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The Best Action Camera: Spring 2014 Edition
Brent Rose
You can't just do something dangerous and insane these days without filming it for posterity. And while action cameras let us relieve these life-highlights over and over, they aren't all created equal. We decided to see for ourselves which one could handle your extreme adventures best.
We tested a whopping six action cameras at once. So, in addition to spending time with each camera individually (usually using a head-strap mount), I built an ugly but effective rig for shooting with all six at once. I got a solid piece of 3.5-inch by 0.5-inch wood and attached each camera to it using its own flat-surface mount. I then attached the board to an old bike helmet using velcro straps, and actually got it tight enough that there was virtually no wobble.
I packed the helmet full of bubble-wrap, taped the padding in, then used nylon tie-downs to attach the rig to the nose of a nine-foot surfboard. Directly after surfing, I strapped the camera to my head and went for a trail ride in the Santa Monica Mountains. And yes, I looked like a six-point buck of geeky stupidity.
In our evaluations we weighted image quality most heavily, but we also factored in versatility, ease-of-use, form-factor, battery-life, apps, available mounts, as well as extras and price. The raw video footage was evaluated on a professionally calibrated monitor, as well as on a 46-inch 1080p Samsung LED TV, and several laptops. Bear in mind when you watch the above video that there is some quality lost to compression for internet streaming.
All of the daytime clips were shot in the cameras' widest field of view option in 1080p at 60 frames per second (except for the Garmin Virb, which only goes as high as 30FPS), and night clips were taken at 1080p/30fps. For the surf test, cameras that required a waterproof housing were in one, and for all other tests the cameras were fully exposed, without cases. For the battery rundown test, all cameras shot at 1080p/30fps with all bells/whistles (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, screen, etc) turned off.
NOTE: We installed a firmware update for the Garmin Virb right before we went out to shoot the video above. We didn't realize that the update changed the field of view to narrow. So we reshot with just it and the Hero 3+ Black. Here's that video, too:
It's worth noting that while there are six cameras and we had to rank them one through six, none of these objectively suck. If someone gifts you any of one these, or you need to pull the trigger based on price alone, you're going to end up with a decent rig no matter what.
6th Place: Ion Air Pro 3
We had high hopes for the Ion Air Pro 3. Everybody loves a scrappy underdog, and this one had all of the specs of the big boys at a competitive price: 1080p shooting at 60 frames per second, 12MP stills, Wi-Fi for pairing with a smart phone, and even a new, custom-built lens. Its battery lasted a respectable two hours and 10 minutes in our rundown test, good enough for fourth place. It's also built like a tank, has a threaded hole for tripod mounting, and a simple one-switch design. Flip it, and you're recording.
Ion Air Pro 3: The Waterproofiest Naked Action Cam Around
Ion may not be the first name you think of when it comes to action cameras (or the second), but the
Unfortunately, the one thing that could have really set the Ion apart from the pack is also where it stumbled. The Ion Air Pro 3 is supposed to be fully waterproof to an impressive 49 feet without the use of any additional cases. The problem is, it wasn't. You'll notice in the video above that it looks fine in the surfing shots. It's not as sharp as most of the others, but it's not far off by any means. But then look at all the biking shots that immediately follow. We didn't notice while we were shooting (roughly an hour after surfing), but clearly some water had gotten in and was fogging up the lens. Considering that I was only paddling around for about 15 minutes in very weak surf, this doesn't give us confidence that it would make it to anywhere near 49 feet, though it's possible we just had a defective unit.
Ion is still using its modular "Podz" system in the back for things like Wi-Fi connectivity, which is a fine idea, but the implementation is shoddy. At one point the rear cover become completely stuck on the device and we couldn't open it up to charge it or rescue the SD card. Also, you have to use the app from your phone or computer to adjust settings or know how much space you have left on your card. It's more trouble than most people will take. The image quality looked pretty good in bright daylight (before the camera leaked), but the low-light shots are a noisy mess, and the audio is pretty lousy as well. Definitely not what we'd hoped for. [Ion]
Ion Air Pro 3 Specs
• Field of View: up to 160°
• Storage: microSD
• Frame Rates: 1080p @ 30 and 60 fps; 720p @ 30, 60, and 120 fps
• Dimensions: 1.46 x 4.2 inches
• Weight (w/ battery): 5.01 ounces
• Battery: 1200 mAh Li-Po
• Price: $350
5th Place: Drift Ghost-S
Drift has made great strides in image quality. Like the Ion above, colors are very neutral, but the Ghost-S is sharper in most cases. It's been ramped up to support 1080p/60fps and 720p/120fps with its 12MP CMOS sensor, and the lens can rotate up to 300 degrees, so you can keep your shot straight regardless of the weird angle at which you've been forced to mount it. It comes with a handy two-way remote control that can be strapped to your wrist for easy starting and stopping, there's a two-inch TFT color screen and four physical buttons for easy menu navigation. Once again, the Drift absolutely crushed everybody in the battery rundown test, coming in at a whopping 3 hours and 14 minutes. It's also waterproof to 9 feet as is.
DRIFT HD GHOST-S DIGITAL VIDEO ACTION CAMERA CAMCORDER
1 purchased by readers
It's not all good news, though. Drift somehow still hasn't fixed its audio problems. It and the Ion easily had the worst sound of the group. While image quality is decidedly better than previous Drift models, the Ghost-S is still noticeably muddier than our top finishers. There just isn't as much detail. Also, like the Ion, low-light shooting is truly terrible. It seems to be ramping up the ISO like crazy, but everything is so noisy and distorted it doesn't really matter that it's brighter.
It's also just clunky to operate. Aside from being the biggest and heaviest (not fun to wear on your head) camera we tested there are a lot of little annoying details. For example, the record button is tiny and looks just like the other three buttons, making it difficult to find, and the rear panel is actually really hard to open.
All that said, if you're going to be shooting long, and only in bright daylight, and audio either isn't important or you're willing to use an external mic (there is a jack), this is still worth considering. It has a ton of options (including video tagging, and using the Drift as a looping dash-cam), and maybe it's just what you're looking for. [Drift]
Drift Ghost-S Specs
• Field of View: 170°, 127° or 90°
• Frame Rates: 1080p @ 25, 30, 50, 60 fps; 960p @ 25, 30, 48, 50, 60 fps; 720p @ 25, 30, 50, 60, 100, 120 fps; WVGA @ 25, 30, 50, 60, 100, 120, 200, 240 fps
• Dimensions: 4.1 x 2.05 x 1.3 inches
• Battery: 1700mAh li-ion
4th Place: Garmin VIRB Elite
For a company known for GPS watches and such, Garmin's VIRB Elite pleasantly surprised us, especially considering that this is the only camera in the bunch that tops out at 1080p/30fps. So, what's the secret sauce? Sharpness. Its video is the least compressed, and its detail is very nearly the best. Not only that, take a look at the low-light test and you'll see that it's the best in the pack, with the brightest image yet the least amount of noise.
That said, the Virb's colors tends to skew pretty warm, which can give it a more cinematic look in some situations, but in others, it just looks orange and weird.
I'm not sure the Virb's shape can be put into English words, but I can say that while it's the second largest (next to the Drift), and it's the heaviest of the group, it's actually fairly sleek and aerodynamic. Still, 7.16 ounces is a lot of weight to strap to your head, and you can't mount it to anything without its little cradle.
Once you do get it mounted, though, it's easy enough to use. The Virb has has one big switch so it's easy to tell when you're recording or not, but it also has a 1.4-inch reflective (as in it doesn't emit its own light) chroma display for framing shots and reviewing footage, and four buttons for navigating its many settings. Speaking of, the Virb is the king of bells and whistles.
Not only does the Virb have Wi-Fi, but it also has GPS, an accelerometer, a barometric altimeter, and an ANT+ radio which lets you pair the camera to external heart rate, cadence, and temperature sensors. When you use Garmin's free editing software, you can easily pop an overlay onto your video that shows your speed, heart rate, altitude, cadence, and even progress on a map as your bombing down a hill. It sounds like a gimmick, but it's actually awesome. There are a ton of different style gauges you can choose from, too, and the Virb can also pair with a Garmin watch (such as the Fenix, Fenix 2, or the Forerunner 220/620), so you can use your watch as a remote control. Pretty slick.
Unfortunately, you have to take some of those stats with a grain of salt. It told me I was at 130 feet above sea-level when I was literally up to my waist in the Pacific Ocean, and as far as I can tell, there doesn't seem to be any way to calibrate it.The downside? Audio quality is really bad. Garmin claims the battery will go for more than three hours while recording 1080p, but we only got it to 2 hours and 3 minutes, which was the second-worst time in this group. Maxing out at 1080p/30 means you just can't shoot any of that buttery, full-frame slow motion, which will be a deal-breaker for many. In fact, we would have knocked it back to forth place, but its image quality really was that much better than the Drift's. Depending how you weight things, the Sony may make more sense for you. As is, it's only waterproof to one meter for up to a half hour (splash-proof, basically), so if you want to get it really wet you'll have to shell out another $40 for the dive case, which will make it even bigger.
This thing ain't cheap, but for more hardcore outdoor athletes, it's definitely worth considering, despite its shortcomings.[Garmin]
Garmin Virb Elite Specs
• Field of View: 146, 130, 118 degrees (with digital IS)
• Storage:microSD
• Frame Rates:1080p @ 30 fps; 720p @ 30, 60fps; WVGA @ 120fps
• Dimensions:1.26 x 2.09 x 4.37 inches
• Weight (w/ battery):7.16 ounces
Battery:2000 mAh li-ion
• Price:$400
3rd Place: Sony Action Cam 2 (HDR-AS30V)
The Sony Action Cam 2 is extremely similar to Sony's previous Action Cam. It retains the same extended oval shape as last year's, which means you have to put it in a case of some kind because it still can't stand up on its own (still annoying). It's similar to the GoPro in that is has a very basic LCD screen and a pair of buttons you use for navigating the fairly exhaustive menu, which can be frustrating. It is however, small and light, and you'll barely notice it when it's strapped to your head.
Sony AS30V High Definition POV Action Video Camera HDR-AS30V
The Action Cam 2 shoots video at up to 1080p/60fps and 720p/120fps, like the best of the group, and it has a very wide 170-degree field of view. It also has Wi-Fi (for apps), NFC (for supposedly easy pairing with an Android phone, though that never quite seems to work), and even GPS for pinpointing your runs and viewing the telemetry data.
Perhaps most significantly, though, the Action Cam 2 has by far the best audio quality of the bunch. Even when it's in its waterproof housing, the sound is way more immersive than the competition. Low-light footage good enough, but not front of the pack. It managed to finish second in our battery rundown test, coming in at an impressive 2 hours and 27 minutes of recording.
Unfortunately, the camera's image quality hasn't really advanced since last year, while it feels like others in the pack have progressed. In bright daylight even the Drift is ever so slightly sharper than the Sony, and it's definitely well behind the Garmin and the top two. While last year's bulky waterproof housing has been slimmed down considerably, its successor is only waterproof to 16 feet! Considering some of our cameras can do that without a housing, and considering last year's model was waterproof to 197 feet, that's a major step backwards.
Interestingly enough, Sony already announced another Action Cam (the AS100V) just a couple months after this one, and it, too is remarkably similar previous models. The only notable differences are that it's "splash proof" and it has a remote control.
The only reason the Sony Action Cam earned 3rd place over the Garmin is the audio is just so good (plus a more svelte form-factor and better battery life). This camera is plenty capable, and it goes for $300, so it's not a bad deal. At the same time, that's 30 bucks more than last year, and while you're gaining GPS you end up losing a whole lot of waterproofiness. [Sony]
Sony Action Cam 2 Specs• Field of View: 170°, 120° (with digital IS)
• Frame Rates: 1080p @ 30, 60 fps; 720p @ 30, 60, 120fps; VGA @ 30fps
• Dimensions: 3.23 x 0.96 x 1.85 inches
2nd Place: JVC Adixxion GC-XA2
Another unfamiliar face near the top. Despite having a tragically misspelled name, the JVC Adixxion (GC-XA2) is a little nugget of awesome. While it doesn't flat-out win in any one category, it comes in second or third in almost all of them. It has an impressive amount of detail, colors are generally well-balanced, and it comes in third place in both low-light and audio-quality. Basically, it produces footage that looks and sounds really good. It has a 8MP back-illuminated CMOS, and it can shoot at 1080p/60fps and 720p/120fps no problem with a 160-degree field of view. It also managed 2 hours and 12 minutes in the battery rundown test, putting it in third.
JVC ADIXXION 1920 x 1080 HD Action Camera
The hardware is equally impressive. It's not much bigger than the GoPro or the Sony, but as-is, it's waterproof to 16.4 feet (which is more than enough for most watery activities), drop-proof to 6.5 feet, dustproof, and freezeproof to 14 degrees F. It also has a 1.5-inch color screen for framing your shots and playing back video. There are dedicated record and power buttons, plus an additional four buttons for navigating the menus. As a result, despite having tons of options (everything down to white balance) it's the most intuitive to use and adjust of any of the cameras (though the menu buttons can be tough to press).
It's also the only camera of the group that uses a full-sized SD card, which is a plus since they're often easier to find than microSD. It also has a two-hole tripod mounting setup (for real video tripods) on both the side and the bottom, which opens up a lot of mounting options. It's got built-in Wi-Fi as well, not just for smartphone apps, but also for streaming video directly to Ustream and uploading content directly to YouTube.
That said, it's certainly not perfect. The Adixxion struggles with dynamic range, and has a tendency to blow out, losing detail in the highlights. It seems to try to lower the contrast to compensate, but that just makes things look washed-out. In low light images look bright, but there's a little too much noise. The audio sounds terrific in the surf test, but check out the bike test and you'll hear that it doesn't handle wind very well. Also, I have concerns about the build quality of the rear door. Its latch is a bit sticky, and it feels like cheap plastic that's just waiting to break. I guess time will tell on that one.
Overall, though, this is a very solid camera with tons of options and excellent ease-of-use, all in a small little package. It has a nice array of mounting options, as well, though the mounts tend to not be as rugged as some others. They're often tall, which can introduce some wobbling or accidental tilting if bumped. Still, coming in at $300, it's a really solid value. [JVC]
JVC Adixxion GC-XA2 Specs
• Field of View: 160° (with digital IS)
• Storage: SD (full-sized)
• Frame Rates: 1080p @ 30, 60 fps; 720p @ 30, 60, 120fps; WVGA @ 30fps
• Battery: 1050 mAh li-ion
BESTMODO: GoPro Hero 3+ Black
Surprise, surprise. Truth be told, part of us was hoping someone would unseat the king, since the Hero 3+ Black was a pretty small upgrade from the Hero 3 Black. Not this year, though. Simply put: GoPro still makes the overall best action camera. It's the obvious winner in terms of image quality. It has the best detail, solid color performance, and really excellent dynamic range. Everything looks clean, clear, and sharp, with just enough pop in the colors. It's also terrific in low-light (just behind the Garmin) and the much-improved microphone places it second in audio-quality to the Sony.
In terms of shooting options, GoPro wins in a landslide. Yes, it shoots 4K (but only at 15 frames per second, which pretty much makes it just a spec sheet talking point), but shooting 2.7K at 30fps is actually extremely useful, as it gives you a ton of space to crop or use stabilization software. The new SuperView mode (which we explain fully in this article) is fantastic for board-sports or anything where you're shooting back at yourself. There are also an absurd number of mounts (and third-party rigs, and quad-copter drones, etc.) available for the GoPro line, and the camera itself is so light and tiny you'll barely even notice it's there when you're wearing it. You've also got the option of shooting in Protune (a raw video format), which will allow you to do some serious post-production tweaking if you have the time and skills. Or just leave it on auto and it'll still turn out great. It also includes a Wi-Fi remote control which has a screen that mimics the display on the GoPro you're controlling. It works very well, but we wish it had an easy way to attach it to your wrist, like Drift's remote.
Glowing praise aside, it's still a long way from perfect. For starters, while it made a big improvement over last year, the Hero 3+ Black still came in dead last in the battery rundown test. 1 hour and 55 minutes isn't "bad," but it isn't as good as the rest of the pack. Then there's the question of the new case. Just like Sony trimmed down its case, GoPro has done the same, though the loss—down to 131 feet from 197 feet for last year's model—isn't as extreme in this case. More trouble is that the new case just isn't quite as burly as the old one. You have to be much more careful with the seal or a little bit of moisture can get in. I haven't had any catastrophic failures, but then I haven't SCUBA-dived with it either. There are other gripes, too, like the menu still being a huge pain to navigate if you aren't using the smartphone app. There's also still no tripod screw on the camera itself.
That said, the buttons are much easier to press than they were on previous models. Also, the focal point has been brought in nearer on the 3+. This means that objects closer to the camera (i.e. you) will be much sharper, but objects in the distance may have slightly less detail. I definitely prefer it this way, but it's a matter of personal preference and what you use it for.
But ultimately, if you want the action camera that shoots the best footage, then you want the GoPro Hero 3+ Black edition. It gives you so many ways to get the best-looking footage, and there's a reason this is the camera the most of the pros use. It's not just good marketing. It's a great camera. [GoPro]
How to Get Better Action Cam Footage
Action cameras seem simple enough. Strap it to your head, hit record, and go, right? While that's
GoPro Hero 3+ Black Edition Specs
• Field of View: 170°, 127°, or 90°
• Storage: up to 64 GB microSD
• Frame Rates: 4K (16:9 and 17:9) @ 12, 12.5, 15fps; 2.7K (16:9 and 17:9) @ 30, 25, 24fps; 1440p (4:3) @ 48, 30, 25, 24fps; 1080p (16:9) @ 60, 50, 48, 25, 24fps; 960p (16:9) @ 100, 48fps; 720p (16:9) @ 120, 100, 60, 50fps; WVGA (16:9) @ 240fps, plus Protune and SuperView modes
(A ton of) Additional reporting by Michael Hession. Video edit by Michael Hession.
rcasi
Is there a reason the Contour Roam was excluded from this test? I have been using both the Roam and GoPro for years , and I think that you've overlooked a major competitor here.


