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Adapting smallholder rain-fed farming systems in Nkayi
ADMIN May 9, 2018 Adapting smallholder rain-fed farming systems in Nkayi2018-05-09T09:45:53+02:00 Expert Voices, Featured, NEWS No Comment
Nkayi, Zimbabwe, a poor rural district in Natural Region IV, is a predominantly rainfed agricultural region. Farmers remain vulnerable to climate change, as low and variable rainfall (<650 mm annually) and regular droughts (every 2 of 5 years) make production difficult. Poverty in the region is already the highest in the country: more than 76% of the rural population lives below the poverty line (<1.5 USD per day), and more than 22% is extremely poor (living <1USD per day) (ZimVac, 2013). Food self-sufficiency varies from 3 to 10 months depending on the annual rainfall, leaving rural households extremely vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.
Location of study region
Nkayi farms are predominately maize and cattle producing farms. All farmers grow maize and approximately two-thirds also keep cattle. Cattle keepers typically maintain slightly better lives than maize-only farmers, though both struggle with poverty. The region is highly vulnerable. 95% of the very poor without cattle live below the poverty line, 90% of the less poor with small cattle herds live below the poverty line, and still 60% of the better off population is below the poverty line. Cattle breeding farmers are mostly less vulnerable, given that they typically cultivate more land, intensify and diversify alternative crops, and earn more off-farm income than maize-only farmers.
Climate Change is projected to negatively impact farmers in Nkayi. If farm and socio-economic practices from today do not change in the future, a rising temperature of 3°C and 25% decreased rainfall could leave up to 70% of households exposed to greater vulnerability. Aggregately, this number does not appear to differ from current conditions. However, the most threatened population changes from the maize farmers (today) to cattle farmers (in future). Climate change will mostly affect larger cattle herders (83% vulnerable) and small cattle herders (73%). The very poor will be less effected (65% vulnerable), though already they live under extreme levels of vulnerability. Livestock farmers are negatively impacted most because the drier climate affects livestock fodder, milk production and farms with higher stocking density.
By implementing improved management practices, farmers can increase crop yields by over 200%. Reconfiguring farms, improving cereal management could increase farm net returns from 308 and 1627 USD to 657 and 2258 USD, for the extremely poor and those with large herds respectively. Converting land beyond food self sufficiency in maize to more profitable and climate resilient crops, such as groundnuts and fodder legumes, could increase their farm net returns to 1125 and 2936 USD, respectively. Improving groundnut markets would increase the net returns to 1489 and 3566 USD, respectively. Groundnuts are an opportunity to increase income for the poorest. Farms with cattle could improve livestock production via better feed quality from crop residues and higher quantities of nutritious forages.
In areas where improved management practices may be adopted, climate change impacts on cereals and groundnuts can be negated. Most farms will have ease to switch to cereal varieties with longer life cycles and groundnut losses from climate can be reversed by implementing drought tolerant strands. Climate effects on livestock could be buffered by supplementing locally produced feed with commercial stock feed. Impacts, particularly on nutrition and gender, are greater under sustainable development pathways compared to fast economic growth, especially for the extremely poor.
Farming systems in Nkayi are cattle-maize dominated (Homann-Kee Tui et al., 2015). Crop and livestock production are fairly integrated – crop residue is the key feed resource for livestock during the dry season and livestock draft power and manure are important services to crop production. In Nkayi, all farmers cultivate maize, about one third produce groundnuts, and one third produce small grains.
Current crop yield levels in Nkayi are extremely low, similar to the national average. Maize yields fluctuate around 0.7 tons per hectare, sorghum around 0.5 tons per hectare, and groundnuts around 0.4 tons per hectare. Historically, maize yields attained up to 1 ton per hectare in communal lands and 4.5 tons per hectare in sector; sorghum and groundnuts yields commonly reached up to 2.5 tons per hectare in the commercial sector (Ministry of Agriculture, 2007).
Manure and fertilizer application is limited to maize. Approximately one third of farmers apply an average of 470kg/ha of manure to their lands, while less than a fifth apply an average of 10kg/ha of inorganic fertilizer (Homann-Kee Tui et al., 2013).
About 60% of the households keep cattle and/or goats and donkeys, which they use mainly as a source of draft power and organic fertilizer, as well as cash income. Livestock productivity is also low, evidenced by high mortality rates that can be more than 15%, low milk yields (<1.5 liters per cow per day) and offtake rates of less than 10%. Despite dry season feed shortages and poor feed quality, less than 5% of farmers produce forages, and crop residues are the most common source of supplementary feed.
The Nkayi district is characterized by low and erratic rainfall, hit by frequent droughts and intra-seasonal dry spells. The situation is worse in Nkayi district than the rest of Zimbabwe because poor soil fertility status and limited agricultural input use results in low productivity. Statistics show that this district already has the highest poverty prevalence in Zimbabwe. About 76% of all rural households in Zimbabwe are poor and more than 22% are extremely poor (ZimVAC, 2013). Food self-sufficiency varies from 3 to 10 months depending on the annual rainfall, leaving rural households extremely vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change (Homann-Kee Tui et al., 2013). Heterogeneity in the farming community is high and three farm types are distinguished, (1) extremely poor households with no cattle, cultivating 1.5 ha on average, (2) poor households with 0 to 8 cattle, cultivating 2 ha, (3) better-off households with more than 8 cattle, cultivating 2.7 ha.
Farmers focus crop management on maize. Alternative crops, small grains, and legumes are underdeveloped. Slightly more farmers grow legumes than small grains, but the area sizes of legumes are very small. Net returns of alternative crops are higher than those of maize; yet maize is the most traded commodity in this high risk and food insecure farming context. Overall, the contribution of these alternative crops to overall farm net returns is very low as few farmers grow these crops. The alternative crops and other ruminants therefore help little to buffer climate change impacts on the main activities, maize and cattle.
CLIMATE CHANGE PROJECTIONS
Median changes in June-September growing season (left) temperature (oC) and (right) total precipitation (mm) from 29 climate model simulations for Zimbabwe and surrounding countries in South Africa in the 2050s under a high emissions climate change scenario, compared with the 1980-2010 historical period.
Although projected changes in temperature vary depending on the Global Climate Model (GCM) and Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) used, minimum and maximum temperatures are consistently increasing over the region. This increase is consistent across model and scenarios used. In all models, the temperature increases more the further into the future, and also demonstrates similar increases independent of season and month.
Unlike temperature, rainfall projections are inconsistent across GCMs. Models project positive and negative changes in precipitation and there is high variability in projected amplitude changes. The balance of GCMs suggests a small decrease in precipitation, though confidence is low. This uncertainty makes it important for all rainfall scenarios to be considered when projecting climate change impacts. Though there is no significance to date, there is an observed change in seasonal distribution, a regular decrease of the rainy season onset month. This decrease in rainy season's onset month total precipitation may be caused by the delayed onset, but could also be from a reduction in intensity or frequency. This has still yet to be determined.
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS
Current System
Sensitivity of crops to individual climate factors (temperature, CO2) show that an increase in temperature would reduce crop production while an increase in CO2 concentration would slightly increase cereal crop production and substantially increase legume production. The responses to the combined climate factors vary for different crops. Cereal crops, such as sorghum and maize, will most likely decrease in both grain and stover production under hot scenarios. Legumes, such as groundnuts and mucuna, will most likely increase in yield under all scenarios. Legume yields will be driven by the positive impacts of increased CO2 concentrations (which will outweigh the negative increased temperature impacts) The life cycle of all crops will also be affected. Days to maturity will reduce, and the life cycle will shorten more with warmer scenarios. These impacts, however, will be insignificant if the low soil fertility and currently low productivity of land is not addressed.
The current system was assessed via two crop models. These crop models analyzed the impacts climate change will have on maize, sorghum, and groundnuts. Three soils, with varying levels of organic carbon and water holding capacity, were used for the analysis.
Climate change will impact livestock production for both rangeland and on-farm fodder livestock production. The impacts vary according to climate scenario. Grass production is projected to decline in the "hot/dry" scenario, though may increase in the "cool/wet" scenario. This could cause milk production to decline in "dry" scenarios, but increase in "wet" scenarios. The relationship is clear: forage availability in rangelands impacts milk production. Offtake (selling of livestock), manure production, and mortality, are also impacted across climate scenarios. Higher livestock density farms are projected to experience stronger impacts from climate change compared to less livestock density. In fact, higher density livestock farmers are more vulnerable to climate impacts due to the lack of protein availability in feed.
Vulnerability levels in the Nkayi district are already high; according to this study 95% of the very poor without cattle live below the poverty line, 90% of the less poor with small cattle herds live below the poverty line, and still 60% of the better off population is below the poverty line. The level at which vulnerability will impact farmers will depend on the culmination of the following factors: the extent of climate change impacts, the available resources available for farmer technical support, and the economic and technological pathway development.
If farm and socio-economic practices from today do not change in the future, a rising temperature of 3°C and 25% decreased rainfall could leave up to 70% of households exposed to greater vulnerability. Aggregately, this number does not appear to differ from current conditions. However, the most threatened population changes from the maize farmers (today) to cattle farmers (in future). Climate change will mostly affect larger cattle herders (83% vulnerable) and small cattle herders (73%). The very poor will be less effected (65% vulnerable), though already they live under extreme levels of vulnerability.
Causes and effects of vulnerability are different for those with and without cattle. For the poorest without cattle, of which about 95% are currently estimated to live below poverty line, yield variation and the decreases in maize and sorghum production make these farmers even more vulnerable. However, groundnut yields are projected to increase under temperatures, which could help buffer negative climate change impacts. Encouraging a switch to groundnuts from staple crops could help reduce vulnerability for these poorest farmers. Cattle breeding farmers are more vulnerable in the future. In fact, the larger cattle herders are most vulnerable, as climate change will affect rangeland and thus food supply. An insufficient alternative to rangelands will reduce the total herd size. These farmers may lose up to 19% of the farm's net returns. In total, it is projected 16% more farmers will live below the poverty line.
Vulnerability in the Future
Contrasting Representative Agricultural Pathways were developed through dialogue with stakeholders at local and national levels, as storylines on how the future of Zimbabwe could evolve. Assessing the impacts of climate change and adaptation options under these futures, identifying gaps and opportunities at local and national levels gives policy makers a better picture, helping them making the right decisions.
When looking at future vulnerability in a sustainable development pathway future, crop productivity was assumed to increase by 211% for maize, 240% for sorghum, and 170% for groundnuts. Additionally, beef is assumed to increase in production by 211%, and milk by 120%. Prices were expected to increase by 150%, 160%, and 180% respectively (maize, sorghum, groundnuts), and by 140% for beef and 120% for milk.
Expected changes in the farming system include: micro-dosing of low risk fertilizer, manure, and crop rotation; the expansion of legume and groundnuts cultivation, and for cattle production, mucuna puriens; the increase of herd sizes for cattle and goats by 60% and 50% respectively with the assumption that all cattle farmers will keep at least 5 cows.
If the future development follows the green pathway (explained below), fewer households (60%) will be vulnerable to climate change. Farmers with cattle are more vulnerable than farmers without cattle – 70% of larger cattle herders, 60% of small cattle herders, and 50% of no cattle farmers will be vulnerable. In total, however, fewer farmers will be living under the poverty line than today. Projections suggest 70% of the very poor farmers without cattle, 33% of the less poor with few cattle, and 21% of the better off population, are expected to live below the poverty line.
With the green road, the net impacts of climate change were less than 5% for all farm types.
Depending on crop models and climate scenarios, the poorest farmers can benefit from climate change, under the worst climate scenario (hot/dry). This is because it is predicted there will be limited impacts on cereals and positive effects on groundnuts. This will play a major role in farmers' income. Those with cattle tend to lose from climate change, especially with larger herds, due to climate effects on rangelands and insufficient feed.
Narrative for the "Green Road" – A Path to Sustainable Development
On the Green Road, the Zimbabwe government's policy objective will be to achieve food security, reduce rural poverty, and increase agriculture contribution to the national economy, all while preserving the natural resource base. Public investments in human health and education may contribute to slow human population growth. Slow economic development may provide limited alternative options for income generation.
In farming, drastic changes in the uptake of environmentally sound and productivity enhancing technologies could occur. There could be a shift towards more sustainable market flows. Additional investments may be in improving infrastructure, land tenure security, research, extension, and service delivery. Better access to input and output markets and services may motivate farmers to improving crop and livestock productivity and production. Inclusive development approaches could strengthen social organization and ensure that despite different predispositions for farming, all farmers may engage and benefit from improving production to market activities.
Non-poor farmers (MO), who own larger herds of livestock, may intensify and expand their crop and livestock activities with market oriented technology packages. These farmers could set more land into value with a greater share of legumes and increased cattle herd sizes. Very poor farmers (FS), who currently don't own cattle, could also intensify crop production and set more land in value. These farmers may begin to develop cattle production with a few animals, and will increase goat herd sizes.
Women will play a strong role in farming, associated with food and nutrition security.
Narrative for the "Grey Road" – A Path toward Fast Economic Growth
Zimbabwe's agricultural policies may target fast economic growth through trade within the Southern Africa regional network, using the economic pull by more advanced economies and developing its comparative economic advantages within the region. The agricultural economy, driven by the commercializing farming sector, could transition towards intensified farming. Public and private investments may support agricultural innovation; delivery systems may promote improved varieties and breeds, while also could enhance soil productivity methods that maximize productivity and production. Social standards and environmental services may be valued for enhancing market flows. The intensifying of farms and agricultural industries will provide employment opportunities for the poor.
The prioritization of fast economic growth could have some adverse impacts. Inequality may grow, marginal areas may see an increase in human population, and resource degradation may impact the population, especially the poor.
In this pathway, the more market oriented farmers (MO), those particularly with cattle and in a better economic position, could expand and intensify their agricultural production. These farmers may be able to focus on commodities with comparative advantage, and they may be able to afford more hands, increasing the use of local labor. Conversely, the poor, who depend more on sustaining food security (FS), may maintain a share in agriculture but may be forced to engage more in off-farm activities. They may need to work on other farms to maintain income, as agricultural productivity is highly labor intensive.
CURRENT INTERVENTIONS
Stakeholders have emphasized that the time to begin equipping Nkayi farmers to face climate change is now. The project engaged provincial level stakeholders and farmers to design options for improving crop and livestock production. These options could be implemented within the next 5 years, if the right decisions were made to support farmers. Packages for improving crop and livestock management were designed and their impacts evaluated for three categories of farmers: Very poor (farm size 1.3 ha, no cattle); Poor (farm size 1.8 ha, 8 cattle or less), Better-off (farm size 2.5 ha, more than 8 cattle).
In a stepwise approach, the impacts of design options were tested:
Step 1. Fertilizer micro-dosing and manure application for increased yields of maize and sorghum, staple crops, low risk soil amendment to boost staple crop yields.
Step 2. Changing the crop composition. Decrease maize production and increase groundnuts for better soil fertility, livestock feed, family nutrition, and income. Increase mucuna puriens to address livestock bottlenecks and improve soil fertility
Step 3. Implement market incentives. To incentivize farmers to adopt the improved management packages, large-scale measures will be taken by policy makers and key stakeholders to link farmers to markets and to integrate crop and livestock production. Farmers from Nkayi will produce quality groundnuts for the processing industry and fetch double the price.
Stakeholder engagement in AgMIP aims at informing decision and policy makers to improve the conditions for farmers. These efforts are to both better farm management under current conditions, and also improve adaptation for future conditions. To ensure this outcome, the co-development and analysis of scenarios, management, and adaptation options between scientists, experts and stakeholders is crucial.
Engagement was carried out by an interdisciplinary research team of crops, livestock, economics, and social science experts who engaged stakeholders and decision makers across disciplinary backgrounds and affiliations from local to national levels. These engagements involved comprehensive dialogue and analyses about the future of farming under climate change.
Stakeholder engagement was structured as an iterative process, at two levels. The process started at the provincial level with regional analyses and included vulnerability assessments and forward looking impacts assessment of climate change adaptation for specific farming systems in Nkayi district. Next, the approach and results were brought to national dialogue, which provided solid information on climate change adaptation impacts for this particular context and farming system. This approach verified consistency between local to national level institutional and policy frameworks.
Knowledge sharing events were held with a broad range of audiences involving academia, government extension, development agencies, and policy makers. Messages shared with stakeholders were designed to encourage open discussions about vulnerability and poverty impacts under current conditions and the configuration of current farming systems, market development, and support services. Participants then commented on how the messages could be improved. For example, participants looked for more clarity on the assumptions behind simulations; discussed the contextual information needed for interpretation of results; and commented on other important farm components missing from the simulations – such as small ruminants, forestry, wildlife, water, cash crops, and value addition.
In addition, an important finding from these knowledge-sharing events was the need for stronger inclusion of gender in climate adaptation programs, considering that climate change will directly affect women and youth in agriculture.
Stakeholder engagements contributed to the modeling process by informing the design of scenarios, farm management improvement and adaptation options, and stratification of farm types. Assessments of Representative Agricultural Pathways (RAPS) and feedback were initially done at provincial level with small interdisciplinary groups of experts, extension and policy decision makers, and later moved to national levels, linking institutional and policy development across scales.
Stakeholder engagement thereby helped generate modeling parameters that reflect reality, gaps, and challenges at local and national levels, including technical, institutional and policy issues. Involvement of stakeholders in the interpretation of results and re-design of scenarios helped in understanding of the complexities and prioritizing of future research, development, and policy investments.
The following are a few examples of how stakeholder engagement contributed to the modeling process:
Verifying the stratification of farmers by resource endowments: Classification of farmers by similar resource endowments and interests helps define technology packages that are tuned to farmers' realities and capacity to participate in development pathways. This is likely to increase technology uptake.
Estimation of RAPS parameters, narrative for change: Through stakeholders' solid understanding about regional context, history and development challenges, it was possible to come up with plausible story lines and parameters that are consistent with multiple drivers and interrelationships.
Co-development of adaptation packages with communities: Co-development and verification of adaptation packages at the provincial level brings together local preferences, ambitions and constraints, with a broader view on development options. Triangulation of these types of information assists in the creation of management and adaptation options that respond to real challenges and opportunities. Detached from day to day constraints, these are options that people can realistically aim for.
Influencing research protocols: Stakeholders interest in testing management improvement under current climates led to the inclusion of an additional research question in the protocols. There was also interest in comparing scenarios and impacts assessments across regions, which supported the initiative of including national RAPS. Stakeholders favored dialogue across national and local scales, and this was taken up in the design of feedback meetings.
Beyond contributions to modeling process, closer engagement of stakeholders in the research process helped strengthening the links between research, development and policy dialogue for greater relevance of research to decision processes:
Interdisciplinary knowledge: The AgMIP team represented multiple technical backgrounds and experiences that was helpful to capture site-specific details and put them into a larger context. Synergies with other ongoing projects and knowledge on the yield gaps for crops and livestock, incentives and opportunities for market development beyond the project site, and sensitivity for issues that were not priority on the research agenda assisted stakeholder engagement.
Cross scale dialogue: The level of expertise and knowledge support around scenario development and dynamic modeling, combined with legitimacy through stakeholder engagement, was a powerful way to acknowledge that currently applied interventions are insufficient to address the very high vulnerability levels in rural Zimbabwe. These findings inform the dialogue on solutions for resilience to climate change as well as other government objectives, e.g. reaching Sustainable Development goals.
Closer partnerships for improving decision contexts: Government departments involved in feedback processes brought up initiatives on how research information should be used beyond AgMIP and more strategically to improve the decision context, e.g. better harmonization and integration across disciplines and including gender, joint implementation of new research initiatives and fund raising, contributions to future policy frameworks and investment programs.
More direct feedback to decision processes: Direct links were established that can help dissemination of information to policy and development processes. Developing this further is important to support institutional coordination and scaling solutions that enhance climate resilient farming.
-AGMIP
adaptation, africa, agriculture, Climate Action, climate change, resilience, Zimbabwe
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Every year, every member of the church makes a 20-peso contribution to support our various ministries. This Denominational Contribution is collected during the month of February, UCCP's membership month. This contribution helps the UCCP to determine whether its local churches have grown significantly in terms of number of members.
Members may however choose to give an amount higher than the 20-peso minimum, based on their capacity to contribute to the needs of the church.
If you want to know more about this annual contribution, you may contact your local church, or you may get in touch with us through the contact form below.


