text:
February 26, 2020 in Colonial Crester's Corner
Hoosierhoopster
2 hours ago, RoadToZion said:
At our peak we had 30k + new cases a day and now we are in the 20k range. Am I missing something or am I dumb?
Yes you're missing something.
The multiple measures taken — stay at home rules, business closures, restaurant take out only, masks, social distancing allowed the cases to go down / peak to go down, that was the whole point.
Now those rules, as of very recently, are being relaxed.
Why are you and Fouls in denial?
Do you honestly think the virus just decided to walk away? Poof, it's disappearing? Come on, it obviously hasn't been cured.
we peaked as a result of cases that developed before all the measures were put in place. Of course it's gone down, and of course it's still here.
why on Earth can't you acknowledge that?
5fouls 896 posts
Reacher 838 posts
Billingsley99
Picture of Ayden celebrating his last day of Elementary school. For those of you that have been around here long enough know that at 2 or 3 years old doctors were telling us that if Ayden survived he
Yesterday we were so.bleseed to celebrate the graduation of my oldest son from college. He graduated in 3 years, played baseball and graduated with honors. 3.75 GPA and starts Grad school to become
bluegrassIU
I am negative for covid. Thanks for the well wishes. Whatever I had kicked my butt worse than any flu I have ever had. But no covid!
5fouls
4 minutes ago, Hoosierhoopster said:
1 hour ago, 5fouls said:
I think an important thing here is to proceed with caution, but to not automatically dismiss positive news. Some positive news will not live up to what's expected, but other positive news is truly positive news. Whatever the reason, I do think coronavirus has brought out the pessimist in a lot of people. While understandable, it is also not always productive.
1 hour ago, Reacher said:
I want to add that there are factors that may make COVID go away, or the slow the spread, before a vaccine. I posted this on page 115-
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-italy-virus-idUSKBN2370OQ
"The new coronavirus is losing its potency and has become much less lethal, a senior Italian doctor said on Sunday."
In addition, weather , herd immunity, social behavior and countless other factors MAY result in a lessening over time.
We are clearly past the peak. I think its great that @5fouls tracks it. He is still learning the nuances of it and teaching us by extension. Wouldn't surprise me if a number of people reporting on it truly don't understand what they are reporting.
I'm sorry it is so patently absurd and ridiculous to tout that Covid just magically is disappearing. There is zero basis for that, why search for ridiculous articles? I'm not sure what motivates you to spout this stuff — But it strikes me as veiled politics, don't go there, don't walk that line, we're not going to tolerate it, don't pull up politically focused agenda driven "studies".
the very simple, indisputable fact, is that there is no current vaccine or cure for Covid, it hasn't magically gone away, it was, rather, limited in its spread by measures that are now being relaxed. They're being relaxed not because the virus is gone, but because it's been slowed, it's economically necessary to get the economy going again, and as we limited it's spread, if people wear masks and practice social distancing going forward we probably won't peak again — but that is the necessary part because, again, it's obviously still here.
37 minutes ago, RoadToZion said:
This was the graph I was referencing earlier in the link I sent. It clearly shows a decrease in new cases even with the increase in testing. I wasn't trying to argue earlier HH, I was just saying on a national scale, new cases are in a decline. Still a serious matter, though.
Cool I understand where you're coming from better now. Yes agreed, new case tracking is still recent but also reflects the effectiveness of the measures taken to curtail the virus's growth - as those measures get relaxed we're starting to see increases again, as we are here in Houston.
Apologies for how confrontational my posts back come across — respect you and @Fouls as a poster and individual.
12 minutes ago, Hoosierhoopster said:
I want to touch on your first paragraph. I'm looking for positives in this thing. I want things to return to some level of normalcy. I'm going to monitor positive trends and feel hopeful about them until there is a reason not to. I'm not putting my head in the sand. I want to believe that we will have high school and college sports this fall/winter. I want to believe my daughter will get to experience her first year of high school actually at school and not at home. I want to believe my son will get the chance to see his high school friends win another state title in basketball after getting cheated out of back to back this year.
So, tell me, while I understand that there is still much to be concerned about, what is so wrong about feeling better when some positive news comes out.
I agree there is some clear agenda driven "science" in that article.
But I would also caution folks to realize virus mutate often. covid 19 is a known "fast changer".
The virus going around today can behave very differently than it did even 30 days ago.
This is part of what makes a vaccine very challenging. Scientists need to study every known mutation and adjust accordingly.
Some changes are insignificant, actually most. But some make the virus quickly become more/less infectious and more/less potent.
It is common knowledge that some viruses mutate themselves out of being a threat before a vaccine is ever created.
It also happens where the changes causes a rapid spike in infections and death.
Not a gamble any of us should take. But I also would not so quickly chalk up improving numbers to be 100% because of social distancing, face masks etc.
It may be the reason, it may be the natural evolution of the virus, it may be a combination.
My point is, cases and deaths can decrease naturally simply because the virus has changed.
One undeniable truth from that article....
"The strength the virus had two months ago is not the same strength it has today," said Matteo Bassetti, head of the infectious diseases clinic at the San Martino hospital in the city of Genoa.
"It is clear that today the COVID-19 disease is different."
12 minutes ago, bluegrassIU said:
But I would also caution folks to realize virus e often. covid 19 is a known "fast changer".
Not a gamble any of us should take. But I also would not so quickly chalk up improving numbers to be 100% because of social didtancing, face madks etc.
My point is, cases and deaths can decrease naturally simply because yhe virus has changed.
What we've seen around the world, literally, is that the many social distancing and related measures put in place relatively quickly leveled off the virus's growth, that was of course the intent, and it's worked, globally. Really isn't anyone directly disputing that (it really would be absurd).
But viruses can and do mutate over time. They don't just disappear, but they can change. Could that be partially in play here? That's above my pay grade. Not going to dismiss that outright, but also not going to believe in the fantasy land idea that it will just go away. I think it's clear we should continue to wear masks, social distance, and be careful, while we wait in a vaccine. Also think we all need to get back to as normal an economy as we can get
But viruses can and do mutate over time. They don't just disappear, but they can change. Could that be partially in play here? That's above my pay grade. Not going to dismiss that outright, but also not going to believe in the fantasy land idea that it will just go away. I think it's clear we should continue to wear masks, social distance, and be careful, while we wait in a vaccine. Also think we all need you get back to as normal an economy as we can get
I do not disagree at all with anything here. As an optimist, it does provide hope.
Will it disappear on its own? Maybe, maybe not. We have to assume no, and hope yes.
It has happened before. If there is any doubt, anybody can go see why SARS died out in 2013.
It would be foolish to bank on it. But it can provide hope for somebody wanting an alternative perspective to all the doomsday we hear 24,/7.
Be smart. Plan for the worst. But hope for the best.
I have no idea what you are referring to. I reread the article and see no sign of politics. I didn't search for the article. I saw the headline and it caught my interest. This is from Italy, for crying out loud. I have no idea of the veracity or scientific methods involved. What motivates me to link an article directly related to the topic at hand? I found it interesting as I had not seen or heard that before. Thought others might be interested as well. This place would be rather lonely if no one brought anything to the table. Everyone can make their own judgement as to whether believe some or all of it. @bluegrassIU pointed out SARS faded away (thanks for mentioning that- I had no idea). Please PM what stuff I'm spouting as I don't want to derail the topic here.
5 minutes ago, bluegrassIU said:
Actually with SARS they got out ahead of it and stopped it's spread before it went global — they weren't able to do that with Covid but early on they tried.
I'm not a pessimist lol. I'm optimistic we'll drive Covid down - but to get there we should (I think clearly) continue to practice social distancing while a vaccine etc is developed. As it stands right now most think we'll see another spike in the fall.
6 hours ago, Hoosierhoopster said:
Yes they are. There are numerous papers, sites etc. reporting increased cases including here in Houston. Do you really buy into no increased cases? Geesh.
Please post some numbers that support this. Thanks in advance.
1 hour ago, Muckraker said:
Looking at this real quick like while I have a second at work (so not able to "quote")
I'm not sure if there is a process to ensure as many people as possible have a follow up. I have seen sone people 3 or 4 tests.
I know, for awhile, they were just swabbing anyone and everyone that went to the collection areas (fairgrounds, etc) so maybe they would just do it on their own
I would wager to bet there IS a chance that some aren't getting the follow up test to check their status. Maybe they just figure "I feel better so I must be done". I don't really know. There are many people who aren't too good at listening to their provider.
Edited June 3, 2020 by rd726
https://www.forbes.com/sites/brucejapsen/2020/06/02/fauci-modernas-phase-3-covid-19-vaccine-trial-will-include-30000-young-and-old-individuals/amp/
moderna moves into phase 3. And mass production will start. If the vaccine performs well in this trial for 30k people 100 million doses will be available by 2021. If not we'll have a lot of useless vaccine on our hands. 🤞
Edit/add: I am by no means and antivaxer, but is anybody concerned about the possibility of long term side effects of a vaccine that could potentially be cleared in 6 months. Keeping in mind that many times vaccines are studied for 5 or more years before they are used on the general population? Another thing that concerns me is will there be more pressure to clear the vaccine if 100 million doses were already made? I know we don't have much of an option; just thinking out loud.
Edited June 3, 2020 by tdhoosier
Someone just tested positive at Tammy's workplace.
With the recent mass gatherings all over the country going on we should have some pretty good data to work with in a couple weeks.
IUFLA
3 hours ago, tdhoosier said:
I think this is one of those times where society has to take a leap of faith. We simply do not have the luxury of extending restrictions that impact the economy longer than we absolutely have to. If a vaccine works, and is available, there has to be a level of faith that side effects, if any, are mild and/or easily treatable.
My main concern is whether or not they try to make it mandatory. If it is voluntary like the flu then go for it and we can monitor side effects. I just don't think there is enough information about coronavirus to be making a decision like that.
As reported on CNN. Just thought I would share some positive news related to the virus.
New York state reported its lowest daily coronavirus death toll so far, with 49 deaths reported yesterday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said.
That's down from 58 deaths on Monday and 54 on Tuesday, the governor said. Hospitalizations are also at an all-time low.
Cuomo warned that although many headlines are focusing on the nationwide protests over George Floyd's death at the hands of police, coronavirus remains a threat.
"It is still in people and in society. We're still battling that," he said of the virus.
I'd imagine it'd be voluntary. I also read that for it to be effective only 60% of the population would need it.
Some good stats in here- https://lipperalpha.refinitiv.com/2020/05/fathom-recovery-watch-29-05-2020/?utm_source=Eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=00008DL_NewsletterLipperAlphaInsightWeekly&utm_content=Newsletter_InvestmentWeekly_02June2020&elqTrackId=c6126a5396e1467887c07718c78c1120&elq=398d29cf74ab456f97e170b788f4a4c5&elqaid=67000&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=165
Be interesting to follow this research.
https://www.skynews.com.au/details/_6158843835001
9 month old baby dies in Kentucky, tests positive for Covid, but medical examiner is not calling it the primary cause of death.
https://www.wdrb.com/news/9-month-old-in-kentucky-dies-after-contracting-covid-19-beshear-says/article_9f8653ce-a5d5-11ea-8d42-d36ae4c47322.html
HoosierDom
13 hours ago, tdhoosier said:
I'm by no means an expert on this, but my understanding is that most of what was skipped/sped up was the pre-clinical work (the lab and animal testing that is normally done before the first person gets injected); the time between phase 1, 2 and 3 (normally we would give more time before the next, and larger, round of people is injected); and the lag time to actually produce things at scale once it has been approved. But, what we are not messing with is the phase 3 timeline, where the largest group gets the vaccine and the regular observations - we will still wait the normal time before approving anything for the general population, we will just start making it before we know if we will ever use it.
Edited June 4, 2020 by HoosierDom
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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text:
Creator of Shea Moisture, Richelieu Dennis, Acquires Essence Magazine
Beauty mogul and creator of hair range,Richelieu Dennis, is the new owner of Essence magazine. I particularly love this deal because it encouraged women to be at the helm of affairs in the cooperate world.
Via Boss Heights
Popular female targeted fashion and pop culture magazine, Essence, has been acquired by Liberian business man, Richelieu Dennis, from Time Inc. In my opinion, the deal is one that encouraged the elevation of black women to own a seat at the table.
Richelieu is the founder of beauty and skin-care firm Sundial Brands. Sundai is the parent company of popular brand, "Shea Moisture".
He however sold control of the skincare firm to Unilever in November but remains its CEO.
Time Inc. initially acquired 49 percent stake in the 48 year old magazine in 2000 from founder Ed Lewis and purchased the remaining 51 percent in 2005.
While ESSENCE President Michelle Ebanks will continue at the helm of the company, the all Black female executive team of the magazine will have an equity stake in the business.
According to Richelieu Dennis, the acquisition of the magazine serves as an avenue for "women leading the business to also be partners in the business".
"The strategic vision and leadership that Michelle has provided to ESSENCE over the years have been exemplary, and we are thrilled to work with her and her talented team to provide the necessary resources and support to continue to grow the engagement and influence of the ESSENCE brand and transform this business".
"As importantly, we are excited to be able to return this culturally relevant and historically significant platform to ownership by the people and the consumers whom it serves and offer new opportunities for the women leading the business to also be partners in the business."
Michelle Ebanks revealed the deal represents the elevation of "Black women to co-ownership positions".............
"This acquisition of ESSENCE represents the beginning of an exciting transformation of our iconic brand as it evolves to serve the needs and interests of multigenerational Black women around the world in an even more elevated and comprehensive way across print, digital, e-commerce and experiential platforms," said Ebanks. "In addition, it represents a critical recognition, centering and elevation of the Black women running the business from solely a leadership position to a co-ownership position."
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text:
Leader Of Pakistani Political Movement Arrested In London
By Scott Neuman
Published June 3, 2014 at 4:23 PM EDT
Supporters of Pakistan's Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) political party hold posters of their leader Altaf Hussain, who was arrested in London, as they gather at the party's headquarters in Karachi on Tuesday.
The leader of Pakistan's powerful Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) was arrested Tuesday in London, where he's been living in self-imposed exile since the 1990s.
Reuters says Altaf Hussain was taken into custody in relation to a murder case, but the BBC says he was arrested on suspicion of money laundering.
Reuters says:
"Hussain is known for his fiery addresses to his supporters in Karachi though a loudspeaker connected to a telephone. He effectively controls the sometimes violent port city of Karachi from his headquarters in a north London suburb.
"Hussain's hold on Karachi is so strong that he is capable of shutting down entire neighbourhoods of the city of 18 million."
The BBC says:
"Mr Hussain has lived in the UK since 1991, saying his life would be at risk if he returned to Pakistan.
"The British and Pakistani authorities have in the past expressed concerns that any arrest of Altaf Hussain could lead to violent protests in Karachi."
NPR's Philip Reeves, reporting from the capital, Islamabad, says, "News of Hussain's arrest hit Karachi like a thunderbolt. Traffic jams built up as residents, fearful of violence, tried to get home. Shops and gas stations pulled up their shutters; several buses were torched."
The BBC says: "One man in the city, who gave his name as Tahir, told the BBC that MQM supporters were firing guns in the streets and setting fire to any shops which remained open."
On its website, the MQM says its leadership in Pakistan has "advised the party workers to remain calm, peaceful and to stay united."
The MQM is made up primarily of millions of Urdu-speaking Muslims whose families migrated to Karachi when British India was divided into India and Pakistan at the time of independence in 1947.
Scott Neuman
Scott Neuman is a reporter and editor, working mainly on breaking news for NPR's digital and radio platforms.
See stories by Scott Neuman


