A worm-like type of malicious software has been found targeting Apache Tomcat, an open-source Web server application, according to Symantec.
The malware, which Symantec calls "Java.Tomdep," differs from other server malware in that it's not written in the PHP scripting language, wrote Takashi Katsuki in a blog post.
Instead, it acts like a Java Servlet, which is a Java programming language class that's designed to perform tasks for a web application. The malware servlet behaves like an IRC bot, receiving commands from an attacker, Katsuki wrote.
It can send and receive files, create new processes, update itself and conduct a UDP (user datagram protocol) flood, a type of DDoS (distributed denial-of-service) attack.
The command-and-control servers have been traced to Taiwan and Luxembourg, he wrote. End users who access web pages hosted on an infected Tomcat server are not affected by the malware.
Java.Tomdep also hunts for other Tomcat servers, trying a series of weak usernames and passwords. Katsuki said system administrators should use strong passwords for Tomcat machines and not open up the management port to public access.
Servers are rich targets for hackers since they run constantly and have high performance, Katsuki wrote.
The malware doesn't appear to be widespread, but Symantec has found infected machines in the U.S., Brazil, China, Italy, Sweden, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Malaysia.


This Intel/NVIDIA configuration will bring your gaming experience on whole new level. Sillent and cool but in other hand powerful and extreme. You won't have problems with overheating. You will run every game smoothly even on higher setting. It can also serve for multimedia projects and development. If you run out of CPU power you can always overclock it as it is unlocked version.


Jon R. Kiner, 60, of Elyria, OH, formerly of Prophetstown, IL, died Thursday, December 16, 2010, at The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, following a lengthy illness.
Jon was born June 18, 1950, to Roland and Lois (Taber) Kiner. He grew up in Prophetstown and graduated from Prophetstown High School,where he was an outstanding member of the track team. He was a graduate of Illinois State University and retired as the Planning Director for the City of Elyria, OH. He previously worked many years for the Sears Roebuck and Co. at the Midway Mall in Elyria. Jon�s interests included traveling, fishing, golfing and watching sports. He was also a huge fan of the Beatles rock band.
Survivors include two daughters, Tiya L. (Sean) Gilchrist of Elyria, OH and Michelle (Michael) Goodrich of Wellington, OH; two sons, Sean R. (Rochelle) of Powell, OH and Scott R. (Kimberlee) of Columbus, OH; eight grandchildren; one brother, Jeffrey Kiner of St. Petersburg, FL; two cousins, Ann McBride and Beth Ruboyianes, both of AZ.
Memorial contributions in Jon's memory can be sent to the American Cancer Society, 10501 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106.


Dora Designs John Fischer Puffin Doorstop. This sweet puffin doorstop from Dora Designs is lovingly made from faux suede and cotton and finished with his very own hat and scarf! At 28cm tall by 15cm wide by 33cm from the tip of his tail to the end of his beek he is strong enough to hold open a big door. Puffin doorstop is surface washable and it is recommended he is allowed to dry naturally.


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BEST ALBUMS OF THE DECADE: 10-4
Jan2 by Matt
Here is the second-to-last part of my decade list. I hope you've enjoyed it so far. It's really tough to put some of these in order. So that pretty much means that albums 10-1 are all crazy good, and I think you should hear them at least once.
Come back tomorrow for the finale…
10. Picaresque by The Decemberists (2005)
I am a total sucker for the theatrics of The Decemberists. But Picaresque rises above the rest of their catalogue by offering wondrous detail, both verbal and musical. The album never becomes unwieldy and is very charming. Each track is full of lyrical wit and real emotion. "Eli, The Barrow Boy" is painfully sad. "The Engine Driver" pulls you into the loss and rejection of the titular character. Yes, "The Mariner's Revenge Song" is huge and crazy, but it's also a powerful piece. Nerdy? Yes. Brilliant? Undeniably.
9. The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me by Brand New (2006)
Having now heard their follow-up album (Daisy), it's a bit disappointing to see Brand New stop their evolution here. Brand New were an average snotty, crappy punk band that followed in the mold of Blink 182. Forgettable radio fodder. But then something magical happened: they decided to become artists. The process was took two albums (leaving Deja Entendu as a nice straightforward punk album), but the result was fantastic.
Here there were textured sounds. You could actually understand the band's dynamics. The songs had a hint of artsy production. They even managed to pull some Modest Mouse stuff. It was all brilliant, leaving a refreshing feeling and some faith in punk rock. Even the simplest of songs were packed with mature themes and strong musicianship. These guys need not be associated with that Jude Law song any longer. This is a real statement.
8. Illinois by Sufjan Stevens (2005)
Ambitious hardly begins to describe this album. Contained within the now-defunct 50 States project are two records. Seemingly, it would be pretty difficult to contain the spirit of a state in one disk. But after doing so well with Michigan, Stevens completely eclipsed his own effort in the sprawling and stunning Illinois.
22 songs, and over an hour of playtime sound pretty daunting. But when you realize that a few of them are mini-songs designed for album flow, the remaining stuff sounds even more overwhelming. But Stevens has an amazing gift at hook development. It starts from the first notes: you want to hear where those pianos will go in "Concerning the UFO." Soon you're left wondering where "Come On! Feel the Illinoise!" will go in its two parts. Eventually you realize that you're halfway through and still can't wait to see what will come next. Insanely classy and certainly brilliant, this is a wonderful epic.
7. Fleet Foxes by Fleet Foxes (2008)
Okay I lied. Back when I called this the best album of 2008, I also said something bold about this becoming the greatest album of the decade. As you can plainly see, 7 is not the same as 1. Why the change? Well, I've had more time to consider the album and those I've placed ahead of it.
Fleet Foxes is a splendid album, still full of the gorgeous things that make me smile in its style of music. Stunning singers are still the highlight, and it carries the whole album. But has this recorded lessened in any way? Almost. Too much familiarity lessens some of the impact. Thus, to keep this ageless wonder ageless, it's best to not over-saturate. However, when used appropriately, Fleet Foxes is still amongst the best of the decade.
6. Veckatimest by Grizzly Bear (2009)
My love for Grizzly Bear started as I listened to them before they opened a Radiohead show. After that show, it was clear that I needed to pay attention to Grizzly Bear's next album. Then came the leak. I was worried about hearing it, but was so painfully curious. I heard, and was pleased but understood the audio quality as a barrier to excellence.
Oh boy was that quite the barrier. Veckatimest is superb, offering gorgeous little details. And really, this is all about the beautiful details. It's clear that this album was painstakingly crafted by four excellent musicians. Every song has moments of pure brilliance and the whole album shimmers with production quality. After such a great run in only a brief existence, I really look forward to the next release from Grizzly Bear. It's obvious they are great quality control experts. But while I wait, I will have Veckatimest to keep me happy.
5. Funeral by Arcade Fire (2004)
This was a game-changer for me. I hadn't quite realized the broad potential of indie rock, but I was getting there. And then in the summer of 2007, I finally got my hands on this disk. Late to the party, sure, but very interested. I was blown away from the first moment. The near-sobs of Win Butler's vocals were stunning. The fearless sincerity was unnerving.
People sometimes insult or marginalize Arcade Fire for being so loud. I think that's a mistake. Loudness and bold statements do not necessarily lessen music. When used as a tool for communication, loudness is a powerful resource for Arcade Fire. They fill out the room like U2, but have the grip of Neutral Milk Hotel. But for me, none of that matters without "Rebellion (Lies)." That song is the keystone of Funeral. In my mind, it all builds to resolve in "Rebellion." That progression and development is amazing and makes Funeral so good.
4. In Rainbows by Radiohead (2007)
It feels strange ranking In Rainbows ahead of Kid A. But for me, it's so easy. While I have to be ready to hear Kid A, this album can come on at any point and make me happy. That's one big difference: the joy involved. Yes, songs like "Nude" and "All I Need" tug at the heartstrings. But it's the feeling of the whole album. Freedom and warmth abound.
Forget about the pricing thing. It was cool at first, but does not make this the best Radiohead album this decade. Instead, the songs make this the best album of Radiohead's decade. Each one has personality, power. They're all made by a full band, offering insight into their powerful musicianship. But really, it's personal affection that gets me to place In Rainbows so high. I love this album for all that it offers and it is in constant rotation in my music. These 10 songs are phenomenal.
This entry was posted in Album Review, Best of, Holiday, Music and tagged Arcade Fire, Best Albums, Brand New, Decade, Decemberists, Fleet Foxes, Grizzly Bear, Music, Radiohead, Sufjan Stevens.
← BEST ALBUMS OF THE DECADE: 20-11
BEST ALBUMS OF THE DECADE: 3-1 →
2 comments on "BEST ALBUMS OF THE DECADE: 10-4"
Review: The Suburbs by Arcade Fire « Essential Listening says:
[…] Funeral? Here is where I'm left with a problem. I love Funeral quite a bit. I've already gushed about how it helped me make a real change to indie rock. I'm inherently biased to support […]
Review: The King is Dead by The Decemberists « Essential Listening says:
[…] Time for an admission: I've only really listened to The Hazards of Love (the previous Decemberists record) once. By that I mean once through, which is ultimately the only correct way to hear the sprawling rock opera. But it's exhausting. The songs are dense, the storyline overwhelming, and the music not immediately welcoming. I was disappointed, especially considering the high praise I've had for the band in the past. […]
RT @EW: Stories Behind the Songs: Spoon's Britt Daniel reveals the secrets behind the band's biggest hits share.ew.com/SBUrVJL 10 hours ago
youtube.com/watch?v=qEYwz3… 10 hours ago

