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7Poetry For Every Occasion7
Charles Godfrey Leland (August 15, 1824 – March 20, 1903) was an American humorist and folklorist, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He was educated at Princeton University and in Europe.
Leland worked in journalism, travelled extensively, and became interested in folklore and folk linguistics, publishing books and articles on American and European languages and folk traditions. Leland worked in a wide variety of trades, achieved recognition as the author of the comic Hans Breitmann's Ballads,[1] fought in two conflicts, and wrote what was to become a primary source text for Neopaganism half a century later, Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches.
2.1 Journalism
2.2 Folklore research
2.3 Art education
3 Translations
5 Select bibliography
Leland was born to Charles Leland, a commission merchant, and Charlotte Godfrey, on 15 August 1824 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Leland told a story that shortly after his birth his nurse took him to the family attic and performed a ritual involving a Bible, a key, a knife, lighted candles, money and salt to ensure a long life as a "scholar and a wizard", a fact which his biographers have commented upon as foreshadowing his interest in folk traditions and magic.[2]
Leland's early education was in the United States, and he attended college at Princeton University. During his schooling, Leland studied languages, wrote poetry, and pursued a variety of other interests, including hermeticism, Neo-Platonism, and the writings of Rabelais and Villon.[3] After college, Leland went to Europe to continue his studies, first in Germany, at Heidelberg and Munich, and in 1848 at the Sorbonne in Paris. He got involved in the revolution that year, fighting at constructed barricades against the King's soldiers as a captain in the revolution.[4]
Leland returned to America after the money given to him by his father for travel had run out, and passed the bar in Pennsylvania. Instead of practicing law, he instead began a career in journalism. As a journalist, Leland wrote for The Illustrated News in New York, the Evening Bulletin in Philadelphia and eventually took on editorial duties for Graham's Magazine, and the Philadelphia Press. In 1856 Leland married Eliza Bella "Isabel" Fisher.[4]
Leland was also an editor for the Continental Monthly, a pro-Union Army publication. He enlisted in the Union Army in 1863, and fought at the Battle of Gettysburg. Leland coined the term "emancipation" as an alternative to "abolition" to refer to the anti-slavery position.[4]
Folklore research
Leland returned to Europe in 1869, and travelled widely, eventually settling in London. His fame during his lifetime rested chiefly on his comic Hans Breitmann's Ballads (1871), written in a combination of broken English and German (not to be confused, as it often has been, with Pennsylvania German).[5] In recent times his writings on pagan and Aryan traditions have eclipsed the now largely forgotten Breitmann ballads, influencing the development of Wicca and modern Neo-paganism.
In his travels, he made a study of the Gypsies, on whom he wrote more than one book. Leland began to publish a number of books on ethnography, folklore and language. His writings on Algonquian and gypsy culture were part of the contemporary interest in pagan and Aryan traditions. He erroneously claimed to have discovered 'the fifth Celtic tongue': the form of Cant, spoken among Irish Travellers, which he named Shelta. Leland became president of the English Gypsy-Lore Society in 1888.
Eleven years later Godfrey produced Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches, reportedly containing the traditional beliefs of Italian witchcraft as conveyed him in a manuscript provided by a woman named Maddalena, whom he refers to as his "witch informant."[6] This remains his most influential book. Aradia's accuracy has been disputed,[7] and used by others as a study of witch lore in 19th century Italy.[8]
Leland was also a pioneer of art and design education, becoming an important influence on the Arts and Crafts movement. In his memoirs he wrote, "The story of what is to me by far the most interesting period of my life remains to be written. This embraces an account of my labour for many years in introducing Industrial Art as a branch of education in schools[.]"
He was involved in a series of books on industrial arts and crafts, including a title he co-authored in 1876 with Thomas Bolas, entitled "Pyrography or burnt-wood etching" (revised by Frank H Ball and G J Fowler in 1900). He was, more significantly, the founder and first director of the Public School of Industrial Art in Philadelphia.[9] This originated as a school to teach crafts to disadvantaged children and became widely known when it was praised by Oscar Wilde, who predicted his friend would be "recognised and honoured as one of the great pioneers and leaders of the art of the future."[10] The Home Arts and Industries Association was founded in imitation of this initiative.[11]
Leland translated to English the collective works of the German Romanticist Heinrich Heine,[12] as well as poems by Joseph Victor von Scheffel.[13]
His biography was written by his niece Elizabeth Robins Pennell, an American who also settled in London and made her living in part by writing about travels in Europe. Leland had encouraged her as a young woman to consider writing as a career, which she did with some success.
Wikisource has original works written by or about:
Charles Godfrey Leland
Title page of the original edition of Aradia.
1855: Meister Karl's Sketch-book
1864: Legends of Birds
1871: Hans Breitmann's Ballads
1872: Pidgin-English Sing-Song
1873: The English Gipsies
1875: Fusang or the Discovery of America by Chinese Buddhist Priests in the Fifth Century
1879: Johnnykin and the Goblins
1882: The Gypsies
1884: Algonquin Legends
1891: Gypsy Sorcery and Fortune Telling
1892: The Hundred Riddles of the Fairy Bellaria
1892: Etruscan Roman Remains in Popular Tradition
1892: Leather Work, A Practical Manual for Learners [14]
1895: Songs of the Sea and Lays of the Land
1896: Legends of Florence Collected from the People (2 vols.)
1899: Unpublished Legends of Virgil
1899: Aradia, or the Gospel of the Witches
1899: Have You a Strong Will?
1901: Legends of Virgil
1902: Flaxius, or Leaves from the Life of an Immortal
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15 29 November 2013
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'American Sniper' wished he had 'killed more' Iraqis
Chris Kyle insisted his only regret was that US lives were lost because he shot too few of the enemy
The sniper accumulated 160 confirmed kills - with the true number estimated to be as high as 255. PHOTO: CHRIS KYLE FACEBOOK PAGE
Having killed 160 Iraqis during his time in the war-torn country, America's most lethal sniper Chris Kyle had said he wished he'd 'killed more'. His unofficial death count stands as high as 255.
The late sniper's wartime exploits are portrayed in American Sniper – a divisive movie that has been tipped to win in the upcoming Academy Awards.
Speaking to Toby Harnden of The Sunday Times three years ago, Kyle was asked whether he regretted any of his kills while on tour. The sniper insisted his only regret was that US lives were lost because he shot too few of the enemy, reports Daily Mail.
"No, sir, not at all; to be honest with you, I wish I'd killed more because every kill saved American lives and that was what I was out there for," he said.
Less than a year after the conversation, Kyle was killed on a remote shooting range in Texas by a disturbed veteran he was helping, who was said to have been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The movie based on Kyle's book, produced by and starring Bradley Cooper, has been a box office hit – but has also divided opinion, with some criticising the film's prejudiced stance.
Critics of the movie included talk show host Bill Maher, who claimed the film is only doing well at the box office because audiences lap up its 'psychopath' hero. He said that American Sniper is just "American hero! He's a psychopath patriot, and we love him."'
Maher drew on excerpts from the autobiography Kyle wrote before he was killed in February 2013, in which he said he enjoyed war and referred to his targets as 'savages'.
American Sniper starring Bradley Cooper and directed by Clint Eastwood, has earned six Oscar nominations, including Best Actor for Bradley Cooper.
Sarmad Hassan
How is he going to another country, occupying it and killing local militia / citizens would make his own country "safe"
HSLDS
Jan 25, 2015 - 1:01PM
What an out and out lie you present.
I challenge you to show ANYWHERE where Chris Kyle said he wished 'he had killed more Iraqis.'
You might find a quote of him wishing that he killed more TERRORISTS or ENEMY, but never once did he persecute the people if Iraq.
Shame on you for such a bold faced lie.
Henry Exhaust
@Sarmad Hassan:
I do not condone the invasion of Iraq. I think that it was a bad move by the countries involved in the invasion. That said, the United States was there, and because none of the American Marines who were there had anything to say about being there, Mr Kile had every right to assist those Marines stay alive.
I too fought in an unpopular war. My goal was to come home in one piece.
Those I fought with were the casualties of history, just as the Mughals, and the warriors of Genghis Khan who swept through your lands, long ago.
Local militias? Well, that might be debatable. Lets let history sort that out in the next few hundred or so years.
I can understand being patriotic and killing for the protection of your country. What I don't get is how you can ignore the fact that the enemy also think the same way. Take away the uniform and you see the real person,. Peace-loving, or ruthless killers.
Qazi
Chris killed people who wanted to rescue their country from foreign occupation. Their desperate efforts are braver than a sniper with high tech gear on a roof top with a stone heart. Look where they have plunged complete iraqi society. The blood of innocent are on hands of chris.
Tyranny of rich is bravery, Struggle for life of poor is savergry.
Makes me hate american army million times more.
This isn't extremism, he's just mentally ill going through a tough time, if anybody dare suggest otherwise then they are a conspiracy nut on ISI's payroll sarcasm.
I can understand killing for the protection of your country. What I don't understand is the failure to see that the enemy may think the same way. Take away the uniform and the true character emerges, either a peace-loving human being, or a ruthless dangerous killer.
Striver
Its about time Pakistan produced more films like Waar. There is appetite for it, an insatiable appetite. Our filmmakers are sleeping. There was standing ovation for this film, never before seen for a Pakistani film. Film-makers will make recover their investments many fold. I wish they had seen the enthusiasm of the audience. The films must present the Pakistani perspective.
@Sarmad Hassan Just like terror organisations from Pakistan do in India and Afghanistan.
Stewart J
He was a hero to the US army and not necessarily to the Iraqis. That holds true for every war hero. He only targeted people who were attacking US forces. Some comments here indicate that he killed innocent civilians. That's not true.
Saw the movie. Both Clint Eastwood and Bradley Cooper did it justice (other than the fake babies, which were very obvious). I thought Cooper's acting was good (I always associate him with Hangover for some reason).
Kyle seemed like an ordinary patriotic guy doing what he was asked to do (as would any Pak Army soldier I would assume) – the political decisions were made over his head. It would be unfair to park the Iraq war debacle at his door step.
Aside from the politics (and fake babies) it was a good movie.
Jonsa
@Henry Exhaust:
"That said, the United States was there, and because none of the American Marines who were there had anything to say about being there"
The "just following orders" defence was rejected in the trial of Nazi war criminals decades ago. Orders are no excuse. They should have refused to fight. The fact that you are defending these Amercian war criminals makes you a sympathiser.
numbersnumbers
@Qazi:
I could rephrase your comment as "Pakistani Army kills people (TTP!) who want to rescue their country (Pakistan) from occupation of foreign democracy concept!
BTW, I am sure you can prove that the Pakistani Army does not ever train and field "Snipers"!!!!
Old ravian
Iraq war was an illegitimate war to start with. Where are the weapons of mass destruction? Nowhere. So all the killings were war crimes.
Misleading headline wish promotes anti American sentiment. Guy simple said he wished he had been more successful at killing bad guys which might have save more American lives – big difference between that and randomly "shooting Iraqis".
What goes around comes around this psychopath finally got what he deserved by another one like him,and by the way Clint Eastwood the guy who produced this movie is another loony of his own class shame on these savage savages
Aamir-Toronto
Jan 26, 2015 - 1:32AM
@HSLDS……visit the following link and then apologizes to ET.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2925187/I-wish-d-killed-American-Sniper-Chris-Kyle-said-regret-lives-lost-shot-Iraqis.html
@woody……you are misleading us by manipulating words, visit the following link. I'm pretty sure that now you'll refute this news too !!!
zaffar
I wonder who was the real terrorist?
He saved ordinary Iraqis fro. Barbarians.
If an IRAQI was doing the same in US to protect his country, he would be a heartless terrorist. But here the shameless and disgusting people are defending him.
@Sarmad Hassan: That has been the story of India too. It had been invaded, occupied and brutalized and the invaders even stake claim on our lands !!
rkfromny
Is that right???? Have u seen the movie??? The American sniper says he wishes he had saved more Americans from attacking Iraqis..not that he simply wants to kill Iraqis…!! Print the truth
Karachiite
And he had to pay the price as well, by being killed by someone who he knew, in a so called peace loving country. : )
@Aamir-Toronto:
No, Kyle never said that – the Daily Mail did…
Over 7,500MW of power added into national grid: Secretary water and power

