text:
Marietta celebrates 234th Founding Anniversary
WTAP News @ 6- Marietta's 234th Birthday
By Kaitlin Kulich
Published: Apr. 8, 2022 at 4:06 PM EDT
MARIETTA, Ohio (WTAP) -It was 234 years ago that settlers found themselves along the banks of Ohio and created what we know and love today as the city of Marietta.
To celebrate this special day, Bill Reynolds, a historian at the Campus Martius Museum, impersonated General Rufus Putnam, the "father" of Ohio, and talked about Putnam's journey to Marietta from New England.
Reynolds said he's been studying General Putnam and many other settlers from the Ohio Company for over 40 years.
"Marietta's history is important because you have a group of people looking to start a new life, they're starting to live in a new democracy, so this is sort of a litmus test of how that democracy will actually function," Reynolds said.
"I personally think it boils down to the individuals. We have so many remarkable people here, not just Rufus Putnam."
A flag ceremony was also held at the Start Westward Monument where Jean Yost, VP of the Marietta chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, spoke about the significance of Marietta being the first settlement of the Northwest Territory.
"This is really the beginnings of the true unfoldings of the American Spirit," Yost said.
"When you look at 1787, the Ordinance was passed, it opened land as large as the original 13 colonies. It opened this land free of slavery, special rights for women, and special rights for children allowed for our court systems. So, this is really an important step from being colonies to being the United States."
More celebrations took place at the historic Fearing House in Harmar Village.
Mary Joe Hutchinson is a long-time volunteer at the house who said she takes pride in knowing she descends from some of Marietta's founding fathers.
"I'm very interested in history and I'm proud of my heritage. I have connections with people way back. And I like sharing it with people because there are some really interesting things," Hutchinson said.
"I just like it when people say, 'I never knew that,' and we hear that a lot."
She and other volunteers let visitors ring the bell outside the house as a way to say happy birthday to Marietta and to pay homage to its founders.
Copyright 2022 WTAP. All rights reserved.
A local student's story inspires legislation on dyslexia
Public forum on the proposed state budget is held in Parkersburg
Marietta gets $400,000 for the Community Development Block Grant Action Plan
Washington State Community College creates new career pathway for social services students
West Virginia Senate passes bill to establish the West Virginia Guardian program


text:
Woman Allegedly Poisoned Friend Over Bad Relationship Advice
Jamie W.
Beware of the relationship advice you give out; for the repercussions might kill you. In which case for an Indonesia girl, Wayan Mirna Salihin it did.
Jessica and Wayan during better days
Jessica Kumala Wongso (left) and Wayan Mirna Salihin (right) were once good friends, and have studied abroad several years together in Sydney. But today, Jessica stands trial for allegedly poisoning Wayan, resulting in her death.
Their friendship had fallen out when Wayan had given Jessica some relationship advice about her boyfriend, reports Daily Mail.
Shortly after, Jessica's relationship indeed ended and the prosecutor claims she became more offended. Feeling bitter about the breakup, Jessica felt Wayan was to blame and sought revenge by planning to kill her. Prosecutor Ardito Muwardi told the court that it was the motive for the assault.
"The victim Mirna suggested to the defendant to break up with her boyfriend who was often rough and a drug user. She asked why date a bad person who doesn't have any capital."
Based on the CCTV footage which was recovered; it shows Jessica arriving way ahead of time and ordered an ice coffee. She suspiciously arranged some shopping bags around the drink to block it from view, and awhile later returned to her original seat and removed the bags.
Wayan's father, Edi Dermawan Salihin said, "Jessica, she came alone (to the restaurant), only with the devil."
Wayan (above during another outing) succumbed to the poison after drinking the coffee
Shortly after drinking the Vietnamese coffee at a popular Jakarta restaurant, Wayan collapsed on the floor and started frothing at the mouth; She passed away en route to hospital.
Jessica maintains that she is innocent of the crime.
Mr. Salihin has opposed the agreement between Australia and Indonesia that the accused killer would not a face death sentence should she be proven guilty of the murder. He adds that if the accused is convicted on the evidence collected by the Jakarta authorities, then agreements should be voided.
"She killed my daughter like (she was) a rat", he added.
Jessica participating in a police reenactment at the crime scene (above)
Jessica being escorted by the police on charges of murder; lacing coffee with poison
Mr. Salihin also said he was shocked when Jessica is regarded as the prime suspect for the murder as they were once very close friends, studying at the Billy Blue college in Sydney for years.
Jessica's legal team have attempted to have the case thrown out, but failed as the prosecutors have presented clear elements that it was a premeditated murder.
The trial is set to resume on July 12.
Related Topics:adviceboyfriendcoffeefeaturedfriendsheadlinesindonesianjakartalacemurderpoisonrelationshipspike

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
how is this game 400mb? did you accidentally include an episode of Friends in the exe package?