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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TEG restructures for new era of ticketing and technology
TEG has today announced a management restructure to meet the challenges of a new era for TEG's ticketing and technology operations. Under the changes, the ticketing, technology, Client Services, e-commerce, marketing and product innovation teams will be unified into a single stream, reporting to Cameron Hoy, who has been appointed to the new role of …
TEG restructures for new era of ticketing and technology Read More »
Ticketek Singapore opens new portal for entertainment fans in South-East Asia
TEG has today announced the launch of Ticketek Singapore, an exciting new ticketing portal for live entertainment fans in South-East Asia. The new website is now live at www.ticketek.com.sg and will progressively add new tickets and shows in the months ahead. The Ticketek Singapore ticketing platform will list a wide variety of events in Singapore, South East Asia, …
Ticketek Singapore opens new portal for entertainment fans in South-East Asia Read More »


I have to say that I was blown away with the number of likes, posts and comments I got for my Veggie Primavera recipe – it seems like many people out there were interested in the meatless recipe and that truly is super quick and easy to whip up.
Long gone are the days when the popular school of thought was that every main meal had to have some form of meat protein in it. Along with a better understanding of food nutrition and vitamins has come the understanding that we are probably more often than not getting enough protein in your diet without always having to have a piece of steak on the dinner plate.
This is something that we strongly believe in my household and so every Monday, we make it a meat-free affair with meatless Monday. I've found it's a great way to challenge yourself and add new recipes and kitchen creations to your cooking repertoire if vegetarian cooking isn't something that you've done a lot of in the past.
Cutting down on your meat intake, even if only for one main meal each week, will not only do wonders for your bank balance, but more and more studies are showing that it also has a great effect on your overall health as well as the environment.
It can be better for your health – Eating more plant-based meals or having more of a plant-based diet, which is one that focuses on fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, legumes and nuts, can often be higher in nutritional value than your standard meat filled dish. As long as you're including an array of vegetables in your meal and not just sitting down to a big bowl of cheesy pasta, your meal will most probably be richer in vitamins, nutrients and fiber.
100g of kidney beans contain fewer calories, less saturated fat, and only marginally less protein when compared to 100g of beef mince, making it a nutritious alternative to minced beef.
Plant foods are typically low in saturated fat and some (nuts, seeds, and avocados) are high in unsaturated fats too helping you to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Plus, recent US research published in the JAMA Internal Medicine journal suggests that people who eat more of a vegetarian based diet have a 22% lower risk of cancer.
When I started to do the research on this topic I was actually shocked to learn that the whole animal agriculture industry is estimated to produce more greenhouse gases than the whole of the transportation industry combined… how crazy is that?! Then when I started to look into it further I found that the production a 10g of beef protein (this is roughly a 1.5 ounce or 40g piece of steak) releases the same amount of greenhouse gases as the production of 162g wheat protein – which is the equivalent to 46 slices of bread, 49 ounces of uncooked pasta or 22 bowls of bran flakes.
It's cheaper – Preparing a vegetarian meal is most often going to cost you less at the supermarket than a meat based one, meaning it's a great routine to get into if you're on a tight budget. Take soup for example – how good is a big bowl of pumpkin soup with some crusty (gluten free) bread and lashings of butter especially as the months start to cool down? Simple to make, cost effective and 100% plant-based. Here's a recipe I love from Cookie and Kate for a Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Soup. I like to add a few extra elements to give it a bit of an Asian twist – add in some freshly grated ginger with the onion and garlic when you're sautéing and make sure you use the coconut cream instead of the heavy cream. When it comes to serving, top with some lightly toasted crushed macadamias and a sprinkling of coriander – yum!
You might have a handful of meatless meals up your sleeve but unless you've cooked a lot of vegetarian dinners before, you're more than likely going to discover some new and exciting recipes that you haven't cooked before.
Grilled halloumi and pesto burgers – It doesn't just have to be meat that you throw onto the grill – veggies and cheese work great too. The addition of the pesto adds a burst of flavor that will have you reaching back to the plate for more!
Vegetarian nachos with kale and sweet potatoes – This is a great option for when you're after some good ol' fashioned comfort food but with fewer calories. Substituting sweet potato for your normal nacho chips makes a healthy alternative while the addition of kale pumps up the iron levels. I'd even suggest adding in some sautéed lentils or kidney beans for an extra protein hit as well.
Stir-fried vegetables with toasted cashews – Super easy for when you're in a hurry, this Asian stir-fry is packed full of vitamins and nutrients and served with rice makes a great gluten free meatless Monday meal. You'll get your protein from the cashews which are so delicious, rich and moreish. If you're not a fan of cashews then you can swap them out for almonds instead.
Portabello Mushroom Wellingtons – Minus the beef steak in these fancy portabello mushroom wellingtons and you'll still impress your dinner guests. Mushrooms, shallots, baby spinach and camembert cheese all wrapped up in a golden puff pastry parcel; no one is even going to notice there is no meat in this dish…. Yum!
Italian-Style Eggplant Parmesan (Melanzane alla Parmigiana) – Eggplants (or aubergine depending on where you are) make a great substitute for meat and go so well in the Italian classic Parmigiana. In fact, this isn't even a meat substitute – it's simply the way it was intended to be made.
Pumpkin, chickpea and coconut curry – Jamie Oliver has a great one going here with this super easy curry recipe. You can make this well ahead of time as with any curry the flavor only gets better with time. If you're having a hard time finding fresh curry leaves not a problem, just substitute them with a couple of bay leaves and some lime zest.
Next PostNext Le Creuset Heritage Stoneware Covered Rectangular Dish Giveaway!
I've always wanted good meal options without meat and you have given quite amazing options especially stir fried vegetables with toasted cashews sounds yum!
Such an awesome post! I was vegetarian for 3 years and I plan to go back soon! Lovely post dear!
This is such a wonderful idea and so much better than anything that would require me to cut off meat completely off. I am so going to try this and have a meatless day in my home. The benefits are great!
I love serving and eating meat-free meals even though some of the other members in my family believe we have to have meat at every meal. Ha! I especially want to try Jamie Oliver's pumpkin curry.
I used to be vegan and was over over six years, and after realizing how much it was affecting my health, I did have to stop, I still eat plant based about 70% of the time. Meatless Monday is very big at my house.
Great post. I tend to try to do at least one night a week without meat as well. I think most people should.
Such a great overview! I only buy meat for three meals a week due to budget reasons, but love all the other reasons to go meatless. I definitely need to try the Grilled Halloumi and Pesto Burgers.
We always try to eat at least one vegetarian day a week, this list are all great reasons to make sure we stick to it!
This is a great idea but it wouldn't go over with my family! The recipes sound amazing!
I don't consciously do a Meatless Monday, but we eat plenty of vegetarian meals – just to mix it up. Kale has been making a frequent appearance as of late.
I know a lot of people who do a meatless Monday. I think for them saving money is more of the factor. Either way, I love changing up my menu to include different foods.
Meatless meals benefit us in many ways. Also, it's an interesting experience to have a meat-free meal every Monday. Thanks for your post!
I love the idea of Meatless Mondays! I actually don't include meat in a lot of my meals but I still like the idea of setting aside a specific night to try out new meat-free recipes!
We love Meatless Mondays! It gives us a chance to introduce more veggies into our diet!
We eat a lot of meat in our house so I am always thankful when we can do meatless meal days as well. It gives my body time to ingest some good veggies.
I do meatless most days and love the Meatless Monday concept to help people get more veggies in!
Love all these options! Those portabello mushroom wellingtons have my name on them!
Meatless Monday is a great idea. I love meat but I can really do without on some days. But hubby would scream blue murder lol.
I love how you explained it, I've been trying to make Meatless Mondays a thing for my family, I think I'll show my hubby this and see if it helps woo him into the idea!
We used to be really good about doing meatless meals twice a week, but got out of the habit. I really want to get back into it, mostly for environmental reasons, so thanks for the reminder! I'm going to have to try that nacho recipe!
My dad always does at least one meatless dinner and he has some great recipes but he is always looking for more!


KJazzled Jewellery is designed and operated by Karen Leask, from her private jewellery studio located on the Darling Downs in the beautiful Garden City of Toowoomba (Queensland). Karen's passion for creating unique handmade jewellery came about after noticing there was a lack of individuality and originality in mass produced jewellery. KJazzled prides its' name on one-of-a-kind jewellery designs, so you can be guaranteed not to see the same piece of jewellery being worn by another. After all we are all individual beings so why should our jewellery be any different! Each stunning item has been designed to be worn either on its own, or can be layered or stacked using multiple pieces. Most designs can be adjusted to fit each individual's specifications upon request.
With a reputation for providing only quality products and excellent customer service, worldwide clientele is testament to KJazzled's ever expanding popularity. A significant highlight of 2017 was being selected to participate in the gifting suite at the MTV Movie & TV Awards in Hollywood.