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


As New Yorkers who love and appreciate our rather special City, we decided five years ago to take control of our New York fabric destiny, & introduced our own designs of 100% cotton, NYC-themed prints. We are now up to 14 different designs, some in multiple colorways.
In May, 2014, we expanded our geographic focus, adding Paris, with "Susy's Paris."
Our City Collection™ is only available from The City Quilter by phone (212-807-0390) and via this website, and is not sold to any distributors or retailers.


12,500mm² airflow per running metre.
Size: 1000mm x 40mm wide x 20mm high.
Over Fascia Ventilators are suitable for new and refurbishment work. They eliminate the need for visible soffit ventilation and can be installed in non-soffit locations. The Type OFV -10 is shaped to permit easy fixing to the top of the fascia board. It has an airflow rating of 12,500mm² per running metre, making it suitable for use with roof pitches of 15 degrees and above. Integral insect screening and fixing holes.
For roof pitches of 15 degrees and above.


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Negros as best island to live on
A US magazine has listed Negros Oriental as one of the planet's 20 best islands to live on. In its July-August issue, Islands Magazine, one of the widest circulated and most trusted travel publications in the United States , included Negros Oriental with its capital Dumaguete as among the best islands in the whole world where expatriates may settle based on the following criteria: flip-flop wearability, strong expat communities, and affordable real estate.
Other criteria included weather, languages spoken, ease of immigration and accessibility to hospitals. Expats were also interviewed for an insider's opinion.
Negros Oriental earned three out of five flip-flops, or rating, from the magazine. Of note was Dumaguete City 's youthful vibe courtesy of the prominence of academic centers. Also mentioned was the city's picturesque Rizal Boulevard , the seaside promenade lined with cafes and art galleries. German expat Georg Bender, who moved to the island in 2001, spoke of the great diving experiences awaiting scuba and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Negros Oriental province actually comprises just half of Negros or "Buglas" Island and belongs to Central Visayas or Region 8. The other half, Negros Occidental, is a part of Western Visayas or Region 6.
The province of Negros Oriental has 20 towns and 5 cities, the center of which is Dumaguete City , which is famous for its beautiful sceneries and hospitable people.
Negros Oriental joined other exotic islands such as the Grand Cayman, Gozo in Malta , Carriacou in Grenada and Vieques in Puerto Rico , which all offer a mix of indigenous culture, friendly neighbors, uncomplicated living and adventure attractions.
Other islands in the list were Dominica , St. Kitts, Hawkes Bay in New Zealand , Taveuni in Fiji , Long Island in the Bahamas , Honolulu in Hawaii , Cedar Key in Florida , Isla Colon in Panama , Carriacou in Grenada , Norfolk Island, Union Islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines , Penang in Malaysia , Utila in Honduras , Pico in Portugal , Aruba, and Vanuatu .
The Department of Tourism said Negros Oriental, and its capital Dumaguete, lives up to the moniker "the city of gentle people".
"More than the attractions in a particular province or city, it is the people who play a big role in creating a welcoming and positive impression to travelers. Negros Oriental being recognized as one of the best islands to live speaks of an exceptionally hospitable experience that makes people want to stay for the long haul," said Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano.
Durano called on local government units to continue with their efforts to build up the tourism potentials of their jurisdictions. While infrastructure is essential, programs should also include creating a community mindset that is tourist-friendly and puts forth the world-famous Filipino brand of hospitality, he said.
Negros Oriental offers divers colorful and teeming marine life around Apo Island , which is home of the Negros Oriental Marine Conservation Park .
Tourists can also chance upon playful dolphins and pygmy sperm whales out in Tañon Strait at Bais Bay . Meanwhile, the 400-hectare Bird Sanctuary and Mangrove Park provides sightings of rare birds and wildlife. The province also holds spelunking, trekking and beach destinations.
Dumaguete City , the provincial capital, prides itself as the City of Gentle People for the winsome and hospitable residents who help create a tranquil and genteel way of life.
Dumaguete is also known as a college town, with several institutions of higher learning located in close proximity to each other and students comprising a fourth of the population. Most notable is Silliman University , the first Protestant college in the Philippines and the oldest American-established tertiary education center in Asia .
The Islands Magazine has a readership base of 500,000 of mostly frequent tourists who take more than one annual holiday and stay for an average of seven days at any given vacation. Roderick T. dela Cruz
Tags: Destination
Cebu tourism improves
Biliran destinations, hotels and resorts
Newly constructed dam in Cebu now sold as tourism site


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Rouhani wants reconciliation with Saudi Arabia but rules out apology
Long list of serious accusations, then hopes for 'reconciliation'
ROME - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said Wednesday he hoped his country could reconcile with fellow Middle Eastern powerhouse Saudi Arabia, but refused to apologise for an attack on a Saudi embassy.
"We did everything we had to, we condemned" the attack, Rouhani said of the torching of the embassy earlier this month by demonstrators protesting the execution of a prominent cleric from Saudi Arabia's Shiite minority.
"We arrested the culprits, it was right to do so and we did," he said, insisting the ball was now in Saudi Arabia's court.
"Why should we apologise? Because (cleric) Nimr al-Nimr was executed? We are the ones to apologise because they are killing the people of Yemen? Apologise to them because they are helping terrorists?" he asked.
"We do not want tensions with Saudi Arabia to continue," he said, but insisted there was "no justification" for what he described as Riyadh's "aggressive" policies in the region.
"They are the ones who should apologise to Muslim people, hundreds of times," he said.
The Gulf kingdom and some of its allies severed diplomatic relations with Iran over the January 2 embassy attack.
Iran previously said it had arrested 40 people over the incident in Tehran, and another four after Riyadh's consulate in Mashhad was set alight.