Sinistral Gades Info
Sinistral Amon Info
My Battle concept. This is the layout that I've been trying to create for months now. I must admit that it's a struggle. Make no mistake, I remain hopeful
Kiren
Added: 06/11/2021 08:14 PM
Last updated: 01/27/2023 10:20 AM
Addit
Addit View games View playlists Close
I really like the monster designs, they definitely have the right look and feel to it and really capture the Lufia 2 aesthetic very well. Well done!
The battlers, though, (and maybe even the battle H.U.D.) need some more work. But this is definitely very promising.
- Are I.P. attacks still a thing?
Kiren View games View playlists Close
Thanks, I agree about the battlers too. I wanted to start customizing all of the monster sprites too. As for the background, it's just an experiment, I don't intend on using it. I just wanted to see how it would look if it was re-colored.
- Yes, they are.
* I want to include Dual techs, (like Chrono Trigger)
* I'm also trying to make all of my Boss Battles with animated sprites
author=Kiren
As for the background, it's just an experiment, I don't intend on using it. I just wanted to see how it would look if it was re-colored.
Really? That's a shame, I really like the background.
And are you sure about doing animated monsters? I know that Lufia: The Ruins Of Lore had animated sprites for the party members and such, but not so much for the monsters, as they just sort of shuffled back and forth in place. It just seems like a lot of unnecessary work to do, especially if you're trying to capture the more Lufia 2 type of style and feel to it. But, it's up to you.
And as for duel techniques, although it would be pretty interesting to see how the Lufia series would handle something like that in addition to IP attacks, the only downside to it is that a lot of players might compare the mechanic to Chrono Trigger and think of it as strictly a Chrono Trigger like thing, so they might call you out on it.
Either way, whatever direction you decide to go, I can't wait to see more!
I only intended to animate the Special/Boss battles.
LOL I'll admit the background is kind of cool. It's inspired by an FOD cave. I haven't taken it seriously until you complimented it.
As for the dual techniques, it'll be pointless to call me out on it. There were dual spells in FF4 & FF9 as well.
I know that ROS is the face of Lufia, but to be honest Lufia FOD is where my heart is. I'm more inspired by it. It is THE RPG game that got me to take RPG games more seriously. We go way back LOL
I've customized some monster sprites from TLR, When I showed them to other users they were Pumped. They said "Oh F--k yeah, dude". Lol
I appreciate that you're excited about the game, it encourages me to keep it going.
Oh yeah…I forgot about that! I guess that it's more of a Square-Enix thing, then.
Really, Lufia 1 is your favorite, then? Wow.
Then again, I get the same type of reaction when I say that Final Fantasy IV is my favorite game in the Final Fantasy series, but that's mainly because it was the game that got me into RPG's back then, so I can kinda relate to you in the same way that you prefer Lufia 1 over Lufia 2.
Oh yeah, any time that I see a Lufia fangame in the works - I'm definitely excited for it! It's better than what Square-Enix gives us nowadays when it comes to the Lufia series, lol.
author=Addit
I hear that. Lol 1 of the best things about Fangames is that they tend to capture exactly what made the series loveable in the 1st place. It's not about the money or hype, it's about the game. Gaming companies seem to disregard that.
Yeah, I know that it's a business and all that, and the bottom line, here, is they have to make money, but why can't companies make money AND keep their artistic integrity intact? I think that upper management, nowadays, interferes too much in the creative process of things, and it just RUINS everything... Stay out of the way and let your creative team focus on making a good game that will satisfy everyone, and you guys just focus on what you guys do best.
Speaking of that. Square-Enix, you have the Lufia series, now, in the palm of your hands and you're just sitting on it nowadays, letting it go to rot. I would think, by now, that they would have re-released both Lufia: The Fortress Of Doom and Lufia 2: Rise Of The Sinistrals for Steam and the Nintendo E-Shop, as that would make a bit of money and judge to see if people would be interested in another game. But noooooo…! That's too much work!
Well... If they're not gonna do anything about it, then I guess the fans will have to, then.
(Idiots.)
I fully agree, upper management jumps in waay too much. The artists/developers are supposed to pull viewers/players into that world and keep them immersed.
IF Square-Enix wanted to make a good Lufia game, they would hire developers/artists
that are also Fans of the series. AND the developing team remembers the game during that gaming era.
Did Sega Not step out of the way and let Sonic Mania get made? Easily, one of their better decisions in the last 10 years. LOL
Anyway, I've decided to complete a task for Lufia Trinity every Saturday. I'll keep you guys updated whenever something major happens.


We are in an age of digital transformation. Advanced technologies like IoT, digital twins, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing all types of industries. As these technologies become more popular, many organizations turn to cloud computing to run their operations. But, choosing the right platform to provide the performance and speed you require can be a daunting task and the wrong choice could lead to project failure.