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The 37 schools in Kent hit by coronavirus since September return to classrooms
More cases in schools across the county have been confirmed
Lauren MacDougall
The latest list of Kent schools struck by coronavirus (Image: Getty)
Usually the return to school in September is a textbook calendar events for parents.
After the long summer break mums and dads nervously look forward to routine and normality re-entering their lives.
Though in 2020 most things are anything bur normal - including education.
And although term restarted just earlier this month, somewhat predictably dozens of schools in Kent have already been affected by the coronavirus.
After many months of being stuck at home, children are finally back learning in the classroom.
Although the school return will have come as a welcome relief for many parents, it has clearly not been without its problems.
We at KentLive now want to hear from you about your experiences of the school restart and how your children are coping.
Press here to take our brief survey, so we can get a better understanding of the challenges parents and pupils are facing here in Kent.
So far, at least 37 schools have recorded positive cases of COVID-19 and have been forcedto take action.
From individual pupils, staff members, classes, and whole year groups, the impact of the virus has varied across the county.
This is a full updated list of Kent schools that have so far confirmed known cases.
St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School, Gillingham
Pupils have been sent home after an outbreak of coronavirus at a primary school in Twydall.
A class at St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School were told to self-isolate for two weeks and have been off since September 23.
Head teacher Clare Redmond said in a letter to parents: "We know that you may find this concerning but are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.
"Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.
"The small number of children who have been in direct prolonged contact with the confirmed case will have received an individual letter and will be staying home for 14 days.
"The school remains open and your child should continue to attend if they remain well."
Wye School, Ashford
Wye School
A positive coronavirus test at a school in Ashford means two year groups have been sent home.
The Wye School has more than 70 pupils in Year 12 and 13, who were told they will need to work from home this week.
Borden Grammar School, Sittingbourne
Borden Grammar School in Sittingbourne has sent a letter to parents informing them of a positive coronavirus test.
In the message a Year 9 class were told to self isolate for 14 days. It read: "Please bear in mind that we have made great efforts within the school to maintain separation bubbles so that all year groups are kept separate, have staggered social times and enter through different gates.
"The school remains open and your child should continue to attend as normal if they remain well.
"We have communicated with all parents and children who may have been in contact so please don't worry unnecessarily."
Brockhill Park Performing Arts College, Folkestone
A "small number of children" have been told to work from home after a pupil tested positive for coronavirus.
Brockhill Park Performing Arts College sent a letter out to parents today (September 21) informing them of the news.
Head teacher Sonette Schwartz, and deputy head teacher Charles Joseph said the Folkestone school was informed of the positive test by Public Health England.
It does not specify how many children have been told to work from home for the next fortnight.
The letter said: "We have been advised by Public Health England that there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 within the school.
"We know that you may find this concerning but are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England.
"This letter is to inform you of the current situation and provide advice on how to support your child."
"The small number of children who have been in direct prolonged contact with the confirmed case will have received an individual letter and will be staying at home for 14 days.
Holcombe Grammar School, Chatham
An entire year group at Holcombe Grammar School has been asked to work from home after a Year 11 pupil tested positive for coronavirus.
The Chatham school has said that all other Year 11s must isolate at home and complete their school work online.
The school has moved to reassure parents and carers that all Public Health England protocols are being followed.
A spokesman for the school said: "We have been informed that a Year 11 student at Holcombe Grammar School has tested positive for COVID-19.
"Whilst we seek further information and guidance from Public Health England, we have taken the decision that the whole of Year 11 must stay at home and work remotely on September 21.
"This will not impact on other year groups who should attend the school as normal as we have created year group bubbles to avoid cross contamination.
"Year 11 students should log onto Microsoft Teams during their allocated lesson times to receive work from their subject teachers."
Royal Harbour Academy, Ramsgate
Some 25 pupils have reportedly been told to self isolate following a confirmed case of coronavirus at Royal Harbour Academy in Ramsgate.
A Year 7 pupil has tested positive for the virus and the school has been deep cleaned.
In a letter seen by KentLive, headteacher Simon Pullen moved to reassure parents and carers.
He said: "Unfortunately, we have had a Year 7 student test positive for COVID-19. We have followed instructions from Public Health England and have contacted all those students and staff who need to be isolated as a precautionary measure.
"We are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England. Please be reassured that for most people, coronavirus (COVID-19) will be a mild illness.
"All other students and staff are to continue to attend school as normal."
Nexus Foundation Special School, Tonbridge
Pupils at a special education school in Tonbridge have been told to self isolate due to a 'covid outbreak'.
Five class groups at the school were told last Monday (September 14) that they couldn't return until September 29.
An email sent to parents and carers, seen by KentLive reads: "We have been in consultation with Public Health England and have been advised due to a COVID outbreak the following classes will be closed.
"Students need to self isolate and can return on Tuesday 29th September."
Tonbridge Grammar School
Parents and carers of children at Tonbridge Grammar School were advised a Year 9 pupil had tested positive on Friday (September 18).
Parents received a message at 7.30am asking Year 9 pupils not to attend the school.
The message, read: "This morning we have been advised of a positive COVID-19 test in Year 9. We are unable to contact the designated Department for Education helpline for advice until their enquiry line opens at 8am.
"As an interim measure the Head Teacher has agreed with the Chairman of Governors that it would be prudent to ask any Year 9 students who have not already set out on their journey to school to remain at home pending further information from the school.
"Any Year 9 students arriving at school this morning should report direct to the sports hall and not go to their classrooms.
"We will provide further information and advice as soon as we have been able to contact the appropriate authorities and received their directions."
At this stage it is not known how many pupils have been asked to self-isolate from tomorrow (September 21), if any.
Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys
More than 200 pupils at Tunbridge Wells Grammar School for Boys were sent home after one of their classmates tested positive for coronavirus.
A spokesman for Kent County Council said as soon as the result was known the boy's bubble of Year 7 pupils were sent home mid-morning.
They were not expected to return to the classroom until September 25, which means they will have missed around two weeks of school.
Valley Invicta Primary School, Aylesford
It has also been reported than an entire year group of pupils have been sent home to self isolate at Valley Invicta Primary School.
It's thought that a Year 6 pupil has contracted the virus.
The pupil will complete all protocols before returning to school.
Edenbridge Primary School
It was reported on September 15 that some children at Edenbridge Primary School have been asked to self isolate after a pupil contracted the virus.
The school has since confirmed that a deep clean has taken place.
The affected pupil will isolate for 14 days before returning to the classroom if they display no further symptoms.
London South East Colleges, Bromley
London South East Colleges Bromley confirmed a member of staff tested positive for COVID-19.
No students were affected.
A London South East Colleges spokesperson said: "We are working with Public Health England and following all guidance necessary to ensure the College environment is as safe as possible – including deep cleaning and self-isolation of staff who have come into close contact with the individual.
"All the college sites remain open at this time and students and staff can continue to attend as normal, providing of course that they are not displaying any symptoms of COVID-19.
"Public Health England is satisfied that the college is taking appropriate measures and together we are keeping the situation under close review.
"Social distancing is in force across our campuses, extra hand sanitising is in place and all staff/students are required to wear masks in communal areas. "
Longfield Academy, Dartford
' 'A number of staff' at Longfield Academy were told to self isolate, a spokesman has said.
They added: "We can confirm that a member of support staff at Longfield Academy is currently unwell with a suspected case of COVID-19.
"Given the circumstances of the case we are treating this incident as a confirmed case and we have been liaising with Public Health England to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to prevent any further transmission across the academy.
"As a result of contact tracing we have advised that a number of other office based staff at the academy should also self isolate as a precaution whilst we are awaiting test results.
"Public Health England have confirmed that there are no further measures we need to take at this stage and the academy can remain open operating under the COVID secure procedures already in place.
"Staff and parents have been informed as a precaution and we are continuing to monitor the situation."
Strood Academy, Rochester
Strood Academy in Carnation Road, Rochester, has one confirmed case of coronavirus since term restarted.
A member of support staff tested positive - and is now self-isolating.
Richard Taylor, a spokesman for the trust, confirmed the positive case to KentLive.
Mr Taylor said: "We can confirm that a member of support staff at Strood Academy is currently self-isolating following a positive test for COVID-19.
"In line with our protocols we have been liaising with Public Health England to ensure that all necessary steps are taken to prevent any further transmission across the academy.
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"Fortunately the member of staff affected is asymptomatic and we believe that the transmission of the virus occurred outside of school."
Mr Taylor also said the school need not take any further action and that the school can remain open with the COVID-secure measures already in place.
"Staff and parents have been informed as a precaution and we are continuing to monitor the situation," he added.
St Katherine's School, Snodland
An entire primary school class was sent home after several children fell ill with symptoms of coronavirus.
St Katherine's School in Snodland told parents the decision was made after a "large number of absences" in the Year 3 class.
It said coronavirus infections had not been confirmed in any pupils, and the class closure was described as a "precautionary measure".
The children were said to have persistent coughs and high temperatures, which are possible symptoms of COVID-19.
The news was broken to parents in an email yesterday (September 9), followed by a text an hour later telling them to check emails.
South Avenue Primary School, Sittingbourne
South Avenue Primary School confirmed two of its pupils were struck down with COVID.
These children were in Years 1 and 5 - and all pupils in those classes have been told to remain at home.
The school is managed by the Fulston Manor Academies Trust.
Spokesman Alan Brookes said: "Having been informed that two children who attend South Avenue had tested positive for COVID-19 the school followed the government guidelines, contacted Public Health England and, acting on their advice, asked all pupils in the relevant year groups, 1 and 5, to remain at home for the next 14 days.
"It is clear that the children did not contract the virus whilst at school and it is hoped that the swift action taken will prove effective in ensuring that there is no further spread of the disease within the community.
"Letters provided by Public Health England have been sent to all parents appraising them of the situation and offering further guidance."
Bapchild and Tonge Primary School, Sittingbourne
Bapchild and Tonge Primary School in School Lane also has one reported case of coronavirus.
Head teacher Christian Kelly says he was informed late on Monday, September 4 that a child in Year 1 had tested positive for the virus.
The entire year group has been told to self-isolate.
In a letter to parents he said: "It is clear that the children did not contract the virus whilst at school and it is hoped that the swift action taken will prove effective in ensuring that there is no further spread of the disease within the community.
"Letters provided by Public Health England have been sent to all parents appraising them of the situation and offering further guidance and phone calls were made to the parents in year 1.
"We continue to reassure parents of other pupils within the school that Bapchild and Tonge continues to administer rigorously all of the guidance regarding hygiene measures in order to minimise the possibility of any transmission occurring during the school day.
"We send our best wishes to the child and family for a swift and speedy recovery and look forward to welcoming our Year 1 children back soon."
St Peter's Primary School, Sittingbourne
A class of Year 6 pupils were sent home for 14 days after the school received confirmation of a child testing positive for the virus on Sunday, September 6.
The Kent Catholic Schools' Partnership, which manages St Peter's Primary School, said it wished the affected pupil a swift recovery.
A letter from the school said: "The pupil has only been in close contact with pupils and members of staff within the school's Year 6 bubble.
"All pupils and staff members within this bubble have already been advised to remain at home to self-isolate for the next 14 days, as a precaution, in line with the advice we have received from Public Health England.
"We know that you may find this concerning, but we can reassure you that we are continuing to monitor the situation and are working closely with Public Health England."
Westlands Primary School, Sittingbourne
A pupil in Year 1 tested positive for COVID-19 at the school, based in Homewood Avenue.
A letter sent home to parents said: "We wanted to provide some additional information and reassurance about the confirmed positive COVID-19 case in Year 1.
"Firstly, we want to send our best wishes to the child and family for a swift and speedy recovery.
"Having been informed on Tuesday morning a child had tested positive for Covid-19 the school followed the government guidelines, contacted Public Health England and, acting on their advice, asked all pupils in the relevant year group to remain at home for the next 14 days.
"It is clear that the child did not contract the virus whilst at school and it is hoped that the swift action taken will prove effective in ensuring that there is no further spread of the disease within the community."
Highsted Grammar School, Sittingbourne
KentLive understands a pupil at the all girls school tested positive for coronavirus, and that the relevant year group was told to self-isolate.
It is believed the pupil was in Year 11.
Wilmington Academy, Dartford
A Year 10 student at Wilmington Academy tested positive with COVID-19 and was sent home from the school, they were told to self-isolate for 14 days.
All students who had classes with the pupil were also advised to self-isolate for two weeks.
Along with this six teachers were told by the school to self-isolate as a precautionary measure.
Hartlip Primary School, Sittingbourne
In mid September, a young girl tested positive for coronavirus in Year 5 at Hartlip Primary School.
Because of this 25 students in the year along with four teachers were told to go home and self-isolate.
Harvey Grammar School, Folkestone
A positive COVID-19 case at the Harvey Grammar School in Folkestone has resulted in many students being sent home.
A small number of students who had come into contact with the positive case had been sent a personalised letter and have been advised to self-isolate for two weeks.
The school remains open to all other students.
Milestone Academy, New Ash Green
All students between the Years 7 to 11 have been told not to return to the special needs academy in New Ash Green until October 7 after a member of staff tested positive for COVID-19.
As the staff member was only on duty on the 'phase 3' site, the younger year groups and those at the Leigh Academy satellite can still attend the school.
However, parents and guardians have been told they do not need to self-isolate for 14 days unless their child develops symptoms.
John Wallis Academy, Ashford
A member of staff had tested positive at John Wallis Academy with pupils and staff at the school being told to wear face coverings as an anti-virus measure.
The principal Damien McBeath sent a letter to parents and guardians which read: "I am writing to inform you that a member of staff has tested positive for COVID-19.
"The member of staff has not been in work since September 11 and has since been self-isolating.
"In line with government guidance, they will not be returning to work for the next 10 days and all areas in which they have taught have received an additional deep clean.
Brockhill Park teachers 'drained' after parents bombard them with coronavirus concerns
More than 160 coronavirus cases have been recorded in Kent in the last week
"We have informed Public Health England, who have reviewed the measures in place.
"They are satisfied that this is an isolated case and that the Academy had installed sufficient protective measures to prevent the spread further.
"No further action is required from PHE. However, we have decided to implement further measures to protect staff, pupils, students and their families from the potential spread of the virus."
Students can remove masks when in class rooms and outside.
Napier Primary Academy, Gillingham
Two year groups at the primary school in Gillingham have been sent home following students testing positive for COVID-19.
A total of 165 students and 6 staff members have been told to self-isolate for 14 days.
The year groups that have been sent home were students in Year 3 and Year 6 as both had a positive case.
They are not set to return to school until October 5.
Maidstone Grammar School
After two positive cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in the grammar school the entire Year 13 were told to not to return to the school until 14 days of self-isolation.
It came after a small number of students were told to self-isolate after one case was confirmed. However, after the second case was confirmed the school made the decision to send the entire year home.
This means 149 students will not be returning to school for two weeks.
Gravesend Grammar School
Two cases have been confirmed at the Kent grammar school on the weekend of September 21.
As a precaution, all students in Year 10 along with a single Year 8 class were told to stay at home until all direct contacts that were made in connection to the positive students were confirmed.
The school remains open for all other year groups.
Rainham Mark Grammar School, Gillingham
An entire year was sent home following a positive coronavirus case.
Roughly 210 pupils in Year 11 were sent home by the school and they will not be returning until October 2 as a precaution.
Benenden School, Cranbrook
The girls boarding school near Cranbrook has 13 confirmed coronavirus cases this school term.
Roughly 140 pupils were told to self-isolate for 14 days as a precaution.
The students are self-isolating either at their homes or in their boarding house on site.
The school is one of the few in Kent that have their own COVID-19 testing equipment which allows them to take appropriate action quickly.
The Victory Academy, Chatham
(Image: Google Maps)
On Friday (September 25), a Year 11 pupil tested positive for coronavirus.
As a safety measure, the entire year group were sent home for the remainder of the day and told to work remotely.
Some students had to sit their mock exams at home as a result of the student testing positive.
It is not yet confirmed as to whether or not the year group will return the following week.
Bishop Justus Church of England School, Bromley
A positive case has been confirmed in Bishops Justus Church of England School.
Parents of children who have been in direct contact with the confirmed case have received a phone call from the school.
In an email sent by the school they stated: " The school remains open for all other students, and providing your child remains well, they can continue to attend the school as normal.
"We will keep this under review and contact you immediately if this changes."
It has not been confirmed which year group the confirmed case is in.
Charlton Primary, Dover
The Dover primary school has had to send all of their Year 2 pupils home following a child contracting coronavirus.
All students who were sent home were informed to self-isolate for 14 days.
In this year's 'bubble' there were 27 students and four members of staff who were all sent home from the school.
Aylesford School
Two students of Aylesford School had tested positive for COVID-19.
The students were in Year 9 and Year 13.
As a result of this the school was closed for two days and all students were told to work remotely whilst the school undertook a deep clean.
All students in both year groups 9 and 13 are not allowed to return to school until October 1.
Repton Manor Primary School, Ashford
The Ashford school has a Year 1 pupil that has contracted the virus.
All Year 1 students were told to self-isolate until September 24.
60 students along with five members were in the same bubble as the student who contracted coronavirus and are now self-isolating.
The KentLive app has Kent covered
KentLive is the best place to stay up to date with everything that's happening across the county.
Read the latest news and features via the KentLive app, which is completely free.
You can download it on any iOS device from the App Store here or get the Android version from Google Play here.
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Victoria Road Primary School, Ashford
A student in year 6 has tested positive for COVID-19.
This has resulted in both students in Year 5 and Year 6 being sent home being told to self-isolate, rather than just the students and staff in the affected students 'bubble'.
Because of this 55 pupils along with 8 staff members were told to self-isolate.
They will not be returning until October 4.
Chatham Grammar and Brompton Academy
Four year groups across Chatham Grammar and Brompton Academy were told to self-isolate for 14 days following confirmed COVID-19 cases.
This included Year 11 at Brompton Academy, Year 9 at Chatham Grammar and Year 12 and 13 UKAT Sixth Form students, which are based at both schools.
All students are set to return to school October 7.
Students in the other year groups are still to attend the school as normal.