Paris-based singer songwriter Sebastien Tellier doesn't really need any introduction. In the past few years, he has managed to make quite a name for himself, exporting his highly personal blend of 80s flavoured electro way beyond the borders of his home country.
With three full-length albums released to date (L'incroyable Vérité, Politics and Sexuality), a soundtrack and two compilations, Tellier has been quite prolific and his music has been a constant source of inspiration for many producers and DJs, who have been releasing many reworks of his songs. Hence today's post, which takes a look back at some of the remixes that have popped up around the internet and brings you the nicest, coolest and funkiest.
If you like what you hear, check out two more remixes of Tellier's songs previously posted on umstrum||music. First up, a sublime remix of "L'Amour et la Violence" by Boys Noize, who turned this ballad into an absolute dancefloor bomb, then grab another remix of "Kilometer" by German electro genius Moullinex.


Liberal journalist and CNN host Anderson Cooper went off the rails Thursday, saying Donald Trump lacks what it takes to be a leader.
"It's extraordinary for a guy who claims to be the straight talker that he doesn't have the guts to stand up to some loudmouth in his own crowd," Cooper said.
Cooper's vitriol ignited after a Trump supporter at a campaign stop in New Hampshire on Thursday asked the presidential hopeful what he plans to do about the "Muslim problem" in America.
"We have a problem in this country, and it's called Muslims," the man in the audience said. He also said President Barack Obama was a Muslim and not an American citizen.
At first Trump made a joke about the man's line of questioning, and then he went on to say he and his team were looking into it.
Trump's answer, considered completely insufficient by most journalists, landed Trump in the media hot seat.
Cooper wasted no time jumping on the bandwagon, and said Trump seemed "afraid" to contradict the man.


K-O is producing outstanding offspring with spot on conformation, zipper crimp architecture and that ought after soft hand in every color. Schedule your 2018 breeding to K-O at our 2018 special of $1,000 for drive-by. $850.00 per female for 2 or more from the same farm. Offer good until September 1, 2018.
Midre is an amazing producer of multi champion offspring, her 2008 cria won another Championship at age 4. Her sire is Segundo's Peruvian Midre (grandson of Royal Fawn). Midre's amazing genetics continue to shine in the show ring proving her ability to pass on her lingering fineness.
Color Champion at our first SSAS, so pleased with this girl.
K-O produces another knockout. Bundles and bundles and bundles of tightly wrapped fiber that feels "buttery" and appears as if it is glowing! The photo does not do it justice! Champion pedigree on both sides, this girl has it all. Strong bone, perfect conformation and fiber coverage down to her belly. Bright, soft bundles with a zipper crimp architecture.


Jetson Green - Honeywell Wind Turbine Coming Soon!
Honeywell Wind Turbine Coming Soon!
In July, we mentioned a small wind turbine from Earthtronics and Honeywell and want to provide an update. We also have some newer images of what the actual turbine may end up looking like. The WT6500 Wind Turbine, referred to as the Honeywell Wind Turbine Gearless Blade Tip Power System, will be priced at $5,995, with early units available in select Ace Hardware Stores starting in February 2010.
Of course, purchasers may be able to take advantage of federal, state, and/or local incentives of anywhere from 30-100% of the total system cost, making the system economically approachable.
You'll note that purchase also requires installation by a certified installer. If you're looking to become a certified installer, make sure to check out this website, Fluid Wind Services. For consumers, the cost of installation is going to be about $1,000 – $1,500, plus electrical contracting costs.
Unlike traditional wind tubines, the Honeywell Wind Turbine uses a gearless Blade Tip Power System (BTPS) to generate energy from the blade tips. The advantage of this, according to the company, is that the turbine starts turning at winds of 1 mph, generates energy at 2 mph, and operates 50% more of the time than traditional systems.
The turbine causes less than 35 decibels of noise when operating and can generate power in winds of up to 42 mph. In terms of its size, the Honeywell Wind Turbine has a diameter of 67 inches, or just over five and a half feet. It weighs 170 pounds.
In Class 3 winds, the turbine is capable of generating up to 2,000 kWh per year (and up to 2,750 kWh per year in Class 4 winds). The turbine can be mounted on a pole or a roof and includes an auto directional motor base to catch the best winds. Also included with the purchase is the Smart Box Control System, as well as the inverter and inter connect switch to wire the system into a household panel. The current iteration is closed loop, not grid connected.
[+] Learn more about the Honeywell Wind Turbine.
That's a great price for getting wind power! After state, federal credits you have to figure you would get in for about $3,000. You can't beat that….
Kilowatts per year doesn't make much sense to me.Is it supposed to be kilowatt-hours per year?
You're right … didn't catch that in editing. I'm fixing it now.
I wonder if there are any vibrations associated with the turbine on the roof? Any electromagnetic issues or issues with your cell phone reception?
I hope Honeywell has a winner here.
Less than $10K to get a full system installed? Thats great! The more affordable and easy we can make this the more home owners will get it and generate a portion of their own electricity.
$6k for what amounts to a bike wheel? seriously? ok we need to get that to under $300 retail including an inverter and generator.
A bike wheel? This thing is almost 6 feet in diameter. What kind of bikes have you been riding?
IF you think it'll work, why don't you just tie a bike wheel to your house then?
I on the other hand would prefer a system with returns… $5000 dollars for an, essentially free, form of energy production is a joke to me. Sure… you could build it yourself for less. But the addition of a wind generation system can save you quite a bit of money.
I have seen this product in person at the Texas Renewable round up in September 2009. Anyone that knows anything about wind generators will tell you to NEVER EVER EVER mount anything to your roof. While it may only make 35db while operation, all of that will go into your house. You will hear it everywhere. Also, I was affraid to even touch it, it looks very fragile and Class 4 wind is defined as (5.8 m/s @10 m) or 12.2 MPH. Then you take the 2750 KWH/Annual and that breaks down to 229 Kwh/Month and @ a mere 15 cents KWH, a saving of $35/month, of course if you can maintain a wind speed of 12.2 MPH. Nice try, keep trying this is not the answer.
This turbine sounds as though it's what potential home electricity generators have been waiting for. However, although I know that research and developement costs have to be recouped in a real world, the cost of the Honeywell is going to keep it out of where it really needs to be except for the relatively well heeled and research facilities.
What blood thirsty leaches… This product was announced just a couple of months ago with a MSRP of $4,500 (http://www.jetsongreen.com/2009/06/honeywell-wind-turbine-wt6000-earthtronics.html), but now they are listed for $6,000…. WOW! There happens to be a 30% federal rebate… HEY! that is $2,000 – putting the price on the consumer at $4,000… Greedy [email protected]!
If you look closely the date of the original article, where it was quoted at $4,500, was June 8, 2009. I have been following this product since I saw that jetsongreen article and occasionally speaking with the company and there have been a number of product specification adjustments that have occurred since last June 8 including, obviously, a price adjustment. The Windtronics website that introduced the turbine (http://www.earthtronics.com/honeywell.aspx) and collaboration with Honeywell listed the price at $5,995 as early as last October. More than $4,500 but still much better than other models out there.