Your choice must ultimately lie in the projects you plan on working on. If the project is simple, like hosting HR systems, then almost any cloud provider will be enough. However, if you have a complex project you need to ensure that the cloud provider you choose has the power to handle the project.
Many organizations turn to AWS and IBM as their top choices for cloud providers. Although we may be a little biased, we are a PTC reseller after all, we think you can do better using PTC ThingWorx. This revolutionary platform has the tools you need to improve efficiency and optimize performance in your manufacturing environment. If that's not enough to sway you, keep reading, we break down all the details in this ThingWorx vs AWS IoT platform comparison.
PTC has been a leader in the manufacturing industry for over 30 years – giving ThingWorx a solid backbone required to handle most projects. In addition to this IoT platform, PTC is well known for their CAD, PLM, and other 3D design products. They were an early adopter of IoT and implemented many tools to support this technology ahead of their competitors. Given this background, ThingWorx was built to operate in an industrial environment and to support the wide range of needs required by engineers and product designers.
Amazon Web Services, better known as AWS, has only been a part of the Amazon platform since 2006. Obviously, Amazon has some serious know-how in the computing and retail markets, but the same can't be said for product design and manufacturing. When AWS discusses IoT, they often talk in generalities or relate it exclusively to consumer products like cars and refrigerators. They also don't have a lot, if any, examples of industrial customers using AWS IoT to run their critical operations.
Given PTCs extensive background in IoT and the manufacturing industry, ThingWorx wins this round, especially if you are looking for a product-centric platform that will support your product design and manufacturing processes.
AWS has a range of tools that are designed to assist developers across a range of industries. If you have the time to learn how to complete your projects using a general tool, then AWS is a great platform to get started with.
If you would prefer to use a tool that is designed for your specific environment, then ThingWorx is a better option. The platform includes tools for REST APIs, data model design, and IoT apps and connections, which are all important for product-centric companies. Each component has been designed to improve and streamline manufacturing and product design.
ThingWorx's developer tools has been specifically designed to streamline manufacturing and design processes.
AWS and ThingWorx both include built-in analytics. AWS has metrics that focus on general business analytics as well as more specific IT-centric and big data solutions. However, when they discuss business metrics they stick with traditional metrics used by HR, marketing, finance, and sales. They don't seem to have metrics surrounding new product introduction and IoT like: MVP, OEE, productivity, efficiency, utilization, SPC, predictive maintenance, or other project management statistics that are considered critical to the industry.
In contrast, ThingWorx focuses more on these critical industry metrics. They even provide tutorials to help you understand how to set up and utilize predictive analytics, operationalizing an analytics model, monitoring devices, and creating alerts. This additional insight is intended to help companies handle all types of operational issues effectively.
ThingWorx utilizes critical IoT industry metrics including productivity, efficiency, utilization and more to provide companies with practical insight so they effectively solve problems.
There is no question that both companies each have their strengths when it comes to their respective industries. ThingWorx maintains a stronger focus on product-centered industrial companies whereas AWS is more of a general platform particularly useful for general developer knowledge. If you need support for a VR or IoT project, then ThingWorx will be the better option.
ThingWorx is the superior solution for industrial and product-centered companies.
ThingWorx and AWS both have expertise in these areas – so what you want to pick truly depends on application. AWS focuses on consumer products while ThingWorx is a better solution for more complex industrial projects.
ThingWorx and AWS both have AR and VR tools – it depends on what you want your product to be used for.
Both companies provide plenty of resources to help users navigate their products. Like some of the other features – it all depends on what types of projects you are working on. ThingWorx has a deeper focus on industrial problems and operations than AWS. Therefore, if that is your industry focus it may be easier to find the answers you need using the available ThingWorx education and support.
If you are focused on industrial products, ThingWorx is more likely to have the materials you need.
When is comes down to our IoT platform comparison, who is the winner? It's a trick question – the truth is you don't have to make a choice. You can choose to use ThingWorx for the industry expertise and then utilize AWS for your cloud platform as a complementary solution.
However, we understand that due to budgetary constraints, selecting two solutions might not be an option. If that's the case, and you are in the industrial, manufacturing, or product-centered industries then we think that ThingWorx will provide more value for your investment.
If you want to learn more about ThingWorx or are looking for pricing information, contact us.


text:
Police numbers cut as violent crime soars
On 11 September 2018 11 September 2018 By Guest Post
Police numbers bolstered through council funding while local crime soars due to national policing cuts
It is a well-documented fact that police funding has been slashed over the last eight years as part of the national Government austerity measures. Crime statistics from South Leeds show that this has been associated with a dramatic rise in violent crime. While the council are doing their best to reduce the impact by funding extra officers, our community isn't the safe place that we would like it to be.
Another South Leeds crime scene
Police cuts are determined by the Government in Westminster, but the real impact is here, in our communities, in South Leeds. Something that, unfortunately, many of us have witnessed over the past few years.