As per Health Ministry data, there are 20,306 government hospitals in the country. Rajasthan leads with 3,145 hospitals and Jammu and Kashmir stands at the number two with 2,812 hospitals.
Going by the statistics, J&K has the higher number of health institutions in rural and urban areas than neighbouring Himachal Pradesh (160), Punjab (240), and Haryana (159). Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state, has only 831 hospitals.
The primary health care services are greatly underutilized because of low quality treatment, lack of responsibility, weakening regulation, no transparency, lack of proper management, insufficient resources and prevalent corrupt practices.
On other hand, it is discovered that private hospitals are aimed at providing better healthcare facilities to the patients and also contributing a positive role in order to lower the public hospital burden.
Patients are compelled to visit private hospitals because of worse conditions and low quality treatment at public hospitals. But the very high and unaffordable prices of treatments at private hospitals push the patients back to bad conditioned public hospitals.
The first priority for achieving Universal Healthcare should be "a determined effort to strengthen our public health systems." Primary health care must be improved, starting with sub-centres, the first health post for the community. By staffing them with well-trained non-physician health care providers, both facility-based and outreach services can be provided without being doctor dependent. District hospitals too should be strengthened to provide high quality secondary care, some elements of essential tertiary care and training to different categories of health care providers. This would also help in relieving unending crowds in tertiary care hospitals.
The second priority should be to improve the size and quality of our health workforce. Without this, the promise of Universal Healthcare (UHC) will remain an empty entitlement. Since primary health care is our first priority, resources must be devoted to the production of competent and committed community health workers for the frontline, mid-level health workers or AYUSH doctors for the sub-centres, and general and specialist nurses as well as non-specialist doctors for primary health centres.
More specialists are needed for higher levels of health care including the district hospitals. New nursing and medical colleges should be preferentially set up in districts which presently have very few, linking them to tertiary-care hospitals.
Public health competencies must be increased through inter-disciplinary education which is aligned to health system needs. Improved management of all of these human resources must involve better incentives for recruitment and retention, cadre review and creation of well defined career tracks.
The third priority should be to provide essential medicines and diagnostics free of cost at all public facilities. At the same time, referral linkages and patient transport services should be improved to integrate primary, secondary and tertiary health care in the public system.
Difficult to reach areas and vulnerable population groups should receive special attention, even as the principle of universality must be applied while designing health services.
The fourth priority must be to put in place the necessary public systems for Universal Healthcare. Regulatory systems need strengthening — from hospital accreditation to health professional education and from drug licensing to mandatory adoption of standard management guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of different disease conditions at each level of health care.
A state inter-operable Health Information Network is needed to improve governance, accountability, portability, storage of health records and management. Community participation must be supported to actively engage people in the design, delivery, monitoring and evaluation of health programmes.
And finally, larger investments should be made in health promoting programmes in other sectors such as water, sanitation, nutrition, environment, urban design and livelihood generation.