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Ralph Greenleaf
Home Sports & Recreation Other Sports
American billiards player
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Ralph-Greenleaf
PoolHistory.com - 1927 World Title: Ralph Greenleaf versus Erwin Rudolph
Ralph Greenleaf, (born Nov. 3, 1899, Monmouth, Ill., U.S.—died March 15, 1950, Philadelphia, Pa.), world champion American pocket-billiards (pool) player from 1919 through 1924 and intermittently from 1926 to 1937. His great skill and colourful personality made him a leading American sports figure of the 1920s.
As a boy Greenleaf attained prominence by defeating Bennie Allen, at that time (1913–15) the world pocket billiards champion, in an exhibition match at Monmouth. In Detroit, Mich., in 1929 he made a run of 126 (a record for championship play on a table measuring 5 by 10 ft [152 by 305 cm]), to regain the world title from Frank Taberski in only two innings. In an exhibition he achieved a record run of 269.
pocket billiards
Pocket billiards, a billiards game, most popular in the United States and Canada, played with a white cue ball and 15 consecutively numbered coloured balls on a rectangular table with six pockets (one at each corner and one at the midpoints of both longer sides). The dimensions…
Pennsylvania, constituent state of the United States of America, one of the original 13 American colonies. The state is approximately rectangular in shape and stretches about 300 miles (480 km) from east to west and 150 miles (240 km) from north to south. It is bounded to the north by Lake Erie and…
Billiards, any of various games played on a rectangular table with a designated number of small balls and a long stick called a cue. The table and the cushioned rail bordering the table are topped with a feltlike tight-fitting cloth. Carom, or French, billiards is played with three balls on a table…
Monmouth, Illinois
March 15, 1950 (aged 50)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