The Shadow Home Secretary, Diane Abbott, recently said:
"Cutting over 7,000 neighbourhood police officers means that vital intelligence is missed and relations between the police and the communities they serve become more removed. Over, 21,000 police officers have been lost since 2010 and cuts on this scale are obviously going to have an impact on policing and public safety."
Leeds City Council is financially supporting some of the neighbourhood policing teams and the police in South Leeds continue to do the best they can but "we cannot get security on the cheap".
What does this mean for us? Put simply, more crime and less community cohesion. In South Leeds (including Morley, Tingley and Rothwell) there were 780 violent and sexual offences reported during July 2018, which is frighteningly high. This compares to 603 in July 2017 and 512 in July 2016.
Location of violent and sexual crimes in South Leeds July 2018
Holbeck is an interesting case, which has been in the spotlight in recent press articles for violent and sexual crime. It is interesting because, whilst it does have a high number of violent and sexual crimes, it isn't the epicentre that you might expect (according to the police's numbers). Perhaps this is related to reporting levels which can affect resource allocation. That said, the figures across South Leeds are too high and do need to come down.
Crime seems, sadly, to occur most in our poorest areas for a myriad of different reasons and so, once again, our poorest areas are bearing the brunt of austerity.
Locally, Leeds City Council is committed to working with the police, with the money available, to protect our neighbourhoods.
You can explore these crime figures on the Government's Police.UK website, here: www.police.uk/west-yorkshire/LDT_S/crime/violent-crime , where you can zoom in to individual offences and street locations.
This post was written by Cllr Andrew Scopes.
South LeedsausterityCllr Andrew ScopesCrimecrime statisticsviolence and sexual offences
PREVIOUS POST Previous post: Hungry 'Haven hamper Hunslet's chances
NEXT POST Next post: Beeston's new mosque hosts grand opening
2 Replies to "Police numbers cut as violent crime soars"
Rich Bell says:
I've just spent about 15 mins looking at the map, in particular the violent and sexual crimes for our area. I didn't find an instance that resulted in a prosecution.
Based on my 15mins, prima facie evidence suggests there no deterrent anymore. The numbers suggest that if you commit a crime, by far the most likely outcome is that you will get away with it..
Paul Fenton says:
So whilst there is violent crime going off locking up Tommy Robinson instead of just telling him to clear off was a great tactical move by Leeds police force! LOL. Like they really care. Another point to look at in this article is this government is cutting back the police. Maybe because of the last government's over expenditure. We are still paying back that £154,000,000,000 they over spent by. Why do Leeds vote Labour? If you like left (Scummy) politics then why not Lib Dems? We are all still paying for Labour's term in office!!!! Wake up! Workers, families, law abiding people are put second to prostitutes, drug injecting idiots, & other slimy criminals that Labour like to shine there torch up!LOL. Not to mention over paying the police force who have obviously had the "hump" since Conservative's rise to the top. Very amusing how we get it so wrong in Leeds. Very entertaining. How dare i say "keep it up" it makes me feel soooo intelligent. =)


text:
Ceri catches record breaker on Corrib
CATCH OF A LIFETIME Ceri Jones is pictured with the record breaking 25 Ib trout which he caught on Lough Corrib. ?Pic: ingKlix Photography
Welsh man lands biggest trout caught in Ireland in over a century
For over an hour Welsh man Ceri Jones nervously and patiently played with his monster prey in the deep waters of Lough Corrib. He was determined he was not going to lose him. Ceri knew it was a big one but could not believe his eyes when the monster brown trout emerged from the depths to the surface.
"I hadn't seen the fish but as soon as it reached the surface, my knees started to shake," the 46 year old from the Rhondda Valley in South Wales told The Mayo News.
118-year record
Ceri had reeled in the largest brown trout caught in Ireland in 118 years, officially weighing 23lbs 12 oz. When it was caught, it weighed a whopping 25 lbs 2oz before it dried out on the journey to the shore.
Ceri has been fishing on Lough Corrib since 1987. He works as a freelance photographer with British angling magazine Trout Fisherman, which allows him to 'mix work with pleasure'. Every year he comes to Clonbur, but unlike the majority of anglers, he only goes after the big fish – fish that turn to cannibalism and feed on other fish in their own species.
Last year, he landed a 19 pounder. Not satisfied, he was determined to break his personal best when he went out alone on the boat on Saturday morning. The catch was made in 80 feet of water near the lake's biggest island, Inish Goill, at 2pm and finally landed at 3.15pm.
Epic battle
"I have not stopped smiling since I made the catch … I still haven't realised quite what I have achieved," he explained.
"As soon as it took the bait, it was like hooking a car … the reel was smoking and screaming until it stopped. I managed to hold onto it and I knew it was a big fish but not for one moment did I realise how big, I just though I would break my personal best," he said.