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Roseanne Is Coming Back to ABC Without Roseanne
The series, retitled as The Conners, will premiere this fall.
By Justin Kirkland
You know how the old saying goes, "Even when there's a racist in the midst, the show must go on?" That's not the exact phrasing, but nevertheless, ABC wasn't ready to let go of the ratings juggernaut it had in Roseanne. The series will be reworked for the upcoming television season under the title of The Conners, including all of the season's original mainstays, except for Roseanne Barr.
Roseanne Conner Would Probably Hate Roseanne Barr
'Roseanne' Wasn't Bad Because of Its Politics
Roseanne's Firing Is Not a First Amendment Issue
The decision comes after the show's original cancellation a few weeks ago following a tweet from Roseanne Barr, in which she compared former Obama White House aide Valerie Jarrett to a character from Planet of the Apes. ABC programming president Channing Dungey slammed Barr's comments the following day. The reboot's success was undeniable though, regularly performing at the top of its time slot. As reported by Buzzfeed, the cancellation could have cost ABC as much as $100 million in ad revenue. That's enough money to reconsider a cancelled series tied to a known racist and conspiracy theorist, no matter the ethics behind it.
The Conners will follow the original characters as "a sudden turn of events" changes the face of the Conner family. As the reboot's first season ended, Roseanne was going into surgery for knee trouble following a miraculous recovery from opioid addiction. This sudden plot shift almost guarantees that the Conner matriarch will die in the reboot's reworking, as all original characters are slated to return.
Barr, who is not involved in The Conners, issued a joint statement with the production company behind Roseanne, saying, "I regret the circumstances that have caused me to be removed from Roseanne. I agreed to the settlement in order that 200 jobs of beloved cast and crew could be saved, and I wish the best for everyone involved."
Following the original blow up regarding Jarrett, Barr's track record has been spotty at best. After issuing an initial apology, she has retweeted numerous accounts who have supported her original racist comments. She has also followed up with several tweets explaining away that intent of her original tweet about Jarrett was not racist.
The new series, which will fill the original Tuesday slot reserved for Roseanne, will round out ABC's fall comedy line up. The original 13-episode order has been pared down to 10. Tom Werner, of Carsey-Werner (the production company that produced Roseanne), added onto Barr's statement, saying, "We are grateful to have reached this agreement to keep our team working as we continue to explore stories of the Conner family."
So there you have it. Pizzagate tweets and racist proclamations be damned, The Conners will live to see another day. Their matriarch (and that poorly addressed original series finale) however? Well, they'll just have to exist in that place where television tropes and faux opioid addictions go to die.
Justin Kirkland Justin Kirkland is a writer for Esquire, where he focuses on entertainment, television, and pop culture.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


You are right, except that the sensitive database like PII should be protected carefully.
I agree with you Dongjie.Organizations should use some controls to secure the database. Except you list the example of cryptographic, least privileges, log management, and monitoring, there also have used passwords and change that frequency, encryption, segment your database, and using some tools hidden your database.
Good explained. Because everyone thinks different, and none can do the all correct.
I agree with you Dongjie. The class diagram can be similar, but cannot be the same. Cause everyone has their different thoughts in their brain.
I totally agree with you, everyone sees the things from different ways, and they can't think out the same diagrams in their mind.
I agree with you both. Not adopting the standardized method will reduce the training fee, but the employee needs to spend more time and money in the data relationship than the company with the modeling technology. This is counterproductive.
I agree with your point of view that data modeling technology can save time, costs, and enable technicians to communicate and run programs more easily and efficiently.
Pascal mentioned that formal modeling is very important because it allows us to follow the process at the first sight of the modeling process, and its process and purpose are clear at a glance. It not only saves time, but also helps the user to understand clearly the system in which modeling is performed.
Jing, I agree with you. Corporate culture equates to understanding the company's background, which provides the common goal of keeping the IT team aligned with the company's strategy. It is also important to reconcile and understand the true value of each member so that each member can play their part.
Mengqiao, I very much agree with your three points, the team's cooperation and goals are related to the company's strategy and background, which can make the team move in one direction. In addition, based on customer requirements as the basis for the development of products that customers are interested in the company's products can be welcomed.
Team coordination process Assessment team coordination is the first step in developing a coherent organization. All systems and structures must support the company's vision.
Yes, I agree with you that the theme of the game should be what the fans want, not just the technical team and the stakeholders, which will lack the participation of players.
From your example, it can be seen that Qantas did not take stakeholders into consideration when replacing the system. As a result, the project was rejected by stakeholders and the result failed. This shows that stakeholders take an important part in the decision-making power of the project.
You're right, range is one of the potential risks. Some of the client's resources are lost before the scope and goals of the project have been identified, and the extent of the loss will increase over time.


In Diles & Rinies, we consider gastronomy as one of the strongest parts in your holiday experience. Therefore, we pay a lot of attention in offering quality food options, either at our main restaurant, MOONRISE, or even at the privacy of your own Villa. Start your day with the most sumptuous breakfast made only with local products and recipes, enjoy a light snack or cocktail from our all-day pool brunch menu and finish your evenings with a delicious dinner under the stars.
The MOONRISE cuisine restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience within the vibrant environment of Diles & Rinies main pool. The refined menu combines Mediterranean heritage with Greek cuisine and influences from local flavors and includes vegetarian and children's choices. Tinos' wide variety of herbs and regional products of sundried tomatoes, artichokes, capers, cheese, fresh fish and sausages, all with a creativity touch, offer dishes that assure a memorable feast of pure local specialties.