Now that Captain America: Civil War is done, and truly has left a huge impression, it's only a few short months left until we get to see Benedict Cumberbatch don the magical Cloak of Levitation and deliver the magic to the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Doctor Strange! But once the dust settles, one questions remains, how would Doctor Strange be affected by these events? For one thing, he is an earthbound superhero, and secondly it is no doubt that his magical abilities would attract the attention of the likes of the United Nations.
I would like to share with all of you, a contest entry I originally posted in the website Moviepilot, as part of their post-credits scene competition (And if you're going to ask, I lost the contest because the Philippines, where I currently resides, was not under Moviepilot's radar.). It would serve as my prediction on how Doctor Strange will become entangled in the not-so secret world of capes and masks. Note that given the updated circumstances, the original post would have to be altered to fit-in perfectly. In addition, we might be doing more posts like these, but focusing as well on pitching movie ideas. So this is Dateline Movies, reporting from the trash bin, and we hope you enjoy our own version of Doctor Strange's post-credits scene!
Also, if you want to read the original post in Moviepilot, click here.
Since Doctor Strange lives in New York City in his Sanctum Sanctorum, it is only a matter of time before the governments of the world make use of his unique "talents" to their advantage. The events that transpired in Captain America: Civil War seem too big to just let it an open-and-shut scenario, so it is no doubt that many heroes, possibly including our Netflix vigilantes, would be affected by the Sokovia Accords, either being recruited or being detained on the grounds of disobeying the law. Doctor Strange, although stayed neutral throughout the comicbook version of the story, was in a sense, still affected by the event. This post-credits scene would hopefully give closure to this little happening in the comics.
It has been hinted as well by Marvel executive producer Kevin Feige that the Eye of Agamotto is the Time Stone, one of the six Infinity Stones that are being sought by Thanos, who will be the primary antagonist for both parts of Avengers: Infinity War. So in addition to giving insight on how Doctor Strange is affected by Civil War, this is also to set-up events that will happen.
By the way, the reason why I chose a Doctor Strange scene is that as a Sherlock fan, I am excited to hear that both Cumberbatch and Freeman would be encountering each other's characters soon, just like their other films did. That idea also reminded me of a joke which involved Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man meeting Doctor Strange in an awkward manner, given that both Cumberbatch and Downey Jr. played Sherlock Holmes, with the first in the a TV show, while the second in the film series, which co-stars Jude Law as Watson. As luck would have it, Freeman currently plays Watson in the BBC series with Cumberbatch.
Tony Stark: That's a pretty good goatee you got there, Stephen. Can I call you Stephen?
Then the screen finally has color. The camera fades in the Eye of Agamotto glowing orange, visibly damaged (Based on some leaked photos, Strange was seen without the Eye of Agamotto, which could mean it was lost mid-battle.), and contained in a large glass room. We also learn that this is a Joint Counter Terrorism Centre laboratory, with the outside windows revealing it to be located in New York City. Many computers analyzing the stone within the Eye read that the power levels are incredibly high, and the system frequently lags because of the energy signature. Many scientists are in hazmat suits.
Tony Stark: Man, with a goatee like that we could rule the world. We should be called the Awesome Facial Hair Bros! What do you say Stephen, up top!
Tony raises his hand expecting a high five, but Stephen ignores it in an annoyed manner, until Stephen finally accepts.
Stephen Strange: I hate you, Stark.
Tony Stark: Yeah, Awesome Facial Hair Bros!
Ross, putting his palm on his face in annoyance and unbelievable lack of patience, interrupts the exchange between the two. His coat is hung at the back of a chair, and plenty of coffee cups are scattered all throughout the table, suggesting that the interrogation took way longer than expected.
Everett Ross: Um, hello? Yeah, hi. Can we... Can we get back to the topic at hand here? Yeah, well. Stephen, would you mind where on Earth did you fish your little accessory from?
Stephen Strange: Well this "little accessory", Agent Ross, came from my mentor the Ancient One, and it's called the Eye of Agamotto, in case you're wondering. It's one of the most powerful artifacts, and it can grant access to any point in time.
Ross walks around in a sarcastic tone. He laughs sarcastically as well for awhile.
Everett Ross: Oh wow. First, we had the Tesseract, and now we have this Eye of Agamoka... ka... or whatever.
Ross then begins to pack-up his files, with some of them being Daily Bugle issues regarding some heroes in New York, including articles on "The Devil of Hell's Kitchen", "Atlas Investigations", "Harlem's Power Man", "Rand Industries", and even "The Punisher". The camera zooms-in them one-by-one as Ross picks-up each copy one at a time. A small file regarding "Capt. Carol Danvers", and a ticket to Wakanda, are also seen in his satchel. There is also a laptop.
Everett Ross: Well, I guess that's it then. After hours, the truth comes out. A Time Stone. Oh well, I'm very glad to say this to the two of you buffoons, you are free to go.
Stephen stops in anguish upon hearing Tony trying to stop him.
Tony Stark: Look. I know you're new to this whole superhero thing, but I just want to say... If ever you need help, you can just call me, or any of us at the Avengers.
Stephen Strange: Yeah sure, why not?
Tony Stark: But you need to promise something. This world is changing, and we are calling for people of your skills. Will you answer that call?
Stephen patting Tony in the back.
Stephen Strange: If there is a sickness that needs my consultation, you know where I live.
Tony becomes a little overjoyed.
Tony Stark: Hey, you just pat my back, Stephen.
Stephen Strange: Well, no kidding Sherlock. Awesome Facial Hair Bros, right? Also, can I have my artifact back?
The scene fades-out as the Eye of Agamotto continues to glow, and there is a message for the viewer.
Again, we hope that you enjoy our post-credits scene for Doctor Strange, and to close this post, please enjoy a teaser for the movie Doctor Strange. Up next, a whole trash bin of scrapped Superman and Batman projects, and a small tribute to all the members of the acting industry who have passed away, from Alan Rickman to recently, Prince. See you next time, Dateliners!


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March 22, 2022 by sokdie comments (0)
The Unreasonable Search and Seizure
On January 10, 2020, a San Francisco Superior Court judge, at the request of a San Francisco Police officer, issued an arrest warrant in connection with a residential burglary. Mot. Suppress Evid. Off'd Against Def. Prelim. Hr'g, 6:1-2. The warrant listed suspects to be arrested and described a residence in Oakland that was to be searched. Id. at 3:5-13. The San Francisco Police Department sent a special operations unit to execute the warrant. Id. at 10:13-22. When the officers arrived at the house, they found the suspect as well as other individuals in the house.
One of those individuals was a 19-year-old Black woman named Mariyanna Bryant. Mariyanna was visiting her boyfriend at the residence when the warrant was executed. Id. at 3:12-14. She willingly exited the house and followed the instructions of the police officers as they bound her hands in zip ties. Rptr. Tr. Proceedings at 13:5-11, July 21, 2021. The officer then patted her down for weapons to ensure the safety of the officers on site and—once the officer determined that Mariyanna did not have any weapons—instructed her to sit on the curb and wait while they conducted a thorough search of the residence. Id. at 13:10-15, 14:12-23.
Mariyanna sat on the rough concrete curb in the cold night air as the zip ties cut into her wrists. She sat there for almost four hours while the officers searched the residence. Mot. Suppress Evid. Offered Against Def. at the Prelim. Hr'g, 6:19-20. They recovered weapons, clothing, and other evidence they believed was used during the commission of the crime but did not locate any money. Id. Mariyanna was then instructed to stand by Officer Colleen Fitzpatrick of the San Francisco Police Department. The officer stuck her hands inside Mariyanna's sweater and pulled out money that was in her bra. Id. at 8:12-13. The officer then put the money into an evidence bag and arrested her.
The San Francisco District Attorney's Office would not comment on Mariyanna's case. However, they did provide general information on how they decide whether to file charges against an individual. Teleconference Interview with Rachel Marshall, Director of Communications, Office of San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin (Sept. 22, 2021). The charging unit of the District Attorney's Office reads police reports with the main focus on determining whether they can prove the elements of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Id. District attorneys evaluate whether they can meet this burden by considering what evidence will be admissible in court. Id.
Image by Sergei Tokmakov on Pixabay.
The encounter between Mariyanna and Officer Fitzpatrick is described in a supplemental report drafted by Sergeant Wren which states, "Officer Fitzpatrick conducted a pat down search of Bryant during which US Currency fell out of her bra." Id. at 16:20-21. Based on the narrative in the police report describing how the money was discovered, the District Attorney's Office charged Mariyanna with receiving stolen property and being an accessory after the fact to kidnapping, residential robbery, and first-degree burglary. Id. at 5:3-6.
The Preliminary Hearing
At the preliminary hearing Officer Fitzpatrick testified that she searched Mariyanna because she was preparing Mariyanna to be transported to the police station in San Francisco. Rptr. Tr. of Proceedings 33:10-15, July 21, 2021. Officer Fitzpatrick also stated under oath, "So while searching her bra, I located a large sum of money which was placed in her personal bag." Id. at 34:13-14. On cross-examination, Mariyanna's attorney asked Officer Fitzpatrick whether she conducted a full search incident to arrest. Officer Fitzpatrick responded that she conducted "a full search which is a transport search initially to place [Mariyanna] in my car." Id. at 41:17-19.
After the testimony concluded, the judge asked for additional information regarding the search that the officer performed upon Mariyanna. The judge summarized the testimony she heard by stating, "she was detained because she was in the home when the search warrant was being executed . . . basically the officer who searched her is just told she's under arrest, she needs to be transported, and then performs an arrest search and finds the money." Rptr. Tr. of Proceedings 219:12-16, July 22, 2021. The judge then asked the district attorney what established probable cause to arrest Mariyanna before the search took place. Id. at 219:17-18.
The district attorney explained, per the testimony provided, that Officer Fitzpatrick was instructed to transport Mariyanna to the police station for further investigation and that the search was required as a matter of policy. Id. at 219:23-220:3. The judge then required the district attorney to provide legal authority permitting full body searches conducted before transporting an individual. Id. at 220:14-15. The district attorney requested a day to provide such authority. Id. at 220:16-17. The next day the district attorney came back empty handed. Rptr. Tr. of Proceedings 228:21-25, July 23, 2021. The judge granted Mariyanna's motion to dismiss because her Fourth Amendment right was violated when she was searched without a valid warrant or probable cause. Id. at 250:9-18. Finally, after a year and a half of court dates the judge dismissed the charges against Mariyanna. Id.
Fourth Amendment Protection from Unreasonable Searches and Seizures
Image by Lynn Melchiori on Pixabay.
The illegal search that Officer Fitzpatrick performed upon Mariyanna violated her rights under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. The Fourth Amendment protects every person from unreasonable searches and seizures. Warrantless searches are considered to be presumptively unreasonable outside of a handful of enumerated exceptions. Magistrates rely on affidavits to provide information as to why a warrant allowing the search and seizure is necessary. The warrant must also list the place to be searched with great specificity and detail the items or people to be seized. Mariyanna was not listed on the search warrant. Mot. Suppress Evid. Offered Against Def. at the Prelim. Hr'g, 3:10-11. She was not even a suspect of the crime that was being investigated. Id. at 3:11-12.
There are some exceptions that allow officers to conduct warrantless searches. Officers are also allowed to conduct warrantless searches of a person they are taking into custody to ensure the safety of the officers and other inmates in the jail. Under a search incident to arrest, the probable cause that the officer has for the lawful arrest acts as the reason for the search. Probable cause for an arrest arises when an officer has "a reasonable basis for believing that a crime has been committed or when evidence of the crime is present in the place to be searched." None of the exceptions to the warrant requirement were applicable to Mariyanna, therefore the search was unreasonable. In Mariyanna's case, there was no probable cause for her to be arrested at the time Officer Fitzpatrick conducted the search. The money that was found during the search was the evidence that the police used to arrest and charge her with being an accessory to the crime.
The illegal search performed upon Mariyanna resulted in wrongful charges as an accessory to the commission on multiple serious felonies. The search that Officer Fitzpatrick conducted upon Mariyanna was unreasonable because the warrant did not include Mariyanna as a suspect to be searched and the officers lacked probable cause to search her without a warrant. To conceal the fact that there was no probable cause to search Mariyanna, the Sergeant mischaracterized the type of search that was conducted. All of these factors contributed to the wrongful charges that Mariyanna faced for crimes that she did not commit.
Procedural Deceptions to Establish Probable Cause
Mariyanna's experience is a prime example of one of the most common procedural deceptions that police use to establish probable cause for a search that would otherwise be unreasonable under the Fourth Amendment. This lie in the police report may have affected the district attorney's decision to bring charges against Mariyanna. The exclusionary rule excludes evidence that was obtained through unreasonable searches and seizures. If the money had fallen out of Mariyanna's bra, the plain view doctrine may have applied, which would have made the money admissible. On the other hand, if Officer Fitzpatrick searched Mariyanna with no probable cause, the evidence would be inadmissible. Without that evidence there is nothing linking Mariyanna to the crime, and it is likely that charges would not have been brought against her.
Image by Markus Winkler on Unsplash.
These lies often occur in "dropsy" cases when officers claim that evidence was dropped before any seizure of the evidence took place. In these situations, since the evidence is in plain view, the evidence may be admissible. This unethical practice has been documented by research spanning decades, and Mariyanna became a part of those statistics on that cold night in January 2020. A single lie catapulted her into the criminal justice system where she would spend the next year and a half fighting for her freedom against an unfair process.
Systemic Corruption Shields Officer from Impeachment for False Police Reports
Mariyanna's interaction with the San Francisco Police Department also sheds light on a form of systemic corruption that leads to wrongfully charged crimes. Although Officer Fitzpatrick executed the illegal search, Sergeant Wren was responsible for drafting the supplement to the police report which describes the search as a legal pat down. Mot. Suppress Evid. Offered Against Def. at the Prelim. Hr'g, 6:20-21. Despite having nine years of experience in the Major Crimes Burglary Unit, Sergeant Wren mischaracterized the illegal search that Mariyanna was subjected to.
While on the stand, Officer Fitzpatrick used Sergeant Wren's narrative in the police report to recollect her memory. Rptr. Tr. of Proceedings 35:22-28, July 22, 2021. The district attorney described this portion of the police report to the witness and the court as, "the narrative in the police report generated for this case." Id. at 35:22-23. Although there were discrepancies between the police report and Officer Fitzpatrick's testimony, the systemic corruption acted as a shield to impeachment on the stand. Officer Fitzpatrick could not be impeached based on the police report and since Sergeant Wren did not conduct the search, he could not be held accountable either. In fact, the attorneys did not even question Sergeant Wren about the statement he provided in the police report.
The Societal and Individual Impact
Being wrongfully charged with a crime leaves a devastating impact on young Black and Brown women by unjustly forcing them to defend themselves against the awesome power of the state. Mariyanna was subjected to an arrest, detention, and pre-trial supervision while she waited for someone official to question the conduct of the police officer. The shame of being accused of a crime is damaging to a person's reputation and mental health. Being accused of a crime also creates unique barriers for women by inviting employment discrimination, exclusion from certain occupations and professions, exclusion from government housing, and bans on receiving public assistance.
Image by Лечение наркомании on Pixabay.
This case has left a lasting impact on Mariyanna and the way that she views the criminal justice system: a perspective that so many other young Black and Brown women can relate to. Many officers believe that they can justify their official misconduct with nebulous claims about "the public good." Instead, these lies deteriorate the faith and trust that society has in the criminal justice system. While police officers and their union representatives focus on the damage done to the oath breaking officer's career, far greater damage is inflicted on the integrity of our judiciary. These troubling, and unfortunately common, miscarriages of justice perpetuate the notion that convicting the guilty is the only goal of the criminal justice system, with "equal justice under the law" resting eternally on the back burner.
Mariyanna carries the mental anguish caused by the reality shared by many Black and Brown people today: innocent people are found guilty through the questionable application of law entirely too often. Unfortunately, Mariyanna's story is not entirely her own—"African American" women are imprisoned at double the rates of their White counterparts. Over the past 30 years, the number of women and girls caught in the criminal justice system has skyrocketed.
We Must Do Better
In a criminal justice system grounded in the theory that every person accused of a crime is innocent until proven guilty, we have a duty to protect our Black and Brown citizens against wrongful charges. Wrongfully charging an individual with a crime is a step towards a wrongful conviction. Police must be held accountable for procedural lies that impact the lives of people in our community. Actors within the system need to be willing to question the credibility of officers before judicial intervention becomes necessary. Until we are able to ensure that every charge brought against a criminal defendant is supported by the requisite probable cause, we will continue to witness faith in the criminal justice system deteriorate within our communities.
*Header image by Gerd Altmann on Pixabay.
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Tags:Race Relations, Social Justice
Written by sokdie