During his epic battle with the trout, Ceri also had to fight the large swell created by the strong wind and avoid crashing into rocks. As one stage, he admitted he thought he had lost it, bur he was determined to hold on.
"I lost one four years ago on Corrib and when I saw it, it was about the same size as this one. But I lost it and felt pig sick afterwards. I went home three days early. I couldn't take myself to get back out on the lake, and while that might sound strange, that is what it does to you."
Toast of Clonbur
But land this fish he did, and it was not long before word of the prize catch got out around Clonbur. Soon, dozens of people had turned up at the north Galway village to have a look. Tomás Burke of Burke's Bar told The Mayo News that the celebrations were on a par with those that took place when Clonbur won the All-Ireland Junior Football Club title earlier this year.
"Word of the catch was not long getting around and there were amazing scenes on Saturday night with people wanting to see the fish. It was like the homecoming for the Clonbur footballers when they won the All-Ireland in February. As big fish go, this is a beautiful fish with lovely colours," he said.
Last year, Burke's offered a free steak dinner for anyone who caught a fish over 18 lbs. When Ceri dined in style after catching his 19 pounder, Burke's increased the weight to 19 lbs 9 oz. Tomás quipped that the first thing Ceri told him after making the catch was that he wanted his steak.
The trout has now gone to a taxidermist and will be mounted on the wall of Burke's in a couple of weeks. The joke around Clonbur is that it is so big it will need planning permission.
Ceri returns to South Wales on June 10, but plans to return to fish on Lough Corrib. He believes an even bigger fish is out there in the waters, waiting to be caught.


Please enter you email address and touch and agree real-time as you receive faith testimonies, prayer requests and other important Holy &Whole announcements.
Thank you for joining the H&W mailing list. We look forward to keeping you informed.
At Holy & Whole LCMI, we're here to serve you! Your feedback and/or questions will help us do our job better. If you have a suggestion, comment or question, please fill out the information below in detail and we will respond immedidtely.


ITV, Ozone, APCO Aviation, Paramania, etc.
PARAMOTOR INSTRUCTOR offers foot-launch, trike-launch and quad-launch training in Miami / Homestead area of South Florida. Senior chief instructor Jose Casaudoumecq is a USPPA instructor and tandem administrator with 28 year's experience in teaching and 30 years of combined experience flying hang gliders, hang gliding trikes, powered parachutes, paragliders and paramotors. For further information on training and equipment you can contact PARAMOTOR INSTRUCTOR at: Web: ParamotorInstructor.com E-mail: info@ParamotorInstructor.com Phone: +1 (786) 514-8688 Skype: ParamotorInstructor PPG training all year round. We offer immersion training programs for new pilots who want to learn this exciting and complex sport thoroughly, as well as advanced training for pilots who want to improve their flying skills. We also offer introductory foot-launch tandem flights and rentals to USPPA certified pilots.


text:
Answer Man: Why no bluegrass hall of fame for Asheville?
Today's batch of burning questions, my smart-aleck answers and the real deal:
Question: Why doesn't Asheville have a Mountain Music and Bluegrass Museum? With our music being such a major attraction to visitors and locals, why hasn't the Tourism Development Authority or some other group moved forward with creating a museum with educational exhibits, a local hall of fame for our local treasured musicians, and similar displays? Surely this could become one of the "must see" venues for many.
My answer: I'm thinking if such a museum also featured a zip line entry and the issuance of a craft beer upon arrival, it couldn't miss.
Real answer: It's not out of the realm of possibility, but it's not exactly on the front burner, either.
"I recall there was some discussion years ago about establishing a museum in connection with the preservation of Bascom Lamar Lunsford's home, but it never materialized," said Marla Tambellini, vice president of marketing and deputy director at Explore Asheville, the Convention & Visitors Bureau. "A museum that honors the music heritage and legacy of our region would definitely be an asset for our community. The Tourism Product Development Fund could potentially be a funding source."
SEE ALSO: 51st season of Shindig on the Green opens, keeping traditions alive and growing
Lunsford, known as the Minstrel of the Appalachians, was a lawyer and musician who performed traditional mountain music. A native of Mars Hill in Madison County, he died in 1973 at age 91. (The annual festival celebrating him is Oct. 6.)
Tambellini also noted that a quick Google search will turn up several traditional music-themed facilities in the larger region, including the Mountain Music Museum in Kingsport, Tennessee, and the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky. Also, the Birthplace of Country Music is in Bristol, Virginia; and Wilkesboro, North Carolina is home to the Blue Ridge Music Hall of Fame.
Tambellini suggested running this by Angie Chandler, the executive director at the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area. Congress recognized the 25 westernmost counties of North Carolina as a National Heritage Area in 2003, and the organization serves as a regional steward of living Appalachian traditions.