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Book Review: Brain Storms
On October 29, 2015 November 29, 2015 By skrischerIn Book Reviews, Living Well
I have been listening to books on Audible for a while now, usually when I am walking or driving. Few have kept my interest like Jon Palfreman's new book Brain Storms, The Race to Unlock the Mysteries of Parkinson's Disease. Unlike other audiobooks, I rarely had to back track to find out what I missed while distracted by something else. The book was engaging, informative and written in language that a reader with no medical background could understand.
Palferman was diagnosed with Parkinson's at about the same time that I was and at about the same age. He also seems to have had a similar trajectory in the progress of the disease. He is a medical science journalist, and in that role, he oftened covered scientific discoveries leading to treatments and cures of chronic diseases. Thirty years ago he produced a documentary film for Nova, The Case of the Frozen Addict, about drug addicts who had developed Parkinson's like symptoms as a result of bad street drugs. He is also a professor of journalism at the University of Oregon. His diagnosis, like mine, initially led to denial, secrecy, depression and isolation. He was determined to hide the disease for as long as possible. I can't imagine anyone shouting to the world that he has just had been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. After all, the image of Parkinson's conjurs up an elderly person, shuffling with a stooped back, dementia and an obvious tremor. This is not a disease anyone looks forward to having since we can only treat the symptoms. There is not yet a cure or even a guaranteed treatment to slow down the progression of the disease.
Through the book, Palfreman confronts that image and turns it upside down. He discusses the sea change that occurred when Michael J Fox set up his foundation to find a cure now. He interviews Parkies who have made it theirs life's mission to confront the disease and live with it on their terms. One example includes dancer Patricia Quinn, who developed a dance program to counteract her symptoms and continues to live well many years later. He has also interviewed others who have deteriorated rapidly and even goes so far as to project what his future will bring as a result.
Palferman also talks abut the fascinating history of the disease, beginning with descriptions from the ancient Greeks, leading up to James Parkinson's famous essay on the Shaking Palsy nearly 200 years ago. He talks about how treatments were developed, and even chronicles the descendents of a family in a small village in Italy who were essential in helping to discover genetic markers for PD. Because the book was just published, he goes into great detail on the latest research about repurposing drugs for other diseases that have been somewhat successful in reversing PD in limited trials. This is exciting news that has been talked about all summer. Because these drugs have already been FDA approved for other diseases, the approval process is shortened significantly, if researchers can get enough patients to conduct Phase III trials.
He ends the book with a bright future for those of us with PD as a result of the flurry of discoveries made in the last few years about PD and treatments for slowing down and ultimately reversing the disease.
And finally, this is a very personal story about living with Parkinson's disease and how a chronic disease will change a person's life forever. That change can be positive, which is something I have heard from so many people with Parkinson's. Once we get throught the denial, we can move forward and live our lives fully.
Brain StormsJames ParkinsonJon PalfremanLiving well with Parkinson'sMacMillan PublishersMichael J Fox FoundationParkinson's ResearchShaking PalsyUniversity of Oregon
A Good Resource for all things Parkinson's
Getting Past Denial
One thought on "Book Review: Brain Storms"
defeatparkinsons
Reblogged this on defeatparkinsons and commented:
Making waves..I still have to read…but any book that brings hope and perspective to a disease still not fully understood is always welcomed in both the medical, scientific and Parkinson's community..
Leave a Reply to defeatparkinsons Cancel reply