In the crystal clear waters surrounding a remote Sicilian island, a twelve year-old boy explores the limits of his independence for the first time. A modern-day fable, Immersione is a film of striking purity.
Great fun for us! We loved being able to take you on a journey down into the warm crystal waters of the mediterranean, searching for hidden treasures.


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Welcome back: What does the return of fans to stadiums mean for broadcasters, leagues and advertisers?
While it's been a turbulent year for sports fans, stadiums around the world are beginning to reopen their doors to live audiences. UK supporters were among the latest welcomed back, with football and rugby grounds adhering to regional social distancing measures from the start of December.


Maxon Precision Motors is a leading supplier of high-precision DC brush and brushless servo motors and drives, ranging in size from 4 – 90 mm. We combine electric motors, gears and DC motor controls into high-precision, intelligent drive systems that can be custom-made to fit the specific needs of customer applications.
maxon motor developed an exoskeleton drive for use in robotic limbs. This complete joint actuation unit consists of a pancake brushless DC motor with inertia optimized rotor. Also included is an internal high resolution encoder, planetary gearhead with absolute encoder and a position controller with CAN and RS232 interface. Fitting absolute encoder directly at the joint rotation provides designers increased positioning accuracy. The unit delivers 54Nm of continuous torque and 120Nm on a 20% duty cycle and may be operated on supplies between 10 and 50V DC and the actuation speed is up to 22rpm. Other key features include: compact housing, integrated controller and reduced weight and cost. The ideal choice for use in Hip and Knee Exoskeletons.


This gold vermeil necklace has a blue flash labradorite multifaceted stone measuring 20mm in diameter with a tight looped flat cable chain measuring 34" long. It has a balloon clasp and a "So Pretty" logo charm attached. This is the perfect everyday piece and is wonderful worn layered with a shorter necklace.
Please note the gold vermeil refers to 18K gold plated onto sterling silver (3 microns thick). Each gemstone is genuine and unique so you may receive a stone that is slightly different in color.


This is the fifth page in a series about the Lothians and Border Horse, which included East Lothian's Yeomanry contribution to the serving forces during World War One. The story began here.
This page is based on a roll call of the members of A Squadron, 1/1st Lothians and Border Horse compiled as they left Dunbar for active service. The details come from the War Diary released by the National Archives. Additional details such as full name, service number, age, home town, trade, and photographs will be added from time to time if information is found. Subsequent military careers and other biographical details will be added if these are available. Others known to have served with the Squadron have been added to the foot of the list and note that ranks in photographs may not match ranks stated in 1915 – many of the Squadron were promoted during their service. It is hoped that over time a detailed impression of the Squadron members' careers will emerge.
Note further that at this point in the war 'lance-corporal' was not an official rank; troopers so designated were not included in the Squadron's tally of NCOs. The squadron had a headquarters (for administration) and four troops (equivalent to infantry platoons). Once the establishment of the Squadron began to change it is difficult to place individuals in Troops or sections. A number of men had additional duties – farriers, saddlers, drivers, trumpeters, cooks and batmen (officers' servants) are noted; although nominally in a given troop the specialists were generally more associated with the Squadron Headquarters.
John Short, arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1257 & 120108, after WO class 2.
Andrew Watt, arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1296 & 120131, after acting Sergeant.
John Daykins, arr. France 21/09/1915, No 1718; after Sgt. 205353, Yorks & Bucks Regt., 20645, Co. London Yeomanry.
arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1566, comm. 21/11/1915 2nd Lt. Black Watch.
arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1412, comm. 13/11/1917 Lt IndARO; after of Campore, India.
Thomas Walker, arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1312 & 120142, after Sergeant.
Joseph Baptie, arr. France 21/09/1915, No. 1372, after Royal Scots, No. 270780.
Thomas Winning, arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1638 & 120301, of Hawick; after Sergeant. See more.
Robert Sibbald, arr. France 21/09/1915, No. 2076; after Labour Corps, No. 259388.
Walter Gerald Pringle, arr. France 21/09/1915, of Hawick; promoted 2nd Lt KOSB.
Albert S Mason, arr. France 22/09/1915, No. 1642 & 120305.
If you recognise the name of an ancestor or relative, please don't hesitate to contact us: we would be delighted to hear more about this regiment and the men that served in it.
Ten years ago I bought a hunting stick at an Auction. It is engraved as follows. A token from the members of the Lothian and Borders Horse. Sergeants Mess B.E.F. in France to S.Q.M.S. Caverhill on the occasion of his leaving to take up his commission. June 1916.


I wrote a shorter version of this review originally for CLTure and it was posted on their site on June 30, 2016.
The BFG, directed by Steven Spielberg with a script adapted by Melissa Mathison, which tells the story of the orphan girl, Sophie, and her adventure in Giant Country with the Big Friendly Giant. After catching Sophie spying on him as he works his way through London, the BFG grabs her and takes her to back to his home before she can alert the public to the presence of giants. Quickly, Sophie learns that the BFG is an outcast like her, shunned by his fellow giants for being a vegetarian and trying to protect humans, while they prefer to hunt children in the night for snacking. In a tale about friendship and family, Sophie and the BFG devise a plan to stop the giants from eating more children throughout the world.
At its core, The BFG is a story about two lonely individuals finding their place, together, in the world. Sophie (relative newcomer Ruby Barnhill) spends her nights prowling around the orphanage unable to sleep due to insomnia, while the BFG (Mark Rylance) spends his nights blowing dreams into the minds of sleepers around the world. Though each are struck at first by each other's differences – Sophie is brash and combative, while BFG is quiet and passive – they quickly develop a strong bond over their shared loneliness with Sophie seeking to learn about the BFG's work and join him as he harvests dreams. For their parts, Barnhill and Rylance are utterly convincing in their respective roles. As children can be, Barnhill oscillates quickly between fear and admiration as she delves into a world she never dreamed to be real. Rylance is charming as the titular BFG, capturing the innocence and pure love that radiates from pages of Dahl's own story. Their performances are honest and their relationship believable, yet it's not enough to keep the narrative engaging. The BFG is not an action-packed tale, but, with its 117 minute run-time, does need to feel as though something is happening without relying on fart jokes to reach the audience. Because of this sense of slow momentum, moments meant to inspire laughter or a bit of sadness failed to elicit a vocal reaction from the audience. The silence was both telling and deafening.
Similarly, the visuals run into an odd dichotomy as well as they both invoke the wonder of classic Disney films while also failing miserably to maintain the illusions of fantasy. To his credit, for his first foray into Disney films, Spielberg clearly took great pains to recreate the book for the big screen and that's a monumental task all by itself. From Dream Country, where the BFG harvests his dreams, to the streets of London, where the story begins, all the way to Giant Country, where BFG and his fellow giants live, everything looks and feels absolutely real in all their majestic splendor. Spielberg possesses a natural talent for grounding stories so that, even when dealing with the supernatural, everything feels tangible and real. However, once the two worlds collide, the CGI technology can't maintain the illusion. Each time the human world and giant world are shown on-screen together, it quickly becomes apparent that the actors, on both sides, are engaging with a green screen, not their fellow actors. Though a little off-putting in smaller scenes, this separation becomes even more distracting toward the story's end. It's possible that the separation between actors and CGI was more prominent because we were shown a 3D print of The BFG so there may be more visual disruption than a standard 2D print, but I imagine it'll be just as distracting either way. Reportedly, Spielberg decided against using camera tricks and larger sets in favor of green screen and CGI to convey the enormous size discrepancy between humans and giants. Perhaps Spielberg was looking to emulate Disney classics like Bedknobs and Broomsticks or Mary Poppins in his first outing with the Mouse House, but it doesn't invoke nostalgia so much as dispel any suspension of disbelief.
In the end, Spielberg and Mathison created a perfect representation of what The BFG is – a quiet tale of two loners finding company – though it's slow pacing and technical issues make it hard to stay engaged with. There are strong moments where it succeeds in instilling wonder, but those moments get reduced when the audience can see the cracks in the spectacle. The BFG is not perfect, but thankfully it's not devoid of Dahl's delightful inspiration.


