Rescue NSW, tel: (02) 4984 2505. More information is available at http://www.marinerescueportstephens.com.au.
Yacaaba Head
The view from Nelson Head looks east to Yacaaba Head. The "head" has an interesting geological history. Millions of years ago massive volcanic disturbances formed Yacaaba Head. Lava, subsidence and erosion have changed the landscape so that now Yacaaba Head is a remnant of an ancient volcanic peak and the local topography and the rocky outcrops are the product of lava flow. It can be climbed by travelling to Hawks Nest and walking south along the beach. The National Parks website (check out http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/yacaaba-headland-walking-track) explains that the walk is 7 km return, takes between 2 hr 30 min and 3 hr 30 min, and describes the walk as "the track climbs steeply and you'll notice smooth barked angophoras giving way to gnarly banksias and grass trees. As the track veers north, take a break and admire the inspiring views up the coastline. On a clear day, the distant blue ridge line of Barrington Tops is visible. The track gets rockier and steeper, but along the forested ridge top you'll be treated to coastal views of Seal Rocks and Tomaree Headland. Out to sea, Cabbage Tree Island, known as John Gould Nature Reserve, protects the only known breeding colony of one of the world's rarest birds; the Gould's petrel."
Bagnalls Beach Reserve and the Bartlett Cycleway
There is a bicycle and walking track which runs from the Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre and hugs the shoreline following it west to the next beach at Dutchmans Bay and on through Bagnalls Beach Reserve to Corlette. The narrow beach is white, sandy and surrounded by casuarina and eucalypt. It is secluded and the waters are calm making it a popular beach with families.
Bushwalks around Port Stephens
There are literally dozens of bushwalks around Nelson Bay. The major national park, Tomaree National Park, is criss crossed by dozens of trails (a PDF can be downloaded from http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/Tomaree-National-Park)
In the immediate area around Nelson Bay there are three easily accessible, medium difficulty, short walks. See http://www.portstephens.org.au/see-and-do/walking-tracks for more details.
1. Fort Tomaree Walk
This is an easy 1 km walk on a paved track to the World War II gun emplacements which were built in 1941. It starts from Zenith Beach, takes around one hour return and has some steep sections. It is defined as medium difficulty and it can continue on to the ...
2. Tomaree Head Summit Walk
This summit walk rises to 161 metres above the level of the sea and offers the visitor panoramic views across Port Stephens. In total it is 2 km (1 km each way) and will take around 45 minutes. From the lookout it is possible (when they are around) to see the pod of dolphins which live in the "port".
3. Wreck Beach Walk
A short walk (1 km each way taking about 20 minutes) which is medium difficulty down the fire trail to the beach. It is not a safe beach for swimming as it has strong rips. The trail passes through angophora forest and leads to the beach which is ideal for whale watching in season.
Fly Point
To the east of the d'Albora Marinas is Fly Point which is a popular dive site. Fly Point is a nautical term meaning safe anchorage with protection from winds. It was the site of the fish curing operations of the Chinese who, in the late 19th century, exported their fish to the goldfields, Sydney, Melbourne and even China. It was also their burial site. It was the location of Nelson Bay's first school, the original customs building and the location of an armed forces personnel and training base during World War II. 22,000 Australian and American troops trained at Fly Point in ship-to-shore invasions. The area was also heavily fortified against prospective Japanese attack during World War II.
Little Nelson Beach
Little Nelson Beach is a 200 m long beach which lies between the d'Albora Marinas and Fly Point. It has jetties at both ends of the beach, a large boat ramp, and a cycleway. It is safe for swimming. In the clearing over the road from the picnic area are several Aboriginal canoe trees - trees which had a large chunk of bark carved out in the rough shape of a dugout. The cuts are still plainly visible and are reminders of the land's occupation by the Worimi Aborigines prior to European settlement.
Corlette
Corlette is now part of the suburban sprawl which stretches west from Nelson Bay. Its primary attraction is the upmarket Anchorage Port Stephens, a classy resort and marina. It's a timber celebration of classy understatement with boardwalks jutting out into a ninety-berth marina, elegant shutters on the dormer windows, wooden balconies overlooking the marina and the peaceful waters. The interplay between the soft yellow rendered sections and the seductive grey timbers works perfectly in what can fairly described as a low key "New England Cottage" style.
Like the area, Anchorage is artlessly simple without ever being ostentatious. The complex has eighty rooms and suites (25 suites and 55 rooms) with private balconies. Most have views across Port Stephens and across the resort's marina. The rooms are large with wooden shutters on the windows. There's not a hint of excess. Attractions around the resort include swimming in the large, heated pool and fishing from the nearby breakwater. Check out http://www.anchorageportstephens.com.au for more details.
Gan Gan Lookout
Gan Gan Lookout is accessed of Nelson Bay Road 1.5 km south-west of the town centre along Lily Hill Road (it runs off Nelson Bay Road to the north). From the Gan Gan Lookout the panorama is breathtaking. It is possible to look south across Tomaree National Park; south-west down to the skyline of Newcastle; west to the mountains; north-west over Soldiers Point; and eastwards over Hawks Nest, the two gigantic headlands that loom over the Port's entrance, Nelson Head and Yacaaba Head. In the spring the road is edged by enormous Gymea lilies.