The airy outdoor amphitheatre at The Star Terrace provides a relaxing environment with bench seating for 300 guests, and a deck area for drinks and conversation. This makes it ideal for any event where interaction is key.
Use it for small-scale art and music performances, product launches, movie screenings, meet-and-greet sessions with artistes, publicity events, as well as participative, community and festival-type events. In addition, events in The Star Theatre can be relayed via live feed to The Star Terrace, if necessary.


text:
Q: JSONDecodeError in Python I am building a whatsapp bot with flask but I encountered a json issue when processing data from an api endpoint.
Here is a snippet of the code throwing the error:
url = f"https://www.dictionaryapi.com/api/v3/references/thesaurus/json/{word}?key={api_key}"
response = requests.get(url)
api_response = json.loads(response.text)
if response.status_code == 200:
    for data in api_response:
        try:

The error itself:
 File "/home/micmusk/mysite/app.py", line 81, in get_dictionary_response
api_response = json.loads(response.text)
 File "/usr/lib/python3.6/json/__init__.py", line 354, in loads
return _default_decoder.decode(s)
 File "/usr/lib/python3.6/json/decoder.py", line 339, in decode
obj, end = self.raw_decode(s, idx=_w(s, 0).end())
 File "/usr/lib/python3.6/json/decoder.py", line 357, in raw_decode
raise JSONDecodeError("Expecting value", s, err.value) from None
    json.decoder.JSONDecodeError: Expecting value: line 1 column 1 (char 0)

Funny thing is that, the line of code works for me on my local machine when I used localhost but now that I deployed it starts throwing errors. I tried using requests.get(url).json it still throws the same error. I use Python 3.6

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Renegades take second in GRPA district play
The Renegades are (from left): (back row) Samantha Howard, Steve Howard, Doug Foxworth, (middle row) Taylor Stanfield, Sierra Newman, Bridget Bacon, Jenna Shuman, McKenzie Covington, Hillary Roberts, Kayla Koskela, Sierra Cornell, (bottom row) Jerri Hines and Tiffany Howard. Not pictured are Rebecca Strickland, Stephanie Turner, Stacy Turner, Lauren Davis, Morgan Reddick and Mikayla Gammon.
Head coach Steve Howard's 14 and under girls Renegades team took second place in the GRPA district tournament last week. In addition to competing as a Hendrix Park All-Star team, the Renegades have had much success in tournament ball this summer throughout the southeast.
For the GRPA All-Star district tournament, which took place on July 6 and 7, the Renegades defeated Long County, but were edged out by Jeff Davis County for the top spot and the right to advance to state.
In addition to local play, the Renegades plowed through much of their competition which included regular play in the Chatham County rec league, where they went undefeated. They also placed within the top three in numerous tournaments in places such as third place in Brunswick, Milledgeville, Statesboro and Savannah.
Coach Howard, along with wife Christie and assistant coach Doug Foxworth have worked with these same players on the Renegades team since they were very young and followed along with them at each age level.
Starting with the 8 and under level, the trio has been training these same girls to prep them for BCMS and BCHS play. Steve Howard said he is excited to see three of the girls enter the BCHS Redskin roster this year: freshmen Bridget Bacon, Kayla Koskela, and Taylor Stanfield. Sophomore Samantha Howard, who played for the Skins last year, also plays for the Renegades. Fellow Renegade and Richmond Hill resident Hillary Roberts will enter her second year of the RHHS Wildcat softball program.
The remainder of the roster will be on the BCMS Redskin softball team, with plans of entering the high school program next year.
Howard said his motivation behind coaching these girls is to nurture the success of the Redskins. He and wife Christie have two daughters, Samantha and Tiffany, on the team which is another reason. As for Foxworth, Howard said he is a Pembroke native and also has that Redskin pride which drives him to help these kids.
All this has certainly not gone unnoticed by BCHS head softball coach Kim Covington.
"Steve's program is very import in preparing these girls for the high school level," she said. "I do believe that it will give us that competitive edge and I'm very appreciative for the effort of Steve and his coaching staff. They put in a lot of time and effort and it shows."
Covington said she had Bacon, Koskela, Stanfield and Samantha Howard on her summer Redskin league and saw first hand the good that the Renegades program is capable of.
Howard said he takes great pride in witnessing both the improvement of these girls and also the increase in their confidence level. "We played some tough, tough teams this summer and the girls more than held their own," he said. "We feel they are now able to compete with the best of the best. It's been a lot of work, but its well worth it when we see how much they really have improved. This summer, we're hitting good, they've got a strong grasp on the fundamentals and the pitching is good."
Howard commented on the players that will be involved in the upcoming high school softball season.
On Richmond Hill's Hillary Roberts, Howard said she has a strong pitching arm and is "coming around with her hitting."
On Bridget Bacon: "She's got a lot of speed and good common sense about the game which will go a long way for her. I look for some good things to come from her."
On Samantha Howard, he said she is a very strong pitcher and will probably replace current senior pitcher Ashley Barfield after Barfield graduates.
On Kayla Koskela: "An awesome defensive player."
On Taylor Stanfield: "Just an all-around good that you can effectively anywhere. Strong infield, strong outfield and has is very ball smart. She knows what to do on the field which is a huge indicator for her future as she's only 13-years-old."
Howard said he spends a good bit of time in the off-season gathering sponsors to support the team which pays off as it enables the girls to compete at no charge to them. This year, the following sponsors have helped the Renegades: Burnsed Body Shop, George's Custom Paint and Body, Champion Tree Service, G&C Fertilizer, Pembroke Telephone, Georgia Pediatrics, Triad Supply, Two Lane Construction and Global Ink Commodities.
Next up for the Renegades is the WFC World Series which starts today in Savannah and will continue until the weekend.
Bryan County will be represented by three other travel teams at the WFC event. Also competing in the tournament will be Coach Keith Hall's Richmond Hill Extreme Heat team, the Effingham County-based Lady Outlaws which includes RHHS's Stephanie Ortiz, and Georgia Heat Elite which features RHHS's Melanie Goolsby and Richmond Hill resident and Savannah Christian player Alison Harkins.


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Magazine|The Myth of 'the Southern Strategy'
The Myth of 'the Southern Strategy'
By CLAY RISEN DEC. 10, 2006
Everyone knows that race has long played a decisive role in Southern electoral politics. From the end of Reconstruction until the beginning of the civil rights era, the story goes, the national Democratic Party made room for segregationist members — and as a result dominated the South. But in the 50s and 60s, Democrats embraced the civil rights movement, costing them the white Southern vote. Meanwhile, the Republican Party successfully wooed disaffected white racists with a "Southern strategy" that championed "states' rights."
It's an easy story to believe, but this year two political scientists called it into question. In their book "The End of Southern Exceptionalism," Richard Johnston of the University of Pennsylvania and Byron Shafer of the University of Wisconsin argue that the shift in the South from Democratic to Republican was overwhelmingly a question not of race but of economic growth. In the postwar era, they note, the South transformed itself from a backward region to an engine of the national economy, giving rise to a sizable new wealthy suburban class. This class, not surprisingly, began to vote for the party that best represented its economic interests: the G.O.P. Working-class whites, however — and here's the surprise — even those in areas with large black populations, stayed loyal to the Democrats. (This was true until the 90s, when the nation as a whole turned rightward in Congressional voting.)
The two scholars support their claim with an extensive survey of election returns and voter surveys. To give just one example: in the 50s, among Southerners in the low-income tercile, 43 percent voted for Republican Presidential candidates, while in the high-income tercile, 53 percent voted Republican; by the 80s, those figures were 51 percent and 77 percent, respectively. Wealthy Southerners shifted rightward in droves but poorer ones didn't.
To be sure, Shafer says, many whites in the South aggressively opposed liberal Democrats on race issues. "But when folks went to the polling booths," he says, "they didn't shoot off their own toes. They voted by their economic preferences, not racial preferences." Shafer says these results should give liberals hope. "If Southern politics is about class and not race," he says, "then they can get it back."