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The game consists of two cards being dealt face down to each player and then five community cards being placed face-up by the dealer—a series of three cards, known as the Flop, then the fourth card, the Turn and then the fifth card, known as the River are dealt. The players have the option to check, bet, raise or fold after each deal;for example the betting may occur before the Flop, on the Flop, on the Turn and on the River.
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Each player is dealt two private cards in hold 'em, which are dealt first. The croupier deals to the player to the left first (in the small blind position). We use one standard deck of cards with no jokers. Once everyone has two private cards, betting begins before the *flop. Each player bets until they fold, put in all of their chips or have matched the active players. When this has finished, the three community cards (flop) is dealt. The flop is followed by a second betting round. This and all subsequent betting rounds begin with the player to the dealer's left and continue clockwise. After the flop betting round ends, a single community card is dealt, known as the *turn, followed by a third betting round. A final single community card, also known as the *river is then dealt, followed by a fourth betting round and the showdown, if necessary.
In all casinos, the dealer will burn a card before the flop, turn, and river. Because of this burn, players who are betting cannot see the back of the next community card to come. This is done for historical/traditional reasons, to avoid any possibility of a player knowing in advance the next card to be dealt due to it being marked.
If the best hand is shared by more than one player, then the pot is split equally among them, with any extra chips going to the first players after the button in clockwise order. Commonly players have closely ranked hands. If the hand involves fewer than five cards, including two pairs or three of a kind then *kickers are used to settle ties. The numerical value of the card is the only determining factor.