Anna Bay
In recent times, as the whole Port Stephens area has become a holiday destination, the huge sand dunes at the northern end of Stockton Beach have become a magnet for enterprising entrepreneurs. For those seeking adventure there are the sand dunes at Anna Bay which can be enjoyed on horseback (Sahara Trails Horse Rides - http://www.saharatrails.com - a 90 minute ride across the dunes – riders have to be over 16, tel: (02) 4981 9077); by 4WD (Sand Dune Tours - http://www.portstephensadventure.com.au/4wd_tours.htm - 2 hours duration and includes sand boarding and Tin City); and Quad bikes (Quad Bike King - http://www.quadbikeking.com.au - they are located at 2130 Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown).
* Prior to the arrival of Europeans the area was occupied by the Worimi Aborigines.
* Port Stephens was sighted by Captain James Cook in May, 1770 who named it after Sir Philip Stephens, Secretary of the Admiralty. He observed smoke from Worimi campfires.
* The first Europeans in the area were five convicts whose boat sunk off Port Stephens in 1790. They were seen as reincarnated ancestors by the Worimi who aided them and accepted them into the tribe.
* The harbour was entered by the convict ship the Salamander in 1791 and charted by deputy surveyor-general Charles Grimes in 1795 who described it as low and sandy.
* Governor King ordered a survey of the Port by William Paterson in 1801.
* In 1812 Governor Macquarie visited the port in the Lady Nelson. Macquarie found the port "good, safe, and capacious" but decided there were too many shoals and the land was too barren to support a colony.
* Chinese fishermen established a base near Nelsons Bay early in the 19th century. They cured their catch and sent it back to China and to Chinese merchants in Sydney and Melbourne. By the 1850s they were sending supplies to the goldfields.
* By 1872 a second lighthouse had been constructed at Nelson Head.
* The first survey at Nelson Bay was carried out in 1874.
* A school was established at Hannah Bay (now Anna Bay) in 1879.
* Schools were established at both Salt Ash and Nelson Bay in 1883.
* In the 1880s lobsters were successfully trapped in the harbour by Greek and Italian fishermen.
* By 1886 there were about 30 residents. The villagers led a rather peaceful life based around fishing.
* During the Second World War Port Stephens was used as a base by the armed forces who trained 20,000 American and 2000 Australian servicemen.
* In the 1960s developers, seeing the potential of the area, started major commercial and domestic developments.
* Today Nelson Bay is popular with both holidaymakers and retirees.
Port Stephens Visitor Information Centre, 60 Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay, tel: 1800 808 900
The local official website is http://www.portstephens.org.au. It has extensive information about accommodation and events in the local area.
Goodness me! where are the early pioneers mentioned?
Our society is presently updating PSC website details for Heritage & History so will send some additional information when available. We have produced many publications of Port Stephens.
ie. Captain William Cromarty- first white settler in Port Stephens
William Glover- lighthouse keeper- first settler to Nelson Bay- lived Fly Point
Historian & President
President of Port Stephens Family History Society Inc
Denise Gaudion
on November 5, 2016 at 7:58 pm
to take the ferry trip across to Tea Gardens and see the pods of dolphins
to board a whale watching cruise and head to the Tasman Sea to see humpbacks
to walk along the foreshore from Nelson Head to Corlette
to go on a sand dune adventure at Anna Bay
to dine on serious haute cuisine at the Anchorage or have fish and chips at d'Albora
to tackle the sand dunes at Anna Bay by 4WD, Quad bike or horse
Looking across the d'Albora Marinas towards the town.
Apartments on the hill above Nelson Bay
Boats moored along the shoreline at Nelson Bay.
Nelson Bay Lighthouse and Museum on Nelson Head.
Yacaaba Head from Nelson Head lighthouse.
A dolphin races ahead of a cruise vessel in Port Steohens
Down the sand dunes to Anna Bay.
The Anchorage and its marina at Corlette.


I want a cat, but my husband doesn't like any pets.
1. a. I want a cat. But my hauband doesn't like any pets.
1. b. I want a cat. However. my husband doesn't like any pets.
1. c. I want a cat. My husband, however, doesn't like any pets.
1. d. I want a cat. My husband doesn't like any pets, however.
[参] I want a cat; however, my husband doesn't like any pets.
1. What do you wanna eat tonight? / Whatever.
2. Coffee or tea? / Whatever.
3. How about eating out tonight? / Whatever.
I don't feel like eating out tonight, but I'll do whatever you say.
4. I'm going out tonight. / Whatever.
5. I'll marry a doctor in the future. / Whatever.
6. I'm tired and hungry. / Whatever, hurry up.
I don't care whatever you say. Just hurry up.
7. Why don't you see a doctor? / Whatever.
Say whatever you want (to say). But whatever you say, I won't do it.
He waited for a bus patiently.
He waited for a bus quietly.
He waited for a bus reading a comic book.
He waited for a bus standing in line.
He was sitting on the sofa silently.
He was sitting on the sofa nervously.
He was sitting on the sofa surrounded by his children.
He was sitting on the sofa supported by his wife.
1. He waited for a bus(,) reading a comic book.
2. He waited for a bus(,) standing in line.
3. He was sitting on the sofa(,) surrounded by his children.
4. He was sitting on the sofa(,) supported by his wife.
5. I always eat dinner(,) watching TV.
6. The dog was lying on the ground(,) tied to the tree.
7. Mike was writing a report(,) using a PC.
8. My son came home(,) covered with mud.
9. The girls came into the classroom(,)chatting loudly.
10. The boy went to the police station(,) accomanied by his mother.
It is not good to eat watching TV.
My grandfather loves chatting surrounded by his grandchildren.