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Grid Edge M&A Alert: Sentient Acquires Varentec for Dynamic Grid Control
The line sensor and software provider bought by Koch Engineered Solutions last year picks up a stalwart in distribution power electronics.
Jeff St. John February 23, 2021
Jeff St. John
Reporter covering the green technology space, with a particular focus on smart grid, demand response, energy storage, renewable energy and technology to integrate distributed, intermittent green energy into the grid.
After raising money from Bill Gates, Khosla Ventures and 3M, Varentec has been acquired by a grid sensor subsidiary of Koch Industries' engineering services arm. (Credit: Varentec)
The trend for Silicon Valley startups applying advanced technologies to solve utility grid problems is clear: Go big or stay home.
After a decade of eking out a niche in the world of advanced distribution grid power controls, Silicon Valley startup Varentec has sold its key assets for an undisclosed sum. The buyer is Sentient Energy, another Silicon Valley power-line-sensor startup that was acquired last year by Koch Engineered Solutions, an arm of industrial conglomerate Koch Industries.
Varentec's technology for sensing and altering voltages on low-voltage circuits will be folded into Sentient's sensor and software suite, with the aim of creating a "comprehensive solutions provider for today's increasingly complex distribution grid management needs," Sentient CEO Bob Karschnia said in a Tuesday statement.
Koch Industries may be best known to clean energy and environmental advocates as the oil and gas, chemicals and paper giant led by Charles Koch, who, with his now-deceased brother David Koch, funded a network of groups promoting conservative and libertarian public policies.
Many of the best-known groups funded by Koch money, such as Americans for Prosperity and The Cato Institute, have been key players in policy advocacy opposing clean energy and carbon reduction, making the Koch name synonymous with "dark money" anti-environmental activism in certain circles.
But Koch Industries is also a massive, if quiet, player in the U.S. energy industry, with Koch Engineered Solutions (KES) serving as its engineering and project services arm. Last year's acquisition of Sentient, which has deployed its wirelessly networked, self-powered sensors on overhead and underground grid circuits across the country, gave KES a "vertical into the power grid area," Jim Keener, then Sentient CEO, told Greentech Media last year.
As for David Koch's political leanings, Keener claimed to have no personal knowledge. But he pointed out that the goal of KES is to "add value to the industry," adding that "one of the drivers of that is integration of distributed energy resources, which will be primarily from renewable energy resources, and in some cases will be small generators and microgrids and other sources."
Consolidating the realm of grid edge controls
Distributed energy resources (DERs) like rooftop and distributed solar, behind-the-meter batteries and electric vehicles are a key challenge for utilities around the world since they upend the century-old model of one-way delivery of power from central generators through transmission and distribution networks to end customers. Two-way power flows from solar systems and batteries can disrupt local grid voltages and require upgrades to grid protection and control equipment. EVs and batteries can increase loads on circuits and transformers in hard-to-predict ways.
Utilities facing rapid growth of DERs have been investing in sensors and controls to get a grip on these disruptions, as well as software platforms to analyze and predict the novel effects they can have on standard grid operations.
Sentient is one of a handful of grid sensor startups that's remained active and growing over the past decade via acquisition by a larger grid vendor. Pittsburgh, Pa.-based Tollgrade was purchased by smart metering provider Aclara in 2016 and sold to Canadian software vendor Enghouse Systems in 2017. The Danish maker of line sensors PowerSense was acquired by Swiss metering and communications giant Landis+Gyr in 2014.
Varentec, in turn, is one of an even smaller handful of startups using digitally controlled power electronics to alter the flow of power along distribution circuits. The Santa Clara, Calif.-based company's Engo (Edge of Network Grid Optimization) devices are capable of injecting reactive power into low-voltage networks to correct voltage disturbances, either autonomously or in concert according to grid operator control settings.
Varentec's Engo systems have been piloted by Duke Energy, Southern Company and Hawaiian Electric as a tool to manage solar-driven voltage disruptions. In 2018 the company landed a 2,000-unit deployment with Xcel Energy in Colorado to provide conservation voltage reduction services across 472 circuits.
Power-electronics-based systems like these are more commonly used in the high-voltage transmission field and could offer far greater control over distribution grid conditions than traditional capacitor banks, step-down transformers and voltage regulators. But the market demand for these more advanced technologies has been slow to develop, leaving startups in the field bereft of the fast growth expected from venture capital investors.
Varentec's primary U.S. competitor, Gridco Systems, closed its doors in 2018. A smaller competitor, GridBridge, was acquired by Ermco, a Tennessee-based distribution transformer manufacturer, for an undisclosed price. Varentec had raised about $48 million from investors including Bill Gates, Khosla Ventures, 3M New Ventures and WindSail Capital Group, as well as funding from the Department of Energy's ARPA-E program.
Utilities are slow to adopt novel technologies and can take a decade to move from lab tests to pilot projects to limited deployments before the industry is prepared to adopt them en masse. They're also prone to rely on a relatively small group of established and trusted vendors for large-scale purchases and deployments.
That's left venture-backed companies that are targeting the utility sector in the position of returning to investors to seek the capital needed to carry out their broader expansion plans or seeking a deeper-pocketed company to bring their technologies to market.
The advanced volt/VAR control market for technologies like Varentec's has been slowly growing to approach $500 million as of late 2018, but it is expected to expand in the coming decade as the spread of DERs pushes utilities to take broader steps to manage their impacts, according to a 2019 report from Ben Kellison, director of grid research for Wood Mackenzie Power & Renewables. That will present growth opportunities for makers of equipment serving that market and even greater opportunity for software to manage and optimize its use, he wrote.
gridbridge
gridco
koch industries
powersense
sentient energy
tollgrade
varentec
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Congratulations to Murphy UAV on winning Specialist Contractor of the Year at the Plant & Civil Engineer Plant, Construction & Quarry Awards 2016.
MurphyUAV has been praised at the 2016 Plant & Civil Engineer's 'Plant, Construction & Quarry' Awards for its specialist approach to site surveying and inspection.
MurphyUAV integrates across surveying, inspections and BIM to bring clients the best solutions to their requirements and provide the highest standards of deliverables all in one location, taking out the need to seek out data from various sources.
Another aspect to the strengths of MurphyUAV is that it has the support of the team of Murphy Surveys and the services they offer. As such, MurphyUAV can provide more than just a flight team and present its clients with actual complete datasets taking out any need for a third party involvement.
The operational nature of MurphyUAV also leads to greater health and safety standards as the remote drone pilots can carry out inspections in areas which may have been considered too hazardous previously.
Looking to the future MurphyUAV looks set to continue to grow; it has been accredited by both the IAA and more recently the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) meaning that it can now also operate in the UK.
With 14 separate categories, the annual 'Plant, Construction & Quarry' awards, organised by the Hillsborough based publishers of Plant & Civil Engineer magazine, 4SM (NI) Ltd., is regarded as the premier event in the Plant, Construction and Quarry calendar, attracting entries, support and sponsorship from all the leading players in the industry.


Two scholarships are available for WF&FSA's Management Institute, honoring some exceptional individuals from the floral industry, Mike Garcia and Laura Kantakis.
The Mike Garcia Scholarship was created to recognize, encourage and reward exemplary service by an industry member who exhibits the enthusiasm, industry dedication and commitment to career achievement that were characteristic of Mike Garcia. Mike was past chairman of WF&FSA's Young Executives Committee, now known as the Emerging Leaders Network, and was former president of Plus One Imports, a division of the Pete Garcia Company. Mike Garcia passed away in 1992.
The Laura Kantakis Scholarship was created by a group of friends who remember Laura's inspiration, both professional and personal, as evidenced by the programs she created for her customers, her work on developing the WF&FSA "Growing Up With Flowers" program and through her personal commitment to continuous education.
Laura Kantakis was supply manager of Associated Wholesale Florist, Inc., Rochelle Park, N.J.; a past chairman of the WF&FSA Young Executives Committee (now known as the Emerging Leaders Network) from 1993 - 1994; and was named Young Executive of the Year for 1989 and 1990. Laura Kantakis passed away in 2008.


ASHEBORO � The Randolph Community College Foundation has announced the date for its 2014 Dancing with the Randolph Stars, a fund-raising event to benefit Randolph Community College students.
Local �celebrities� will take to the dance floor competing for monetary votes in support of the foundation on Saturday, May 31, at the AVS Catering & Banquet Centre in Asheboro.
Proceeds from the event will go toward scholarships for RCC students. The 2013 event netted more than $120,000 for scholarships, according to Vickie Gallimore, who will be co-chairing the planning committee along with Ann Hoover again this year.
For more information, contact Lorie McCroskey, director of development, at (336) 633-1118.