straight-to-the-point format of such publications.
days of the framework, at the beginning of 2012, at which time the name had already changed to ASP.NET Web API.
winter, when this book was officially announced.
entire book in a linear fashion.
this book. Instead, I focus on the problems stated in each recipe and how to solve them with ASP.NET Web API.
the recipe. To make it easier to follow the book in a non-linear fashion, the solutions are not dependent on each other.
extra resources and further reading.
that the framework might have given you before, I will be absolutely thrilled.
extended onto other Web API hosts.
security, exception handling, and many others) are covered in detail in the upcoming chapters.
You would like to integrate ASP.NET Web API into your ASP.NET MVC project.
Web API. This is shown in Figure 1-1.
ASP.NET Web API Help Pages rely on MVC to serve content.
You can also add Web API to any existing MVC project by installing it from NuGet.
because the project wizard simply installs ASP.NET Web API from NuGet too.
Under the hood, ASP.NET Web API is built around an asynchronous HTTP handler called System.Web.
intercept and handle HTTP requests made to the web server and respond to the client with the relevant response.
past to handle your various custom HTTP-based tasks.
When you run both MVC and Web API in the same ASP.NET process, ASP.NET will use the HttpApplication.
MapRequestHandler event to determine which of the HTTP handlers will be selected to handle the incoming request.
route. The sole purpose of IRouteHandler is to produce an IHttpHandler that can handle the request.
then the MVC path takes over via MvcHandler.
same name. Moreover, it's perfectly fine for them to share the same model (DTO) when necessary.
ASP.NET Web API will occupy URI space under /api, while all of the other root-level URLs will be handled by MVC.
System.Web.RouteCollection. The default route definitions for both frameworks are shown in Listing 1-4.
You would like to integrate ASP.NET Web API into your ASP.NET Web Forms application.
One ASP.NET project wizard, as shown in Figure 1-2.
the same ASP.NET process as the Web Forms application.
class to the App_Start folder. It is used for configuring ASP.NET Web API and declaring ASP.NET Web API routes.
how it's capable of acting as request processor.
The engine and architecture behind ASP.NET Web API is discussed in detail in Recipe 1-1.
Listing 1-5 shows a sample model class plus an ApiController and a Web Forms Page class sharing it to present the data.
Controller suffix in the name, is going to be discovered at runtime and deemed suitable to handle HTTP requests.
in this case in the static WebApiConfig class, while Web Forms routing is configured in the static RouteConfig.
names of the keys used in the HTTP request.
form exactly how you'd want to.
formatters, so here I will only touch on the concepts directly related to handling HTML forms.
(DTOs). From a design perspective, the latter subclasses the former.
into a single model. This is a dangerous spot for MVC developers because that's exactly the behavior they are used to.
It is, however, possible to force Web API into such MVC-style parameter binding; this is discussed in Recipe 4-4.
uploads is beyond the scope of this recipe, though; it is separately discussed in Recipe 4-11.
populate a server side model. The second one relies on the framework to hydrate the model automatically.
route and the route defaults (controller name, action name, and relevant action parameters).
able to generate Web API links via the HttpRouteUrl method.
will generate an absolute link, while the Route method will generate a relative one.
you use HttpRouteUrl. This way, a route can be identified as pointing to ASP.NET Web API.
■■Note Recipe 3-12 is dedicated to further exploring and understanding the engine behind generating links to routes.
cross-linking between Web API and MVC controllers.
The code responsible for creating the link to ApiController from MVC controller is shown in Listing 1-11.
method on the UrlHelper, and pass in the relevant route defaults.
an MVC-specific UrlHelper is used with the HttpRouteUrl extension method.
You'd like to rapidly bootstrap an ASP.NET Web API solution.
controllers to your project, right-click the Controllers folder in your solution, and choose Add ➤ New Scaffold Item.
part of Visual Studio since version 2005.
of all of the global scaffolding templates, which you can edit there to suit your solution's needs.
to include the files into your project.
Let's walk through a basic scaffolding process for a Web API controller with Entity Framework Code First model.
The model is shown in Listing 1-13.
Web API ➤ Web API 2 Controller with actions, using Entity Framework. The dialog is shown in Figure 1-3.
projects, as lots of Web API developers like to introduce their own base class for controllers.
as shown in Listing 1-16, inheriting from ApiBaseController instead of ApiController.
injecting your own services, or forcing the actions to be asynchronous.
attributes, and the framework will respect them.
For fine grained validation, you may choose to implement IValidatableObject (from System.ComponentModel.
you can even use the same DTOs for both Web API and MVC.
embedded. Those validators can also be shared between Web API and MVC.
■■Tip The validation behavior of ASP.NET Web API is the same across different hosts.
the framework uses DataMemberModelValidatorProvider instead.
invoke that Validate method on an IValidatableObject, as long as all other validations (attribute based) pass.
object is different because Web API uses its own version from the System.Web.Http.ModelBinding namespace.
from inside of an action.
where they provide a semantic description of your API endpoint. That will be discussed in detail in Recipe 7-11.


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HD 79498 är en ensam stjärna belägen i den mellersta delen av stjärnbilden Kräftan. Den har en skenbar magnitud av ca 8,03 och kräver åtminstone en stark handkikare för att kunna observeras. Baserat på parallax enligt Gaia Data Release 2 på ca 20,4 mas, beräknas den befinna sig på ett avstånd på ca 160 ljusår (ca 49 parsek) från solen. Den rör sig bort från solen med en heliocentrisk radialhastighet på ca 20 km/s.

Egenskaper
HD 79498 är en gul i huvudserien av spektraltyp G5, som har en högre mängd av andra element än väte och helium än solen och klassas som en metallrik stjärna. Den har en massa som är ca 1,1 solmassor, en radie som är ca 1,1 solradier och har ca 1,2 gånger solens utstrålning av energi från dess fotosfär vid en effektiv temperatur av ca 5 700 K.

Planetsystem
McDonald Observatory planet search program har upptäckt en exoplanet med hjälp av mätning av små förändringar i stjärnans rörelse.

Se även
 Lista över exoplaneter

Referenser

Noter

Externa länkar
 https://www.universeguide.com/star/45406/hd79498.

Stjärnbilden Kräftan
HD-objekt
Huvudseriestjärnor klass G
Solsystem

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


wonder why is there no activism to pre-use the empty condos as they are built?
Thanks for the comment. There are a couple of arts groups that do that regularly, like the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council's artists residency program and Chashama, which temporarily uses midtown buildings while they're under construction.
The Bruce High Quality Foundation is using a building under construction on West Broadway for their Brucennial exhibition. I think the Public School's new space in downtown Brooklyn is also a temporarily vacant space on loan. There's a former convent in Greenpoint that the pastor has been lending to artists and renting to film crews while the market for redevelopment is slow. There are even those floors of 7 World Trade Center that are rented out for public events while they're not being leased for office space.
But you also see things happening like new condo buildings being converted into rentals instead of being sold at lower prices. The residential vacancy rate is still below three percent, the city is still projected to grow in the next decade, and so far the excess in construction has barely made a dent in the affordability of middle class housing. More could definitely be done in that regard.