01. He waited for a bus(,) reading a comic book.
02. He waited for a bus(,) standing in line.
03. He was sitting on the sofa(,) surrounded by his children.
04. He was sitting on the sofa(,) supported by his wife.
05. I always eat dinner(,) watching TV.
06. The dog was lying on the ground(,) tied to the tree.
07. Mike was writing a report(,) using a PC.
08. My son came home(,) covered with mud.
09. The girls came into the classroom(,)chatting loudly.
11. It is not good to eat watching TV.
12. My grandfather loves chatting surrounded by his grandchildren.
He waited for a bus(,) reading a comic book.
A. He waited for a bus(,) reading a comic book.
B. I was reading a comic book(,) waiting for a bus.
You look smart wearing glasses..
You look smart wearing glasses.
She looked pretty wearing a kimono.
9. Chatting loudly, the girls came into the classroom.
9. The girls, chatting loudly, came into the classroom.
10. Accompanied by his mother, the boy went to the police station.
10, The boy, accompanied by his mother, went to the police station.
13. Walking in the grass, Mr. Frog was bitten by a snake.
13. Mr. Frog, walking in the grass, was bitten by a snake.
14. Seeing a police officer, the robber ran away.
14. The robber, seeing a police officer, ran away.
15. Picking up a stone, the boy threw it at the dog.
15. The boy, picking up a stone, threw it at the dog.
16. Shot by a machine gun, the police officer fell on(to])the ground.
16. The police officer, shot by a machine gun, fell on(to) the ground.
17. Seen from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
17. The island, seen from the plane, looked like an egg.
Seen from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
Seeing from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
When it was seen from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
When we[I] saw it from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
Looking out (of) the plane window, I saw an egg-shaped island.
13. While (he was) walking in the grass, Mr. Frog was bitten by a snake.
13. Mr. Frog ,while (he was) walking in the grass, was bitten by a snake.
13. Mr. Frog was bitten by a snake while (he was) walking in the grass.
14. When the robber saw a police officer, he ran away.
14. The robber ran away when he saw a police officer..
15. The boy picked up a stone and threw it at the dog.
16. The police officer was shot by a machine gun and fell on[to] the ground.
17. When (it was) seen from the plane, the island looked like an egg.
17. The island, when (it was) seen from the plane, looked like an egg.
17. The island looked like an egg when (it was) seen from the plane.
18. Thinking that it might rain, Mr. Amano took an umbrella with him.
18. Mr. Amano, thinking that it might rain, took an umbrella with him.
19. Believing that Juliet was dead, Romeo killed himself.
19. Romeo, believing that Juliet was dead, killed himself.
20. (Being) very kind to other people, Ms. Friend is liked by everyone.
20. Ms. Friend, (being) very kind to other people, is liked by everyone.
21. Satisfied with the result of the exam, the student started studying harder and harder.
21. The student, satisfied with the result of the exam, started studying harder and harder.
22. Surprised at the news, Mr Speed rushed home.
22. Mr Speed, surprised at the news, rushed home.
18. Mr. Amano took an umbrella with him, thinking that it might rain.
19. Romeo killed himself, believing that Juliet was dead.
18. Because Mr. Amano thought that it might rain, he took an umbrella with him.
19. Because Romeo believed that Juliet was dead, he killed himself.
20. Since Ms. Friend is very kind, she is liked by everyone.
21. As the student was satisfied with the result of the exam, he started studying harder and harder.
22. Because Mr Speed was surprised at the news, he rushed home.
23. The typhoon hit the Kansai area, causing great damage.
24. His novel became a best seller, making him very famous.
25. Ken jumped in first, followed by Tom.
23. The typhoon hit the Kansai area and caused great damage.
24. His novel became a best seller and made him very famous.
25. Ken jumped in first and Tom followed (him).
26. My family, living in the country, has three cars.
≒ My family, who is living in the country, has three cars.
27. Mt. White, always covered with snow, is very beautiful.
≒ Mt. White, which is always covered with snow, is very beautiful.
26. = Living in the country, my family has three cars.
27. = Always covered with snow, Mt. White is very beautiful.


text:
Review: Lytro Light Field Camera
Author: John BradleyJohn Bradley
Lytro's light-field camera allows you to focus your photos after you've taken them.
Rate7/10
Price$400
After two weeks with the Lytro camera, I still can't decide if it's a highly refined proof-of-concept or an uneven look at the future of photography. It's simultaneously addictive and frustrating. It's also, as advertised, a truly unique photographic experience.
If you missed the hype surrounding the announcement of Lytro's light-field camera last year, the short explanation is that it allows you to focus your photos after you've taken them.
That's the addictive part. No Lytro photo is ever finished. You can continually readjust an image to focus on the foreground, middle, or background merely by clicking around the image. This also means it's nearly impossible to take an out-of-focus picture. Just aim and shoot, then focus later.
>It's nearly impossible to take an out-of-focus picture. Just aim and shoot, then focus later.
Lytro calls these "living pictures," and all the data that powers this re-focusing trick travels with each square-cropped image. Post a Lytro photo (using the company's custom Flash widget) on your blog, on Facebook or on Twitter, and your friends and followers can refocus the picture in their browsers without downloading any special software. It's like a choose-your-own-ending Instagram.
At the core of the Lytro camera are the light-field sensor (hardware) and light-field engine (the software). The sensor, which looks like a flat, square fly's eye, enables the camera to capture all the light traveling in every direction in a scene, rather than just the rays aimed directly at the lens. Think of all the light you see through a typical viewfinder as a rectangular cube. A conventional photo focuses on one plane of that cube. A light-field image captures the whole thing. Instead of megapixels, Lytro measures the sensor's power in terms of how many millions of rays of light it captures – in this case, 11 million, or 11 megarays.