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Articles Posted in Supreme Court of Georgia
In the Interest of K.S., a child
May 7, 2018 by Justia Inc
The Georgia Supreme Court granted certiorari in this case to address whether Georgia's new Juvenile Code required a party to follow the interlocutory appeal procedures laid out in OCGA 5-6-34 (b) when appealing an order concerning the transfer of a case from juvenile to superior court. The Court held that it did not and, in so doing, reversed the decision of the Court of Appeals and remanded the case to be decided on the merits. View "In the Interest of K.S., a child" on Justia Law
Posted in: Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Juvenile Law, Supreme Court of Georgia
Veal v. Georgia
February 5, 2018 by Justia Inc
Robert Veal was convicted for crimes committed in the course of two armed robberies on November 22, 2010. After a jury found Veal guilty of malice murder and other offenses charged in the indictment against him, the trial court sentenced him to imprisonment for life without parole ("LWOP") for malice murder; six consecutive life sentences for rape, aggravated sodomy, and four armed robbery convictions; and sentences totaling 60 consecutive years for other convictions involved in the case. Veal argued in his first appeal that because he was under 18 years of age at the time of his crimes, his LWOP sentence was improperly imposed. The Georgia Supreme Court agreed; the trial court made no determination on the record with respect to whether Veal was "irreparably corrupt or permanently incorrigible, as necessary to put him in the narrow class of juvenile murderers for whom an LWOP sentence was proportional under the Eighth Amendment." Accordingly, the Court vacated the LWOP sentence and remanded the case for resentencing on that count. At the sentencing hearing the trial court conducted on remand, the State announced it would forgo seeking LWOP and, instead, asked the court to impose two additional consecutive life with parole sentences (for the malice murder conviction and one of the armed robbery counts that the trial court previously incorrectly merged with the murder conviction) in addition to the other consecutive life sentences already imposed. Veal introduced published life expectancy tables to support his assertion that the recommended sentence would exceed his life expectancy. The trial court, however, rejected Veal's assertion that this would amount to a de facto life without parole sentence, and imposed the State's recommended sentence without making an individualized determination regarding the appropriateness of the sentence pursuant to Miller. Finding no reversible error to this sentence, the Supreme Court affirmed. View "Veal v. Georgia" on Justia Law
Franklin v. Georgia
This case presented the issue of whether a trial court has authority to dismiss a prosecutor's notice of intent to seek the death penalty prior to trial. Appellant Tracen Franklin was eighteen years old at the time of the events involved in this case. He was one of four young men indicted for malice murder and felony murder (predicated on aggravated assault) for beating and kicking to death Bobby Tillman after a teen party. Several trial witnesses identified Franklin as one of three others who joined in, and the four men severely beat, kicked, and stomped Tillman, who was later pronounced dead at the hospital as a result of a ruptured right ventricle of the heart caused by blunt impact. After a period of jury deliberation, the trial court declared the jury to be deadlocked on the issue of punishment. The trial court then sentenced Franklin to life without parole. The trial court denied Franklin's motion for new trial. On appeal, Franklin claimed the prosecutor sought the death penalty in this case in bad faith, in an attempt to improve the odds of a conviction by seating a death-qualified jury. Even though the death penalty was not imposed, Franklin argued the Georgia Supreme Court should have granted a new trial where a bad-faith purpose for seeking the death penalty is shown. He argued that bad faith was demonstrated in this case because, pursuant to the notice of statutory aggravating circumstances and the evidence the State could (and ultimately did) present in support of these circumstances, he was not eligible for the death penalty as a matter of law. The Supreme Court determined the issue raised by Franklin's appeal had been decided adversely to appellant's position, and the Court was not persuaded to change its longstanding ruling on the issue. View "Franklin v. Georgia" on Justia Law
Bryant v. Georgia
May 30, 2017 by Justia Inc
The Georgia Supreme Court found that appellant Avery Bryant's trial counsel was ineffective for failing to challenge the sufficiency of the police warrant leading to Bryant's arrest. The warrant in question did not adequately describe the items police intended to seize, therefore the search was presumptively unreasonable and unconstitutional, "the warrant here did not simply omit a few items from a list of many to be seized, or misdescribe a few of several items . . . , the warrant did not describe the items to be seized at all." Bryant had been convicted by jury of malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, and possession of a pistol by a person under age 18. On appeal, he argued ineffective assistance of counsel, and that the trial court erred in instructing the jury. In light of the ineffective assistance claim, the Georgia Supreme Court did not address Bryant's remaining claims of error, and remanded the case for further proceedings. View "Bryant v. Georgia" on Justia Law
Oubre v. Woldemichael
Yididya Woldemichael pleaded guilty to armed robbery and other charges for his role in the robbery and beating of a pizza delivery woman. He filed a petition for habeas corpus, which was granted on grounds that his trial counsel was ineffective for failing to advise Woldemichael that inculpatory custodial statements could have been suppressed. Woldemichael was 14 years old at the time of the police interview. The Warden appealed the grant of habeas relief, arguing that the statements were voluntary and would have been admissible at trial and, thus, counsel's performance was not deficient. The Georgia Supreme Court agreed with the habeas court that Woldemichael's statements to police were subject to suppression. But because the habeas court assumed, without separate analysis, that recorded statements that Woldemichael made to a co-defendant during a break in police questioning also were subject to suppression, it remanded for the habeas court to analyze the admissibility of those statements in the first instance. View "Oubre v. Woldemichael" on Justia Law
In the Interest of J.F.
March 7, 2017 by Justia Inc
The Court of Appeals, in a divided full-court (15-judge) decision, certified to the Georgia Supreme Court a single question of statutory construction: whether OCGA 15-11-521 (b) required dismissal with prejudice when the State neither filed a petition alleging juvenile delinquency within the applicable 30-day period nor seeks an extension of time in which to file such petition. At the time the Court of Appeals certified its question, the Supreme Court had granted petitions for certiorari in two other cases ("M.D.H." and "D.V.H.") to address the same question. The Court held in a single opinion that "if the State fails to file a delinquency petition within the required30 days or to seek and receive an extension of that deadline, the case must be dismissed without prejudice," and thus affirming the decision in M.D.H. and reversing the decision in D.V.H. Because the answer to the certified question submitted by the Court of Appeals in this case "may be found in the decision of this [C]ourt in [another case,] we will not again undertake to consider the question[]submitted." View "In the Interest of J.F." on Justia Law
Posted in: Constitutional Law, Juvenile Law, Supreme Court of Georgia
Georgia v. Baxter
November 21, 2016 by Justia Inc
In February 2014, Jason Dakota Baxter (who then was sixteen years old) was arrested and charged with aggravated sexual battery. Baxter was detained pending indictment and trial. About a month after his arrest, Baxter executed a written waiver of his entitlement to have his case presented to the grand jury within 180 days, and Baxter and the State filed the waiver with the superior court. In October 2014, however, Baxter filed a motion to transfer his case to juvenile court, asserting that his case had not been timely presented to the grand jury as required by OCGA 17-7-50.1 and that his waiver was ineffective. The superior court granted the motion, and the State appealed. The Court of Appeals affirmed, finding that presentation to the grand jury within 180 days of detention was an absolute requirement (unless the time was extended for good cause), that such presentation was essential to the jurisdiction of the superior court, and that parties could not by agreement, consent, or waiver confer jurisdiction upon a court that otherwise was without it. The Supreme Court reversed, finding that the Court of Appeals misunderstood OCGA 17-7-50.1 when it concluded that the statute did not permit a detained child to waive presentation within 180 days of the date of detention. For that reason, the Court of Appeals erred when it affirmed the transfer from the superior court to the juvenile court. Accordingly, the Supreme Court reversed the judgment of the Court of Appeals. View "Georgia v. Baxter" on Justia Law
Georgia v. Estrada
In 2013 while he was in custody, investigators questioned a then- 18-year-old Tyler Estrada abut a Gwinnett County homicide. Estrada had been in custody in DeKalb County. At an evidentiary hearing, audio recordings of Estrada's custodial statement were placed into evidence, the trial court determined that though Estrada invoked his right to counsel, he never waived his Miranda rights either in writing or verbally. Accordingly, the trial court granted Estrada's motion to suppress the statement. The State appealed. Finding no reversible error to that suppression order, the Supreme Court affirmed. View "Georgia v. Estrada" on Justia Law
In the Interest of M.D.H.
At issue in these cases was what happens when the State fails to file a petition alleging delinquency against a juvenile who was not detained within 30 days of the filing of the complaint or seek an extension of that deadline from the juvenile court. In In the "Interest of M.D.H.," (779 SE2d 433 (2015)), a panel of the Court of Appeals held that the failure to comply with section 15-11-521(b) required dismissal of the juvenile case, but the dismissal was without prejudice. Three days later, in "Interest of D.V.H.," (779 SE2d 122 (2015)), a different panel answered the same question the opposite way, concluding that a violation of section 15-11-121(b) required dismissal with prejudice. The Supreme Court granted certiorari in both cases, asking whether the Court of Appeals correctly applied OCGA section 15-11-521 (b). The Supreme Court held that if the State fails to file a delinquency petition within the required 30 days or to seek and receive an extension of that deadline, the case must be dismissed without prejudice. Accordingly, the Court affirmed the Court of Appeals' judgment in M.D.H., and reversed the judgment in D.V.H. View "In the Interest of M.D.H." on Justia Law


The Colli&Rubini Duo was founded in 2010 by Martina Colli and Rossella Rubini, after a friendship that started when the two pianists were just kids. Both born in Teramo (Italy), they started their collaboration mixing together their different experiences, particularly broadened in jazz music and composition by Martina and chamber music and musicology by Rossella. Together, they decided to make their passionate commitment to music, including in their repertoire the classics as well as the newest composers. Their first CD, published in 2012 by Tactus (Italy), is the first recording in the world of the piano pieces by Gino Marinuzzi Jr. In the same year, a second CD was released in London, The Voyage, then selected for the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles (USA).
Martina and Rossella, whilst carrying on their own personal careers, travel a lot to perform across Europe and abroad.


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Toretti Family Vineyard is the hidden gem of Los Olivos. Located at 2933 San Marcos Avenue, this limited production winery is pouring award winning Pinot Noir. Only 750 cases of wine per year are produced at the small vineyard and ranch known as Casa Torres.
Robert Torres, founder of Toretti, is one of the last original cowboys. At more than ninety years old, Bob is a former cattle rancher and restaurateur. He's ridden with celebrities and politicians, winemakers and rodeo stars. You can find Bob in the tasting room on most afternoons and he'll share a glass of wine and a story or two with you.
The tasting room is open late on Friday and Saturday. The tasting room hours are 12:30 – 5:30 on Thursday, 12:30 – 7:30 on Friday and Saturday and 12:30 – 5:30 on Sunday and Monday.


The main villain this time around because you know there will be a sequel is Thor's brother Loki. If you haven't seen it yet the setup for this is in the end post credits of Thor. The team has been recruited by cameo's from Nick Fury played by Samuel L. Jackson in the previous films. If you have not seen all the films but have a basic understanding of the characters thru any of the various versions over the years, you can walk into this without being lost. This shouldn't stop you for a nice little home viewing party of all the previous movies. I myself haven't see the Iron Man movies or the last Hulk version with Edward Norton, I tend to lean towards the DC Comics side, its more than a lean i'm practically horizontal.
The movie focuses on Loki's plan to take over Earth, he wants to rule and piss off his brother at the same time hence partly why earth is a target. The movie slowly brings the Avengers into the fold one by one so you can get pumped as they are brought it. There's so much to take in but the film stays with comedy and action. The Avengers don't all even know of each other and of course their meetings will be chaotic. The fight scene between Captain America, Iron Man and Thor is pretty interesting and filled with one liners. When we finally get the payoff of the Hulk being released its both amazing and still funny.
I give this movie - Pay full price. Its completely worth every single penny. The only caveat is its playing in regular, 3D and IMAX. I tend to very rarely recommend 3D and i'm not going to recommend it here either. There is so much to love about this movie. I couldn't remotely find a bad thing about it. Stick around all the way to the end for 2 post credit scenes.
The Avengers is rated PG-13. This movies clocks in at 2:23 so be ready for a long but highly entertaining few hours. All i can say after walking out of this is The Dark Night Rises better bring it.


I found your blog on GoT IMDB Message Board… And here I am now got hooked to your review writings! I loved that you said you're Cap's team while I consider my self as Tony's. While I totally agree with Cap about the gov thing, but I got the urge to stand by Tony Stark on this… He deserves to be understood too and he needed Cap to show a tiny bit of friendship/symphaty about how he lost his parents. That's my two cents!
Anyway pls free to visit my blog (I just started last Saturday), hope you'll like my writings.


text:
Q: Where is the Mozilla Firefox cache located? I have got Mozilla Firefox installed, and am aware of the issues with nasty things like phishing scripts from images ending up in my browser's cache. And so that I don't have to just empty my cache all the time, I would like to know of its location in my computer.
I have noticed that there appears to be some sort of area for caching here:
~/.cache/mozilla/firefox/k29gs42c.default

And that there also seem to be some Mozilla Firefox related files here:
~/.mozilla/firefox

So which one of these is it? Or is there a different area for caching? Or different caches? For greater efficiency when scanning the caching areas, I would prefer to know exactly which top level directory only contains caching areas, so that I do not scan anything which is non-cache related.
Expanding of question:
I have looked at the questions which are possible duplicates of this in the comments, but then I also ask, what are these other locations with cache in their names then located in ~/.cache/mozilla/firefox/k29gs42c.default?:
Cache
cache2
OfflineCache
startupCache

What are these if not some sorts of caches? And if they are so, should I not also scan them? Or are their purposes different and thus would not possibly contain any contents from websites?