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Home Feature "PM Modi needs to be mindful of implications of his statements on...
"PM Modi needs to be mindful of implications of his statements on national security" : Manmohan Singh
Rajat Singh Chauhan
File image of Manmohan Singh
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh cautioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi to be 'mindful' of the implications his statements will have on national security and not allow them to vindicate Chinese position.
Dr. Singh, on Monday spoke for the first time on the India-China face-off in Ladakh's Galwan Valley, "Disinformation is no substitute for diplomacy or decisive leadership. And the truth cannot be suppressed by having pliant allies spout comforting but false statements".
He released a statement today in which he urged all organs of the government to work together to prevent the situation from further escalating.
Dr. Singh said that the Modi government must ensure that justice is served for Col. Santosh Babu and the jawans who sacrificed their lives protecting the borders.
"To do any less would be a historic betrayal of the people's faith," he said.
Though Dr. Singh did not directly attack any specific comment by Mr. Modi, his reference was to the Prime Minister's statement at the June 19 all-party meeting where he had said "none was inside Indian territory and no post was occupied by anyone".
"At this moment, we stand at historic cross-roads. Our government's decisions and actions will have serious bearings on how the future generations perceive us. Those who lead us bear the weight of a solemn duty. And in our democracy that responsibility rests with the office of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister must always be mindful of the implications of his words and declarations on our Nation's security as also strategic and territorial interests," Dr. Singh said.
The former Prime Minister accused China of "brazenly and illegally seeking to claim parts of Indian territory such as the Galwan Valley and the Pangong Tso Lake" and committing multiple incursions between April and now.
"We cannot and will not be cowed down by threats and intimidation nor permit a compromise with our territorial integrity. The Prime Minister cannot allow them to use his words as a vindication of their position and must ensure that all organs of the government work together to tackle this crisis and prevent it from escalating further."
Right now, India "must stand together as a nation and be united in our response to this brazen threat", he said.
Former Prime Minister
Former Prime Minister of India
India Prime Minister
India-China Galwan Valley dispute
India-China Ladakh face off
Oh My India
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An Interview With The Soulful Songstress DOMINO KIRKE About Her Newest Music, Biggest Inspirations and More!
Tag: All Access, All Access Music Group, Artist Interview, Beyond Waves, Domino Kirke, Here We Go Magic, Joan Wasser
Photo Credit- Robin Stein
The soulful songstress Domino Kirke recently released "Beyond Waves", the first single from her upcoming debut album of the same name. The song, a bohemian-tinged folk-pop track, features dark, resonant guitars and sparse percussions layered with Domino's entrancing vocals, and tells a deeply personal story – one of the struggle, and ultimate triumph, of Domino finding her own voice in her art.
Set for release on August 25th, Domino's debut record, "Beyond Waves" is more than two years in the making and is her most personal work to date. Co-written with Luke Temple (Here We Go Magic), co-produced by Joan Wasser (Joan as Police Woman) and recorded jointly in Hudson, New York's Future Past Studios and Brooklyn's Strange Weather Studio, the album lavishly expands on the dreamy synth-infused folk rock of her 2015 EP, 'Independent Channel.' The 11-song body of work was engineered by Daniel Schlett (Modest Mouse, DIIV, Oberhofer) and Patrick Higgins (Z's) and mixed by Bryce Goggin (Swans, Trey Anastatsio) at Trout Studios.
Though it is the first single from her debut record, "Beyond Waves" was the last song that came together for Domino. The instrumental, co-written by members of Here We Go Magic, became the perfect complement to Domino's soul-stirring lyrics, which tell the story of her evolution as a person and as an artist. "Getting these words out," according to Domino, "was its own kind of medicine and a deeply personal attribution to my last few years." Touching on the birth of her son, one of the record's most personal through-lines, Domino sings, "I had a child no one told me wasn't a toy". This anecdote, amongst others, brings together the intersection of Domino's artistry, experience as a mother, and work as a doula with Carriage House Birth, all of which served as inspiration for her new album.
Born into a family of creatives and artists, Domino has established herself as a prominent artist to watch. A student of piano and vocal performance at New York's prestigious LaGuardia High School of Music & Performing Arts, she signed her first record deal as a teenager – collaborating with Grammy-winning producer and artist Mark Ronson (Adele, Bruno Mars, Amy Winehouse) – and toured the world with everyone from Gang of Four to Lily Allen with her band DOMINO, which was also featured in Lena Dunham's acclaimed film 'Tiny Furniture.' Deemed a "triple threat" by Vogue for her role as a mother, a doula and a musician, Domino also has received praise from Nylon, Entertainment Weekly, V Magazine, Broadly and more.
Connect With Domino Kirke Here:
http://dominokirkemusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/DominoKirkeMusic
https://twitter.com/DominoKirke
http://instagram.com/dominokirke
Learn more about Domino in the following All Access interview:
Thanks for your time! What are some words you would use to describe 2016 for you and your music? How has 2017 been treating you?
2016 was healing, reflective, lots of realizations about herself as an artist. 2017 is a time for action, commitment and integrating home life with creative energies.
Photo Credit- Tina Tumbow
Where does this interview find you today? Is there music playing in the background? If so, what is it?
At a cafe on Mott and Broome and Frank Sinatra is playing in the background
Growing up, did you always want to be a musician? Can you recall your earliest musical memory? If you weren't an artist today, what else could you see yourself doing?
Yes, I always wanted to be a musician and I never had a Plan B. My earliest musical memory was my first piano lesson at 6 and singing in a choir at 7; if there was no career in music, I would be in medical school becoming a midwife.
The first thing that stood out to me when I was reading your bio is that you were and/or a doula. I'm curious to know how you think being a musician and being a doula go hand in hand? I imagine that they are both two very emotional and expressive careers.
Both are emotionally fulfilling but being a doula is an act of service whereas being a musician is an act of selfishness, which acts as a balance and is a creative way to process experiences from being a mother to being a birth attendant.
Have you ever recommended listening to music in the birthing process? If so, what music?
Yes, often clients make their own playlists. Music can be very grounding for a woman in labor and sometimes I even sing to women in labor.
At the end of August, you will be releasing your debut full-length album. Can you talk about what it like putting this collection together? How long did it take? Did anything surprise you at all about the process?
It took two years and that was surprising. There were two evolutions of the record: the first made me realize where I wasn't speaking up, the second was asking for what I needed in the process.
What was it like working on this album with Luke Temple (Here We Go Magic), Joan Wasser
Photo Credit- Shervin Lainex
(Joan as Police Woman), Daniel Schlett (Modest Mouse) and others?
So inspiring. Being in the studio with Joan was a dream. I am a huge fan of everyone I've worked with and I feel very lucky to have had the experience come together this way.
How does your already released single, "Beyond Waves" prepare listeners for the full album? How did this song get written? What was the inspiration for it?
The instrumental was written by Jen Turner, Mike Bloch and Luke Temple, offering me a blank slate to write words I needed to get out. The inspiration for the lyrics came from my recent break-up with my son's father and what our lives, separately and together, would become.
Do you think that your time with your previous band, Domino , helped shape who you are as a solo artist today? What knowledge did you take from that time and still use today?
I learned how to be a performer when I sang with the band DOMINO, but I hadn't yet tapped into that vulnerability of tapping into my own lyrics and stories on stage. I have also learned how to tour.
Are you going to be out planning live a lot this summer in support of this brand new album?
More this fall but yes, actively on the road both in the US and planning for tour dates abroad.
Who are some of your very favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music? What musicians would you absolutely love to work with in the future?
Joan Wasser (Joan as Police Woman) and as a songwriter, Lhasa Desela. I do not listen to much music while making records because it distracts from my own creative process. I am extremely happy with the artists (Luke, Joan, etc.) that I worked with on this record.
What do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope people continue to take away from your songs?
The record is about my family, about roots and connecting the stories on behalf of those who are no longer with us. It's very much about tying up familial loose ends, letting go of old stories, and setting new roots.
Photo Credit- Shervin Lainez
What advice would you give to someone just getting started on this music path? Or even to someone young that is thinking of becoming a musician one day?
Don't stop and don't write the music for anything other than you. Let everything else be a bonus. Gratitude above all.
Is there anything else that you would like to share with our readers about yourself or your music?
This record was paying homage to my favorite musicians, whom I happened to get to work with, and it was an opportunity to let go of any fears I had of being a solo artist.
An Interview With The London-Based American-Israeli Duo, O&O!
An Interview With The Acclaimed Musician, SONNY LANDRETH!


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Catalog » Self Help » And Never Stop Dancing [DD]
And Never Stop Dancing [DD]
[LL376]
Author: Livingston, Gordon
Narrator: Bruce Barker
Dr. Gordon Livingston's national bestseller, Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart, has drawn tens of thousands of readers who have embraced its thirty bedrock truths about life and how best to live it. Now, in And Never Stop Dancing, Dr. Livingston--a Vietnam War veteran, psychiatrist, and parent twice bereaved--offers thirty more true things we need to know now.
Among the fresh truths Dr. Livingston identifies and explores are: Paradox governs our lives. Forgiveness is a gift we give ourselves. Marriage ruins a lot of good relationships. We are defined by what we fear. We all live downstream. One of life's most difficult tasks is to see ourselves as others see us. As we grow old, the beauty steals inward. Most people die with their music still inside of them.
Once again, here are Dr. Livingston's sterling qualities: a deep understanding of the emotional tumult that courses through our lives--our hidden hypocrisies, desires, and evasions; an unerring sense of what is important (he does not waste a single moment writing about unimportant things); and his own ability to persevere--to hope--in a world he knows to be capable of inflicting unjustifiable and lifelong suffering.
These qualities--plus his perfectly pitched sense of humor and a voice that has been described as "more Job than Dr. Phil" (Roxanne Roberts, The Washington Post), add up to another extraordinary book--one which, like its predecessor, offers us a gentle, generous, and unusual alternative to the trial-and-error learning that makes wisdom such an expensive commodity.
Gordon Livingston, MD, a graduate of West Point and the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, has been a physician since 1967. He is a psychiatrist and writer who contributes frequently to the Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Baltimore Sun, and Reader's Digest. Awarded the Bronze Star for valor in Vietnam, he is the author of two previous books, Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart and Only Spring. He lives and works in Columbia, Maryland. His website is www.gordonlivingston.com.
Bruce Barker, a native of Alaska, has worked extensively in the voiceover industry. His work has included voiceovers for television, radio and audiobooks. Bruce is currently the voice of the show, Muscle Car, is heard on national commericals for Proflowers and Funding USA, and is the narrator for a variety of projects, from pilot-training takeoff prtocedures for the Boeing 747, to on-site attractions at the LA County Fair.
"This slender volume is full of wisdom and written with a generous spirit that will appeal even to those who don't usually read self-help books."
28 Cool Tracks of Royalty Free Music [DD]


The 'Caps then continue their MLS home-stand on Saturday, June 3 as they return to BC Place to host Atlanta United, one of two new clubs to join the MLS circuit this year. Visit whitecapsfc.com for tickets.
For every 'Caps corner kick at home, McMillan donates $100 to the United Way. An additional $500 is donated for every goal scored off a corner kick. This match McMillan Corners for Kids has donated $900 for a running total of $3,600.


We searched around and dug up 10 more great ancient Egyptian sayings.
These were carved on temples, stelae and tomb walls thousands of years ago. The advice still provides some interesting food for thought, even today. Read on and see if you agree.
To know yourself, take yourself as starting point and go back to its source; your beginning will disclose your end.
Leave him in error who loves his error.
Know yourself... and you shall know the gods.