text:
Broadcasting History
PSAs and Promotions
Intercollegiate Broadcasting System
Faces and voices
Saving WMUC
WMUC Archives
"There aren't too many who have been lucky enough to sit courtside and broadcast a Final Four basketball game, and I got to do it at the age of 21."
- Rob Jemella, WMUC Sports, 1997-2001
WMUC Sports has always been an outstanding part of the station, with a long tradition of covering nearly all university sports, revenue and non-revenue, small and large, home and away. In the station's early years, sports segments were limited to reporting scores and game highlights. In 1953, WMUC aired its first remote broadcast of a men's basketball game from the Southern Conference championships in North Carolina. When WMUC reporters started broadcasting on-the-scene basketball games in 1957, the station began to build a reputation for professional training in play-by-play broadcasting.
Sharing airtime with other programs presented a challenge, however, especially to music DJs whose shows were often preempted for sporting events. In 2001, some engineering students came up with the idea to stream sports separately online, and WMUCSports.com debuted in August 2002 with the football season opener. This enabled teams that had never had any broadcast exposure to receive weekly "airtime," and gave more students the chance to host sports talk shows. The launch of WMUC's online station in 2008 expanded those opportunities even further. WMUC Sports remains the sole outlet for many of the university's athletic events, and grateful parents throughout the world can listen to their sons' and daughters' games in real time.
An impressive number of WMUC Sports alumni have gone on to professional careers as sports broadcasters and journalists, including Pam Ward (ESPN), Josh Maurer (UMass), Robin Lundberg (ESPN Radio), Heather McDonogh (NBC-4), Robert Dawson (CBS and SiriusXM), Rishi Barran (NBC-2), Paul Manusky (NFL Films), Al Galdi (ESPN 980) and Rob Jemella (SiriusXM). Many of them credit WMUC for helping them pursue their ambitions, having chosen to attend Maryland based on the strength of the station's Sports department. Said Jemella, "My first professional radio job came because of a connection I made at WMUC, so without that I have no idea what I'd be doing today."
The Nightcap edition of sports, 1952
The Diamondback announces the first remote broadcast of a men's basketball game, March 3, 1953
The Diamondback, March 25, 1955
The Old Line magazine, November 1959
WMUC sports staff Ed Bowers, Bruce Weber, Daryl Jones, 1960-61
WMUC News and Sports staff, 1961-62
The Diamondback, April 2, 1976
Women's Basketball team, 1975-76
Glen Dreyfuss and Rob Workman call a home baseball game at Shipley Field, May 1983
Mark Epstein and Jim Perrus in the Sports office, 1987
The Diamondback, September 26, 2000
Luke Jackson and Scott Kornberg in the Sports studio, 2013
Selected WMUC sports broadcasts
Researching the Collection
The WMUC Collection is available for public research in the Maryland Room at Hornbake Library, University of Maryland, College Park.
Open Monday through Friday, 10am -5pm.
Extended hours during the spring and fall semesters. Check current hours
For more information about this exhibit, the WMUC collection and other Special Collections and University Archives material, contact us.
Credits | Make a donation | Web Accessibility


For Louise Fauteux's recent appearance in Un Ballo in Maschera with Connecticut Concert Opera, the Hartford Courant characterized her as a "pert, boyish Oscar" with "clarion tone in her two showpiece arias and a soaring top in the great Act I ensemble." With a voice that has been called "stunning" and technique described as "seemingly effortless," Ms. Fauteux has also been heard in leading roles in The Magic Flute, Hansel and Gretel, Dido and Aeneas, Amahl and the Night Visitors, The Telephone and The Marriage of Figaro for such venues as Opera North, El Paso Opera, Opera Theatre of Weston, Boheme Opera, Hat City Music Theatre, Brattleboro Opera Theatre, and American Classical Orchestra.
While still a student at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, Louise Fauteux was a featured soloist in Peer Gynt with Kurt Masur and the New York Philharmonic. She toured Korea and Taiwan with the Westminster Choir under the baton of Joseph Flummerfelt. Awards and honors include a fellowship with the Carmel Bach Festival, national semifinalist for the MacAllister Awards, semifinalist in the Bethlehem Bach Competition, and the Highwood Scholarship from the Connecticut Opera Guild. She also received scholarships for graduate study at Westminster and in Weimar, Germany, where she performed with the Jenaer Philharmonic Orchestra.
Her concert performances include Saint Saens' Christmas Oratorio, Haydn's Nelson Mass, Mozart's Exsultate, jubilate, Orff's Carmina Burana, Brahm's Requiem, Beethoven's Mass in C, and various Handel oratorios and Bach cantatas. She has been seen in the Brooklyn Academy of Music's performance of the Bach St. Matthew Passion, directed by Jonathan Miller, and been a soloist in the same work under Blanche Moyse at the Marlboro Festival. This Spring she is engaged to sing Haydn's Creation with the Hartt School of Music Orchestra for the University of Hartford. Ms. Fauteux is a native of Connecticut and studies with Arthur Levy in Manhattan.
Megan Friar, mezzo-soprano, is familiar to audiences as a soloist in opera, oratorio and musical theater. She has performed with the national tour of The Phantom of the Opera and has appeared with Sarasota Opera, Connecticut Opera, Connecticut Grand Opera, New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players (NYGASP), Virginia Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, American Opera Projects and Dicapo Opera. Recent performances include her New York City Center debut with NYGASP performing the role of Ruth in The Pirates of Penzance, as well as the role of Verena in Stephen Paulus' opera, Summer at the Center for Contemporary Opera in New York City.
As a concert soloist, Ms. Friar recently performed with the Dave Brubeck Quartet and Musica Sacra at Carnegie Hall, as well as being a soloist in Mozart's Requiem at Alice Tully Hall in New York City. She is a soloist with various New York City ensembles including AmorArtis, Virgin Consort, Vox Vocal Ensemble, New York Virtuoso Singers and Musica Sacra. Other concert appearances have been with the Mark Morris Dance Group, Cape May Festival Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, Sioux City Symphony, Eastern Connecticut Symphony, Fairfield County Chorale and the Fairfield Orchestra.
Ms. Friar has been a featured soloist on many recordings, including Stravinsky's Russian Peasant Songs with Robert Craft; and has appeared on the Garrison Keillor Radio Show, The David Letterman Show, and The Guiding Light. She performs in concert with her husband, jazz pianist Ron Drotos, singing classic songs of the American musical theater and recently released a CD with him entitled Songs From The Heart. Ms. Friar is on the faculty of the Fairbanks (Alaska) Summer Arts Festival, performing and teaching classes in musical theater, cabaret and vocal technique.
American tenor Gregory Mercer has been hailed throughout the world for the sweetness and agility of his voice, his musicality and his acting ability. This sublimely flexible singer is equally at home on opera, concert and recital stages.
Among the many companies in the United States with whom he has sung are The Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City Opera, San Francisco Opera's Western Opera Theater, Virginia Opera, L'Opera Francais de New York, Orlando Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, Opera Festival of New Jersey, Skylight Opera Theatre, Connecticut Grand Opera and Opera Roanoke. Overseas, he has appeared at the opera companies of Amsterdam, Monte-Carlo, Basel, Graz, Caracas, and Prague, with whom he also toured Japan.
A superb concert artist as well, Mr. Mercer has been featured with many major orchestras, including The Saint Lukes Chamber Orchestra, Brooklyn Philharmonic, Chicago's Grant Park Symphony, Grenoble Symphony, Springfield Symphony, Rhode Island Philharmonic and the Westchester Philharmonic. Choral groups include The Oratorio Society of New York, New York Choral Society, Dessoff Choirs, Pro Arte Choral, Princeton Pro Musica, Amor Artis, National Chorale, Baltimore Handel Choir, Harvard-Radcliffe Chorus and the Barnard-Columbia Chorus. He has also sung at several music festivals, such as the Tanglewood, Stern Grove, Besancon, Brevard, Winter Park, Monadnock and Berkshire Choral Festivals.
His television credits include appearances on ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, German National Television, Czech National Television and Yugoslav National Television. He has recorded for the Albany, Caedmon, Vox, Koch, New World and Original Cast record labels.
Mr. Mercer was recently named cantor, tenor soloist and assistant conductor at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City.
Michael Cavalieri, baritone has sung the roles of Guglielmo (Cosí fan tutte), Eisenstein (Die Fledermous), Ottone (The Coronation of Poppea), Bogdanovich (The Merry Widow), Happy (La Fanciulla del West), Captain Corcoran (H.M.S Pinafore), and recently sung Count Almaviva in Le Nozze di Figaro with Yale Opera. He was a member of the Apprentice Program for Singers at the Santa Fe Opera in 2001. Michael has performed with Arizona Opera, Opera Illinois, Operafestival di Roma, Grant Park Symphony, and the Connecticut Early Music Festival. Michael recently appeared as the baritone soloist in the Waterbury Chorale's production of Bach's Christmas Oratorio.
Michael received his Masters degree from Arizona State University and Bachelors degree from Illinois Wesleyan University. He has received several awards and scholarships. Michael is currently an Artist Diploma candidate at Yale University and studies with Richard Cross.