OS Information:
Description:    Ubuntu 15.04
Release:    15.04

Package Information:
firefox:
  Installed: 37.0.2+build1-0ubuntu0.15.04.1
  Candidate: 37.0.2+build1-0ubuntu0.15.04.1
  Version table:
 *** 37.0.2+build1-0ubuntu0.15.04.1 0
        500 http://gb.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/ vivid-updates/main amd64 Packages
        500 http://security.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/ vivid-security/main amd64 Packages
        100 /var/lib/dpkg/status
     37.0+build2-0ubuntu1 0
        500 http://gb.archive.ubuntu.com/ubuntu/ vivid/main amd64 Packages

A: Cache is the regular cache backend.
Cache2 is a new cache backend since Firefox 27 and onwards.
OfflineCache is the offline cache from which a resource is essentially loaded first and then it is checked if it is still fresh.
startupCache is a sort of fastload feature.
All of these are capable of holding pieces of website data.

A: .mozilla/firefox directory contains the settings and extensions. Here's output of mine:
$ ls .mozilla/firefox/b1ygiwi1.default/ | head
addons.json
addons.sqlite*
blocklist.xml
bookmarkbackups/
cert8.db*
cert_override.txt*
compatibility.ini*
content-prefs.sqlite*
cookies.sqlite*
cookies.sqlite-shm*

The other directory actually contains different types of cache, as wie5Ooma already mentioned.
So if something would be going wrong, you'd might want to try altering or deleting completely whatever is in ~/.mozilla/firefox/ to restore settings to default.
There is also cache in .macromedia/Flash_Player\#SharedObjects/ which belongs to flash player if you use that, like s.ytimg.com from youtube.

A: This is my location for all stuff, including songs from sites .cache/mozilla/firefox/[random characters].default/cache2/entries

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Ask for the hand is not an art or technique to be learned, each does so in its own way, following one's heart. Often, however, the main goal is to impress your girlfriend, make her a wonderful surprise, giving it, in addition to the precious ring, a truly unforgettable moment, and only yours.
Being an exclusive event it is advisable to book well in advance to ensure availability.
The package may include either dinner or lunch according to your needs.
We will agree with your arrival time so that everything is perfect and romantic.


text: This folder contains tools you can use to debug voice gateway related issues.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Are you going for a vacation?
Why is not putting your pet in a pet hotel a good solution?
* Time spent with signing an agreement and its terms and conditions cost your time.
* Strange enviroment for your pet.
* Feed the cat with a cats food provided by the client and give water (once per day).
* Changing and cleaning cats toilet on daily basis (depend on the pet).
If you wish we could clean your home place while you are on holiday.


text:
Home > Entertainment > Actor Lee Min-ho draws thousands to fan meeting
Actor Lee Min-ho draws thousands to fan meeting
SEOUL, Jan. 18 (Yonhap) — Lee Min-ho, the icon of Hallyu, or the Korean culture craze, proved his ongoing popularity, selling out thousands of tickets instantly for a meet-and-greet next month, the actor's agency said Wednesday.
According to MYM Entertainment, the 6,000 tickets for the local event "The Originality of Lee Min-ho" sold out in a matter of seconds after ticket sales went online Tuesday via the e-commerce website Auction at 6 p.m.
The fan meeting, scheduled to take place on Feb. 18-19 at Kyunghee University in eastern Seoul, marks the beginning of Lee's multi-nation fan meeting tour. The actor's "Talk Concert" hosted at the same venue in January 2016 also generated an explosive response, selling out 3,000 tickets in the blink of an eye.
"Lee, known to have a deep affection towards his fans, will spice up the event showing a side of him that hasn't been revealed yet," the actor's agency said. "In the midst of his busy schedule, Lee takes time to participate in the preparation process. He is very excited for the impending event."
Currently, Lee plays a genius conman in the SBS fantasy drama "The Legend of the Blue Sea" with high-profile star Jun Ji-hyun. The actor first gained widespread fame from starring in "Boys Over Flowers" in 2009 and continued to ride a huge wave of popularity after his following works "City Hunter (2011)" and "The Heirs (2013)."
This image, provided by MYM Entertainment, shows South Korean actor Lee Min-ho.


Rates are current as of the date posted above and are subject to change without notice. For share and club savings accounts, a minimum balance of $100.00 in required to earn dividends. Money Market accounts are variable rate accounts and the rate may change after the account is opened. Rates are subject to change at anytime for variable rate accounts.
1st Mortgages, 2nd Homes, Refinances, investment Property, and more.
Up to 36 months as low as 2.50% Loan to value and term restrictions may apply.
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61 months – 72 months as low as 3.50% Loan to value and term restrictions may apply.
Visit our partner, Sallie Mae for options and details!
Rates are current as of the date posted above and are subject to change without notice. Factors such as credit history, loan term and loan collateral will determine the Annual Percentage Rate you receive. 'As low as" interest rates listed include a .25 basis point reduction for loans paid by direct deposit. Variable Rate accounts, the rate may change after the account is opened. Fees could reduce the earnings on your account.


There is a lot of information explaining how to start beekeeping both on the internet, and available in books.
On this site, you'll find some useful introductory information, as well as links to more in-depth sources.
There are also free items to download and use, including a beekeeping book and bee hive plans. The audience for this website is very varied, but hopefully there will be something to suit you.
You don't need to go out and buy every gadget, but here are some useful things for you to have.
Considerations for keeping bees in the town or city.
First decide on the approach you wish to take. This will determine how you equip yourself with beekeeping supplies.
Advice about purchasing second hand beekeeping equipment and supplies, including how to clean it.
If you are about to start beekeeping, perhaps you will be given a swarm. If not, you will have to purchase some bees to start off.
Tips shared by other beekeepers.
This is a growing movement. It focuses on beekeeping in a way that supports the natural behaviours of the honey bee (such as how the bees naturally build honeycombs). This approach uses natural methods of dealing with issues such as varroa.
Here you will also find a free book to download.
Background information on Varroa mite (or Varroa Destructor). There is a link to treatments, including non-synthetic, natural options and a study to download.
Bee hives are expensive. Download free plans to make your own beehive. Several versions to choose from.
Recipes for fondant and syrup for the times when your honey bees need to be fed.
If you want to know how to start beekeeping, why not take a look at this range of great beekeeping videos showing Natural Beekeeping in action. You can always take a look at them again later.
Brief descriptions of terms used in beekeeping.
Take a look as some of the issues around honey bee deaths.


text:
Ante Ostium: contextualizing boundaries in the houses of Pompeii and Herculaneum
Lauritsen2014.docx (162.3Mb)
Lauritsen2014.pdf (54.77Mb)
Lauritsen, Michael Taylor
Since large-scale excavations began in the mid-19th century, scholarly studies of houses in Pompeii and Herculaneum have emphasized the "social" nature of their design. Most Campanian domūs are viewed as spaces with high levels of transparency and permeability to which non-residents were afforded a certain degree of unregulated access. This theoretical paradigm has developed, however, without consideration for doors, partitions, and other closure systems that controlled visual and physical contact between various parts of the residence. That these structures have largely been ignored by students of Campanian archaeology is surprising, given that boundaries were an incredibly influential element in the ancient cultural landscape, delimiting the social, political, and spatial domains that comprised the Roman world. Indeed, the Latin literary sources reveal that boundaries, both inside the house and out, were often afforded special status—they were attended by their own deities and were regularly the focus of ceremonies and rituals. This thesis addresses this oversight by presenting the results of the Doors of Pompeii and Herculaneum Project, a survey of closure systems and their archaeological vestiges in 31 Campanian dwellings. This evidence is complemented by the findings of comparative surveys conducted in houses elsewhere in the Mediterranean world. Analysis of these data reveals that permeable boundaries, in their manifold forms, played a crucial role in structuring ancient domestic space. By repopulating the houses of Pompeii and Herculaneum with doors, partitions, and other bounding mechanisms, this research challenges the concept of the "social house," demonstrating that access to and movement within the house was, in fact, heavily regulated by the inhabitants. This represents a fundamental reinterpretation of the relationship between house and society in the Vesuvian cities.


Pair Pouilly-Fuissé with rich fish, poultry or cheese dishes.
or a grilled salmon and tangy goat cheese salad.
Farmed organically from post 1945 vines, fermented with natural yeast in 3000L oak vats and aged in used French oak for nearly 2 years, Rontet's Clos Varambon is finished without fining, only a light filtration and minimal added sulfur by former architects, Fabio Montrasi and his wife Claire Gazeau, whose family has owned the walled vineyards surrounding the chateau since 1850.