1• The primary difference between the two testaments is their respective atonement systems. The Old Testament's atonement system is based upon animal sacrifices; while the New Testament's atonement system is based upon a human sacrifice.
2• The Old Testament's priesthood is captained by men subject to death; while the New Testament's priesthood is captained by a man impervious to death.
3• The Old Testament reveals curses for people who disobey the Ten Commandments; while the New Testament reveals an escape from those curses.
4• The Old Testament is where we learn of the origin of the human race as we know it; while the New Testament is where we learn of the termination of the human race as we know it; along with the introduction of a new human race about which we know comparatively little.
In the April 2014 edition of Discover magazine, astrophysicist/cosmologist Avi Loeb stated that the Bible attributes the appearance of stars and galaxies to the divine proclamation "Let there be light". Is Mr. Loeb's statement correct? No; of course not. God created light on the very first day of creation; while luminous celestial objects weren't created until the fourth.
The Bible is notoriously concise in some places; especially in it's story of the creation of light. Well; the creation of light was a very, very intricate process. First God had to create particulate matter, and along with those particles their specific properties, including mass. Then He had to invent laws to govern how matter behaves in combination with and/or in the presence of, other kinds of matter in order to generate electromagnetic radiation.
NOTE: Light's properties are a bit of a mystery. It exists as waves in a variety of frequencies, and also as particles called photons. And though light has no mass; it's influenced by gravity. Light is also quite invisible. For example: you can see the Sun and you can see the Moon when the Sun's light is shining on it. But none of the Sun's light is visible in the space between them and that's because light isn't matter; it's energy.
The same laws that make it possible for matter to generate electromagnetic radiation also make other conditions possible too; e.g. fire, wind, water, ice, soil, rain, life, centrifugal force, thermodynamics, fusion, dark energy, gravity, atoms, organic molecules, magnetism, radiation, refraction, reflection, high energy X-rays and gamma rays, temperature, pressure, force, inertia, sound, friction, and electricity; et al. So the creation of light was a pretty big deal; yet Genesis scarcely gives its origin passing mention.
That statement reveals the cosmos' condition prior to the creation of light; and no mystery there because sans the natural laws that make light possible, the cosmos' particulate matter would never have coalesced into something coherent.
Genesis 2:2 is the Bible's first prophecy which has yet to be fulfilled - and on the 7th day, God rested.
The first Passover lamb was killed and it redeemed and saved all the first born sons. Then Moses went to the mountain and came down with a design by which the Passover lamb now became the priest.
Now the priest would have to stand as a Passover lamb instead of the firstborn sons just as the first Passover lamb had done.
40And the LORD said unto Moses, Number all the firstborn of the males of the children of Israel from a month old and upward, and take the number of their names. 41And thou shalt take the Levites for me (I am the LORD) instead of all the firstborn among the children of Israel; and the cattle of the Levites instead of all the firstlings among the cattle of the children of Israel. 42And Moses numbered, as the LORD commanded him, all the firstborn among the children of Israel. 43And all the firstborn males by the number of names, from a month old and upward, of those that were numbered of them, were twenty and two thousand two hundred and threescore and thirteen.
†. Gen 1:16 . . He also made the stars.
Celestial objects require some special consideration because of their apparent distances and the apparent time it takes for their light to reach the Earth.
For example: last decade, an analysis of the light that Hubble telescope detected coming from a distant galaxy named A1689-zD1 suggested it's apparent distance at approximately 12.8 billion light years.
Chronologically; the cosmos' creator began constructing the Earth before He began constructing the stars; which indicates that as a physical structure, the Earth should be older than A1689-zD1. But geologists have pretty good reason to believe the Earth to be only something like 4.5 billion years old; while A1689-zD1 appears to be a minimum 12.8 billion years old.
So then, it seems reasonable to conclude that A1689-zD1 is Earth's senior by at least 8.3 billion years. But there's a rub.
Light's journey through space is complicated by some curious mysteries.
1• The available data suggests that the universe is expanding in all directions. And not only is it expanding; but the velocity of its expansion isn't steady, nor is it slowing down as might be expected; but rather, contrary to common sense and Newton's standard laws of gravity; the velocity of the cosmos' expansion is accelerating due to a mysterious force which, for convenience sake, has been labeled dark energy.
Plus, the expansion isn't uniform. Galaxies farthest from our own appear to be moving away faster than those closer in; which means of course that viewed from those farthest galaxies; our own would appear to be moving away faster than those closer in because the expansion is moving us too.
Ergo: many of the galaxies seen by powerful telescopes are quite a bit more spread out now than when they were born. How much more I don't know; but if the age of the Earth is really and truly 4.5 billion years, then it's my guess the difference is significant.
2• Light has no detectable mass, yet is effected by gravity; so that light's path through the cosmos is not always the shortest distance between two points; which suggests to me that A1689-zD1 is further away than its estimated 12.8 billion light years.
3• Although the speed of light is constant in a vacuum, the void is a bit more complicated due to the fact that it's state isn't steady. There are forces in space influencing not only light's path, but also its velocity. There was a time when scientists sincerely believed that although light could be slowed down, it could not be sped up; now they're not so sure.
4• Light doesn't decay. In other words: there is no detectable difference in age between the cosmos' first light, and the light emitted by the screen of an iPhone.
5• The more that scientists study the cosmos, the more things they discover about it that cause them to question what they believed in the past. Today's scientific truth is only valid until another truth comes along to cancel it.
All the above suggests to me that A1689-zD1's apparent distance has no bearing upon its age; viz: the estimated age of the cosmos is only loosely theoretical rather than actual. In other words: current dating methods are unreliable and subject to revision. It's very possibly true that the Earth really did precede the stars just as the Bible says.
Now; a consideration that shouldn't be overlooked is that Gen 1:16 refers only to stars visible to the author's naked eye, which would limit the category to those of the Milky Way. In point of fact, as recent as the beginning of the last century, most astronomers sincerely believed that the Milky Way contained the sum total of all the stars in the universe; up until Edwin Hubble showed that the Milky Way is just one of many galaxies-- now estimated to number as many as 200 billion in the observable universe.
God challenged Abraham to count the stars (Gen 15:5). But of course without optical assistance, Abraham was limited to the stars of the Milky Way; whose apparent diameter is estimated to be a mere 100-150,000 light years.
The final say of course is the Bible. According to Gen 1:15, stars illuminated the earth on the day that God made them, which was prior to His creation of humanity. In other words: it's not unreasonable to believe that God didn't wait till starlight reached the earth on its own, but punched it straight through in order to begin illuminating the earth immediately.
But what's the point of putting all those objects out there in space? Well, for one thing, they're not only brain teasers; but they're actually quite pretty. Celestial objects decorate the night sky like the ornamentation people put up during holidays. The night sky would sure be a bore if it was totally black. Decorated with stars; the night sky is like a beautiful tapestry, or a celestial Sistine Chapel.
Stars makes better sense that way than to try and find some other meaning for them. I believe the universe is simply a magnificent work of art-- just as intriguing, if not more so, than the works of Picasso, Rembrandt, Michelangelo, Monet, Vermeer, and da Vinci --testifying to the genius of an engineer-artist without peer.
Day and Night simply label two distinct, and opposite, conditions-- the absence of light, and/or the absence of darkness. Labeling those conditions may seem like a superfluous detail, but when analyzing the chronology of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, it's essential to keep day and night separate.
That passage not only defines "day" as when the sun is up, and "night" as when the sun is down; but it furthur defines night as when the stars are out; and yet people still don't think God means it.
Christ clarified Day and Night in the New Testament.
"this world's light" is the Sun; which Christ defined as "by day"
†. Gen 1:26-27 . . Then God said: Let us make man in our image, in our likeness, and let them rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, over all the earth, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created man in His own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Genesis 9:5-6 outlaws murder: not on the basis that its morally wrong, but because humanity was created in the image of God.
James 3:9 frowns upon cursing people: not on the basis that it's morally wrong; but because humanity was created in the image of God.
I take it from those passages that were it not for the fact that mankind was created in the image of God, human life would be very cheap, and have no more value than a gerbil or a garden slug.
The image and likeness of God is what lends human life a measure of dignity over and above the animal kingdom. Were it not for their image and likeness of God, people could go on safari and hunt each other for sport, like human wildlife, and mount their heads on walls and mantles.
Gen 5:3 indicates that at least one of the meanings of "image and likeness" is reproduction. However, if God were to reproduce, He would reproduce more of himself just as when humans reproduce, they produce more of themselves; viz: humans beget humanity, and were God to reproduce, He would beget divinity. But humans most certainly are not divine.
For one thing; according to Ex 3:14 God is imperishable, while according to Matt 10:28, humanity is perishable: body and soul.
NOTE: According to Deut 6:4, John 17:3, and 1Cor 8:4-6, there is only one true god. Seeing as how that's the case, then the "gods" of Ps 82:6 are, by default, false gods; in other words: they aren't really divine.
So then; I think it safe to conclude that humanity's status as a son isn't a natural-born status; but rather, an honorary status; viz: the image and likeness of God is conferred rather than inherited. And a pretty amazing status it is too seeing as how it's about as close to divine as a creature can get without actually biologically descending from God.
†. Ps 8:5 . .You have made man a little lower than the angels; and You have crowned him with glory and honor.
The "glory and honor" spoken of in that Psalm pertains to the image and likeness of God; which puts humanity pretty high up on the food chain-- not because they are brighter and smarter then the other creatures; but because the image and likeness of God lends mankind an amount of value that no other species on Earth can match.
Q: If mankind was created in the image and likeness of God, then why is mankind so prone to evil?
A: Because mankind isn't biologically related to God, nor is mankind a chip off the olde block, so to speak. The term "image and likeness" is merely a status. It has no bearing whatsoever upon either the qualities, or the character, or the personality of mankind's creator. Were mankind biologically related to God, it would be 110% sinless in thought, word, and deed.
†. John 3:9 . .Whoever has been born of God does not sin, for His seed remains in him; and he cannot sin, because he has been born of God.
A: According to Acts 22:3, Paul the apostle was accomplished in Judaism; so he knew very well from the schooling he underwent with Gamaliel that according to Gen 2:7 human beings were definitely not made of God, rather, made of dust.
No; Paul simply appealed to the Greek's own poetry to point out to the Athenians that if human beings were truly God's biological offspring, then the father of human beings surely would be made of something other than metal and/or stone. I think maybe the Greeks took their religious art just a mite too seriously.