Chandler mentioned the Hall of Fame in Wilkesboro and some of the other existing physical structures that honor bluegrass and mountain music. She stressed that her organization emphasizes the living nature of this music, and that's part of the reason it partnered with the North Carolina Arts Council to create the Blue Ridge Music Trails of North Carolina.
SEE ALSO: Balsam Range wins 2018 entertainer of the year at Bluegrass Awards
The website "provides a full calendar of festivals, concerts, jam sessions, workshops, and other activities to help you explore the region's rich heritage of traditional music," the website notes. It provides about 125 sites on the trail people can visit.
"What we hear from visitors is they want an experience, an opportunity to live like a local and experience the music and and the other assets we have to offer — food, crafts, outdoor recreation," Chandler said. "So our focus has been on getting folks out there, whether that's in Asheville or Graham County or Watauga."
Those 25 counties they serve already boast about 75 museums, Chandler estimates, so visitors and locals can soak up a lot of local lore that way already.
Carol Rifkin, a longtime musician, dancer and journalist who writes about the local music scene, noted that Mars Hill University and UNC Asheville also have large archives of mountain music that researchers or the curious can mine. She agrees with Chandler about the living nature of this traditional music, and how it's so important for people to really experience it.
SEE ALSO: Buncombe tourism board OKs $17.4M budget, with advertising spending up 12 percent
"Part of the nature of what we do is it's a living tradition," Rifkin said. "Shindig on the Green is a living tradition of passing it on."
That event, held weekly in downtown Asheville during the summer, features old time music and dancing, and you'll often find impromptu jam sessions going on at the fringes.
As this mountain music scene continues to evolve and grow and change, Rifkin thinks, "It's not a museum piece yet."
Of course, logistics would play a huge role in building a physical structure.
With any kind of museum proposal, you'd have to have some intense organization and funding to make it a reality, and someone — more likely a lot of someones — would have to get together and do a feasibility study and extensive fundraising and planning, for starters. Next would come land and property acquisition and building, which is never cheap.
Bottom line? It's a lot more complicated than it sounds, several facilities are already in existence, and the emphasis right now is on experiencing this living tradition live.
This is the opinion of John Boyle. Contact him at 828-232-5847 or jboyle@citizen-times.com


Online gambling is attracting more players these days as players from all over the world are no longer restricted by geographic boundaries. There are many online casinos that give you the opportunity to play to your heart's content while remaining in the comforts of home. This is made possible with the launch of mobile casinos. Mobile Casinos allow you to play on your cell phones so you can indulge in a good game no matter where you are, so long as a reliable internet connection is available. You just need to download the casino mobile software on your mobile device and complete the registration process. Make sure there is a suitable paying method which is allowed in your country and the fun can begin. Mobile casinos offer you an opportunity to play at your own time, own target. This convenience led to the increasing popularity of such online platforms and made gambling more simple than ever.
Mobile casinos also provide bonuses, just like any other online casino. There are several kinds of mobile casino bonuses to cater to different playing needs. Through the software, you get to receive regular updates about the latest offers from online casinos and if you are interested, it is easy to proceed with playing these games.
It is important to remember that not all mobile online casino bonuses suit every gambler. You should choose the one that is most appropriate for you. Therefore, it is better to learn about all the different types of bonuses instead of making a random decision.


The puck or the play? That was the question.
Not many people shuffle between professional hockey and playwriting. But then again, Ashlin Halfnight isn't many people.
Born in Toronto, where it's practically a crime not to play hockey, Halfnight liked theater enough to be in his sixth-grade play, but for him it was really all about hockey. He ended up on the varsity team at Harvard, and from there he was drafted by the Hartford Whalers, an NHL team that became the Carolina Hurricanes.
"I lived the scholar-athlete's life at Harvard, but I was waiting on some level for the sports career to end so I could go pick up the thread of the arts," Halfnight says. But it's not like he abandoned the arts entirely while pursuing a degree in English. For instance, in his freshman year, he was cast in a play, and opening night happened to fall on the same night as a hockey team event that involved a fair amount of alcohol.
When Halfnight hung up his skates at age 26 (no, his two front teeth aren't the ones he was born with), he did the aspiring artist thing and became a waiter while studying acting at the Lee Strasberg Theater Institute in New York. But he didn't take to acting.
He started a master's degree in fine arts at Columbia, then a Fulbright Award took him to the National Theater of Hungary in Budapest as a resident artist. He had a hit Fringe Festival show called "God's Waiting Room" inspired by Bulgakov's "Master and Margarita," and the shows just kept coming until Electric Pear shuttered in 2010, and Halfnight focused on family, teaching and writing.
"The Resting Place," his play at the Magic, was inspired by what he describes as a "rather authoritarian" middle and high school where things were not what they seemed. Dealing with the repercussions of abuse, the play has been bumping along for a while in various stages of development, including a stint at the Magic's Virgin Play Festival with a reading helmed by director Jessica Holt, who is directing the world premiere. During that workshop, the #MeToo movement was making headlines, and that lens helped Halfnight meet the play in a different context and do some intensive editing.