In the immortal words of 'The Eagles', the Hotel California is place where you can 'check out anytime, but you can never leave'. This may as well have been a description of Islam.
The fact that threats like these were even necessary is quite interesting. Could it be that a very large number of people saw through the prophet and that the only way they could be persuaded to remain committed to Islam was through this kind of dire threat?
There can be no doubt at all, in light of the evidence presented above, that the prescribed Islamic punishment for apostasy is death. This is not merely an archaic teaching that has long ago been dispensed with. All four Sunni legal schools as well as orthodox Shi'a doctrine agree that apostates should be executed. This is demonstrated by the fact that people are often tried (and executed) for apostasy in countries where Islamic law (shari'a) is the law of the land. Even in places where shari'a is not consistently applied, apostates often live in fear of vigilante action from Muslims eager to carry out Muhammad's wishes.
The teaching that apostates should be killed is without parallel in any other religion or belief system. It is only Islam among the faiths and ideologies of the world that demands death for abandoning it. It should also be noted, as the hadith quoted above make clear, that the punishment for apostasy does not only apply to those who were born into Islam but also to those who converted to Islam and then decided to turn their backs on it.
This aspect of the teaching of Islam should be of particular concern to those who are thinking of converting to Islam. They need to know that, while entry into Islam is relatively easy, leaving Islam is not such a simple matter. Those who leave can, instead, be in real peril. This fact should cause everyone, including those born into Islam, to pause and reflect on what Islam's ruling on apostasy tells us about the religion. What are we to make of a faith whose founder decreed that those who follow it should be kept inside through the use of death threats? At the very least, it should tell us that Muhammad was not certain that proof and argument would be sufficient to keep devotees loyal to Islam. A rather revealing insight.
Peter Townsend is the author of "Questioning Islam: Tough questions and honest answers about the Muslim Religion." See his website.