There's one evergreen Christmas custom in the Scott-Brennan household that gets rolled out every year – thumbing through the Radio Times for festive televisual treats. Liam likes nothing more than ringing his must-sees with a red felt-tip pen. It's a quaintly old-fashioned ritual in today's online, on-demand era. The magazine, first published in 1923, has a loyal but ageing following. I wonder how long it will be before both go the way of the dodo. The advertisers know this too, judging by the loose leaflets that drop from the magazine pages – funeral plans, will writing services, equity release schemes and special furniture for special needs. It's enough to make me think I've already got one foot in the grave. On the other hand, those rise and recline chairs do look comfy.
It's the turn of a new year, a time to reflect on the recent past. And what a hectic time it's been for these old two old drunken reprobates. Four years ago, we jumped the good ship Blighty and swam ashore to paradise in search of a dotty dotage of gin and tranquility We found a paradise of sorts and so much more besides. Three years into our choppy voyage, I found a little fame and notoriety, and a new course was set – as an accidental author. 2012 brought change: a rudder slammed into reverse and a return to our damp little island perched on the edge of Europe. So, in the best tradition of the year's end, I give you the most popular Pansy posts of 2012.
Who would have guessed that a lazy, throwaway post about the 12,000 year old ruins at Göbekli Tepe in Eastern Turkey would hit the top spot? Although it was published in 2011, like Meatloaf's Bat Out of Hell*, it never left the charts. In fact, it's my most popular piece ever, racking up 7,500 hits to date.
Another perennial favourite. Technically, it's a page not a post nowadays (though it started off as a post many moons ago). Oft quoted and copied, it's a tongue in cheek attempt to classify the vintage villagers of expatland. It continues to strike a chord.
The closest I came to an unseemly slanging match – I queered my pitch with the Turkish Living Forum (or, more accurately, they queered their pitch with me). I stopped the vile conversation in mid-sentence. I can do that. It's my blog. It gladdens my little homo heart that this post continues to attract punters. If I've put just one potential member off the bigoted posts, then my work is done. It's a shame. Most contributors to the forum seem sane and reasonable. It's a good idea ruined by the vicious and vocal few.
I'm a sucker for a sob story and Britain's Got Talent is stuffed to the rafters with them. A genuine attempt to discover the best (and worst) amateur talent that Blighty has to offer, or a cynical commercial exercise in crass over-sentimentality? Probably both and so what? This year a dog won. No, a real dog, not an ugly person.
A slip of the wrist and the cat was out of the bag. A premature posting meant that I announced our repatriation much earlier than I had intended and readers tuned in to read the news.
A post about a ground-breaking and award-drenched Turkish film, inspired by the true story of a Kurdish student who was gunned down by his own father for being openly and unrepentantly gay. It still hasn't been released with subtitles so I'm ashamed to say I still haven't seen it.
I wrote this post to celebrate and support the launch of Rainbowbookreviews, a brand new LGBT book review website. As part of the party, Perking the Pansies, Jack and Liam move to Turkey was offered as a competition prize. What some people will do for a freebie.
This was my naughty but nice take on the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics. The BBC did a grand job in televising the once-in-a-lifetime event – online, on radio and on TV. Liam had all three on simultaneously. For a brief period, the nation forgot its woes and smiled again. The mother lode of precious metal helped.
Towards the end of our time in Turkey, I thought it was high time to give the pansy treatment to the grand centrepiece of the Bodrum townscape – a little bit of history (not too much) and a little bit of humour. It's a popular cocktail.
Our first 'proper' holiday for four years and we chose Gran Canaria, that rocky mid-Atlantic brothel. You can take the boy out of the back room but you can't take the back room out of the boy.
I leave you with my favourite image from 2012. I know, it's all a bit predictable but I'm turning into a dirty old man and I intend to wallow in it. Happy New Year everyone and thank you for enduring my camp old nonsense for yet another year.
*Bat Out of Hell stayed on the UK album chart for 474 weeks. God knows why.
As the sun sets on the Friendly Games (bring on the Paralympics), I bring you an accidental guest post from an ancient friend and co-host of the Olympic Opening Ceremony knees-up we attended. It's accidental because it's actually an email he sent to the good, the gobby and the inebriated who graced the penthouse pad party and emptied his wine cellar.
Following on from the AMAZING opening, this last week just seems to have transformed London from the mildly aggressive and pushy city we all know and usually love, into something rather special. Just wanted to share some of my 'all warm inside' moments of this historic week.
One was my fairly usual 9am-ish District Line ride to work. Alongside the 2012 tracksuit wearing larger men and womenfolk who look like they could only win Gold in a pasty eating competition, 2 Austrian Olympians joined the carriage at Mile End in their matching white tracksuits complete with Austrian team logo and dangling Olympic passes. A young lad in his twenties and an older (well mid-thirties) tall guy with cropped hair (very Teutonic). As I glanced up from my Metro (could that paper be any duller?) the young lad had his arm around cropped hair and when they looked into each others eyes, they had that look that only people in the honeymoon period of a relationship have – a mix of lust, anticipation & hope. Of course no-one batted an eyelid in the carriage, and it was as normal as delays on the Central line..I bet they didn't do that in Beijing.
Another transport trip earlier in the week saw us sharing a Docklands train with a mass of nationalities returning from the Greenwich Park Eventing. a middle aged Irish guy was using the blarney on some loud and tipsy New Zealand wenches and telling them that Ireland's 5th place result was the best ever and to celebrate he'd been asked to a drinks reception at the Irish Embassy. Now that's how to impress tipsy Antipodeans.
Then the most heart warming happening of all followed on the next day. A morning trip to Boots in Piccadilly Circus on the way to work to get some essentials (no, not those…). As I was perusing the men's toiletries aisle a smart young lad with suit and badge asked me if I would like some help and then not only took me to the item on the shelf, he picked it for me and offered it in said basket all with some witty banter and winning smiles. He signed off by wishing me a nice day. I was momentarily stunned. Normally you could have collapsed in the feminine hygiene aisle in this Boots and been walked over for ten minutes before Security's arrival to remove you. I almost skipped to work.
Add on to the above the smiling and funny volunteers who guided me through security at the North Greenwich Arena (02 to us) within ten minutes from tube to seat, the mix on the streets and shops of Olympics bods, fans and tourists, the genuine (and noisy) fans filling all the fantastic stadia even at 10am in the morning..and the fact I seem to be permanently glued to Claire Balding or Gabby Logan on the magnificent BBC (abuse it at your peril Jeremy *unt) and it all completes my warm glow for this beautiful city I call home.
Even the weather has been on our side.
Arise London for you are putting on a winning performance as I always believed you would, from the energy of the Olympic stadium, the noise of the Velodrome, the beauty of Hyde Park and the majesty of Greenwich. And you and your welcome are the true star of this 30th Olympiad so far.
The greatest music show on earth has drawn to a close. The super trouper has been dimmed, the glitter ball has been packed away and the legions of obscure half-baked camp crooners have boarded the buses bound for their Carpathian villages. Their five minutes of fame is up. The Eurovision Song Contest rebuilt war-torn Europe sequin by sequin and our continent is a more colourful place because of it.
Blue are blue but they shouldn't be. We Brits are used to vengeful Eurovision voting by our neighbours. We're destined never to win but to always pick up the tab. It's the cross that we bear. We could offer up a singing goat for all the difference it would make. We should be consoled by the utter dominance of our once obscure and marginal Germanic tongue. It's a shame though, that the ethnic tint has been squeezed out of the competition by insipid Euro-pop sung in la la la Ingelish.
Predictably the Balkan conspirators, Baltic cartel and ex-Soviet mafia played their aces. So there we have have it. The travelling circus is off to Baku in Azerbaijan in 2012. At least with all their oil money they can afford to pay for it.
Watch the winning entry on You Tube. It's a sweet song and a little bit Glee.
Vote for your least worst Eurovision song.
We channel-hopped on Digiturk and, by chance, came across the Turkish version of 'Strictly Come Dancing' on the Show Channel. It's called 'Yok Böyle Dans' which I think literally translates as 'No Such Dance'. It's a distant relative of the real thing but the theme tune is the same. It's a lot of talking but not a lot of actual dancing, and goes on for five hours. I could roast a small chicken during the commercial breaks and not miss a thing. I lost the will to live. I'll never criticise the licence fee again.