A Fine and Large French 19th Century Louis XV Style Barroque Carved Walnut Wall Console Table with Marble Top. The four individual scrolled and carved walnut pedestals support the large and 4 inch (10.2 cm) thick Italian Rosso Levanto demilune marble top. Circa 1890.


An internship gives you valuable on-the-job experience.
Working an internship can equip you with the skills and experience required to land your dream job or make a career change. You may stand a better chance of securing an internship if you're willing to work unpaid. Doing so will certainly hit you in the pocket in the short term, but could turn out to be one of the best career investments you ever make.
Research companies that operate internship programs. Look on company websites or email human resources departments about internship opportunities.
Determine the name and title of the person in charge of hiring interns so your request lands on the right desk.
Create a resume that describes your education in detail. Include information on the modules of your degree program and mention any special areas of interest. Include any volunteer or work experience that was related to the work you would accomplish in an internship. If you're a professional looking to make a career change, highlight skills and experience from your employment history that have some relationship to the new job you want to get into.
Write a cover letter. Begin by introducing yourself and say that you're seeking an internship. Provide a brief synopsis of your resume and explain why you want to work for the company you're applying to. Explain how you think an internship would benefit you and further your career, and what you can offer in return. Finish by writing that you'd be happy to meet to discuss your suitability for an internship and that you're willing to work unpaid.
Send your resume and cover letter by email. Follow up your request by telephone within one week unless you've been advised that your application will take longer to process.
Roennevig, Michael. "How to Ask an Employer for an Unpaid Internship." Work - Chron.com, http://work.chron.com/ask-employer-unpaid-internship-8469.html. Accessed 18 April 2019.


Give me an example of how you delivered excellent customer service at your last position.
The interviewer wants to know that your definition of excellent customer service exceeds minimal expectations. You could talk about a time when you calmed an upset customer or went above the expectations of your role to make a customer want to return.
Perhaps you had a customer dispute and were able to smooth over the issue using your great instinct and friendly disposition. Be sure to close with how happy the customer was when they left. Include any feedback that you received from your supervisor or co-workers afterward.
- Exercise endless patience with challenging customers.
- Actively listen to your customers' needs and be able to repeat them back.
- Have the ability to explain product pricing, so the customer knows what to expect on their bill or invoice.
- Display exceptional product knowledge.
- Ask the customer if you have met their expectations before they leave.
- Smile and maintain positive body language.
- Support your coworkers and encourage a positive workplace culture.
"In my last role, as a server, I went above the customer service expectations by introducing myself to each table when I sat them. Having that small personal touch made all the difference. Once the customers knew my name, and I knew theirs, they felt more confident in my capabilities. Over time, I would have customers coming in and requesting a table in my section. It felt nice to make that connection, and the increase in tips was a nice bonus too! After a few weeks, the restaurant manager made this a general practice across all serving staff."
"In my last position, I had a great deal of challenging customers who would call in nearly every day. Although my patience was often tested, I always remained level-headed, helpful, and positive. Becoming outwardly frustrated would have only made the customer feel bad or even upset them, which is something I would never want."
"I ensured the delivery of excellent customer service by training my team to be positive minded and encouraging to everyone around them. Customers can tell when someone wants to help them versus being forced to because it's their job. I created a friendly and welcoming environment which my customers greatly appreciated."
"Before I close up any client accounts, I will phone my client and ask them if there is anything more I can do to help, and if I exceeded their expectations. On a phone call, I can hear if they are truly excited about the service or seem emotionally flat about their experience. If they do not sound truly elated, I ask for feedback on what I could have done differently. I want to improve at all times and am very good at implementing feedback, which my clients like."
"I showed great customer service by having a great amount of product knowledge. I made sure that I was the product expert so that I could be a wealth of knowledge to my clients. I would never want to say "I don't know" to a customer. I will always find an answer if I don't already have one."
"I ensured excellent customer service in my last role by having regular conversations with my accounts on what they needed, where I was exceeding, where I could do better, and what services they felt they were missing. This active communication meant that I could quickly pivot if a client were not happy with the way their project was going."
"A customer called to make a reservation for a large group. They were visually impaired and there were two small children in the group. I wanted to take extra special care to provide for their needs, so I informed the server and made notes in the reservation. When the group came in, I was warm and friendly. I made sure they were taken care of."
"I provided excellent customer service when working as a/an (X position title) for (X company). In this role, I was responsible for (X duties) and one day, (X example providing evidence of your excellent customer service skills)."
"I was working at a large company and one of the employees called our hotline, complaining about a problem with a computer application. Said employee was from the finance department and was having difficulty relaying the specifics of the problem. Since we were getting nowhere, I opted to visit his station instead to expedite the resolution of the problem. He thanked me profusely and since then, we've become buddies."
"I define good customer service as actively seeking out opportunities to give the customer a better experience than they expect. I was working at a restaurant, and one of my customers had a food allergy, a broken wrist, and rowdy kids. I made sure the kitchen was cautious with her food order, and I took some time to entertain the kids. I did my best to make the experience as easy for her as possible. She was pleased with her experience and told my manager too."
"I was working at a restaurant and one of my customers had a food allergy, a broken wrist and rowdy kids. I made sure the kitchen was cautious with her food order and I made sure the kids were entertained. I did my best to make the experience as easy for her as possible. She was pleased with her experience and told my manager too."


He described the internet era as "more tumultuous than any previous economic or social revolution". "For centuries, individuals have been learning how to live with their next-door neighbours," he added.
"Now, uniquely, we're having to learn to live with people who we don't know.
This, he said, has huge implications. "That flow of information means that foreign policy can never be the same again.
"You cannot have Rwanda again because information would come out far more quickly about what is actually going on and the public opinion would grow to the point where action would need to be taken.
Neither government nor business nor education.