As I said, playing around with these images is addictive. But the camera suffers from design and usability issues. It's a first-generation piece of hardware that has to solve problems no one has ever faced before. So, as would be expected, there are some kinks. The touch-sensitive zoom is too sensitive, and the 1.5-inch touchscreen feels too small and unresponsive. Also, while the always- in-focus nature of the camera does simplify one aspect of photography, taking a compelling light-field image requires more time and compositional forethought than normal point-and-shoot snapping. There's a learning curve here that Lytro's hardware design doesn't really help.
The camera is about the size of a stick of butter. It's striking just how simple it looks. The front two-thirds consists of seamless anodized aluminum, while the rear third is covered in grooved rubber that houses a recessed shutter button, an on/off button, and a touch-sensitive strip for controlling the 8x optical zoom. There's no flash, but the constant f/2 lens doesn't need a lot of light. And the shallow depth of field that comes with a low f-stop isn't really an issue here, since focus can be tweaked after the fact. It's a much more powerful camera than the external controls would suggest.
The camera has two shooting modes: "standard" and "creative." In standard mode, the only controls are exposure and zoom. To set exposure, you tap on the touchscreen as you would when shooting with a smartphone. The zoom control, which is located right next to the shutter button, is more problematic. It was rare that I took a shot without accidentally nudging the zoom one way or the other. Composing a compelling light-field image takes extra care, so inadvertently zooming in just before hitting the shutter is a major headache.
>The desire to create more interesting viewer experiences demands that you search for new ways to stage photos.
The tiny screen is another hurdle. Tweaking settings and staging shots on the 1.5 inches of glass is tricky at best, especially outdoors. There's a "view" mode that lets you play with the finished light-field images in camera, but the screen is too small for this to be useful. In most cases, it's not until you've downloaded your photos onto your computer that you can tell whether or not you've captured something worth keeping.
The depth of field in which a viewer can refocus an image is called the refocus range. In standard mode, this stretches from about six inches off into infinity. Unless you make sure to have something in the extreme foreground of your shots, however, the resulting living picture falls kind of flat. Switching the focus from something in the midrange to something in the background doesn't create a drastically different photo.
So while the hardware design lends itself to firing off quick shots, effective living images require that you put something compelling in the foreground. What might otherwise be simple vacation shots become mini-productions as the shooter tries to reposition things or adjust the zoom so that there will be a flower or bike seat in the foreground. If the rule of photographic composition is to stick to a three-by-three grid, Lytro takes that into a third dimension.
Creative mode lets you dictate a shallower refocus range. Tap an area in your scene, and viewers will be able to refocus the resulting image only within a narrow range in front of and behind that object. This allows for macro-style shooting of objects so close they're touching the lens, and also for more artistic compositions that force certain areas of the image to stay blurry.
In either mode, the desire to create more interesting viewer experiences demands that you search for new ways to stage photos. Rain on windows is an easy way to get foreground (drops on the glass) and background (whatever's on the other side of the window). In the same way that Instagram has me viewing the world in terms of what might look good in that little square, the Lytro camera has me looking for opportunities to hide objects in the background or to make things leap out of the foreground – anything to get people to click around in the photos.
When it comes time to share your image, that's where the fun really happens. It's hard to say what these living images will become until you publish them, when they cease to be just memories and blossom into "viewer experiences."
Lytro's simple software makes this easy. Plug in your camera and Lytro's desktop app (Mac only for now) automatically launches, downloads your photos and begins generating the light field for each one. Depending on how many images you've shot, this can take from a few seconds to several minutes. The software lets you prioritize certain images to download and process first if you can't wait to see them.
The desktop app lets you arrange photos by dates, group them into events, and to share them with a few clicks, publishing either to your own free Lytro.com account or directly to Facebook or Twitter. When published, the images appear with a "play" button and pop-over instructions that encourage people to interact with them. Lytro also provides embed codes for WordPress and Tumblr. In all cases, the light-field engine travels with the image data, meaning aside from the standard Flash player, viewers don't need to have any additional software installed.
>The Lytro is too big to carry in a pocket but not something I'd want to hang around my neck, which means carrying it in a backpack or shoulder bag. For me, that's where cameras go to die.
Lytro plans to release updates later this year allowing for things like genuine tilt-shift focus and native 3-D images from a single lens. Another filter currently in the works will let you place an entire image in focus.
If you have a photo you'd like to edit with standard desktop software, the Lytro client lets you export any image in your library as a jpeg. But the resulting file is a standard, static image – no refocusing.
Aside from some less-than-ideal button placement, the Lytro camera is an elegant enough device. But this seems to be more about the social experience than the hardware. As such, Lytro's technology would be much better employed inside a smartphone rather than in a standalone camera, especially one that doesn't even have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capabilities.
Playing with a light-field image is truly unlike anything I've experienced. Since the introduction of photography, the technological changes have been iterative – the addition of color, the jump from film to digital. Lytro feels much more like a radical departure than a stepping stone.
Still, it's not enough to make me want to buy a third camera (I already have a smartphone and a DSLR). The Lytro is too big to carry in a pocket but not something I'd want to hang around my neck, which means carrying it in a backpack or shoulder bag. For me, that's where cameras go to die.