text:
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Committed to Community
Ethiopian region votes, defying federal government and PM
by: ELIAS MESERET, Associated Press
Residents cast their votes in a local election in the regional capital Mekelle, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2020. People began voting in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region on Wednesday in a local election defying the federal government and increasing political tensions in Africa's second most populous country. (AP Photo)
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (AP) — People voted Wednesday in Ethiopia's northern Tigray region in a local election defying the federal government and increasing political tensions in Africa's second most populous country.
Tigray officials had warned that an intervention by the federal government would amount to a "declaration of war." They have objected to the postponement of the national election, once set for August, because of the coronavirus pandemic and the extension of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's time in office.
Over the weekend, Ethiopia's upper house of parliament called Wednesday's election unconstitutional. Ethiopia's leader ruled out a military intervention, but there had been fears any punitive measures by the federal government could further escalate tensions.
The standoff with the northern region is the latest challenge to the administration of Abiy, who won the Nobel Peace Prize last year in part for introducing political reforms. He took office in early 2018. The Tigray region's ruling party, the Tigray People's Liberation Front, was the dominant one in Ethiopia's previous government.
"This election is illegal because only the National Election Board can conduct elections in Ethiopia," Abiy said in an interview with the state broadcaster, EBC, on Tuesday evening. "TPLF's rule over the region is extended until the upcoming election. If the party doesn't take part in the general election, it won't be acceptable.
"These types of small gatherings won't be a headache for us," Abiy added.
Some 2.7 million people in the Tigray region had been expected to cast their votes at more than 2,600 polling stations, regional election officials said. They are electing members of the regional parliament, which in turn will choose the region's cabinet and administrators.
"I am here because I want to exercise my self-governance rights," said one voter, Tekeste Girmay, adding that the authorities "will have a big role in preventing coronavirus from spreading." Ethiopia in recent weeks saw a sharp rise in confirmed cases.
Two residents of the regional capital, Mekelle, told The Associated Press there was tight security in the city and surrounding areas. Bikes and auto rickshaws were banned from the city as of Tuesday evening.
On Monday, Ethiopian security officials removed reporters from a plane heading to the region, confiscating their I.D.s, cameras and other equipment. Separately, a non-governmental organization told the AP they were barred from observing the election "for no sufficient reason."
The group, Seb Hidri, said the Tigray People's Liberation Front was behind the ban.
As polls closed, the Tigray region's communications office called the election a historic victory and great achievement. It labeled the federal government as "dictatorial" and said the vote was "vital for the Tigray people because it reassures their destiny and self-determination."
Tigray TV, a regional broadcaster, said results should be announced Thursday.
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text:
Smuggler caught with 51 turtles in his pants sent up the river
Melissa Breyer MelissaBreyer
© Mary Hollinger/NOAA
The 27-year-old Canadian college student was caught shipping 1000s of turtles smuggled from Michigan to China; sentenced to nearly 5 years in prison.
Some people pay for college by crafting lattes, others by waiting on tables or working at bookstores. But Kai Xu found a novel way to help pay for his education – turtle smuggling. And now the Canadian has been sentenced to just under five years in prison for his "shell game."
According to Global News, Xu regularly visited Michigan to buy and ship thousands of turtles to China – his crime was discovered when he was caught at the Canadian border with dozens of the creatures strapped to his legs. While it is legal to buy turtles in the U.S., it is illegal to ship wildlife overseas without a federal permit. Apparently Xu shipped the turtles from both the States and Canada, or paid mules to fly East with the turtles in their luggage. The turtles included North American varieties such as eastern box turtles, red-eared sliders and diamondback terrapins — some of which sell for $800 each
In China, the turtles make desirable pets.
While Xu expressed remorse, Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara Woodward described his smuggling scheme as one of the largest in recent years. Her request was for five years in prison – which is near the lower end of the sentencing spectrum. U.S. District Judge John Corbett O'Meara could have settled for even less, but went with a sentence of 57 months.
In a letter to O'Meara, Xu wrote that he sold the turtles to make money for college and that he was a semester shy of an engineering degree. His defense attorney said that Xu was not a "sophisticated international dealer." Yet prosecutors argued that the turtle trading was worth more than $1 million.
An appeal is in the works, with Xu's attorney saying that the sentence is severe. But hello, illegal wildlife trade? What may seem like a silly incidence of turtles in the pants is actually a very serious issue. As noted on the Fish & Wildlife Service site, thousands of wildlife species are threatened by illegal and unsustainable wildlife trade – it's often unsustainable, harms populations of animals and plants and pushes endangered species toward extinction. And honestly, it's just mean. Hopefully a few turtles can breathe a little easier now ... pants and suitcases are stifling.
Family cleans house, finds pet tortoise missing since 1982
Tortoise interruptus? Giant tortoise, very slowly, rushes to defend...
This man is airlifting rhinos to Australia to protect them from poa...


text:
Classification review
(-) Recruitment
Recruitment for Classification Board Temporary Member Register
The Department has commenced a recruitment process for inclusion on the Temporary Member Register of the Classification Board.
Recruitment—Deputy Director, Classification Board
The Department of Communications and the Arts has commenced a recruitment process for the role of the Deputy Director of the Classification Board located in Sydney.
Recruitment—Review Board Members—several positions—Classification Review Board
The Department of Communications and the Arts has commenced a recruitment process for several positions as Members of the Classification Review Board.
Employment opportunity—Director of the Classification Board
The Department of Communications and the Arts has commenced a recruitment process for the position of Director of the Classification Board.


Parents of children who will be five years old or older before September 15, 2019 are requested to contact Madrid Elementary to place your child's name on the kindergarten list for the 2019-2020 school year. It is important that students be listed as soon as possible for planning. The telephone number to the elementary office is 795-3240 option 1. Kindergarten Round-Up is scheduled for Friday, April 5th from 9:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. This event is for children only.
Please pick up and return registration information to the building office where your student (s) will attend. Office hours are 7:45am - 3:45pm.
Registration links and forms are available for the 2018-19 school year. To start the process, go to the Schools tab on the home page of the district's website, www.madrid.k12.ia.us and scroll down to 18-19 Registration Materials. Following submission of your student's registration information, please login to your parent portal of Infinite Campus to pay fees. If you do not have a parent portal account set up, please email Peggy Nardini, pnardini@madrid.k12.ia.us or call the administration office at 515-795-1400. The Iowa Eligibility Application for free and reduced meals is now available online.This application needs to be completed every year to determine eligibility. The application may be found under the Department & Services tab, and scroll down to Food Service.


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Teen fighting for life after being stabbed multiple times in bloody Australia Day brawl
A teenager is fighting for his life after being stabbed and left wounded in a hotel elevator in Brisbane on Australia Day.
Phoebe Loomesdollyybird
news.com.auJanuary 28, 20201:27pm
Kane Alexanderson was critically injured after suffering multiple stab wounds on Australia Day....
Kane Alexanderson was critically injured after suffering multiple stab wounds on Australia Day.
Bloody scenes from inside the hotel. Picture: 9 NewsSource:Twitter
A teenager is in a critical condition after being stabbed and left wounded in a hotel elevator in Brisbane on Australia Day.
The teenager, who entered a hotel in Brisbane by walking in the doors behind guests who'd paid to stay there, entered with a group of seven other people, according to Queensland Police.
After the group made their way into the hotel about 9.20pm, an altercation broke out in one of the hotel rooms, and three of the eight people were wounded. Those suffering injuries were all males, two aged 17 and one aged 18.
The 18-year-old, Kane Alexanderson, was critically injured, suffering multiple stab wounds.
The three teenagers were taken to Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital after the incident. Mr Alexanderson is now being treated for life threatening injuries.
Police inside the hotel in Brisbane. Picture: 9 NewsSource:Twitter
Alexanderson was left fighting for his life on Sunday.Source:Facebook
News.com.au contacted Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital for an update on the young man's condition but has not yet received a response.
According to reports, the teen was stabbed multiple times before being left in the hotel elevator. He was found by a man who performed first aid until paramedics arrived, according to 9 News.
Queensland Police said an 18-year-old man is assisting them with their inquiries and their investigations are continuing.
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Our Fuchsia dining chair are ideal infusing a touch of timeless elegance into the well-planned interior.
The chair features off white soft leather upholstery constructed from a hardwood frame and elevated by sophisticated black lacquered birch wood legs.
Accent with a complementing Fuchsia round dining table compliment with Fuchsia dining chairs complete timeless interior space in style.
W. 53 x D. 60 x H. 98cm.


A few years back, when White Balloon in Spain closed their doors, they offered me a quantity of Natterer outfits for their Bye Bye Dolly collection. I have quite a few of various items, although not all complete sets. If you click on the individual pictures below, I give a description of what is available.
Here is a picture of the White Balloon dolls in this particular collection, so that you can see what each doll and outfit look like.
PLEASE NOTE, they are not complete sets and some are not quite finished and need a stitch or two or a button in places.


Cebu City has quite a number of attractions that you will most definitely enjoy. Visit Fort San Pedro where you can catch a glimpse of the rich local history. If you're curious to experience the city's nightlife, then a visit to the Cebu I.T. Park should be included in your itinerary. Don't forget to indulge in local flavor: dine at STK ta Bay for an authentic sutukil experience or at Larsian's for the ultimate Cebu food trip.
Php 1000/Night but refundable upon check out if not used.
"Rush booking but quality staying!"
I choose this hotel to stay because of its location which is near to the University where our seminar will be conducted. Thanks because though its rush booking, Its was nice naman! The hotel is clean and you will enjoy staying while seeing the night life of the city!
"Beautiful Stay at Southpole Central"
The hotel is really great. It is very clean and the staff are very friendly and accommodating. Welcome drinks are serve also. The food was sumptuous.
I really love my stay at Southpole Hotel. They're very accommodating and polite staff. the place is clean and very cozy and affordable.


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Castelo de Paiva es una villa portuguesa del distrito de Aveiro, Región Norte y comunidad intermunicipal del Támega y Sousa, con cerca de 20 000 habitantes.

Es sede de un municipio con 114,67 km² de área y 15 589 habitantes (2021), subdividido en 6 freguesias.

Límites

El municipio limita al norte con los municipios de Penafiel y Marco de Canaveses, al este con Cinfães, al este y al sur con Arouca y al oeste con Gondomar.

Historia

El municipio fue llamado únicamente Paiva hasta comienzos del .

El 4 de marzo de 2001, el puente que unía las localidades de Castelo y Entre-os-rios se derrumbó. Un autocar de empresa Asadouro con 53 excursionistas se encontraba circulando sobre el puente, lo que agravó las consecuencias de la tragedia, que causó al menos 70 muertos. Varios cuerpos fueron a parar a las costas de Galicia. La tragedia causó una gran conmoción nacional y la renuncia del entonces ministro de Obras Públicas y Transportes, Jorge Coelho.

Demografía

Freguesias

Las freguesias de Castelo de Paiva son las siguientes:
 Fornos
 Raiva, Pedorido e Paraíso
 Real
 Santa Maria de Sardoura
 São Martinho de Sardoura
 Sobrado e Bairros

Economía
La multinacional británica «C&J Clark» abrió en 1988, una fábrica de fabricación de calzado, la cual cierra en 2003. Hoy la mayor fábrica es BRADCO, que tiene casi 300 empleados.