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Q: How to add libraries in C++? Yea this is a dumb question... However in both of my C++ classes we did not do this at all (except for native libraries: iostream, iomanip, etc.)... My question is can anyone provide a link that gives the general explanation of adding libraries to C++?
I do realize what what #include means; it's just I have no clue on the linker/directories in a C++ IDE.
So long question short; could I get a general explanation of terms used to link libraries in C++?
I'm using c::b w/ MinGW.

A: This is a huge topic, and one I don't feel like providing a definitive answer to. However, since you say you are using Code::Blocks, this is the sequence to add a library to your project:

*

*Go to the Project menu

*Go to Build Options...

*In the options dialog, select the Linker Settings tab

*Use the Add button to select a library and add it to your project

A: This would probably interest you, but here is a short version:
When you assemble the .cpp, .c or whatever files, each translation unit (that is, each file) generates an object file.  When creating the final executable, you combine all the object files into a single binary.  For static libraries, you compile the static archive (.a or .lib) along with all the object files into the binary itself.  For linking to dynamic shared objects (.so or .dll), the binary is created with calls to the global offset table and you inform the linker that you wish to link with the shared object and the operating system loader builds the proper image when you run the program.
A general explanation of terms used to link libraries in C++
Starting with...
translation - This is where the high-level code (in C, Fortran or whatever) is translated into assembly code by translation unit.  So, every .cpp file is internally translated to assembly for a specific architecture.
assemble - Generates object files from the generated assembly.  Object files are almost machine code, but they have a lot of "unresolved externals," which you can  kind of think of as pointers to actual function definitions.
linking - This takes all your object files and puts them into a coherent binary, be it a dynamic shared object or an executable.  You need to tell the linker where it should find all those unresolved externals from the previous stage or they will show up as errors here.
Now the binary sits on disk, which is waits until...
loader - The operating system loads a binary off of the disk, which contains all the information needed to build the program image.  While the details are extremely platform specific, the loader is generally tasked with finding all the shared library references generated by the linker, loading those (recursively, since each DSO can have its own dependencies) and putting them into the memory space of the program.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Joliet Central Speech Team members advance to Sectionals
2/6/2019, noon
Three Joliet Central High School Speech Team members advanced to the IHSA Sectional Tournament, with two members named Regional Champions, after competing at the IHSA Regional Tournament held at Southland College Prep High School on February 2, 2019. The team is coached by English teachers Joe Hoyt and Ashley Samsa.
Grimm and Hanna Hagerty took home the title of Regional Champions in Dramatic Duet Acting, earning first place rankings from all of their judges, and Diana Martinez placed fourth in Poetry Reading. These three team members are advancing to the Sectional Competition and will compete on Saturday at Thornton High School for a chance to advance to the IHSA State Finals.
Hoyt said, "I'm so proud of our very young team for working so hard this season. Our Speech Captains, Hanna Hagerty and Kiara Brown, helped to guide our novices towards a promising future. I'm privileged to be part of such an amazing group of kids that inspire me daily."


Whether you're in the market for a new car or a used one, STEADFAST MOTORS is the right dealer for you. Known for its warm atmosphere, our showroom has welcomed Englewood customers for 7 years. Trusting your car dealer is what matters most when buying a car. You can count on us for honest, reliable information and finding the perfect car that fits you!
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Home Fstoppers Originals
Check Out These Five Short Movies Shot on Five Different iPhones
by Mike Briggs
Fstoppers Original
In the last few years, filmmakers all over the world have been expressing their creativity by shooting short and feature-length movies using their phones, showing that you should never be afraid to tell a story if you don't own a $50,000 camera. Here are five great ones, shot on five different generations of iPhone, including one shot entirely on the new iPhone X.
"The Fixer" - Shot on iPhone 4
In 2010 and 2011, iPhone short movies began to appear across the web after the release of the iPhone 4 that shot 720p at 30fps. Niche award sites and iPhone film festivals started popping up to shine a light on these adventurous filmmakers. "The Fixer" was one of the better short films shot at this time and won many of these awards. It's heavily reliant on post-production processes, but the ambition is brilliant to see from a filmmaker using a camera of such low spec compared to the tech available in the latest smartphones.
"Tangerine" - Shot on iPhone 5s
"Tangerine" was perhaps the first box office success by a movie shot on an iPhone, specifically the iPhone 5s. With a budget of $100,000, the production team saved money on using expensive equipment and spent it on paying extras and location hire fees. Critically acclaimed and premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, A.V Wire's Seth Malvin Romero described it as "an original, dazzling, and unforgettable portrayal of betrayal and friendship that easily bests any other film this year." "Tangerine" did more for this genre of filmmaking than any other release to date, and returned almost $800,000 in the box office.
"Romance in NYC" - Shot on iPhone 6
This one began life as a Kickstarter campaign and was released one year before "Tangerine," but on a newer model of iPhone. It's Tristan Pope's "Romance in NYC" shot exclusively on the iPhone 6. Pope had decided to use the iPhone 6 "to achieve the right intimate, candid feel" in his romantic drama that is shot almost entirely from the first person perspective. The movie is anchored in real life New York City, and Pope attempts to convey the intimacy that is found in mundane moments of relationships between a boyfriend and girlfriend.
"Detour" - Shot on iPhone 7
Fast forward a few years and we're now in the 4K era of iPhone cameras. "Detour" is a quirky short movie by acclaimed director Michel Gondry ("Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind"). The project was funded by Apple themselves as an advertisement for the filmmaking capabilities of the iPhone 7 upon release, none-the-less, Gondry does a wonderful job in using traditional cinematography techniques to tell this clever story which has young girl's tricycle being the main protagonist of the movie.
https://youtu.be/KrN1ytnQ-Tg
"Made in Paris" - Shot on iPhone X
The iPhone X is the most capable, highest spec iPhone camera to date, shooting up to 4K at 60fps using an f/1.8 wide angle lens and an f/2.4 telephoto lens that are both optical stabilized. "Made in Paris" utilized smartphone gimbals, stabilizers, and iPro Lenses by Schneider Optics for macro shots to shoot this beautiful cinematic short film about a French pastry chef. This is a wonderful demonstration of the cinematic capabilities available in the ever growing iPhone video, and accessory, market.
A smartphone camera is an extremely useful tool to get something visual in the can quickly when prepping for a larger project, just ask Oscar-winning director Damien Chazelle. Check out this behind-the-scenes featurette from "La La Land" and scrub through to 5:36 to check out Chazelle choreographing parts of the opening number on his iPhone.
These are just a handful of the thousands of short and feature films shot on iPhones, so please share your favorites in the comments section. So why would you even consider shooting on an iPhone? I feel like these five directors would all have a different answer, some based on budget, some based on an attempt for a voyeuristic look to the project. But the main consideration for myself as a filmmaker would be to break down the assumption that top spec gear is necessary to shoot good video. It's a great exercise to solely concentrate on your composition and storytelling that can open your mind to larger projects, or even stand alone as a compelling piece of cinematography.
Mike Briggs is the Co-founder & Creative Director of Ranch Creative, a UK based content-creation agency. Mike has created content across many genres of industry & commerce including global sports brands, fashion houses & tech companies.
ranchcreative.com
More from Mike Briggs
Are The Panasonic GH5 Auto-Focus Issues Finally Resolved With Firmware Update 2.3?
Seven Tips for Filming Instagram-Friendly Product and Fashion Videos
Mobile / March 12, 2018
Why the iPhone X Isn't the Best Option for Product Photography
Gear / June 8, 2018
D850 Versus GH5 Versus iPhone X Gimbal Test
The Fundamentals of Fashion Photography
With Shavonne Wong
Arun Hegden - November 28, 2017
This is one amazing short film i have seen shot with iPhone 4S
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fpLcxtihnp0
Bella Ramos - April 14, 2018
These are amazing. I have just watched them. There are some amazing short films which were filmed on iPhones. Those short films are available on Terrarium tv app. You can install this app on PC to watch these short films and many movies are also available on Terrarium tv pc app: https://terrariumtv.io/terrarium-tv-pc-laptop/
An Essay Only Nikon Shooters Will Appreciate
Nearly 15 Times Bigger Than Full Frame and Considerably Cheaper: Fstoppers Reviews the Intrepid 4x5 MK4