This won't stop early adopters – the Lytro is already backordered – and I have to admit I'll be a bit jealous when I see people shooting with these cameras in the coming months. But I'll wait until "light field" is another option on my smartphone's camera before taking the plunge.
WIRED A completely new way of approaching photography – will seem like manna from heaven for early adopters. No more out-of-focus pictures. Sharp, responsive optical zoom. Constant f/2 lens. Interactive photos can be posted to blogs and social networks. Days of battery life. Sharing photos is even more fun than taking them.
TIRED Too big for pockets. Placement and sensitivity of zoom control leads to misfires. Tiny LCD screen. Minimal editing options with initial launch. No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so there's one more micro USB cable to keep track of.
First Lytro photo: John Bradley/Wired
Second Lytro photo: Ariel Zambelich/Wired
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#cameras


text:
ITC to help boost Russian SMEs' trade skills
Deputy Executive Director says ITC is ready to assist Russian SMEs adapt to WTO rules
by ITC Communications
ITC's Deputy Executive Director Jean-Marie Paugam signs framework agreement with World Trade Center Moscow General Director Vladimir Salamatov.
Jean-Marie Paugam, ITC' Deputy Executive Director, at a speech in Moscow on 24 September welcomed the Russian Federation into the WTO family to which ITC belongs. Mr Paugam was speaking at "Russia In The WTO: The Launch Forum" held at the World Trade Center (WTC) Moscow, which was a joint session of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Russian Federation, and delegates of the 43rd General Assembly of the World Trade Centers Association.
Mr Paugam said it was important for Russia's private sector to obtain the capacity and skills needed to compete in global markets and cope with increased competition at home. "It is important, in our view, that the Russian private sector and business institutions use this room for manoeuvre as a window of opportunity to empower the private sector and, in particular, to 'muscle-up' exporting SMEs," he said.
Obtaining the necessary trade tools
"[Russia's] SMEs have to learn the new rules of the game and to obtain the tools that will help them rise up to international standards," he said. Mr Paugam added that ITC's role is to help turn the formal opportunities of market access granted by the WTO accession into real opportunities for SMEs. "This is the contribution we can bring to the Russian post-WTO accession period and to the Customs Union. This is the basis on which ITC and the World Trade Center Moscow want to partner."
Mr Paugam announced that earlier in the day ITC had signed a framework agreement with the WTC Moscow for co-operation in the area of WTO post-accession.
He also stressed the importance of building the capacities of the Russian SMEs and to adapt to the new regulatory environment by boosting their strengths. One example of such work already being carried out, he said, was the preparation by ITC on a guide for Customs Union exporters of flour and pasta on SPS requirements for the EU market.
"It is time to scale up our co-operation to a new level of ambition, both for the benefit of the Russian private sector, as well as for the benefit of the Russian people."


It's funny how scarcity makes us appreciate other cultures and "exotic" goods.
I was roasting cacao today when my weekly banana bread salesman showed up with the customary Tico whistle. I offered him some of my smoothie (bananas, ice, milk, peanut butter, coconut oil, sunflower seed, coconut oil – in case you're curious) and a roasted cacao bean.
He'd never had a cacao bean although he says that the pods just fall rotting on the ground here. He nibbled on the bean with a twisted bitter face – like a little kid accidentally trying his first hoppy beer – and quickly chased it down with the smoothie while I was giggling. I think he is more used to eating the sweet fruits and sugary chocolate.


The Wauwatosa School District has hired an independent third-party Owner's Representative to help the District manage all referendum-related projects over the next three years.
During its meeting on Monday, December 10, the Wauwatosa School Board approved the contract for Curt Wiebelhaus of Building Solutions. An Owner's Representative works to represent the interests of the District throughout a construction project and in conjunction with the construction manager and architectural firm.
Wiebelhaus served as a consultant to the District during the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for a construction manager during the facilities planning process in 2017.
Superintendent Phil Ertl told the Board Wiebelhaus knows the ins and outs of the process and will be an asset that works directly for the District.
"We will take the foundation that was created (during the RFP process for the construction manager) and make sure we have a project and process that is competitive throughout its course and make sure we are getting the best value for the District and the community," Wiebelhaus told the Board.
Review pay applications from the architect, construction manager, subcontractors, vendors and Owner (district) purchases.
Track budgeted cost against the actual cost to ensure the budget is maintained.
View the school board agenda here.


杂志 - Win a Philippe Starck lemon squeezer by Alessi!
Enter our juicy competition for a chance to win a Philippe Starck lemon squeezer by Alessi!
How many cities do YOO have projects in?
Log in and post your full name and answer into the Facebook comments box below to go into the draw to win this iconic piece of design!
The competition runs from 4 Feb 2013 closing midnight (GMT) 17 Feb 2013. All correct entries go into a draw, the winner will be announced 12 noon (GMT) 25 Feb 2013, check this page and our social media channels for the winner's name. The winner will then email info@yoo.com with their address and phone number for delivery to be arranged.
Update Feb 18th: Competition now closed.
Update Feb 25th: We have a winner! Congratulations Vojislav Jesic! Email info@yoo.com with your postal address and contact number for us to arrange delivery.


This is the matching lead for the Van Gogh dog collar. Thanks to Dutch Dog Amsterdam canine lovers now have a way to demonstrate their affinity for western art whilst walking their pets.
The lead is made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycled webbing and printed with eco-friendly, lead-free, non-toxic printing.
Available in one size: 2.5cm wide x 150cm long.
Both the lead and matching Van Gogh dog collar are machine washable.