text:
Mr. Obang Metho's Address to the University of Bahir Dar Graduation Class of 2021Heading
Seeking the Source of Genuine Truth, National Reconciliation, Restorative Justice and Meaningful Reforms as the Answer to Our Present and Future Crises
Good Morning! I am greatly honored to be with you today to address the 2021 graduating class from the University of Bahir Dar. I want to join with you in celebrating the great educational achievements of each student who is graduating today. This is a great accomplishment that has taken diligence, perseverance, sacrifice and basic hard work. Congratulations on your achievement!
I also want to thank Dr. Firew Tegegne Amogne, Bahir Dar University President, Dr. Seleshi Bekele Awulachew, Minister of Water, Irrigation and Energy of Ethiopia and the leadership of this major Ethiopian University of high distinction for an opportunity to speak to you at such a critical time as this in the history of our nation. There is much at stake and I believe this university and today's graduating class can take a meaningful role in making a difference in the direction we, as Ethiopians, choose to take to bring about a healthier society.
Today, I am also humbled to receive the unexpected award of an Honorary Doctorate Degree from this great university. At the same time, I must give much credit to the many others who have helped in the work of the Solidarity Movement for a New Ethiopia (SMNE), of which I am the Executive Director, in its advocacy for human rights, justice, peace and reconciliation for all Ethiopians. This includes my wife and my family, SMNE's board and members, work colleagues, supporters, friends and those many others who have upheld and spread these principles to others. Thank you!
Most of all, I thank God for his help, guidance and protection. Here, at the source of the Blue Nile, I am reminded that it is God, as Creator, who is the real source of these life-giving waters that provides the majority of water downstream. It can be symbolic of our search for the source of genuine wisdom, truth and knowledge, a great metaphor for a university as it strives to educate and equip its students for their future.
Bahir Dar is at the source of the Blue Nile, a river that starts out serenely and small; yet, since ancient times, its nourishing waters have flowed to many deep and unknown places, descending some 6,000 feet from the highlands of this place, forming mile-high gorges, widening to over 15 miles across as it meets other tributaries and rivers along the way before reaching the Mediterranean Sea, some 2,700 miles from this place. Perhaps, the Blue Nile can illustrate how important it is to "go to the Source", our Creator, for his truth, wisdom and direction as to how we should live in relationship to each other and as people of this ancient nation, Ethiopia.
Will we genuinely listen? Will we only pretend to listen and care? Or, will we block our ears to what we do not want to hear? Think of the Blue Nile, if we pollute it, what will happen to its life-giving properties? If we try to stop the waters, can we succeed or will it flood and overflow?
How is it like God's truth? What are the dangers or consequences of not listening or blocking our ears? Are we now seeing some of the signs and symptoms of a failing system today? Ethiopia is in a fragile, confusing and unpredictable position because of ethnic federalism or institutionalized tribalism. We are fighting from within; yet, a body that fights itself, may not survive.
Every generation faces testing; however, the class of 2021 may be facing one of the greatest challenges in recent history. The one possibly to be compared to it would be the time that led to the Battle of Adwa. Ethiopians, at the time, put their differences aside and stood together as citizens of one country, coming together to defend their God-given dignity. Are Ethiopians ready to do this?
Culture is difficult to change with all its traditions, loyalties, shared experiences, alliances, biases, grievances and favored responses. Embedded in each culture, and we have many diverse cultures within Ethiopia, is resistance to change; yet, how can we go to the Source and actually listen and choose a better path for our lives and the lives of others, taking the best of our cultures with us and leaving the rest behind?
Might we hear that our Creator God endowed every human being with value and inalienable rights, even those outside our families, communities and tribes? If we choose to listen, what does that mean in terms of finding a solution to this crisis or other underlying signs and symptoms like the lack of educational opportunity for the majority?
As you may know, education is the backbone of a civilized society, equipping and producing people to fulfill the many needed professions and roles of any society. We all can benefit. So why be surprised that one of the symptoms of a failing society is the lack of educational opportunity?
Why is it in 2021 that the best education many can get is still found under a tree, with a blackboard with a hole in it, with no chairs for the children, who may have no food in their bellies, no shoes, no decent clothing, no clean water, no toilets, no playgrounds, no transportation making them have to walk for miles, no library, no computers, no books, no exercise manuals, and no pens and paper, let alone teachers. Public schools, if they exist, have almost no resources, with the majority being in this category. The educational standard is extremely low, making it nearly impossible to contribute as they would like to do. Who suffers? All of us, not only the individual people involved.
There are other signs and symptoms of a failing system in Ethiopia of 'Nations and Nationalities. Look at our economy. For 30 years, it has been blighted by corruption, a lack of accountability and unmerited ethnic favoritism, often resulting in incompetency or a lack of commitment to the work.
Countries with high levels of these practices are known for their poverty and backwardness. Efforts to create businesses and other enterprises are repeatedly hijacked or thwarted by those wanting bribes or favors, creating national crises resulting in hunger, displacement and dependence on foreign assistance, where even hefty amounts of those funds end up in the hands of the gatekeepers. It is part of larger scale systemic failure where every part of society can be affected.
The source of truth is near, but instead of seeking it and listening for the betterment of all, the opposite is too often true.
Despite warnings, those in charge, often with support from others, especially based on tribal/ethnic or political loyalties, will:
fail to listen, while at the same time, pursuing their own agenda, sometimes based on tribe or cycles of revenge, until it is impossible to ignore the truth as the system begins to collapse;
listen only to certain others, sometimes blindly or in loyalty to a tribe or other allegiances; sometimes accepting a false narrative due to pressure or penalties
promote deception, confusion or a distraction, despite knowing the truth for self-protection, advancement of hidden agendas and to purposely disempower others by dividing them
pretend to genuinely listen in order to gain popular support until the effort collapses due to lack of consistency between the talk, reality and action, often then requiring more force against the "perceived" or identified enemy,
actively silence others as the truth becomes a threat to the existing or desired power system, often followed with the use of greater force
blame others, often gaining support by utilizing false or partly false narratives about others based on tribal and other identities for as long as it works, which may include the use of violence
Fall victim to emotions and actions resulting from anger, fear, bitterness and rage directed at others, sometimes as a survival instinct, rather than other alternatives of action; causing cycles of revenge
All of these are an overview of what is happening now in Ethiopia of 'Nations, Nationalities and People groups'. We must take caution before acting on these potentially crisis inciting events.
After the massacre of the Anuak in December 2003, which was followed by ongoing crimes against humanity, I was faced with such a choice of how to go forward. As I advocated for the Anuak, I realized that justice would never come to the Anuak until it came to all Ethiopians—that no one would be free until all were free and that God had created all human beings equal meaning that every human being is of value. This principle, putting humanity before ethnicity, or any other differences, became foundational to our principles.
It was God and his principles that repeatedly renewed my spirit, made clearer the path to be taken and gave me the determination to keep up the struggle, regardless of obstacles, opposition and a frequent lack of resources. It was a conviction I felt as I traveled from my home in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to Washington D.C. that I added something to my prepared talk on March 29, 2006.
I had been asked to speak at a hearing on Ethiopia before the US Congressional Sub-Committee on Africa. Many Ethiopians were present when I said, with conviction, the following:
"I cannot pick or choose who is my fellow Ethiopian or not because by being born in that land, the Creator had already made us one."
Click at the link to read the speech
http://www.anuakjustice.org/doc_metho_advocacy_ethiopia.htm
God already had chosen that I would be born in Ethiopia, where my name, my color, my tribe or other identity factors did not alter my citizenship. The same is true for every Ethiopian where our rights and privileges should be given to all. This also meant that each of us should be held accountable for our actions; yet, our institutions need meaningful reform in order to support such things as a fair and just legal system, without favoritism or impunity. For the last four decades, we have not seen this and is one of the reasons for the cycles of revenge we are seeing.
For example, as the civil war was breaking out in early November 2020, I warned that the violent armed conflict should not be pursued without genuine efforts to examine and pursue alternatives of dialogue, legal action or other interventions, especially following all the killing and displacement throughout the country, believing it could lead to a failed state.
At the time, many did not want to hear it; instead, they sought revenge against the former oppressive government and the people of that region. Without getting into all the details, it is painfully obvious that the anger of those on different sides has led to great numbers of deaths, widespread human rights crimes, displacement, hunger, destruction and great suffering in many places.
Our shared past as Ethiopians has left you, our youth, with an unpaid debt, a bankruptcy of values, a legacy of hatred, grievances and hostility, only worsened with the recent war between Ethiopian brothers and sisters. How can you, the class of 2021, help break through this cycle of defeat and change the outcome?
I believe it starts with knowing who you are as a human being and that you are created equal. Knowing this carries responsibility beyond yourself. By being given life by God, you are being called to higher purposes, including caring for the wellbeing of not only yourselves, or your preferred groups, but also the wellbeing of others.
You have now received an education of great value; how will you now use it to break the cycle of institutionalized tribalism, corruption, violence, extremism, hatred and destruction?
Will you go back to the Source to gain wisdom and direction as you graduate and enter into the next phase of your lives? This is the real source of lasting peace.
You have had the great privilege of an education and have gained much wisdom from this school at the source of the Blue Nile. Will you now use it to help bring about a better Ethiopia for all?
You will have to break through the history of deception in order to do it. For example, when Haile Selassie was in power, he did not establish a health and sustainable system for the people to ensure them of a better future; but instead, he created a way to maintain his power that led to the student uprising that resulted in his downfall.
When Mengistu Hailemariam took over, he was the hope of the students and they made great sacrifices in the effort to bring about greater freedom; however, he failed to bring the government for which they had fought and died. His goal was to stay in power by any means, namely Red Terror and civil war, which again, led to his downfall.
Then, when TPLF came to power, it was even worse because the TPLF purposely divided the people in the country, based on ethnicity, so the few of them in the TPLF could dominate over the majority. Again, it did not last and collapsed after 27 years.
What we, the people are now looking for is an overhaul of our present flawed and weak system, which is empowered through deception, manipulation and ethnic domination. Instead, we seek an inclusive government, a harmonious society and a united country where humanity comes before ethnicity, or any other differences, and where no one is free until all of us are free.
The road ahead may not be easy, but let us choose to peacefully pursue God's highest purposes for this country and our people through genuine dialogue, reconciliation, restorative justice and meaningful reforms. I have tried many times in the past to pursue such a process to genuine change, but no one has listened.
On February 20, 2007, I sent a letter to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, urging him to change directions, but he did not respond or listen. Click at the link to read the letter http://www.anuakjustice.org/070220LetterToPrimeMinisterMelesZenawi.htm
On June 11, 2009, I then sent a letter to our Tigrayan brothers and sisters, trying to convince them to come out and separate themselves from the TPLF leaders, rejecting what was being done "in their names." Again, there was no response.
Click at the link to read the letter http://www.solidaritymovement.org/090611OpenLetterToMyFellowTigrayans.php
On September 26, 2012, I then wrote a letter to Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, urging him to take the country in a different direction, one for which the people had been waiting for the last 100 years. He did not respond. Click at the link to read the letter in English.
http://www.solidaritymovement.org/downloads/120926-Letter-to-Prime-Minister-Hailemariam-Desalegn.pdf or Click at the link to read the letter in Amharic
http://www.solidaritymovement.org/amharic/120926-Letter-to-Prime-Minister-Hailemariam-Desalegn.pdf
On August 2, 2014, I then sent a letter to the TPLF Central Committee, warning them that the way they were heading would bring their own destruction along with many innocent victims. Again, the warning was ignored; yet, this is exactly what we are witnessing today. Click at the link to read the letter in English http://www.solidaritymovement.org/downloads/140802-Open-Letter-to-the-Chairman-of-the-TPLFBR.pdf . Click at the link to read the letter in Amharic
http://www.solidaritymovement.org/amharic/140904-Open-Letter-to-the-TPLF.pdf
On February 13 2018, I wrote a letter to the Oromo People Democratic Organization (OPDO) asking whether there was any open door to reconciliation with the people of Ethiopia? I received no response. Click at the link to read the letter. http://www.solidaritymovement.org/180213-response-to-the-statement-by-opdo.php
When Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed came to power I encouraging him to finally bring about the meaningful reforms, yearned for by the people of Ethiopia. I met with him and we discussed it further, but it has been three years now and we all know the depth of the crisis we face today as a people and nation. It cannot be denied.
Yet, there is still time to finally get it right, but we all need to "go to the Source" for truth, wisdom and guidance if it is to be achieved in the right way. Is anyone listening? If so, are we, the people, willing to do something about it? It is time! I am ready! May God help us!
For the University of Bahir Dar Graduation Class of 2021:
May God use the hard work and the outstanding educational achievement of every one of you, for his highest purposes, as you step into your future. Congratulations! Thank You!