Though the successful writer misses the action of the hockey world, he has no regrets.


text:
Yawkey Way Report
Boston Red Sox Coverage Straight From Yawkey Way
CEO Sly Egidio
Yawkey Way Report Red Sox Store
YWR Program/Scorecard
Tag Archives: Phillies
Looking Ahead With 2020 Vision
Posted on October 6, 2019 by Holly McCarthy
After Mookie Betts slid into home at Fenway Park last Sunday night, the Red Sox season was over in walk off fashion. After losing two games to the Orioles, the Red Sox walked it off on Sunday in what might have been the final game for many of its players. Now, the Red Sox looking ahead to the 2020 season. After this year's World Series, the Red Sox have a lot of work to do. First, they need to find a replacement for Dave Dombrowski. Then, they need to figure out who's staying, coming, going, and coming back.
Many fans know how an offseason like this begins and ends. We've seen it in the past. By the time 2020 rolls around, the Red Sox will be ready to go. The question is though, what will the roster look like? Will players like Brock Holt and Mitch Moreland resign with the Red Sox? Will they trade Mookie Betts? And what does the future hold for J.D. Martinez. The Red Sox will be looking ahead to next season, and will try and build for the future at the same time this offseason.
Looking Ahead With 2020 In Sight
After making it to the postseason for the past three seasons, the Red Sox fell short in 2019. Now, they are looking ahead to 2020. The first thing that needs to be done is getting a replacement for Dave Dombrowski. During the loss to the Yankees on September 8th, the Red Sox fired Dombrowski in a move that shocked fans. It was only a matter of time, but the timing was, and still is, questionable.
Many Red Sox players may have played their final games last week. Rick Porcello, Brock Holt and Mitch Moreland are all free agents this offseason. Steve Pearce is a free agent as well, but is contemplating retirement. Another name to look out for is J.D. Martinez. When he signed his five year contract prior to the 2018 season, there were opt-out clauses placed in there. One of those is for this offseason.
Looking ahead, the Red Sox would probably like to keep all those guys mentioned above. They also need to work on rebuilding their farm system as well. Sadly, this may come in the form of a trade. There are many big name free agents that'll be on the market this offseason as well, such as Gerrit Cole, Madison Bumgarner, and Cole Hamels. Only time will tell how the Red Sox will look in 2020, however, the madness begins once the final out of the World Series is made.
Key Games in 2020
The Red Sox will be opening the 2020 season on the road against the Toronto Blue Jays from March 26th to March 29th. From there, they head to Baltimore to play the Orioles from March 30th to April 1st. The Red Sox's home opener will be on April 2nd against the Chicago White Sox. So far, this schedule is better than the 2019 one, where they played in Seattle, Oakland, and Arizona to start off the season.
Looking ahead, the Red Sox have seven interleague series this year. They play the Atlanta Braves, Milwaukee Brewers, Saint Louis Cardinals and Cincinnati Reds at home. They also play away games against the Braves, Reds, and the Chicago Cubs. Unlike in previous seasons, they will not be playing the Philadelphia Phillies.
In May, the Red Sox will be playing a three game series at the new Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. They will also be playing the Yankees in New York in the second weekend of May. This year's All Star Game, which will be held at Dodgers Stadium, is scheduled for July 14th. Just like in 2019, the Red Sox will be closing out the season at home against the Orioles.
How To Be Successful in 2020
With the postseason in full swing, one can only wonder if the Red Sox have what it takes to make it in 2020. Looking ahead, they need help in the bullpen, and the rotation, that was obvious this season. They also need to figure out how to stay under the luxury tax, and not overpay players like they have in the past. Examples of this include Pablo Sandoval, Carl Crawford and Hanley Ramirez.
This past week, many organizations are reworking the clubhouse. Teams like the Mets and Angels have let go of their managers. Others, like the Red Sox, have let go of coaches. The Red Sox announced earlier this week that assistant hitting coach, Andy Barkett, will not be back in 2020. Over the course of the next few days, we may see even more changes happening in Boston.
For now, Red Sox Nation is on pause until after the World Series. Then, and only then, will we know what the 2020 Red Sox will look like. It's going to be a long waiting game until the end of October and a new champion is crowned. However, before we know it, Spring Training will be here.