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Home Mexico & Central America Costa Rica Monkeys Always, Jaguars Maybe at Costa Rica's Eco-Lodges
Monkeys Always, Jaguars Maybe at Costa Rica's Eco-Lodges
Anne Z. Cooke
It was 6:01 a.m. when we heard them barking, an insistent "huh-huh-huh-huh" floating through the rain forest canopy and over Pacuare Lodge, in Barbilla National Park in eastern Costa Rica.
"Howler monkeys," said Steve, squinting at his watch. Then a toucan joined the chorus, two long, raspy "screeches" next to our front deck, in the Rio Pacuare Forest Reserve. Up in a flash, we grabbed the binoculars and dashed outside, where a chorus of honks, chirps and whistles ushered in the dawn.
Howler monkeys, kings of the rain forest canopy, are hard to see but easy to identify; listen for their loud throaty howls. Though nine species have been identified, Costa Rica is home to just one, the common mantled howler. ©Steve Haggerty
"Shhhh! Steve said, hopefully, peering over the railing into the underbrush. "Listen! Was that a growl?"
Eco-Lodges in Costa Rica
Wildlife on parade is a customary event at most Costa Rican eco-lodges. Coatis, Capuchin monkeys, birds and butterflies lead the early morning show, followed by sloths, bacillus lizards (Jesus lizards, which "walk" on water) and tiny frogs. Howler monkeys, tapirs, armadillos and tarantulas bring up the rear. But big cats, ocelots and pumas? Once in a green moon.
"Jaguars? Maybe, but don't count on it," said Alison Carey, three months earlier when she called to talk about our trip. A Latin America specialist with Scott Dunn Personal Journeys, Carey and her colleagues research and arrange personalized adventures for individual travelers.
Keel-billed toucans, bright-colored and slow-flying, are easy to spot in dense rain forests like those in the Pacuare River gorge. ©Steve Haggerty
We'd visited Costa Rica previously but briefly, thanks to a cruise ship stop-over. This trip, we agreed, would be different, longer and more authentic. Hence the call to an experienced outfitter, people who knew the destination and relied on local guides.
"You'll like Pacuare Lodge," said Carey. "It's on the river, a four-mile raft trip downstream," she said. "The lodge is known for wildlife, and has tracked and photographed wild cats, too, but only at night. The lodge is isolated and off the grid, but but absolutely safe. As you probably know, Costa Rica is Central America's safest country."
Was it, really? I asked myself. Sporadic upheavals have plagued Central America for decades, fueled by corrupt governments, armed insurrections, civil wars and more recently, drug trafficking. If true, how had Costa Rica managed it? I wasn't sure, but I wasn't deterred, either. We were willing to chance it.
Two weeks passed and the itinerary arrived in the mail, a spiral-bound notebook listed detailed places, dates and contacts, with blank pages for notes. Instead of dropping us off back at the airport, on our last day, Carey arranged for our guide to take us to the Papagayo Peninsula instead, to meet friends for an anniversary reunion.
Arenal Volcano's unexpected 2010 eruption reminded observers that Central Costa Rica's most iconic feature can be unpredictable. ©Steve Haggerty
Costa Rica Safety
But the question lingered. What was Costa Rica's safety secret?
"Is Costa Rica really the safest country in Central America?" I asked Abel, the Scott Dunn driver who met us at Juan Santamaria International Airport, in San Jose, the capital city.
"We think so," he said, heading for the Hotel Finca Rosa Blanca, north of the city. "It's because we have no military," he continued. "The money pays instead for free schools, high school and college, and for free health care and doctors," he said.
"Of course, there are always people who don't want to work and are tempted to steal. But most people here have jobs," he added as we reached the hotel, a restored, 14-suite Spanish Colonial house and coffee plantation, with a pool and a popular open-air restaurant.
Fully restored, the Finca Rosa Blanca's interior walls and guest rooms preserve original Spanish colonial and art deco features. These include hand-painted "primitive" murals, decorative sculpture, an arcaded courtyard, hand-crafted furniture and hardwood beams, doors and floors. A 20-minute drive from San Jose International Airport, the Finca Rosa Blanca is a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World™. ©Steve Haggerty
Finca Rosa Blanca
Arriving in time to join the coffee plantation tour at Finca Rosa Blanca, we expected to hear about popular brands and sales. But the two-hour uphill walk with naturalist Manolo Munoz was all about sustainable farming and best roasting methods.
Stepping off the trail and between the coffee trees, Munoz explained that planting between banana and poro trees in a mixed-species forest "adds important minerals to the soil. A mix of sun and shade grows better "cherries" (coffee beans) than those planted in wide open fields."
That evening, as the sun slipped between the palm fronds and Miguel, the hotel waiter, came around with menus, I decided to see what he'd say. "Uh, Miguel, why do people say Costa Rica is Central America's safest country?"
Manolo Munoz, coffee plantation guide at the Finca Rosa Blanca inn, 20 minutes north of San Jose, explains the coffee bean sorter during a plantation tour. ©Steve Haggerty
"Because we don't have an army," he said. "After the civil war, in 1949, the government decided that paying for education, hospitals, culture and parks was more important than guns and soldiers."
Local crimes, thefts and shootings, are handled by city police. And the federal government maintains a 70-man team of "commandos," a trained "security and intervention" group available 24-7 to respond to national emergencies. But no army.
Now, 70 years later, no one thinks to question the importance of education, health and environmental science. Every one of our conversations about education led to local career opportunities.
Every wildlife sighting – sloths in the tree, for example – prompted a comment about various species, or their adaptation to the country's 12 climate zones, ranging from sea level to 12,533 feet, on Cerro Chirripo volcano.
Drifting with the current on the Pacuare River. Costa Rica. ©Steve Haggerty
Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica
Rafting through the Pacuare River's narrow gorge, paddling down river to Pacuare Lodge, our guide didn't wait for me to ask about the trees. He pointed them out, describing the difference between the trees along the river gorge and those on the mountain side above, adding that the hills were typical howler monkey habitat.
Pacuare Lodge, a National Geographic-designated Unique Lodge of the World, built of local wood among rain forest trees on the Pacuare River, includes a central hall, lively bar and an indoor-outdoor dining area, with over 18 guest cottages, from thatched bungalows to luxurious suites. Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica.
The lodge itself was just as environmentally conscious. Relying on self-generated power, it limits electricity to the evening hours. During the dinner hour, candles lit both floors of the lodge – the bar upstairs and the dining room and deck downstairs, where meals are served.
The lodge and cabin designs were luxurious but rustic. Instead of solid walls, the bungalows, on the river and on terraces up the mountain side, had some screened walls, a smart and natural way to bring the outside in, as if you were in a treehouse.
Like much in Costa Rica's rain forest, the Pacuare Lodge's "Canopy Adventures" zipline orientation starts up in a tree. ©Steve Haggerty
We stayed busy every day, with discovery hikes, wildlife prowls and visits to the indigenous village nearby. But we managed to squeeze in some private time: a plunge-pool dip and a nap in the hammock, rocked to sleep by the rushing river.
Nayara Springs Resort
It was a startling contrast, in fact, to our next destination, Nayara Springs Resort, in central Costa Rice, on a paved road near Avenal Volcano National Park. When a uniformed bell boy rushed to open the door, we thought we'd made a wrong turn.
But this popular vacation village only masquerades as a sophisticated hotel. Despite sumptuously furnished suites with plunge pools, Nayara Springs' covers multiple tree-shaded acres. When you investigate its serpentine paths, you find swimming pools, patios, bars and pubs, a spa and gym, restaurants and shops, and even a trailhead for a half-dozen guided tours, each hidden from the next by flowers.
Nayara Springs guest rooms have air conditioning, king bed, a natural mineral hot springs plunge pool, flat-screen satellite TV with DVD/CD player, sofa and chairs, a bar, mini-frig, walk-in closets and drawers, indirect lighting, marbled bathrooms, and 1,500 square feet of living space. ©Steve Haggerty
Taking a stroll in the trees – alive with resident birds and 30-odd sloths – you could lose your way. I'll admit it: two nights wasn't enough. We left with our Scott Dunn driver, planning to return.
It was a long way to the Papagayo Peninsula, on Costa Rica's far northwest coast, but a fascinating drive going there, past a volcano and lake, over the hills and through a half-dozen tiny towns. It was late afternoon when Andreas, the driver, dropped us off at Villa Manzu, where our friends greeted us at the door.
The ocean and distant coves seen from one of Villa Manzu's two cliff-edge decks. ©Steve Haggerty
Villa Manzu, Costa Rica
A privately-owned two-story stone mansion flanked by grassy lawn, trees and a couple of swimming pools, Villa Manzu looks over the ocean toward the setting sun. With several wings and rooms for up to 24 guests, managing it is a full-time job for the staff of 12, including a butler and three chefs.
On five acres at the end of the last road, Villa Manzu guarantees total privacy for folks with deep pockets: movie moguls, tech-company millionaires, sports celebrities, industry titans and jackpot ticket-winners. We were lucky to have generous friends among them.
Staying here is expensive. But if Villa Manzu is ever your vacation retreat, remember that everything's included: meals, hors d'oeuvres, snacks, wine, cocktails, sports equipment, fishing gear, a car, guides, rides to and from the airport, and as always, true Costa Rican hospitality.
TRIP TIPS TO REMEMBER:
Contact Scott Dunn Personal Journeys at www.scottdunn.com
THE LODGES:
Finca Rosa Blanca: at www.fincarosablanca.com/en
Pacuare Lodge: all-inclusive rates for three nights: www.pacuarelodge.com
Nayara Springs Resort: www.nayarasprings.com
Villa Manzu: the entire house is priced per night. www.villamanzu.com
Getting to Costa Rica
Fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport, in San Jose. For Villa Manzu, in Guanacaste Province, fly into Liberia Airport.
Author Bio: Writer Anne Z. Cooke, a print and online journalist, lives the life of a gypsy, following the seasons from Los Angeles to Colorado's Rocky Mountains. In between, she travels the world, covering everything from Arctic culture and wildlife conservation to English history and family cruising, looking for the best while pursuing the back story. A freelancer and correspondent for the Tribune News Service, her stories appear in travel and lifestyle publications in the U.S. and internationally.
Costa Rica Eco-Lodge
Ecolodges Costa Rica
Pacuare Lodge
Villa Manzu
Wilderness Resorts Costa Rica
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What Is the CDISC Procedure?
PROC CDISC provides the ability to import and export XML documents that conform to CDISC ODM version 1.2.
Importing is the process of reading an external XML document as a SAS data set.
Exporting is the process of writing a SAS data set to an output XML document that conforms to a CDISC model.
Note: For CDISC ODM support after version 1.2, see SAS Clinical Data Integration.
PROC CDISC performs data content validation on a SAS data set that conforms to CDISC SDTM version 3.1. PROC CDISC validates the SAS data set against domain definitions that are provided by CDISC SDTM.
Note: For CDISC SDTM support after version 3.1, see the SAS Clinical Standards Toolkit and SAS Clinical Data Integration.
A SAS data set is any file that is accessed by SAS, such as a SAS data file or a file that points to data from other sources, such as a DBMS table that is accessed with a SAS/ACCESS engine.