text:
French to return as major
By Kendra Benson	/ In Campus, News	/ March 16, 2017
Maddie Malat
Due to low enrollment over the past couple of years, Concordia had to undergo intensive budget cuts last year. In the midst of these cuts, one major point of controversy was the decision to cut the French major. Since then, the program has seen a huge revamp.
Concordia's Chair of World Languages, Dr. Mary Rice, said that the low enrollment did not come as a surprise since the birth rate had dropped twenty years ago.
"We graduated the largest class that we've ever had at Concordia about five years ago, and then we've recruited the smallest classes we've ever had," Rice said. "So, the college needed to do some downsizing of the faculty to put the faculty in line with the new reality of what's going to be our size for the next several years."
While the French major was originally cut because of the low number of students pursuing the degree, the department decided to revamp and try to keep their program, Rice said.
French Professor Dr. Gay Rawson said that students and faculty both felt that it was important for students to have the opportunity to be able to major in French.
"A lot of students were very active last year in sort of saying, 'Well if we're supposed to be BREWing and if we're supposed to be global, we need a French major to be able to do it,'" Rawson said. "Their energy and several factors led me to want to re-propose a new major."
Many of the same students who were calling for a return of the French major last year are excited to see its return – even if it doesn't benefit them. Kailee Byrd, French major, has seen the consequences on students when the French program was terminated.
"I already had a declared French major, but I have friends that are freshman and it affected them greatly, because they wanted to be French education … and they weren't allowed to declare it because it wasn't a major anymore," Byrd said. "So, if it wouldn't have gone through they would've had to transfer."
In order to do the revamp, the French department had a chance to look at programs from other schools and look at a lot of different ways the French major could be changed. Edits to the curriculum are still being worked on, but a lot of changes have already been made. One of the big differences so far is a flipped classroom model for the first-year program.
"There's a perception that language classes are what people say is 'drill and kill,' where we teach you how to conjugate your verbs and then we practice conjugating them and that's what you do in class," Rawson said. "I don't think we were ever doing that, but now we're doing that even less."
Instead of the "drill and kill" method, the department will now require students to watch videos on grammar and sentence structure before class. According to Rawson, this will help the teachers to know what students have already been introduced to and what still needs to be worked on in class.
As a whole, classes in the department will now be centered more around task-based activities, partner work, solving problems and using the language to dig into the culture. The textbook for the second-year class was even removed.
"The students actually pick the learning content," Rawson said. "We have to cover French in the Americas in 211 … but they pick how we do it, they pick where the emphasis is, they construct the knowledge of the class together, and so they do research and bring it to class and say, 'I think we should pursue this,'" Raswon said. "It really is student-centered learning. … All of these negotiations about what we should study and why, the students have to make that argument in French. It's really amazing."
One year after originally being cut, faculty have agreed that the revamp was well worth the effort.
"[The revamp] was something that was frustrating at the time, but ended up being a wonderful opportunity to make some changes that we wanted to make," Rawson said.
Thanks to these changes, the French program has seen a drastic revamp and an accepted new major that is more vibrant than ever.
Kendra Benson
Contact Kendra Benson at kbenson4@cord.edu
Major cuts: Concordia admin announces program changes
Math and business departments join for new major
After spring cuts, programs struggle to grow
Faculty Senate approves new major, minor requirements
French horns will not carol this year
Tags: bringing back major, budget cuts, French major, low enrollment over years


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Communications in the 1990s: the World Wide Web and 24-Hour News
This week, Forum One is at ComNet19, celebrating the Communications Network's forty years of connecting leaders working in communications for good to learn from, inspire, teach, and network with their peers.
As we celebrate, we're taking the opportunity to look back on the technologies that have fueled the communications sector over the past forty years and what we may have in store for us in the future! Follow along as each day this week we jump into a new decade, from the 1980s to today.
As the 1990s brought in the mainstream adoption of the World Wide Web and Hotmail, the fax machines of the 1980s began to fall silent. Communications practitioners started to send and receive information at unprecedented speed, emailing press releases and other communications materials to multiple recipients within seconds.
In the mid 1990s, FOX News and MSNBC were launched to compete with CNN, the first 24-hour cable news network, and the way communicators transmitted news and press was forever changed. It meant the immediacy of news dissemination — with media outlets no longer depending or waiting on print press operators, illustrators, etc. — and the now undeniable need to fill the news cycle with quality content. What may have seemed like minor updates during standard business hours now could become big news if shared during off-hours.
The birth of the sound bite, the photobomb, and "influencer" marketing
With cable news came the birth of the sound bite, the photobomb, and the introduction of "influencer" marketing — using celebrities and public figures to endorse a brand, product, or opinion to engage audiences in a more personal and authentic way. The '90s also brought us live coverage of the Persian Gulf War and the O.J. Simpson trial, forever changing the way the media covers armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and the justice system. It also laid the groundwork for media pundits and the rise of partisan media.
All of this meant more opportunities for communicators to pitch their ideas and positions, stay relevant, and create more opportunities to secure "good news" coverage. However, it also meant that more in-depth, fact-based coverage was often jeopardized to secure "exclusive" or breaking news content before other outlets.
In this era of "if it bleeds, it leads," it became increasingly complex for social sector-focused communicators to find effective avenues to tell their stories through the mainstream media. It meant focusing more on thought leadership and enhancing the profile of subject matter experts within their organizations, and identifying more reactive opportunities to insert themselves into rapidly-shifting media coverage of events and issues.
Unleashing the power of the World Wide Web
This is where the World Wide Web started to show its power. As one of the most powerful technical innovations in modern times, that continues to shape the way people are connected and do business worldwide, social sector communicators now had their own platforms and channels to speak and disseminate important information about their work. Websites began popping as digital storefronts for organizations and companies. While their designs and communications strategies were only in their infancy, the Web became an important tool in a communicator's toolbox to drive people to their content.
Do you remember the first website you worked on? Are you able to access your organization's archives to see what your first website looked like, and how you spoke about your work? It's both fascinating and incredibly insightful to see where we've come from — also to let us get a glimpse of where we are going.
In our next post, we will explore communications in the 2000s and how the rise of search and social media forever changed the way we communicate with our audiences. And in case you missed it, check out our post on Communications in the 1980s.


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Home > Consulate-General Event
Chinese FM Spokesperson: The US, UK, Australia And Canada Will See A Successful Beijing Winter Olympic Games Regardless of Whether They Send Officials or Not
At a regular press conference of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China on 9 December, spokesperson Wang Wenbin answered a question about the Beijing Winter Olympics.
Journalist: The UK and Canada said they will not send diplomatic representatives to the Beijing Winter Olympic Games. What is China's response? It is reported that 20 countries have not signed the Olympic truce resolution previously adopted by the UN General Assembly. How does China assess its potential domino effect?
Wang Wenbin: I need to point out in the first place that in fact China hasn't invited any of these countries. They will see a successful Beijing Winter Olympic Games regardless of whether they send officials or not.
Sports have nothing to do with politics. The Olympic Games is a grand gathering of athletes and sports lovers, not a stage for the posturing and grandstanding of politicians. A handful of countries including the US, Australia, the UK and Canada refused to co-sponsor the UN resolution on Olympic Truce for the Beijing Winter Games, and now put on a self-staged farce of "not sending officials", pitting themselves against the big Olympic family. We hope relevant countries will act upon the Olympic spirit of "together", rather than undermining the Olympic cause.
You asked about the potential chain reaction. That's not a concern for us. On the contrary, what we see is the overwhelming majority of the international community supporting a successful Beijing Winter Olympics. On December 2, the 76th session of the UNGA adopted by consensus the resolution on Olympic Truce for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Beijing 2022 drafted by China and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and co-sponsored by 173 member states. Representatives of many member states voiced their support for the Beijing Winter Olympics and the resolution. This in itself demonstrates the international community's support for the Olympic Movement and resolve to safeguard world peace.
We have every confidence that guided by the Olympic spirit and with the concerted efforts by all sides, we will surely present a streamlined, safe and splendid Olympic event to the world and jointly promote the Olympic cause.
Journalist: New Zealand's trade minister said in response to a question that his country has always taken a firm stand on human rights and would not send government officials to the Beijing Winter Olympics. What is the Chinese government's response to this?
Wang Wenbin: The Beijing Winter Olympics is a gathering of Olympic athletes and winter sports fans all over the world. We welcome athletes from around the world, including those from New Zealand, to participate in the Beijing Winter Olympics. We hope all parties will act upon the Olympic spirit of "together" instead of politicizing sports.
Journalist: The Chinese embassy in Canada issued a statement saying that it has made solemn representations with the Canadian side. Will China do the same with the British side? Japan has not announced its decision on the Beijing 2002 yet, but may not send a cabinet member to the Games. What is your comment? China said it will take resolute countermeasures against the US. Will the same goes for the UK, Australia and Canada?
Wang Wenbin: As to your first question, the Chinese Embassy in the UK has released a readout, which you may refer to.
On your second question, I want to point out that the Beijing Winter Olympic Games is a stage for winter sports athletes. Any act that attempts to politicize sports in the name of human rights and freedom violates the spirit of the Olympic Charter. China is firmly opposed to that. China and Japan have important consensus on supporting each other in hosting Olympic Games. China gave full support to Japan in hosting the Tokyo Olympics, now it is Japan's turn to show basic good faith.
On your third question, political manipulation with the Olympic Games by the US, Australia, the UK and Canada wins no support and isolates the countries themselves. They will pay a price for their erroneous moves.


text:
from __future__ import (absolute_import, division, generators, nested_scopes, print_function,
                        unicode_literals, with_statement)

from pants.contrib.go.targets.go_local_source import GoLocalSource

class GoLibrary(GoLocalSource):
  pass

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Please review the frequently asked questions.
Our office is open Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm. We close on statutory holidays.
We are located on the main floor of the Neville Scarfe Building—across the hall from the Education Library.
Neville Scarfe is located at the southwest corner of Main Mall and University Boulevard, next to the fountain at Martha Piper Plaza.
Locate the Neville Scarfe Building on the Campus Map (Wayfinding at UBC).
Use the TransLink Trip Planner to find the best bus route options to UBC.
The two closest parkades are the West Parkade (2140 Lower Mall) and Health Services Parkade (2250 Health Sciences Mall). UBC also has numerous parking lots.
The Teacher Education Office will be closed on Thursday, June 25 (12:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.) and Friday, June 26 (all day). We apologize for the inconvenience.


text:
Silvio Sericano (Castelletto d'Orba, 1889 – Roma, 1957) va ser un sacerdot i diplomàtic vaticà que va ostentar la representació diplomàtica provisional de la Santa Seu davant el Govern de la Segona República Espanyola durant la Guerra Civil espanyola. El 1940 va ser nomenat Sotssecretari de la Sagrada Congregació d'Assumptes Eclesiàstics Extraordinaris i el 1953 Protonotari Apostòlic. Va morir a Roma el 7 de març de 1957.