Patrimonio

 Cafe Central
 Ayuntamiento
 Largo del Conde
 Minas del Pejão y el Couto Minero
 Parque de las Tilias
 Parque del Pino (Parque do Pinheiro)

Referencias

 http://eur-lex.europa.eu 14.8.2003
 Programa "En Portada" 28.12.2010

Enlaces externos

 Ayuntamiento de Castelo de Paiva
 La Voz de Galicia: "Más de 50 muertos al caerse un autobús y dos coches al río Duero"

Castelo de Paiva

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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New rare variant associations with distinct phenotypes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension revealed with Bayesian inference.
E. Swietlik (Cambridge, United Kingdom), K. Lutz (Cincinnati , United States of America), D. Greene (Cambridge, United Kingdom), M. Pauciulo (Cincinnati , United States of America), T. Tilly (Cambridge, United Kingdom), D. Pandya (Cambridge, United Kingdom), N. Zhu (New York, United States of America), M. Cogliano (Sheffield , United Kingdom), C. Welch (New York, United States of America), A. Coleman (New York, United States of America), . Bioresource Rare Diseases Consortium (Cambridge, United Kingdom), Y. Shen (New York, United States of America), A. Swift (Sheffield , United Kingdom), W. Chung (New York, United States of America), W. Nichols (Cincinnati , United States of America), N. Morrell (Cambridge, United Kingdom), S. Graf (Cambridge, United Kingdom)
E. Swietlik (Cambridge, United Kingdom), K. Lutz (Cincinnati , United States of America), D. Greene (Cambridge, United Kingdom), M. Pauciulo (Cincinnati , United States of America), T. Tilly (Cambridge, United Kingdom), D. Pandya (Cambridge, United Kingdom), N. Zhu (New York, United States of America), M. Cogliano (Sheffield , United Kingdom), C. Welch (New York, United States of America), A. Coleman (New York, United States of America), . Bioresource Rare Diseases Consortium (Cambridge, United Kingdom), Y. Shen (New York, United States of America), A. Swift (Sheffield , United Kingdom), W. Chung (New York, United States of America), W. Nichols (Cincinnati , United States of America), N. Morrell (Cambridge, United Kingdom), S. Graf (Cambridge, United Kingdom). New rare variant associations with distinct phenotypes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension revealed with Bayesian inference.. 4459
Triple therapy in COPD: Oportunities and challenges
ERS Handbook of Respiratory Medicine - 3rd edition - CME test
COVID-19 and the management of Interstitial Lung Diseases patients: challenges and recommendations


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Q: Probability theory(random variable, independence) - challenging lemma(independence for every random variable in the same probabilistic space) While browsing my local library, I found in one textbook the following quite interesting lemma:
If: random variable $X$ is independent to every other random variable defined on the same probabilistic space as X, then: $\exists$ $c:=(const.) \in \mathbb{R}$: $P(X=c)=1$
I made attempt of proving this lemma by contradiction. Intuitively, I thought of creating one specific random variable from all possible random variables defined on the same probabilistic space as random variable $X$. I thought of constructing the contradiction by making use of random variable $Y :=X^{3} $, however I got nowhere.
I checked the content of posts on this website and there are no similiar examples that may, in my humble opinion, help me go further in proving the lemma mentioned above. Besides, I checked google browser and did not find any useful information.
I am very curious how to construct the proof for such lemma. I would be thankful for any constructive help!

A: Suppose $X$ is independent of itself (or if "every other" excludes $X$ itself, you can make a similar argument with $1+X$, say).  Then for any $r\in\mathbb{R}$, $$P(X\leq r)=P(X\leq r\text{ and }X\leq r)=P(X\leq r)P(X\leq r)$$ since $X$ and $X$ are independent, and so $P(X\leq r)$ can only be $0$ or $1$.  There must also exist $r$ in which both cases hold (since the limit as $r\to\infty$ must be $1$ and the limit as $r\to-\infty$ must be $0$).  Now let $c=\inf\{r\in\mathbb{R}:P(X\leq r)=1\}$.  Since $P(X\leq r)$ is continuous from the right, $P(X\leq c)=1$, but $P(X<c)=0$ since $P(X<r)=0$ for all $r< c$.  Thus $P(X=c)=1$.