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Inter Linked Antonio Conte: "I Will Announce My Next Club In June"
Former Chelsea and Juventus coach Antonio Conte has revealed when he will make a decision his future in an interview with Sky Sport Italia which will be aired tonight, that Turin based Tuttosport have gotten the transcript of in today's newspaper.
When asked where he will be working next year, Conte replied: "I still don't know where I will be going, but surely, it will with a team who's project convinces me."
Conte apparently played a card game with Alessandro Cattelan, where each card had a picture of a different clubs crest, representing his next potential job. Cattelan keept the cards hidden from the public eye but interestingly, Cattelan took away two cards claiming their benches were already occupied and they weren't in a good place, hinting that one of these could be Manchester United.
Another card was discarded by Conte, because the project wasn't enticing enough. Conte then removed another one without saying a word, leaving all but one card, which was sealed in an envelope. Conte explained: "I didn't choose the one that I would like, but the one I think I will get."
This would make you think that the card sealed was not Inter, considering he was in the presence of a well known Inter fan. While interesting, it is not conclusive.
The Italian coach continued by saying: "The announcement will arrive in June. I live in London with my daughter, Vittoria, who is studying English and I decided to let her stay the year to continue her studies. The problem is that I live in Cobham where my daughter's school is but Chelsea's sports centre is also very close, so I'm constantly reminded of my love for football. My experience in England has been important and satisfying."
Conte was also asked about Mourinho and his relationship with Juventus' fans: "He won the treble and three Championships with Chelsea so he has the ability to make those gestures [reference to Jose holding up three fingers], but he should respect the crowd, with that said, the public should also respect him because he has won so much, but that gesture is what makes Mourinho, Mourinho."
By Luca Corchia
@LucaC98
Lecce Midfielder Marco Mancosu: "I've Scored Against Juventus & Inter & I'm Moved By That"
Lecce midfielder Marco Mancosu discussed his side's 1-1 draw against Inter earlier today in an interview with Italian broadcaster RAI. The 31-year-old Italian scored the…


CA Technologies announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire BlazeMeter. Founded in 2011, BlazeMeter is a company that specializes in open source-based continuous application performance testing.
BlazeMeter's solutions will seamlessly integrate with CA's continuous delivery solutions that will further improve testing efficiency and accelerate the deployment of applications. This extends CA's DevOps portfolio.
BlazeMeter's commercial, self-service continuous application performance testing solution is fully compatible with Apache JMeter as well as other open source software tools like Selenium, Gatling, and Locust.
One of the biggest challenges for developers is getting apps to consumers in a timely manner as testing speeds is one of the major hurdles. With BlazeMeter's solutions, developers and performance engineers are able to test apps early, improve test coverage, and even avoid performance problems too close to production.
Terms of the acquisition was not disclosed but the deal is expected to be completed before the end of 2016.
CA has also recently announced the availability of two new products, the CA Live API Creator which provides point-and-click functionality to create APIs from existing enterprise data in order to more easily create and deploy back-ends for mobile development projects and other initiatives, and CA App Experience Analytics, a new SaaS solution that enables organizations to deliver a premium customer experience across the increasing number of digital channels used by today's consumers.
As for BlazeMeter, the company recently released a new technology that allows user to execute Selenium scripts as load tests, which is expected to gain significant traction.


A typical taskbar button on Windows provides the user with the name of the active application, as well as an icon to identify the application. When you click on this taskbar button, the application will either appear or minimize to the taskbar. This is a simple and well-known procedure when it comes to Microsoft's Windows operating system.
In a patent filing revealed today, Microsoft has filed a patent for a 'rich presentation taskbar button' that takes the typical taskbar button behavior to the next level. In fact, Microsoft is labeling this as an invention.
The way it works is simple — hovering over the taskbar button offers you a preview of the application or offer the user dynamic information relating to that application. For example, when you hover over the Windows Media Player taskbar button, you are shown a dynamic preview of the application, along with simple controls to pause/play or skip a track.
For the most part, this feature has been present in Windows and we have been using it for quite some time now — a feature called "hover preview." However, the patent filing reveals other ideas and uses for the rich presentation taskbar button, including the ability to see sports results, news events, buddy lists, and much more.
"This type of rich presentation taskbar button can display a wide variety of information such as but not limited to multiple icons, icons of different sizes, special formatting of text, animations, scrolling text, dynamic information that is updated on an ongoing basis and that pertains to the application useful to the user, etc. Such information may include, for example, dynamic information pertaining to the application. Examples of dynamic information associated with the application that may be displayed in a rich presentation taskbar button include status information, progress meters, or other information that may be provided by the application such as securities information, weather forecast information, sports results, news events, auction results and status, application status information, buddy lists, etc," the patent filing states.
Microsoft provided another example of how this feature would be useful for users. For example, when communicating via instant messaging, a user will input text into the messenger's application window when the application is active. However, when minimized, the user can utilize a rich taskbar button to continue the conversation without having to bring the application back to focus. This allows the user to continue the conversation and read incoming messages.
Another example is the ability to see the progress or status of a process that the application is performing. For example, when copying a large file, you can see the status of the progress right on the taskbar button itself.
As I mentioned above, most of these features are already implemented on Windows. Copying a large file will showcase the progress on the taskbar. Various applications will feature "jump lists" when you right click on the taskbar button, allowing you to conduct various tasks on the application with ease.
Throughout the patent filing, Microsoft touts this feature as an invention. Clearly the majority of these features have been implemented, but it would be fantastic to see how far Microsoft wants to take the taskbar when it comes to providing useful information. How cool would it be to manipulate Modern apps via the taskbar? Gone are the days of simple taskbar buttons that show just the icon and application name.


This program is offered for members of youth organizations of democratic political parties, in order to improve their capabilities in the security field. The program is comprised of lectures and seminars led by distinguished current, and former, security policy professionals from the Czech Republic and other countries. Among the discussed topics are hybrid threats and ways in which to counter them, cybersecurity, and the activities of Russia and China in the CEE region.
The second edition of this program (to be held in April 2019) is supported by Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung and U.S. Embassy in The Czech Republic.


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text:
by Veyron
The Gathering Storm: Part II Split the sky
Vex's hooves pounded rhythmically into the rain soaked soil. The light from the moon filtering through the treetops and the sound of crickets in the distance were his only guides.
I don't know how long I can keep this up. What am I going to do, I'm out of ammo and I lost my saber in the city. Just as his thought finished, a lance of searing pain shot up his leg and into his shoulder.
"Buck!" Vex cursed to himself as he struggled to keep ahead of his hunters.
I hope Nova's group is faring better than I am. Looking over his shoulder, Vex took in the sight of his damaged wing; the hole that went through its bat like membrane was still leaking a fair amount of blood onto the forest floor. It was a lucky shot from a mutt who had evaded the first combat team Vex had sent into the besieged city.
Another jolt of lancing pain shot up into his shoulder, this time Vex collapsed into a heap of tumbling limbs that came to rest in a small ditch. Propping himself up against the earthen walls, Vex listened for his hunters. At first he heard the faint sound of breathing, then the chirps and calls of the crickets went quiet. With the pain distracting him, Vex failed to notice the approach of a Diamond Dog until he felt the cold steel of a revolver pressed to his head and the sound of a hammer being cocked back.
The Eclipse steamed at full speed towards the burning city; her crew filled with a sense of growing unease. For many, this would be the first time they had seen combat, but for a select few, this would be just another notch in the bed post.
"Arcanian, what do you have for me?" Vex shouted over the din of the steam driven turbine.
The dark blue unicorn looked up. "One enemy airship is on station and is currently bombarding the city." Taking another look over the railing, Arcanian continued. "That's the least of our worries as it looks like that ship has already dropped off her raiding parties and is only providing support."
This was not something Vex wanted to hear. An airship was one thing, but an engagement in a heavily populated urban area was something he wanted to avoid but it would seem that fate had other plans.
"Alright, here's what we are going to do."
Vex and three other ponies cautiously trotted down another abandoned street. It would seem that the residents of this small town in the badlands had been smart enough to take cover as soon as they had come under attack. Holding up a hoof, Vex signalled his group to stop as he went to check on a small square building who had survived the onslaught. Rearing up on his hind legs and unslinging his rifle from his back, Vex began to inspect the outside. The building was unremarkable; its wood siding and large plate glass windows let him know that this was a place of business or an eating establishment. Vex tried to peer through the windows but the layer of ash on them made this impossible.
With his rifle raised, Vex stalked towards the only entrance he could find which were a set of ornately carved double doors. With his back to the door, Vex delivered a mighty kick sending the door flying open in a shower of glass and splinters. The three militia ponies Vex had brought with him immediately rushed through the breach, ready to end the life of anything foolish enough to open fire on them. After what seemed like an eternity of silence, Vex heard three knocks that signalled the all clear and shortly after entered the building himself shortly after. Looking around, Vex was surprised to see that this was in fact a restaurant and it was still in good condition.
Wow, even the food left on the tables is still warm. That thought sent alarm bells blaring in Vex's head as he leveled his rifle at the door of the only room they had not searched.
"We know you are in there! Come out with your hooves or claws in the air." Vex nodded for two of the militia ponies to take up positions near the door.
"You have ten seconds to comply! If you do not, we will be force to drag you out by any means necessary."
Vex swiveled his ears forward at the sound of a lock being turned which was followed by the door swinging open. The four ponies that had locked themselves in slowly made their way out and each had a look of relief on their face as they saw the group of ponies who had ordered them out of the hiding place.
"Thank Celestia." A dark brown earth pony stallion said, his eyes firmly locked on to Vex's own and upon further inspection Vex noticed a tag with the name Barley written on it.
"What happened here…? Where are the all the other ponies who live on this street?" Vex asked as he lowered his weapon.
"The dogs came and took them… T-they have my wife and daughter. They said they were taking all those they found to some camp in the center of town." Barley replied.
"We have a camp set up on the outskirts of town, head there and you will receive food and medical attention." Vex said as he ushered Barley and his group out of the building.
"Bow Shock, send word to Nova and Arcanian's groups and tell them to meet us near the center of town."
With a salute, the off white Pegasus known as Bow Shock took to the air.
"We are going to need all the help we can get."
The camp was rather small for the amount of ponies and other creatures that called this city home.
"Most of the residents must have fled as soon as the first salvo hit." Nova said as she and Vex watched as Diamond Dog skirmishers loaded ponies and griffins onto their airship.
"Well this complicates things just a bit." Vex said with a sigh.
"What do you mean boss?" Nova looked at Vex with a mix of curiosity and concern.
"We can no longer use the Eclipse's guns without putting innocent lives at risk." Vex shifted his weight to retrieve a small map from his duster's pocket.
"Ok new plan! Nova, I want you to take your fire team and surround the camp." With a nod, Nova took off to relay Vex's orders.
Reaching back into his pocket, Vex found his small communication device; a small crystal wrapped in copper wire with a small button on one end.
"Arcanian, we have a change of plans so listen closely."
Night had fallen and Vex was hunkered down in a window of a building overlooking the camp. His breath was steady as he lined up his sights on the dog who looked like he was the one giving orders.
Any minute now. Soon after that thought crossed Vex's mind, a bright blue light illuminated the dark evening sky. With a slow, steady pull of his rifle's trigger, Vex sent a small ball of lead straight into his target's neck, sending the poor dog flying off of the platform he had been standing on and down onto the cold unforgiving ground. Shortly after his shot, Vex heard the reports of his team's rifles as they filled the air with smoke and littered the ground with bodies. Vex watched as Nova and her team crept out of the woods, pausing to take an occasional shot at any dog foolish enough to break cover.
This is going well… Almost too well. Just then, Vex caught movement in the corner of his eye but just as he was about to investigate, the roar of a steam engine coming to life grabbed his attention. Turning to look, Vex saw the large airship ripping its anchors from the ground and lifting into the air before disappearing into the clouds.
Buck. Just as Vex was about to take wing to catch the airship, his radio crackled to life.
"Oi Vex, its Rivet and ye are going to be having company soon!"
"Buck!" Vex cursed to himself as he leapt from his perch.
"Nova, Arcanian, take you squads and scatter! This order also applies to all units on the channel! Run back to the evac point the ship will meet you there!"
Vex skidded around a corner only to come face to face with a small group of well-armed Diamond Dogs.
Buck me sideways. Vex thought as he searched for a way out, his eyes finally came to rest on a grove of trees that led into a forest.
Maybe I can lose them in there. Vex thought as he dashed for the tree line with his hunters in tow.