Pattern packet comes with three color photos, pattern to trace and instructions.
This packet is an original. It is not a copy nor torn from a magazine. It came from the inventory of a tole shop that closed down years ago and in storage.


Today will mark the first in a series of posts over the next week counting down to the March 24th effective date for OFCCP's new Veteran and Disability regulations. During the next week we will seek to provide you with practical pointers and tips as you work through your checklists and prepare to "flip the switch" on implementation.
As the effective date rapidly draws near you should be looking to prioritize your implementation projects by those items that must be implemented by the March 24the effective date, and those that can (and should) wait until you next regularly update your affirmative action plan.
The regulations are broken into separate categories of obligations (Subpart C and Non-Subpart C) which have differing implementation deadlines.
Update EO clause is in contracts, purchase orders, etc.
For obligations contained within Subpart C of the regulations, required compliance is driven by the date of your affirmative action plan. Compliance with Subpart C requirements does not have to occur until you next regularly update your Affirmative Action Plan after March 24th. For example, if you have a calendar year plan (January 1) your next regular update following implementation of the regulations will be January 1, 2015. As such, you will need to comply with Subpart C obligations by January 1, 2015.
Send policy notices to vendors, etc.
OFCCP strongly encourages taking steps to comply with all parts of the regulations "as soon as practicable" after March 24, 2014, however OFCCP has said that employers will not be held in violation if they do not comply with Subpart C obligations until their next AAP.
Tune in on Monday for our next installment of this series when we discuss "how" and "what" type of information employers need to communicate to applicants.


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How to register a lasting power of attorney
An excerpt from Lawpack's Power of Attorney Kit.
If you've chosen someone to look after your affairs in case you're not able to control them yourself and have made a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), then it needs to be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian for it to be valid.
But when is the right time for you to register it? Do you register the LPA yourself or does your 'attorney' do it? Here's our guide to the registration process.
Does the LPA have to be registered?
Before a LPA can be used (even when you have no problems with capacity) the LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) - a government organisation that is responsible for the management of the affairs of adults who are incapable - for the LPA to be valid.
It's not necessary to register a LPA immediately after it's created but the LPA cannot be used in any way before it is (even in the case of a LPA Property and Financial Affairs that is intended to be used when you have capacity).
Once registered, a LPA Property and Financial Affairs can be used by the Attorney, unless it's expressed not to apply until you lack capacity in respect of a specific decision. A LPA Health and Welfare can only be used by the Attorney if you lack capacity in respect of a particular decision.
When should the LPA be registered?
The application to register the LPA can be made at any time after you have made it. Once it is registered, it continues indefinitely.
Who registers the LPA?
You (as the 'Donor') or one or more of your Attorneys can register the LPA with the Office of the Public Guardian.
Is there anything I need to do before registering the LPA?
Prior to registering the LPA, the person(s) applying to register it must notify all those people who are specified within the LPA as people to receive notice of the registration. To do this, Form LPA 001 must be completed.
If the application is made by you ('the Donor'), the Office of the Public Guardian will send the Attorney(s) notice of the application to register (Form LPA003A). If the application is made by an Attorney, you will be sent notice by the Office of the Public Guardian (Form LPA003B).
Those persons notified of the LPA registration can object to the LPA being registered.
How can someone object to the registration?
There are two grounds on which a person can object to the registration of the LPA:
The form is no longer valid; for example, because you or the Attorney is dead or bankrupt, the Attorney lacks capacity, or you and the Attorney were married (or in a civil partnership) that has been dissolved. In these circumstances the objection must be made to the Office of the Public Guardian using a Form LPA 007, within five weeks of them receiving notice of the intended registration of the LPA.
The form has been obtained improperly in some way; for example, because the formalities were not complied with, you lacked the necessary capacity, or the power had been obtained by fraud or undue pressure. A further ground is that the Attorney proposes to act in a manner contrary to your best interests. In these circumstances the objection must be made to the Court of Protection using Form COP7, and notice of the objection must be given to the Office of the Public Guardian on Form LPA 008 within five weeks of them receiving notice of the intended registration of the LPA.
These forms are available to download from our website when your purchase our DIY Lasting Power of Attorney Kit.
How is the LPA registered?
An application to register the LPA may be made by you or by one or more of the Attorneys. To apply for registration, Form LPA 002 must be completed and sent to the Office of the Public Guardian, along with a fee. The LPA 002 form comes with its own guidance notes (LPA 002 Guidance Notes). Both of these forms are available in our Power of Attorney Kit.
The Office of the Public Guardian will then stamp each page of the form to show that it has been registered.
What is the registration fee?
A fee must be paid when the LPA is registered and it must be sent along with the application for registration. The fees are subject to periodic change, but you can check the current fee by calling the Office of the Public Guardian on 0300 456 0300.
In some circumstances, you may be entitled to an exemption, remission or postponement of the fee. If you're entitled to a means-tested benefit, there is very likely to be an exemption.
Find out more about making a LPA, or you can stop worrying and make a power of attorney today.
What does a power of attorney do?
The powers you can give with a LPA
How to choose Attorneys
Solicitor-approved Kit providing access to General and Lasting Power of Attorney forms.
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By Bhauch Prasad Yadav
Bhaktapur, Aug 3: Nagarkot of Bhaktapur is the main attraction for most of the tourists visiting the Kathmandu Valley.
The range of mountains viewed from Nagarkot is fascinating but the road to the tourist destination is worst. The tourists who visit Nagarkot are suffering due to the uneven road, which is muddy and full of potholes.