text:
Jayde Scott
No Naked Ads -> Here! $urlZ Black wood, p.4
Black Wood, p.4
"Nope, but I have something much better," Clifford replied. "I know about the matching world. The magic world where the diary comes from, that is. Without it, the magic diary will not work forever and you'll need the magic mirror and the secret words to open the portal."
"Another world? What're you talking about? What's it good for?" Emily asked.
"Whoa! Are there aliens?" Sam staggered back, looking around the room as though a door with a welcome sign might miraculously appear.
Emily rolled her eyes. Throw in the word magic and all her brother could think of were aliens.
"The portal's a mirror right here at Ravencourt Manor. If you open it, you'll learn to spin your own magic. You only have to say the right words," Clifford repeated. "Come on. Let's find it, but I can't open it myself." He got up to his feet. "You must have a special mirror somewhere in this house."
"There's one in the bathroom," Emily said excited, "and then there's a larger one in the hall."
Clifford turned to face her. For a moment his eyes flickered like a star. "No, no. Those won't work. We need one that can stand on its own with a wooden frame."
Emily shook her head. She couldn't remember any other.
Sam jumped up from the floor. "Grandma used to have one of those. I haven't seen it in a long time though."
"Maybe it's in the cellar. Or what about that locked shed in the garden? If we could only find the key," Clifford said.
"The shed." Sam bolted toward the door. "Let's ask Dad about the key."
"Wait!" Emily called. "Sam, doesn't the attic have a mirror?"
Her brother stopped in his tracks and turned around. "You mean the one that's always covered? Of course! Why didn't I think of it?"
"Well, let's go have a look, shall we?" Clifford said.
Emily followed as Sam led the way toward the staircase running to the attic. Clifford was right behind her. They climbed the steep, stony stairs. By the time they reached the next level, they were panting. Emily rested for a minute before she looked around. She hadn't been here since her grandmother had last shown them the mirror many years ago.
The long, narrow hall had a single small window to the right. The heavy blanket of dust tickled Emily's nose and she rubbed her palm over her face to stop herself from sneezing.
Clifford talked first. "This is the attic? Where's the mirror then?"
"The attic's up there." Sam pointed at a hatch door on the ceiling. "There should be a hidden ladder somewhere."
Emily pointed at the darkest side of the hall. "It's in the corner."
Sam squinted. "Oh, I see it." He spun to face Clifford. "Grandma had this fitted because of the crows up here. At least one or two build a nest every summer. She even used to find them flying around the house. Once she opened her bedroom door and a crow flew so close over her head it almost landed in her hair."
"How do they get in?" Clifford asked, wide-eyed.
"No idea," Sam said. "But wherever they're from, they come every year, punctual like the postman."
"Grandma told you that?" Emily asked. She missed her terribly.
Sam nodded. "Yep." He set up the heavy ladder, climbed up and pushed against the latch until the door jarred open with a thud. Then he climbed back down. "Grandma was never scared living here all by herself. Dad used to call her one tough lady. He tried to get her to sell the house and move to London with us, but she wouldn't listen. She said she couldn't leave Grandpa behind. I'm glad she never sold Ravencourt Manor."
Emily shuddered. "Why did she stay even after Grandpa died? Do you think she talked to his ghost?"
Sam chuckled, then looked at Emily with raised eyebrows. "If I think that? I don't think that. I know it 'cause Grandma told me. She said she'd see him at least once a week."
A cold shiver ran down Emily's spine.
Clifford inched nearer. "Is the mirror up there then?"
"Yep." Sam pushed Emily forward. "You go first 'cause you're the youngest."
"You're such a chicken." Emily rolled her eyes, but Sam just shrugged. "I still don't get what the portal's good for. What kind of world is it?"
"A magic one," Clifford said. "Aunt Aurelie never told me what's behind the mirror, but she said you need to learn to open it because your grandmother would have wanted you to. You can't learn until you open the portal."
"Wait! Learn what?" Sam asked.
Clifford shook his head. "I don't know."
Emily stopped in her tracks. "I'm not sure it's a good idea."
"Look, if you want more magic, you need to open the portal. It's where the magic diary comes from and it still draws its magic from there," Clifford said. "Are you coming or what?"
Emily nodded and climbed up the ladder with the boys following behind. Rubbing her arms, she looked around the semi-dark room. Dim light sipped in through two muddy windows that needed a good scrub. The smell of crow poo lingered, faint but there.
The wooden floorboards creaked under her feet as she pulled a string to switch on a naked light bulb and took several steps forward until she stopped in front of what looked like a huge cupboard covered with a black sheet. Her grandmother had never allowed her to see what was hidden underneath. "This is so creepy." Her hands trembling with anticipation, Emily grabbed hold of the sheet and pulled it down.
Sam sneezed. "Someone should dust in here once in a while."
"Is that it?" Clifford stared ahead in awe.
It was the largest mirror Emily had ever seen. The rusty gold frame was thick and adorned with beautiful flowers and gemstones, now dull from dust and years of neglect. Emily's breath caught in her throat as she looked up. Above the frame was carved the face of a beautiful woman staring down at them. Her eyes glinted like precious emeralds and her mouth was the colour of ripe cherries. As she stepped forward, the woman's gaze seemed to follow her. In an instant, Emily knew this was no ordinary mirror. The thought made her shiver again and she rubbed the goosebumps on her arms with her hands.
"It's beautiful," Emily whispered. When she looked down she saw Clifford cowering at her feet. "What're you doing?"
"Nothing." He cleared his throat and jumped up, brushing the dust off his pants.
"Right! Now that we've found it what're we supposed to do?" Sam asked as he walked closer. He seemed back in charge.
"The words," Clifford whispered, "Emily must speak the words."
Sam glared at him through squinted eyes. "Why Emily?"
"Cause she's the one who owns the diary, remember?" Clifford snapped. "Can we get on with it?"
"Hurry up, Em! I want a diary of my own," Sam said.
Emily sighed. "Okay. What am I supposed to say?"
Clifford rose to his full height and put up his arms. "Porta, manifeste et fac quod vis!"
"What does that mean?" Sam asked.
"Shush! Emily, you're supposed to say those words. Porta, manifeste et fac quod vis!"
Emily repeated the words several times until she knew them by heart. She looked from the mirror to Sam and Clifford and then back to her reflection in the mirror. Nothing happened.
Sam frowned. "Why's it not working?"
"I…I don't know," Clifford stammered. "Something should be happening."
"Well, it clearly isn't and I'm hungry." Sam stomped back down the ladder. "You'll have to share your diary with me, Em, 'cause it looks like I won't be able to get my own PlayStation."
"What about the mirror? Grandma said it should be kept covered at all times," Emily called behind him.
Sam shrugged. "Nah, just leave it."
"But Grandma—never mind." Emily grabbed the black sheet from the floor when a c
awing sound cut through the silence. She flinched and her heart skipped a beat.
"Did you hear that?" Clifford whispered, his eyes as wide as saucers in the dim light.
"Let's get outta here." Grabbing Clifford's arm, she dragged him to the trapdoor. He moved reluctantly as though he had no intention to leave.
As soon as they reached the first floor, the smell of food wafted from the kitchen. Emily grimaced. Not again.
"Ah, kids. You're just in time. Dinner's ready," her father greeted them.
Clifford averted his gaze and walked past. "Sorry, Mr Jones, I should get going. Aunt Aurelie's waiting." He pulled Emily aside and whispered in her ear, "Promise me you'll try again."
What a strange boy. She shrugged and accompanied Sam and her father to the kitchen to have dinner. She'd visit the mirror soon, but first she'd write in her diary and ask for fish and chips and maybe some pudding. As she fished for sausage chunks, Emily decided she had enough baked beans to last her a lifetime.
After dinner, Emily pulled out the diary from under the bed and began writing when Sam barged in. He jumped on the bed and peered over her shoulder. "What'cha writing? Don't forget my Playstation."
Emily scowled and turned to face him. How could she focus with her brother breathing down her neck? "I'll get you one if you promise to leave me alone."
"All right. You got yourself a deal." Sam laughed. "I'll go watch TV then. But don't take too long."
As the door closed behind him, Emily exhaled with relief and focused her attention back to the diary. It still amazed her how the pages turned blank again. The book felt strange in her hand. All beautiful and polished, not mucky and old like before. All of a sudden, she felt nervous. How should she start?
She decided to get straight to the point. A PlayStation for Sam. Something other than baked beans and sausages for dinner. And then that her mother and her father would finally spend some time together. She noted the magic words at the bottom of the page too so she wouldn't forget them.
Porta, manifeste et fac quod vis!
When she finished writing, she put the pen aside and went about her evening routine, pleased she had thought of everything. Tomorrow couldn't come fast enough, for tomorrow was the day when her parents would finally get back together.
Emily woke up with a jolt. Something rustled outside her window. She sat up straight in bed and strained her ears to listen. It sounded like fingernails on a chalkboard. Drawing in her breath, she tried to calm her racing heart. The scratching continued.
Goosebumps covered her arms as she scrambled out of bed and bolted for the door. She tiptoed down the dark corridor, her hand gliding across the brick wall to feel for the door to her brother's room. When she found the knob, she flung the door wide open.
"Sam!" she whispered, but no one answered. He was a deep sleeper. Usually, it took more than calling his name to wake him. She jumped on the bed, grabbed his arm and yanked as hard as she could, her leg kicking against the bedframe. "Sam? Wake up!"
Sam tossed and groaned. "Go away."
"You gotta wake up. There's something outside my window," Emily said.
He pushed her hand aside and turned his back on her. "It was just a dream. Now go back to sleep."
She shook his arm again. "No, it wasn't. Listen! It's still there."
"All right." Sam sat up with a sigh. For a moment, they both kept quiet. The scratching was faint but still audible. "What's that?"
"I told you there was something."
"It's probably just a branch," Sam mumbled.
"You go and have a look. I'm staying here."
Sam's voice raised a notch. "No way am I going on my own."
"Why not? You're the big brother."
"But it's your room. Whatever's out there obviously came for you." Sam pulled the covers around him. "You either tag along, or I'm staying here."
Emily heaved a big sigh. "You're such a sissy! All right, I'm coming with you, then."
Sam pushed the sheets aside and followed Emily down the corridor to her room. She heard him swallow a gulp of air before he strolled in, his head darting to the left and right. "You said it was coming from the window?"
Emily nodded, her stomach in knots. The scratching seemed to have stopped.
Sam peered into the blackness stretching over the backyard. "There's no one there."
"I can see that." All was dark as far, the trees and bushes contorted into hideous shapes, and far away on the hill Urquhart Castle rising high against the background of the moon. And then the scratching began again from beneath the window.
"It's coming from the ground floor." Sam's voice sounded choked as he listened, his head titled to one side.
Emily pressed her nose against the window to get a better look, but nothing moved below. "Downstairs is the living room."
"I think it's trying to get in through the glass-sliding doors," Sam said, and Emily gasped. Maybe someone was trying to break in. Sam turned to face her. "Let's get Dad."
Without waiting for her answer, he bolted for their father's bedroom when Emily pulled on his pyjamas. "No! Wait 'til the morning."
"Why not just tell Dad?" Sam said.
"What if it's nothing? Besides, Mum's coming tomorrow, and I don't want Dad to look tired. They need to fall in love with each other again."
Sam seemed to consider her words for a moment. "I get your point. All right, we go check it out, but you go first."
"Don't I always?" Emily mumbled under her breath as she walked down the stairs. She stepped into the living room with Sam a few feet behind her, her gaze wandering to the glass sliding door. No one was there.
Taking one slow step after another, she reached the door and pressed her nose against the glass as she peered out into the night.
The creature appeared from nowhere, its face almost level with Emily's. She jumped back, tripping over Sam, and opened her mouth to scream, but the sound remained trapped in her throat.
Emily's legs froze to the spot. At first, she thought the black shape was some sort of large bin bag, but when her eyes met the creature's red gaze, she knew this was nothing she had seen before. She tried to swallow the lump in her throat when the moon moved from behind a cloud, throwing a glowing cast on the creature, and revealing a shaggy fur and long fangs in a surprisingly human face. Its skin was pale and wilted, the ears dangling just above its shoulders. The long nails looked like rusty razorblades.
She whimpered, glad the door was locked.
"Holy cow! What the heck is that?" Sam's voice asked from behind.
"No idea," she whispered.
Suddenly, a black cat scurried past Emily and Sam toward the glass door, hissing at the creature, its fur standing on its back.
"No!" Emily bent forward to pick up the cat. No way would she let that thing get her pet.
The creature's mouth opened and it let out a low guttural sound before it turned to disappear in the bushes.
"Did you see those nails?" Sam shouted, shaking Emily's shoulder.
Emily gasped for air. "What was it? What did it want?"
"I don't know but what if it comes back?" Sam shook his head. "I've never seen anything like that."
They exchanged looks. Sam grabbed Emily's hand and pulled her up the stairs to his room. He locked the door and shut the curtains.
"I think we should get Dad," Sam said, his face as white as a ghost's.
"Not before Mum arrives." Emily pushed her chin out defiantly. Nothing, not even the weird creature out there, was going to spoil her plans to get her parents back together.
Sam's lips trembled as he plopped down on the bed. "What do you think it wants?"
"I don't know." Emily
let out a long breath. "But I saw it in the backyard a few days ago."
Her brother's eyes popped wide open. "Really? You can sleep here tonight, okay?"
"That's because you're afraid alone," Emily said with a sneer.
"That's not true!"
Emily snorted. Of course, it was. He just wouldn't admit it. Now she had something to taunt him for the rest of their short time in Scotland.
In spite of the freaky incident, Emily fell asleep as soon her head hit the pillow. The next morning, she woke up to something licking her face. She opened her eyes and, to her amazement, found the black cat from the previous night cuddled up next to her.
"Oh, it's you again. What's your name?" Emily whispered, stroking the cat's chubby head. The cat gazed at her through intelligent eyes. "What's that?" Emily parted the fluffy fur to reveal a dirty silver tag wrapped around his neck. "Sol—ace. You're Solace. What a beautiful name. Pleased to meet you." The cat meowed in response and snuggled closer. "Well, Solace, shall we find you something nice to eat, then?"
Emily jumped out of the bed and went to her room. After she put on a clean shirt and a pair of jeans, she climbed down the stairs to the kitchen. There was no one about. The house seemed a little too quiet for a Sunday morning. Where was everyone?
She prepared two bowls of cereal, one for herself, the other for Solace. The cat lapped up the milk. Emily took only a few bites and then pushed the bowl aside when she saw the note on the kitchen counter. She jumped up and walked over to read it.
Went grocery shopping. Be back soon. Behave. Dad
Okay, so her father wasn't here, but where was Sam? And where was her mother? Emily frowned and tossed the note in the bin when she heard the entrance door slam shut and heavy footsteps moving toward the kitchen.
"Good you're awake," Sam said upon entering. He plopped down in a chair and took a mouthful of cereal.
Black Wood by Jayde Scott / Fantasy / Young Adult have rating 3.6 out of 5 / Based on25 votes
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An 1860 era Victorian spool turned chair shows Gothic Revival influence, hand carved of solid walnut with a rose crest. Black upholstery is recent.
The old finish is very well preserved and has been cleaned and revarnished on this American made antique furniture. Reglued to serve another generation, the frame is sturdy. Brass wheels are original, springs are still supportive.
Measurements are 26" wide, 28" deep and 47" tall, the seat is 21" deep and 16" high.


I have not read many LGBTQ novels and I'm trying to change this. And what better time than during Pride month? Marriage of a Thousand Lies was a fascinating and interesting book. It reveals how challenging "coming out" can be for some individuals and why. Kris and Lucky are married, gay and in a marriage of pure convenience. They both lead secretive lifestyles due to the strict traditions and beliefs held in their Sri Lankan and Indian culture. Unfortunately, in numerous cultures, gay individuals are often disowned and rejected by their loved ones. I can't imagine my family disowning me simply because of my sexual preference. In Marriage of a Thousand Lies, my heart went out to Lucky, who was constantly between a rock and a hard place. Lucky wants her mother's approval and unconditional love, but this proves to be a challenge and central theme in the book. I found myself rooting for Lucky and wishing she would lead the life she so desperately craves. Sindu weaved a beautiful story full of complex and realistic characters. She is a remarkable storyteller and I look forward to more of her thought-provoking stories.
I would like to thank Edelweiss and Soho for giving me an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.


Isobel Hadley-Kamptz is chairman of Dataföreningen (the Swedish Computer Society). She has a background as a journalist, blogger and author covering a wide range of societal perspectives.
Peter Krantz is an op en government advocate and the CIO at the National Library of Sweden. Previous positions include the E-government delegation and a member of the advisory bord for the former minister of IT. He believes openness can play a fundamental role in how the public perceives government and that open knowledge will enable people to increase their quality of life.
Helena Löfving, Sveriges Television, is a journalist with a special interest in data journalism and digital development. As a web and news editor she has a long experience of analyzing and visualizing open data. She leads workshops in data journalism and interactive visualizations. 2016 Helena was the winner of the Best Data Journalism Award.