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Future Sins Forgiven in Advance: The Fundamental Error of Hyper-Grace
Digging Deeper Into the Question of Racism in America
9:00AM EDT 5/12/2020	 Michael Brown
Supporters of the Georgia NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) wearing protective masks protest after the death in February of Ahmaud Arbery. (REUTERS/Dustin Chambers TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY)
Does "systemic racism" still exist in America? If by systemic racism, we mean Jim Crow laws or legalized slavery or enforced segregation, the answer is obviously not. If by systemic racism, we mean that black Americans still do not enjoy total equality with white Americans, then the answer would be yes. And I believe I can demonstrate that thesis with one simple question.
But before I pose the question and before some of you write me off as a guilt-ridden white man, know that I am anything but that.
First, I love and appreciate America, despite our many obvious flaws. Having traveled outside the USA about 200 times, I recognize how uniquely blessed our country is.
Second, I believe we do have some deep and lasting Christian roots as a nation, despite the many un-Christian practices and policies in our history. And I believe these Christian roots are a key to our national, historic success.
Third, I do not believe we should be making reparations today for slavery, nor do I believe that a fair-minded white American should feel responsible for the sins of the slaveowners and segregationists of the past.
Fourth, I believe that racism exists on all sides, and I reject the idea that you can only be racist when you are part of the ruling majority. Racism is a condition of the heart, and everyone can fall prey to it.
Having said that, I do believe that, while the term "systemic racism" may not fully apply to America today, the term "system unfairness" certainly does apply.
In response to my article "Some Honest Questions About Race Relations in America," in which I wrote about the shooting of Ahmaud Arberry, a commenter on my website posted: "When people may ask 'what did the Black guy do'? As opposed to 'why was the black man's life taken' ... it may be because of the high criminality statistics of Blacks. Especially Black males. The statistics are horrible. Black on White Crime far exceeds White on Black crime in almost every area of criminal prosecution such as armed robbery, rape, murder. The state of Maryland has 75% Black incarceration! 1 in 4 Death row inmates are Black. And [then] you incredulously wonder why people are asking 'What did the Black guy do'??"
In other words, it's no wonder that two white men shot and killed an unarmed black man jogging through their neighborhood. Those blacks, especially black men, are really dangerous. After all, statistics do not lie.
And certainly, the statistics are troubling. (I haven't posed my simple question yet, but I'm almost there. Please be patient.)
A Pew Research poll released in April 2019 pointed out that, despite a decrease in the number of blacks imprisoned in America, "At the end of 2017, federal and state prisons in the United States held about 475,900 inmates who were black and 436,500 who were white—a difference of 39,400."
Yet there are roughly five white Americans for every black American, meaning that, all things being equal, there would be 436,500 whites in prison and 87,300 blacks. Why the extreme discrepancy, one that was even worse 10 years ago?
According to a December 2019 report, "Black people account for about 12% of the U.S. population, but occupy only 3.2% of the senior leadership roles at large companies in the U.S. and just 0.8% of all Fortune 500 CEO positions, according to the analysis by the Center for Talent Innovation, a workplace think tank in New York City." Why?
We could go down the line, from crime rates to median incomes of families and more, and the discrepancy between white Americans and black Americans remains the same. (To repeat: I write this without feeling guilt. I'm simply getting to an important point.)
So, when it comes to median incomes, in 2018, white American families averaged $70,642; black American families averaged $41,361. (Interestingly, Asian American families averaged over $80,000 per year.) How then do we explain this disparity?
For me, it boils down to one question: Do you believe blacks are inherently inferior to whites (or Asians or others)? Do you believe they are, by nature, not as smart, or more prone to violence, lazier or more promiscuous?
If your answer is no (and I surely hope it is no; otherwise, you are a racist), then there's only one other answer: Something is wrong with our system (or, put another way, we have still not fully recovered from our racist past).
This doesn't mean the vast majority of whites are trying to keep blacks down. Or are inherently racist. Or want to maintain "white supremacy." (I'm sure some do; I'm contending the vast majority don't.)
I'm simply saying that when our black friends speak of systemic racism (or, at the least, systemic injustice), they're not making it up. Their life experience informs them.
Unfortunately, the race baiters and the extremists in groups like Black Lives Matter often obscure our vision, as do the social theorists pushing their theories of intersectionality. It's easy to react against their positions, many of which are equally destructive.
And I understand the argument that, in some cases, there is a reason policemen (of all colors and ethnicities) are quick to profile a young black male as a potential crime suspect.
The question is, why is that young black male more likely to be a criminal? Why was his family life so broken? Why did he have so many odds to overcome growing up in the inner city?
In the end, we are each responsible for the decisions we make, and none of us can blame "society" for our choices. If I end up in jail for a crime I committed, I bear the guilt for that crime.
But it's also true that we are called to love our neighbors as ourselves and to pursue justice and care for the poor and the oppressed.
What, then, can we do, working together as one, to help bring true equality to our nation, with justice and dignity for all? It starts with listening, with respect, to one another. Then, with understanding, taking positive steps to bring about lasting change.
Related topics: Racism


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Home » Celebrities » Amanda Holden feared she'd be sacked from BGT over F-bomb blunder
Amanda Holden feared she'd be sacked from BGT over F-bomb blunder
After swearing on the first live semi-final of the ITV show, Amanda Holden feared she could have lost her place on the panel.
It comes after Amanda was scared on Britain's Got Talent during a performance.
After being brought face-to-face with 'ghosts' as she was pulled up on stage by The Haunting, she was so scared that she screamed "f**k".
However, she quickly slapped her hand on her mouth and apologised for her bad language.
"I would defy anyone not to have sworn, they would have said worse than I did"
After the encounter, she revealed she was worried about getting fired by her boss Simon Cowell.
Speaking to The Sun she said: "I would defy anyone not to have sworn, they would have said worse than I did.
"There were only 200 complaints to Ofcom – nowhere near my record."
Amanda admitted she then went into panic mode and chased Simon into his dressing room.
She added: "I said, 'You're not going to fire me, are you?' And he replied, "Don't be f*****g ridiculous.'"
In the midst of Amanda's fears however, fans were in hysterics over her awkward blunder.
Taking to Twitter, one user wrote: "Amanda Holden shouting f**k on BGT has made my Monday."
While another added: "Amanda Holden screaming f**k in the middle of a pre-watershed live show could be the greatest Britain's Got Talent moment ever."
After the F-bomb dropped, Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly apologised for the language.
They said: "We'd like to apologise if you heard any bad language there from Amanda as she was very, very scared as you could see."
Amanda added: "I just really want to apologise if I said anything…"
Simon quickly chirped: "You did."
Britain's Got Talent continues tonight on ITV at 7:30pm.
Tagged celebrities, entertainment, tv
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