The responsible agents behind the miserable condition of the road are the concerned construction companies - Shailung Construction Company Pvt. Ltd. of Nepal and Aarawali Infra Power Limited (AIPL) from India.
Although the Indian company has the responsibility to construct half of the road, the work is yet to be started -- resulting in both cost and time overrun.
The cost of the construction has increased by Rs. 43.5 million. The company has got multiple extensions of the construction deadline.
The contract for the road construction had been signed on June 16, 2014. The initial construction cost was Rs. 315.2 million.
The construction companies had to accomplish the construction within two years. Meanwhile, concerned government agency claimed that the road construction would be completed within the next five months. Jagat Prajapati, chief of Bhaktapur-Nagarkot-Sipaghat-Balkhu-Dakshinkali Road Project, said that the construction would be finished by November end this year.
"Since the country is all set to mark 2020 as a visit year, there is no alternative to complete the construction of the road by November this year," Prajapati said.
According to him, although the construction companies had urged a new deadline of March 20 next year to complete the work, they were asked do their job by November this year.
The construction companies had procured new machines and human resources to complete the work by November, Prajapati stated.
Only 3.3 km section of the 15.6 km long road is completed so far.
"If the construction companies have enough competency and willpower, they can finish all the construction works within the new deadline because they have five more months at their disposal," he added.
The physical and financial progress related to the road construction is 65 per cent and 42 per cent only till date. Prajapati further said that the work except for black-topping had already been accomplished.
The road is being expanded from single to double-lane under the new construction project.


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2006 Cadillac Escalade ESV
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Stuffed Chilli Bhajjis Mama's Secret Recipes so delicious!
These Stuffed Chilli Bhajjis with a yummy spicy filling and an outer crispy texture are enough to make your mouth water and throw you off balance coz they are so outrageously delicious!
I have long been craving for the stuffed chilly bhajjis that I used to eat in Chennai, India at one particular location and my mouth still waters thinking about them. I loved them as a child and enjoyed eating them. I don't find them now when I go to India. The small tea shop by the Cinema theatre where a lady vendor used to sell them is no more, though the theatre is still there. Everything has changed. But the taste is still alive and it evokes fond memories of the past of how we (me with my family) walked home after watching the movie enjoying these hot fuming mouth watering bhajjis. I still remember how her small tea stall was always crowded and how we watched her fry a bazillion of them in a huge wok as we waited impatiently for our turn to buy them These bhajjis were stuffed with a delicious spicy filling and back then I used to wonder what it could be. I tried to recreate it and kept trying different combinations and finally after many trials i managed to come very close to the taste. This was the best I could do.
1. Dry roast the cumin seeds. Grind them in a mortar and pestle and keep aside.
2. Take a saucepan, add a tsp of ghee (clarified butter) and on medium heat roast the 2 tbsp of besan flour (chickpea flour). When it starts leaving an aroma it means it is well roasted and the raw smell is gone. Remove from the pan into a bowl and keep aside.
3. Peel, boil and grate the potato when it is cool.
4. Now add to the grated potato the roasted besan flour, MTR chutney powder, roasted ground cumin and the other spice powders. Mix well. Add salt and pomegranate molasses. The filling is ready now.
5. Take a green chilli slit it open vertically, remove the seeds and stuff it with the filling. Then take some more filling and wrap it around the stuffed chilly. Compress it inside your fist and make it smooth. Set aside.
6. Repeat the same process with the rest of the chillies and set aside.
7. Make a thick batter with the 1/2 cup besan (chickpea flour), 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp chilli powder and 1/4 tsp baking soda with a little water.
8. Dip the wrapped stuffed bhajjis in the batter and swirl them around so that they gather more batter and then slowly slide them in the hot oil on medium heat. Keep splashing the hot oil over them carefully and turn them over from time to time in order to fry them evenly. Remove them when they are crisp and golden.
9. Drain them on paper towels and serve them hot with mint or tamarind chutney. Enjoy!
Dry roast the cumin seeds. Grind them in a mortar and pestle and keep aside.
Take a saucepan, add a tsp of ghee (clarified butter) and on medium heat roast the 2 tbsp of besan flour (chickpea flour). When it starts leaving an aroma it means it is well roasted and the raw smell is gone. Remove from the pan into a bowl and keep aside.
Peel, boil and grate the potato when it is cool.
Now add to the grated potato the roasted besan flour, MTR chutney powder, roasted ground cumin and the other spice powders. Mix well. Add salt and pomegranate molasses. The filling is ready now.
Take a green chilli slit it open vertically, remove the seeds and stuff it with the filling. Then take some more filling and wrap it around the stuffed chilly. Compress it inside your fist and make it smooth. Set aside.
Repeat the same process with the rest of the chillies and set aside.
Make a thick batter with the 1/2 cup besan (chickpea flour), 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1/2 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp chilli powder and 1/4 tsp baking soda with a little water.
Dip the wrapped stuffed bhajjis in the batter and swirl them around so that they gather more batter and then slowly slide them in the hot oil on medium heat. Keep splashing the hot oil over them carefully and turn them over from time to time in order to fry them evenly. Remove them when they are crisp and golden.
Drain them on paper towels and serve them hot with mint or tamarind chutney. Enjoy!
That looks really delicious! It's one of my favorites thank you for sharing this information.


We met… in a nightclub in Dublin, over a suspicious looking shirt, that secretly (un known to the groom) made it all the way from his wardrobe in Dubai to feature in the wedding speeches. The famous shirt is also known as the "super split"… enough said!