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Q: recursive checking/copying of files not reaching deeper directory level to check file attributes first I'm trying to copy files for a backup script.  I know that the some files aren't going to copy without an error message because of attributes.  I want to log those files and not try to copy them, since it takes forever to fail in the copy.  Plus we want to go back and fix/log or remove any files that don't copy once we find them.
Unfortunately, what I'm trying is finding a deeper subdir, and trying to copy that dir, and it's copying all the files in the dir, when some have an attribute I wouldn't want to copy.  Ex:

\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\ and it says it's a good attribute "16"

but there's a file in that dir that the copy is trying to copy over to my dest dir and I'm seeing it has this for attributes:

file.pdf                    Archive, SparseFile, ReparsePoint, Offline.

I found that by cd to the dir, and using this command:

dir  | select Name,Attributes

I looked at recurse not hitting all levels, but I think it's not that recurse isn't hitting all levels, it's that it's copying higher level directories and the files are coming along too, without checking attributes first.
I was looking how check if path at is dir or file for ideas, but when I tried adding the check around the copy, it was skipping adding the dir above the file in it:
if(!((Get-Item $_) -is [System.IO.DirectoryInfo])) #true gives dir, false gives file, only handle if file

This is my code right now for the copy function (I tried an exclude but it didn't work):
    function CopyFileToFolderUNC($SourcePath, $DestinationPath, $exclude){
       if(-Not (Test-Path $SourcePath )) #-PathType Container
       {
          $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Exception: No such path, $SourcePath;;  ")
          write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path, $SourcePath ++"
       }
       #$tempFileName = [System.IO.Path]::GetFileName($SourcePath)
       #$tempDestFileNamePath = "$DestinationPath\$tempFileName"
       Get-ChildItem -Path $SourcePath  -Recurse  -Depth 2| ForEach {$_} { #added file removed force -File , $SourcePath\*, $SourcePath\*\* -Depth 3
          #test if maybe we are dealing with an off-line file here
          #or use the enum name 'Offline'
          # or use the numeric value: 4096
          #$oldAttribs = $null
          $attr = $_.Attributes.value__
          write-output  "++ $_ $attr ++"
          if (($_.Attributes -eq [System.IO.FileAttributes]::Offline) -or ($_.Attributes.value__ -eq "4096")) {
             $_.Attributes=[System.IO.FileAttributes]::Normal
             #$oldAttribs = $_.Attributes
             #make it a 'normal' file with only the Archive bit set
             #$_.Attributes = [System.IO.FileAttributes]::Archive
             #log that the file was an issue and copy the other ones
             $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Found offline file in backup dir, $_. Logging info and not copying this file. Offline. Please investigate.;;  ")
             write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path or file, Offline $_ ++"
          } #if
          elseif(($_.Attributes -eq [System.IO.Fileattributes]::Archive) -or ($_.Attributes.value__ -eq "32")) {
             $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Found archive file in backup dir, $_. Logging info and not copying this file. Archive. Please investigate.;;  ")
             write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path or file, Archive $_ ++"
          } #elseif
          elseif(($_.Attributes -eq [System.IO.Fileattributes]::SparseFile) -or ($_.Attributes.value__ -eq "512")) {
             $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Found sparse file in backup dir, $_. Logging info and not copying this file. SparseFile. Please investigate.;;  ")
             write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path or file, SparseFile $_ ++"
          } #elseif
          elseif(($_.Attributes -eq [System.IO.Fileattributes]::ReparsePoint) -or ($_.Attributes.value__ -eq "1024")) {
             $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Found reparse point file in backup dir, $_. Logging info and not copying this file. ReparsePoint. Please investigate.;;  ")
             write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path or file, ReparsePoint $_ ++"
          } #elseif
          elseif( ($_.Attributes.value__ -eq "5664")) { #($_.Attributes -eq [System.IO.Fileattributes]::ReparsePoint) -or
             $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Found reparse point file in backup dir, $_. Logging info and not copying this file. ReparsePoint. Please investigate.;;  ")
             write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. No such path or file, ReparsePoint $_ ++"
          } #elseif
          else {

             #the file is not or no longer off-line, so proceed with the copy
             #only if it's a file and not a dir
             #if(!((Get-Item $_) -is [System.IO.DirectoryInfo])) #true gives dir, false gives file.  We want to copy the files.
             #{
                write-output "Copying $_"
                $_ | Copy-Item -Destination $DestinationPath -Force -Recurse -ErrorVariable errors
                foreach($error in $errors)
                {
                  if ($error.Exception -ne $null)
                  {
                      $global:ErrorStrings.Add("Exception: $($error.Exception);;  ")
                      write-output  "++ Error: An error occured during copy operation. Exception: $($error.Exception) ++"
                  }
                  write-output  "Error: An error occured during copy operation. Exception: $($error.Exception)"
                }
             #}
             #else
             #{
             #   write-output "this is a dir"
             #}
          } #else
    } #Get-ChildItem
 } #function

This is where it's called from:
$tempSource = @("\\drive\Svcs\Cr\C FORMS\",...)
$ToLocation = @("E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms \",...)
$excludeNonSharepoint = @("\\drive\Svcs\Cred\op\zOLD_NOT USED_keep for now"...)

#non-sharepoint ones first
for($i=0; $i -lt ($tempSource.Length); $i++) {
   CopyFileToFolderUNC $tempSource[$i] $ToLocation[$i] $excludeNonSharepoint
}

As requested, Minimal, Complete, and Verifiable example:
So for this dir/files/attributes, the copy will complete as follows after checking:
source From Location:
\\drive\folder\Forms attrib = normal/16
\\drive\folder\Forms\a.txt attrib = normal/16 will copy
\\drive\folder\Forms\b.txt attrib = not normal/32/512/1024/etc will not copy  but log
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms = normal/16
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\c.txt  attrib = normal/16 will copy
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\d.txt attrib = not normal/32/512/1024/etc will not copy but log/write-output
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\e.txt attrib = not normal/32/512/1024/etc will not copy but log/write-output
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\f.txt attrib = not normal/32/512/1024/etc will not copy but log/write-output
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\subdir attribute = normal/16
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\subdir\g.txt  attribute = normal/16
\\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\subdir\h.txt attribute = not normal/32/512/1024/etc will not copy but log/write-output

final To Location:
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\a.txt
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\C Forms
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\C Forms
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\C Forms\c.txt
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\C Forms\subdir\
E:\DisasterBackup\toLoc\All Forms\C Forms\subdir\g.txt

output string at the end of the script will be something like:
"Could not copy \\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\d.txt attrib archive
Could not copy \\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\e.txt attrib sparse
Could not copy \\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\f.txt attrib reparse
Could not copy \\drive\folder\Forms\C Forms\subdir\h.txt attrib offline"