Biografia
Silvio Sericano va néixer el 1889 a Castelleto d'Orba. Va ser alumne del col·legi llombard de Roma i posteriorment de la Pontifícia Universitat Gregoriana. Va estudiar Dret Canònic i va ser professor del Seminari de Tortona, la seva diòcesi natal.

El 1925 va ingressar a la Secretaria d'Estat de la Santa Seu. Va ser secretari de la Nunciatura de Costa Rica i posteriorment auditor en la Nunciatura de Viena.

La seva missió a Espanya
La primavera de 1936 va ser enviat com a auditor a la nunciatura apostòlica a Espanya. El titular de la representació, el ja cardenal Federico Tedeschini, va marxar a Roma l'11 de juny de 1936 i Sericano va quedar al càrrec de la nunciatura com a encarregat de negocis fins a l'arribada del nou nunci, Filippo Cortesi. No obstant això, el cop d'estat de juliol i l'esclat de la Guerra Civil van impedir que aquest prengués possessió.
Silvio Sericano va quedar llavors com l'últim representant del Papa davant el govern constitucional d'Espanya i, posteriorment, davant les autoritats governamentals durant els primers mesos de la guerra.

Sericano va continuar la labor iniciada per Tedeschini de denunciar davant el Govern de la República els atacs soferts per l'Església. A més, ho va fer acudint especialment a l'ordenament jurídic vigent, buscant en la legalitat democràtica els principals ressorts per defensar els drets dels catòlics.

Durant la Guerra Civil, Sericano es va mantenir a Madrid fins que va abandonar la capital espanyola el 4 de novembre de 1936, destinat a Polònia. Durant aquells mesos, va mantenir la representació de la Santa Seu davant el Govern republicà i va informar a la Secretaria d'Estat de quant la situació en la nunciatura li va permetre conèixer. Després de la seva marxa va passar a treballar a la Secretaria d'Estat, des d'on va mantenir contacte regular amb el personal de la nunciatura que romania a Madrid.

Quan va tornar a Roma, les autoritats colpistes a Espanya van manifestar les seves reserves respecte de Sericano davant la possibilitat que recuperés la seva tasca d'auditor a la nunciatura. El 1940 va ser nomenat sotssecretari de la Sagrada Congregació d'Assumptes Eclesiàstics Extraordinaris i el 1953 Protonotari Apostòlic. Va morir a Roma el 7 de març de 1957.

Referències

Bibliografia
 NAVARRO DE LA FUENTE, Santiago: La Santa Sede y la Guerra Civil. Los representantes del Papa en la España en conflicto (1936-1938), Sevilla, Editorial de la Universitat de Sevilla, 2019.
 NAVARRO DE LA FUENTE, Santiago: "Republica, religión i llibertad: la Iglesia y el Frente Popular", en Història y Política, núm. 41.

Diplomàtics de la Santa Seu
Persones de la província d'Alessandria
Gran Creu amb Estrella de l'Orde del Mèrit de la República Federal d'Alemanya
Morts a Roma
Diplomàtics italians

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Liverpool Legend Claims Fabinho's Injury Is A Disaster For Klopp
Ernesto Cova
Liverpool were able to hold their own and get a point vs. Napoli at Anfield to sit at the top of their group in the UEFA Champions League and securing a spot in the knock-out stage.
However, this draw came at a huge price, as Fabinho was forced to leave the pitch with an ankle injury just 19 minutes into the game, a 'massive' blow for the Reds, as per their coach Jurgen Klopp:
"The biggest thing is the Fabinho injury, that's massive. It's early and we all hope it's not too serious but it's pretty painful and in an area you don't want to have pain, around the ankle," the German boss told the media after the game.
And, according to former Liverpool great Harry Kewell, losing Fabinho is something the Reds just can't afford right now, as he's been 'the sponge' that soaks everything up for the rest of the team to function properly:
"It is a huge loss, he's been the sponge. He's soaking everything up. When he receives the ball, he passes it forward – which many holding midfielders don't do, that first pass forward to put your team on the attack. It's a big loss, but I'm confident in the squad that there are plenty to fill in," the Australian told Sky Sports.
Liverpool are currently sitting at the top of the English Premier League as they pursue their first EPL trophy in club history, so they can't afford any setbacks or losing a key part of their system like Fabinho.
Gladly for the Reds, Jurgen Klopp has built a lot of depth in the center of the pitch, with Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, James Miler, Georginio Wijnaldum and Jordan Henderson all capable of filling into Fabinho's role.
Still, it'll be quite interesting to see how the defending European champions fare without one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.
FabinhoHarry KewellLiverpoolLiverpool Legend Claims Fabinho's Injury Is A Disaster For Klopp


text:
<?php

namespace Admin\Controller;

use Zend\Mvc\Controller\AbstractActionController;
use Admin\Service\AuthenticationService;
use Zend\View\Model\ViewModel;
use Admin\Service\AdminCatalogService;
use Doctrine\Common\Persistence\ObjectManager;

class CatalogProductController extends AbstractActionController
{
    protected $authenticationService;

    protected $objectManager;

    protected $adminCatalogService;

    public function __construct(
        AuthenticationService $authService,
        AdminCatalogService $adminCatalogService,
        ObjectManager $objectManager
    ) {
        $this->setAuthenticationService($authService);
        $this->setAdminCatalogService($adminCatalogService);
        $this->setObjectManager($objectManager);
    }

	public function viewCategoriesAction()
	{
	    if (!$this->getAuthenticationService()->hasIdentity()) {
	        // @TODO use a Controller guarding tool to automatically check
	        // roles and controller actions
	        // @TODO Save original request location to redirect after login
	        $this->redirect()->toRoute('admin_login');
	    }

	    $request = $this->getRequest();
	    $viewModel = new ViewModel();

	    $this->getAdminCatalogService()->loadViewCategories($viewModel);

	    return $viewModel;
	}

	public function viewProductsAction()
	{
	    if (!$this->getAuthenticationService()->hasIdentity()) {
            $this->redirect()->toRoute('admin_login');
	    }

	    $request = $this->getRequest();
	    $viewModel = new ViewModel();

	    $this->getAdminCatalogService()->loadViewProducts($viewModel);

	    return $viewModel;
	}

	public function editProductAction()
	{
	    if (!$this->getAuthenticationService()->hasIdentity()) {
	        $this->redirect()->toRoute('admin_login');
	    }

	    $request = $this->getRequest();
	    $viewModel = new ViewModel();
	    $product = null;
	    $productId = $this->params()->fromRoute('id');
	    $form = $this->getAdminCatalogService()->getCatalogProductForm();

	    if (null != $productId) {
	        $product = $this->getObjectManager()->find('Catalog\Entity\Product', $productId);
	    }

	    $fprg = $this->fileprg(
            $form,
            $this->url()->fromRoute('admin_product_edit', ['id'=>$productId]),
            true
        );

	    if ($fprg instanceof \Zend\Http\PhpEnvironment\Response) {
	        return $fprg;
	    } elseif ($fprg === false) {
	        $form->bind($product);
	        $viewModel->setVariable('form', $form);
	        return $viewModel;
	    }

	    if ($form->isValid()) {
	        $product = $form->getObject();
	        $this->getAdminCatalogService()->saveProduct($product);
	        $viewModel->setVariable('success', true);
	    } else {
	        $viewModel->setVariable('success', false);
	    }
	    $viewModel->setVariable('form', $form);

	    return $viewModel;
	}

	/**
	 * @return AuthenticationService
	 */
	protected function getAuthenticationService()
	{
	    return $this->authenticationService;
	}

	protected function setAuthenticationService($authService)
	{
	    $this->authenticationService = $authService;
	}

	/**
	 * @return AdminCatalogService
	 */
	protected function getAdminCatalogService()
	{
	    return $this->adminCatalogService;
	}

	protected function setAdminCatalogService($catalogService)
	{
	    $this->adminCatalogService = $catalogService;
	}

	protected function setObjectManager($objectManager)
	{
	    $this->objectManager = $objectManager;
	}

	protected function getObjectManager()
	{
	    return $this->objectManager;
	}
}


Very interesting reading. Bottom line – DOES NOT MATTER WHETHER JEWISH BACKGROUND OR GAY. WHAT DOES MATTER IS WHAT THE MAN ACHIEVED.
As for underblue – no need to be rude. The mans RECORD AND ACHIEVEMENTS speak for themselves.
It says in Lord Kinross' biography of Kermal that he was also a child molestor. I was taught at school to love him, now I hate him. It is very obvious he was am enemy of Islam.


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Q: A better way to check for database updates in parse? I have a parse database which is updated 4-5 times a day.
The data from the database is fetched and shown in an android app. However, the app has to fetch data everytime on start as it cant check whether the database has been updated or not yet. Is there any way I can check for database updates and load the changes the next time the app is launched?
I currently tried saving the most recent objectID in a file and checking it with the top entry of database everytime the app starts but that doesnt work(data is sorted in descending order).

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


NoneArmor Stand(+78.00)Greek Tunic(+39.00)Both(+107.00) Save $10!
Here is Greek muscle breast and back plate armor. This particular armor was also worn by 5th century B.C. Roman armies. Designed to intimidate and accent the strength of the soldier, this armor also provided supreme protection around the upper body.
Our replica is superb, made out of 18 gauge brass. This armor is fully wearable for reenactments or can be put on display.