Nissan Patrol new shape 2013 - 2016, 320 or 400 Hp?
I drove Nissan Patrol 2015 SE mid option 320 HP yesterday and I really enjoyed the drive. Than got the chance to drive the GMC Yukon Denali 2016 and I could instantly see the difference. Although the sheer size of the Denali is breathtaking, the power it outputs manages to compensate with the weight. Overtaking was much easier in the Patrol though. Still deciding... I don't want a vehicle that will hemorrhage money. The SE version really doesn't have much to offer compared to the Platinum one.
Hey all, I am looking into buying a Nissan Patrol SE or LE platinum between the year 2013 - 2016, but I'm confused which engine size to go for? I'm not a desert safari type of guy. My daily road mileage is about 100kms. Rarely travelling from sharjah to dubai/abudhabi. Should I go for V6 or V8? Should the V8 be 320 or 400 HP? Which one has better fuel economy? I believe both fuel tank capacity is around 140 Litres taking about 250dh to fill. Also how are the spare parts prices for the Patrol? Is it easily available and cheap to repair? Need your advice please. Appreciate it.
Camry 2005 axle repair. Please advise.
Thanks a lot, will do that.
Hey all. So I noticed my 2005 camry (american specs, done 165 k miles) started giving some crinkling noise when I'm on u turn both ways left and right. It increased gradually and only occurs at u turn or turning the steering wheel more on both sides. The ride is smooth and brakes are working fine. I went to a garage to check it out and he said that it is the axle which is making the noise. So naturally I went to one of the authorized spare parts outlet in sharjah and they quoted me a whopping 3000dhs for 2 axles. The car is only worth about a mere 12k dhs. Its a lot of money for axle repair. Please advise on what to do now? Should I buy a second hand axle or get a new Chinese or Thai one? Has anyone had a similar experience and what did they do?
thanks for the detailed info. Yes the ABS has many problem but as far as I have researched they have fixed this after the 2010 models. It won't run beyond 250k kms I guess. My mitsubishi 4x4 also has the ABS light but its merely the sensor and the brakes are rock solid. I will definitely get a comprehensive test before purchasing a 2011 or 12 LS460. Could you tell me how costly are the usual spare parts which needs to be changed on a regular basis? which comprehensive testing is the best, shamil or tasjeel?
Thanks for the reply. Can you please tell me how costly are the spare parts? The regular stuff which needs to be changes like brake pads, sparks, belts, etc??
the looks are crazy, amazing curves, they are following suit with the new honda accord. its about time.
pretty late reply but u can just cover the dashboard with light carpet or dashboard fittings to save money. camry 2007 and 2008 seem to have this common problem in the heat.
Can't help much cos of the traffic, any car would be using a lot of fuel at stationary traffic. I own a camry 2005 v4 model, american specs. Full tank costs 150dh and drives about 530-560kms in city mixed with highway. But only highway rides go up about 100kms totaling at about 650kms on a full tank. I have tried various fuel injectors and they have only given about a 50-60kms bonus. I tried 95 and 98 petrol but didn't get a noticeable difference on the 98. Tyre pressure is quite important and ofcourse your own driving style matters a lot as said above.


The coin belongs to the Christian Feudal Art Monuments series, 250 having been minted only.
The castle of Bran was raised to oversee the commercial route linking Braşov and Cîmpulung, an important customs office being settled here. Located in Transylvania, it was owned by Mircea the Old (1386 -1418), that himself had received it from Sigismund of Luxemburg (king of Hungary between 1387 and 1437), most probably in 1395, as result of the friendship and alliance treaty concluded at Braşov by the two sovereigns. In 1427 the castle returned again to the possession of Sigismund.
In 1920, after the Great Union, Bran Castle became property of Queen Marie of Romania. After the death of the queen the castle was inherited by one of her daughters, princess Ileana (1908 - 1991). During the communist period the castle was nationalized, being turned into a museum. In 2006 the castle was retroceded to the offsprings of princess Ileana.


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The Royal Commission for AlUla appoints Seera Group as DMC partner for 'Winter at Tantora'
Brand transformation
As Destination Management Company, Seera Group will provide its integrated breadth of travel services – from travel bookings to hotel stays, car rentals and added-value experiences for guests from around the world
Seera Group, the leading travel and tourism company in Saudi Arabia, chosen for its expertise in providing a broad range of travel services in Kingdom
AlUla, KSA; October 2, 2019: The Royal Commission for AlUla announced today that Seera Group, the region's leading provider of travel and tourism services, has been appointed as the key Destination Management Company (DMC) for the second season of Winter at Tantora, a timeless festival in a timeless place named AlUla, a cultural and historical destination that is home Saudia Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Seera Group was chosen for its integrated breadth of offering covering not only travel and flight bookings but also airport handling, accommodation, ground transportation in AlUla, guest management, ticketing, VIP services and other value-added offerings, which will ensure that visitors from anywhere in the world can experience the unique 'Winter at Tantora' festival with ease and efficiency.
Set in the natural beauty of AlUla, last year's inaugural Winter at Tantora was a success, welcoming high-profile guests from around the world and hosting 37,000 visitors from 72 countries. The second edition of the festival will be held from December 19, 2019, to March 7, 2020, offering additional weekends for visitors to enjoy cultural programming, equine events and celebrity performances by some of the world's greatest musicians.
Amr AlMadani, Chief Executive Officer at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: "As we welcome visitors to our second season of Winter at Tantora, this partnership will help ensure our international visitors benefit from a smooth and customer-friendly travel experience from door to door. It will provide an opportunity for us to share AlUla's spectacular treasures, including Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO heritage site, Hegra, with guests from around the world. It will also help us to move closer towards fulfilling our vision for AlUla to be the place of heritage for the world in line with Vision 2030 goals to drive cultural tourism to the Kingdom and to create economic diversification."
Abdullah Aldawood, CEO of Seera Group, said: "We are honoured to partner with the Royal Commission for AlUla on the spectacular Winter at Tantora festival, and we are thankful to them for their support. Choosing us as a DMC for the event underlines our competencies in offering tailored solutions for international and Saudi-based visitors – covering all aspects of their journey. In addition to working with our global offices and affiliates, we will promote Winter at Tantora through our outlets at all key airports in the Kingdom. Our diversified and customised service offering is aimed at further promoting Winter at Tantora and to contribute to the goals of Saudi Vision 2030."
Described as one of the world's greatest undiscovered wonders, AlUla was positioned on the ancient Incense Route between Southern Arabia and Egypt. It once thrived as a hub of commercial and cultural exchange. Seera Group will highlight the destination through its dedicated campaign to promote Winter at Tantora, which is expected to welcome over 40,000 people through the weekend programmes. The Royal Commission for AlUla aims to attract two million visitors to AlUla by 2035.
Positioning AlUla as the ultra-luxury destination and Winter at Tantora as the must-visit event, Seera Group will leverage its technology-powered travel services to attract and welcome visitors from around the world. Led by its mission to enhance the overall experience for visitors, Seera Group will draw on its diversified strengths, specialised business divisions, resources and relationships with partners to strengthen visitor arrival and assure them the most memorable experiences in the Kingdom.
Through the partnership, visitors can enjoy a seamless booking, travel, local transport and stay experience through Seera Group. The Group's flagship consumer travel brand Almosafer will market the festival extensively across social media and other communications channels and offer visitors an extensive range of package options including accommodation, flights, transportation and ancillary services for both weekend visits or one-day options. Visitors are also offered one on one personal consultation with travel advisors across Almosafer's retail network in the Kingdom.
Further, by drawing on its existing wide-ranging hotel's contracts and expertise in providing guest management services through the Hajj and Umrah business 'Mawasim', Seera Group's services will manage all aspects of visitor's accommodation at Winter at Tantora. Visitors also have a choice to travel with efficiency and hassle-free to and from AlUla with Lumi, the car rental business of Seera Group and the region's largest provider of travel services. Seera Group is also going to consult and work with the current accommodation providers to enhance and elevate the guest experience whilst in destination, not only for the festival but year-round.
Seera Group commits to providing a cutting-edge visitor experience at the Winter at Tantora festival. The new partnership is a testament to the Group's long-standing commitment to enhance the customer experience in the Kingdom. In addition, the partnership is also going to elevate the overall tourism experience in the Kingdom not only for domestic travellers but those that are discovering the untouched beauty that the country has to offer.
Almosafer takes visitors on mesmerising musical performances by global legends at 'Winter at Tantora' in Saudi Arabia
07 Jan 2020 | Brand transformation
Jadarah candidates enter the next phase of on-the-job training to form a talented workforce
25 Dec 2019 | Brand transformation