Our proposal… After five wonderful years of adventures it was a big surprise, Dave proposed on the first night of our holiday, on a very romantic night in Vienna, just at the beginning of a two week trip to Montenegro-we celebrated just the two of us for two weeks! Fab holiday.
My dress and make-up… My dress was a David Fielden gown from Myrtle Ivory in Dublin. It was very simple… very me! When I chose it I was a little worried that it was too plain, that the look may not work….looking back I absolutely adore it. Joanne Kelly did my hair, I have very long thick hair and I never wear my hair up so I was quite nervous about how it would look… Joanne was fabulous. She did an amazing job I am so glad that I found her. Yvonne Ward did my make-up, Yvonne is a family friend, again she did an excellent job on our make-up and was great fun on the morning of the wedding.
His suit… Dave looked very handsome in his traditional tails (I would say that!). The suits were hired from Protocol menswear in Dublin.
Our ceremony… took place in a cute little church, five minutes away from the Castle. (St. Patrick's Corracrin). The ceremony was one of my favourite parts of the day. We put a lot of thought into the ceremony and it was really special for us. We involved as many of our friends and family as we could, it was beautiful. Siobhan Maguire provided the church music –she was amazing. I could listen to her all day.
What our bridal party wore… The groomsmen all wore traditional tails suits. My bridesmaids (my two sisters) wore short lace dresses that I had the dresses made for them. I bought the lace in Dubai. With me being based in Dubai with one pregnant bridesmaid living in Ireland and the other living in Sydney getting the dresses made could have been a disaster but it worked! They both looked beautiful.
Our wedding car… Our wedding car was from Heffernan Wedding Cars.
We chose our photographer because… his work is so unique. I loved his style and his artistic shots are amazing. Most importantly I didn't want too many posed photos and Shane's work/style seemed to suit that idea. I did quite a bit of research into photographers, we decided not to have a videographer, so I really wanted to have good photos to remember the day. Shane (Aspect Photography) did a brilliant job we are thrilled with our photos. He captured the mood of the day perfectly, he was fabulous to work with, blended in with our guests and a very cool character… and also a perfect third bridesmaid!
We chose our venue because… we fell in love with Castle Leslie Estate the moment we visited. It is such a beautiful place. It was the perfect venue for us, we loved the old style charm and the quirkiness of the rooms. The layout of the venue and grounds allowed guests to wander around which made for a very relaxed atmosphere on the day. The staff at Castle Leslie Estate also helped to make our decision very easy, their attention to detail, organisation and professionalism was second to none in our experience. We had a very positive experience. On our first visit to the Castle it poured out of the heavens so if a place looks fabulous in the rain it's a good sign!
We chose our wedding coordinator because… we were lucky enough to have Denise Larmar show us around on our first visit to Castle Leslie Estate so we continued to work with her throughout the planning. Denise could not have been more accommodating, professional and personable from our first visit to the Castle. The whole team at Castle Leslie have everything coordinated perfectly-they certainly know what they are doing when it comes to hosting a wedding. We knew we were in very safe hands.
Our wedding theme/colours… The general theme of the wedding was romantic country chic, there was lots of Kraft paper (cardboard as our parents called it) and lots and lots of twine! I am also a big lace fan, so I had to make sure it featured also! The colour theme was soft with cream nudes, peach and pinks.
Our honeymoon… For part one of our honeymoon we travelled to the Amalfi Coast in Italy, it was a fabulous such a beautiful part of Italy. We are currently planning part two trying to decide between Africa or the Seychelles!?
My piece of advice for other brides… Make sure to put your personal stamp on your wedding, it takes a lot more effort but it's certainly worth when it comes together. Take it all in, have fun planning, enjoy it and don't forget you're marrying the love of your life and your best friend… That's what matters most!
WOW…What a gorgeous wedding! Adorable!
Hi , your wedding looks stunning! I love your colors …just wondering where you got the buntings?


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Bingo illegal in Linden
Published 12:00 am Wednesday, March 12, 2003
The Linden City Council has granted an illegal license for a local business to hold bingo games.
Woody Dinning Jr., attorney for the Linden City Council, said Tuesday that his research indicates the city illegally granted Franceena's Italian Restaurant a license to play bingo games.
In Alabama, there are only four counties that allow for the playing of bingo: Montgomery, Madison, Jefferson and Mobile.
Attorneys General opinions about bingo in Alabama are fairly clear. Former Attorney General Charles Graddick and current Attorney General Bill Pryor have both outlined the law concerning bingo games in Alabama counties.
That clearly is not the case for Marengo County, and no amendments to the state constitution have been proposed. As part of the Alabama Constitution of 1901, counties lack the "home rule" authority to pass legislation that would allow things like bingo. Rather, an amendment has to appear on a statewide ballot and citizens all over the state vote on something that would only affect this county.
At the March 3 Linden council meeting, Mayor Pat Vice brought the motion for a bingo license at the request of Linden business owner Fran Black. According to City Administrator Cheryl Hall, the council passed a $300 yearly license fee for Black and her business. Hall said Black's Italian restaurant has been open since last summer.
Now that Dinning has decided the Linden council's granting of a bingo license was illegal, he said he will notify city officials that they have made a bad decision.
Because the council passed the ordinance allowing the game, Dinning said the council will now have to rescind that ordinance.
Sheriff nabs second suspect in robbery
Arrests don't always come this easy; especially when law enforcement officials have spent two weeks looking for a suspect. Marengo... read more


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