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
AIB(LEGAL) -
District Performance Report — TAPR
Report Uses
Campus Performance Report — SRC
Website Notices
Student Performance Report
Notice to Teachers and Students
High School Allotment Annual Performance Review
Federal Report Card
District Data on Academic Achievement
TEA shall provide to each district a Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR). The intent of the TAPR is to inform the public about the educational performance of the district and of each campus in the district in relation to the district, the state, and a comparable group of schools. The TAPR will present the campus performance information as well as the student, staff, and financial information required by statute. It will also include any explanations and additional information deemed appropriate to the intent of the report.
The district may not alter the report provided by TEA. However, the district may concurrently provide additional information to the public that supplements or explains information in the TAPR. The report may include the following information:
Student information, including total enrollment, enrollment by ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and grade groupings and retention rates;
Financial information, including revenues and expenditures;
Staff information, including number and type of staff by sex, ethnicity, years of experience, and highest degree held, teacher and administrator salaries, and teacher turnover;
Program information, including student enrollment by program, teachers by program, and instructional operating expenditures by program; and
The number of students placed in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP) under Education Code Chapter 37.
The report must also include the number of school counselors providing counseling services at each campus.
Supplemental information to be included in the reports shall be determined by the board.
Education Code 39.306(a)–(b), (d)–(e), (g); 19 TAC 61.1022(a)–(b), (e)
A board shall hold a hearing for public discussion of the TAPR within 90 days after the report is received from TEA. The hearing may take place during a regularly scheduled or special meeting of the board.
The board shall give notice of the hearing to property owners in the district and parents of and other persons standing in parental relation to a district student. The notice of hearing must include notice to a newspaper of general circulation in the district and notice to electronic media serving the district.
Education Code 39.306(c); 19 TAC 61.1022(c)
The TAPR must be published within two weeks after the public hearing, in the same format as it was received from TEA. The board shall disseminate the report by posting it on the district website and in public places, such as each school office, local businesses, and public libraries. Education Code 39.306(c); 19 TAC 61.1022(d), (f)
The information in the TAPR shall be a primary consideration in district and campus planning. It shall also be a primary consideration of the board in the evaluation of the performance of the superintendent, and of the superintendent in the evaluation of the performance of campus principals. Education Code 39.307
Each school year, TEA shall distribute to each district a report card for each campus. The campus report card distributed by TEA shall be termed the "school" report card (SRC). The intent of the SRC is to inform each student's parents or guardians about the school's performance and characteristics. The SRC will present the student, staff, financial, and performance information required by statute, as well as any explanations and additional information deemed appropriate to the intent of the report.
The district must disseminate each SRC within six weeks after the SRC is received from TEA. The school may not alter the report provided by TEA; however, it may concurrently provide additional information to the parents or guardians that supplements or explains information in the SRC.
The SRC must be distributed to the parent, guardian, conservator, or other person having lawful control of each student at the campus. On written request, a district shall provide a copy of the SRC to any other party.
The campus administration may provide the SRC in the same manner it would normally transmit official communications to parents and guardians, such as including the SRC in a weekly folder sent home with each student, mailing it to the student's residence, providing it at a teacher-parent conference, enclosing it with the student report card, or sending it via electronic mail.
Education Code 39.305; 19 TAC 61.1021
Not later than the tenth day after the first day of instruction of each school year, a district that maintains an Internet website shall make the following information available:
The information in the most recent campus report card for each campus in the district;
The information contained in the most recent performance report for the district;
The most recent accreditation status and performance rating of the district; and
A definition and explanation of each accreditation status, based on commissioner rule.
Education Code 39.362
Each year, TEA shall report to a district whether each student fell below, met, or exceeded the necessary target for improvement necessary to be prepared to perform satisfactorily on, as applicable, the grade five assessments, the grade eight assessments, and the end-of-course assessments required for graduation. Education Code 39.034, .302
The district a student attends shall provide a record of the annual improvement information from TEA in a written notice to the student's parent or other person standing in parental relationship. If a student failed to perform satisfactorily on a state assessment, the district shall include specific information relating to access to online educational resources at the appropriate assessment instrument content level, including educational resources and assessment instrument questions and released answers. Education Code 39.303
A district shall prepare a report of the annual improvement information and provide the report at the beginning of the school year to:
Each teacher for all students, including incoming students, who took a state assessment; and
All students who were provided instruction by that teacher in the subject for which the assessment instrument was administered.
The report shall indicate whether the student performed satisfactorily or, if the student did not perform satisfactorily, whether the student met the standard for annual improvement.
At an open meeting of the board of trustees, each district must establish annual performance goals for programs, activities, and strategies implemented with high school allotment funds related to the following performance indicators:
Percentage of students graduating from high school;
Enrollment in advanced courses, including College Board advanced placement courses, International Baccalaureate courses, and dual or college credit courses; and
Percentage of "College-Ready Graduates," as defined by 19 Administrative Code 61.1094(2).
Annually, the board of trustees of a district must review its progress in relation to the performance indicators specified above. Progress should be assessed based on information that is disaggregated with respect to race, ethnicity, gender, and socioeconomic status.
A district must ensure that decisions about the continuation or establishment of programs, activities, and strategies implemented with high school allotment funds are based on:
State assessment results and other student performance data;
Standards for success and cost-effectiveness as established by the commissioner of education under Education Code 39.233(a)(1); and
Guidance for improving high school completion and success and college readiness programs as established by the commissioner under Education Code 39.233(a)(2).
19 TAC 61.1099
A district that receives Title I funding shall prepare and disseminate an annual federal report card that includes information on the district as a whole and each school within the district.
The federal report card shall be concise; presented in an understandable and uniform format, and to the extent practicable, in a language that parents can understand; and accessible to the public, which shall include placing the report card on the district's website. If the district does not operate a website, the information in the report card must be provided to the public in another manner determined by the district.
The federal report card shall include the information required in the annual state report card described at 20 U.S.C. 6311(h)(1)(C), as applied to the district and each school served by the district, including:
In the case of the district, information that shows how students served by the district achieved on state academic assessments compared to students in the state as a whole;
In the case of a school, information that shows how the school's students' achievement on state academic assessments compared to students served by the district and the state as a whole; and
Any other information that the district determines is appropriate and will best provide parents, students, and other members of the public with information regarding the progress of each public school served by the district, whether or not such information is included in the annual state report card.
20 U.S.C. 6311(h)(2)
On request by the board, TEA shall create a website that members of the board may use to review campus and district academic achievement data. The website must also be made available to campuses in a similar manner that access is provided to the board.
The website must:
Include district information, disaggregated by campus, grade, sex, race, academic quarter or semester, as applicable, and school year, regarding the following:
Student academic achievement and growth;
Teacher and student attendance; and
Student discipline records; and
Be updated at least once each quarter of the school year.
The commissioner shall provide information that permits a board member to compare the district's academic performance with the academic performance of other districts of similar size and racial and economic demographics.
A district must provide requested information to the commissioner for the creation of the website. Confidential information received by the commissioner remains confidential. The commissioner shall design the website to ensure that public information is made available to the public, and information submitted by districts noted as confidential is not made available to the public.
A request for public information under this provision shall be submitted to the district that provides the agency with the information. TEA may not release information submitted by a district that is noted as confidential information.
Education Code 11.1516
Woodville ISD
AIB(LEGAL)-P
UPDATE 109


Whisper the word Falabella and most women will instantly think of Stella McCartney's iconic range. The true definition being a miniature horse, some may side-step McCartney's famous collection if animals are more their thing. Horses aside, Stella's Falabella can be seen on the backs, shoulders and hands of women across the globe. Instantly identifiable thanks to its chain trim, the faux-leather creations come in all shapes and sizes. Hold your daily essentials in style with the Falabella backpack, clutch, shoulder bag, tote, messenger or cross-body bag. Tick two trend boxes in one and choose a quilted, metallic or tasselled version for new-season luxe.


From in-car Wi-Fi to semi-autonomous driving, technology is quickly transforming the driving experience. The first flowering of in-dash technology beyond simply audio features was navigation, starting in the mid-90s. And it's an aspect of car tech that's benefiting the most from connectivity and the rapid evolution in the space.
While streaming music via Pandora and using adaptive cruise control can take away some of the monotony of a daily commute or long road trip, directional tools like knowing where you're going or where to park at your destination, or where to eat or even where to find emergency services if you need them are examples of essential features benefiting from recent innovation in car technology.
From testing more than 50 new vehicles a year, I've gotten a good overview of the most useful and cutting-edge navigation features. Here are six to look for in your next car – and that you'll be happy to have if and when you need them.
When I'm testing a vehicle and it doesn't have some form of connected search, I now consider the navigation system antiquated. Several vehicles offer connected search through Google, Bing and Yelp to help find services in a given area. Some car navigation systems use a driver's connected smartphone and its data plan, while others require a separate data subscription. But either way you get fresh online results when searching instead of outdated data from navigation mapping DVD.
Chrysler Uconnect Yelp App. Photo by Doug Newcomb.
Everyone has been through the routine of driving around with family and friends in an unfamiliar area and trying to pick a place to eat at random. Now some of the same features that are available online or via an app can help you find good food while on the road. Navigation systems in Acura and Mercedes-Benz vehicles have a Zagat Guide feature to find and route you to recommended restaurants. Chrysler and Toyota use a driver's smartphone to enable a Yelp app that can not only find eateries in an area and route to them, but will also provides user reviews. The Toyota Entune system also has an OpenTable app that even allows making a restaurant reservation if you're signed up for the free service.
Toyota Entune OpenTable app. Photo by Doug Newcomb.
Another common dilemma on road trips is deciding what to see in an area. The Buick IntelliLink system can help with a Travel Guide feature that shows local attractions, while Acura and Honda's Scenic Route feature lists great drives to take in each of the 50 states.
Honda Scenic Route feature. Photo by Doug Newcomb.
Finding a parking spot is an essential part of driving in any urban area, and the Audi Connect system goes online to access real-time data about parking locations as well as availability and pricing near a destination so that you don't have to drive around looking for a spot. It will also navigate to the entrance of a parking garage.
Audi Connect Parking Finder feature. Photo by Doug Newcomb.
Another unique feature of Audi Connect is called Picture Navigation. Imagine this scenario: Someone asks you to meet them at a coffee shop but they don't know the exact address. If they text you a photo from the location, the Audi Connect system can use the geo-tagged information from the photo to determine the address, load it into the navigation system and route you to it.
Audi Connect Picture Destination feature. Photo by Audi.
While this feature is not new, it could save a life. Found in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep vehicles as well as other makes, it locates the nearest hospitals, police stations and other emergency services, and often lists the address and phone number and routes a car to the them.
Jeep Emergency Services feature. Photo by Doug Newcomb.


text:
Q: Access variable of nested Class in python I'm using Peewee and bottle.py for a very small WebApp. Once in a while I get a MySQLDatabase has gone away Error, which my script doesn't seem to recover from.
According to this answer, I should simply try-catch the error and recover myself.
An example of what I have:
def create_db_con():
    return peewee.MySQLDatabase("db_name", host="host", user="user", passwd="pass")

class ModelObj(peewee.Model):
    #some member ommited
    class Meta:
        database=create_db_con()

@route("/")
def index_htm():
    try:
        mo = ModelObj.filter(foo="bar")
    catch OperationalError, oe:
        ModelObj.Meta.database = create_db_con()

gives me the AttributeError in case of the OperationalError:
AttributeError: type object 'OrderProdukt' has no attribute 'Meta'
How am I supposed to recover from this situation?
EDIT:
As univerio pointed out, I can access it via ModelObj._meta.database, but it doesn't seem to work to just create it new.
Is this a default python behavior for nested classes?


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