Tweet ##RedSox
Tweet to @YWR
Posted in Red Sox	| Tagged Blue Jays, Braves, Brewers, Brock Holt, cardinals, carl crawford, Cole Hamels, Cubs, Dave Dombrowski, Dodger Stadium, fenway park, Gerrit Cole, hanley ramirez, JD Martinez, Madison Bumgarner, mitch moreland, Mookie Betts, Orioles, Pablo sandoval, Phillies, Red Sox, Reds, Steve Pearce, Yankees	| Leave a reply
Weekend Series in Philadelphia Begins Now
Posted on September 13, 2019 by Holly McCarthy
The Red Sox will face the Philadelphia Phillies in a rare two game weekend series at Citizens Bank Park. Prior to the Red Sox's arrival, Philly hosted the first place Atlanta Braves. Like the Red Sox, Philly's season hasn't been too great. A favorite to win their division, they're in fourth place in the NL East. At 76-70, the Phillies are two games back of the National League Wild Card.
Last time Boston faced Philadelphia was last month. Philly took both games from Boston at Fenway Park, and they look to do it again during this weekend series. After a rough trip to Toronto, the Red Sox look to take both games at Citizens Bank Park. This weekend series will either make or break the Red Sox. Only time can tell how it will turn out.
The Weekend Series Matchup
The first game begins Saturday night, with Eduardo Rodriguez going up against Aaron Nola. This will be Rodriguez's first time facing the Phillies this season. Last time out for him resulted in a loss to the Yankees. Rodriguez went six innings, allowing five hits and one run. When the Philles came to Boston, Nola started the first game. He got the win, going seven innings, allowing two runs off of four hits. The Red Sox look to have better success against Nola in game one of the weekend series.
The final game of the weekend series has Rick Porcello taking on Jason Vargas in a Sunday afternoon matchup. Porcello was the starter in game two when Philly came to Boston last month. He took the loss, going five innings, and allowing three runs off of three hits. This will be Vargas' first time facing the Red Sox this season.
Despite going 1-2 against the Toronto Blue Jays, a Red Sox favorite achieved a major milestone. On Thursday night, Xander Bogaerts became the second shortstop in MLB history to hit 50 doubles and 30 home runs in a season. The last shortstop to accomplish that feat was Alex Rodriguez during the 1996 season as a member of the Seattle Mariners. The last Red Sox player to have 50 doubles and 30 home runs was David Ortiz in 2007. Rafael Devers is one home run shy of having a 50-30 season as well.
The nominations for the Roberto Clemente Award came out on Thursday as well. Red Sox utility player, Brock Holt, was nominated for the award for the fourth time. The Roberto Clemente Award is to recognize a player who represents the game through extraordinary character, community involvement, philanthropy and positive contributions. Holt was nominated for the award based on his work with the Jimmy Fund. Fans can vote for Holt on MLB's website here.
Following their weekend series, the Red Sox host the San Francisco Giants. The series begins on Tuesday, and Red Sox Nation will be looking at a different Yastrzemski in left field. Carl Yastrzemski's grandson, Mike, will be making his Fenway debut in a Giants uniform. For Red Sox fans looking to see Pablo Sandoval back at Fenway, they're going to have to wait. The third baseman recently underwent Tommy John surgery. Sandoval was a member of the Red Sox from 2015-2017. He signed a five year deal with Boston during the 2014 offseason after winning his third World Series as a member of the Giants.
Posted in Red Sox	| Tagged Aaron Nola, Alex Rodriguez, Brock Holt, Carl Yastrzemski, david ortiz, Eduardo Rodriguez, Giants, Jason Vargas, Mariners, Mike Yastrzemski, Pablo sandoval, Phillies, Rafael Devers, Red Sox, rick porcello, Roberto Clemente Award, shortstop, xander bogaerts	| Leave a reply
Final Showdown At The Rogers Centre
After losing the last three games to the Yankees, the Red Sox head north to face the Blue Jays at the Rogers Centre. The past few days have been strange for the Red Sox, as Dave Dombrowski was fired on Sunday night. Although no official press conference was given, the Red Sox did release a statement. Alex Cora and the players were shocked by the news, and many are wondering how this will affect the offseason.
First though, the Red Sox start a three game series in Toronto. This will be their final time facing the Blue Jays in 2019. With two weeks left of the season, the Red Sox's playoff hopes are gone, as they are eight games back of the Wild Card spot.
Last Series At The Rogers Centre in 2019
The Red Sox will start off by having Nathan Eovaldi go up against TJ Zeuch. Eovaldi will be making his first start at the Rogers Centre this season, and his second against the Blue Jays. Last time out for him, he went five innings, giving up one run off one hit. Eovaldi also had four walks and three strikeouts in that game against the Twins. The Red Sox will face rookie TJ Zeuch. The 24 year old is just the latest rookie to join the Blue Jays. He last pitched against the Atlanta Braves, going four innings and striking out four batters.
Game two will have Jhoulys Chacin against Trent Thornton. Last time out for Chacin was against the Yankees. He started the game on Friday night, and came in for relief on Sunday. In those two games, he pitched three total innings, only allowing one walk, and striking out four. Chacin is looking to get his first Red Sox win at the Rogers Centre on Wednesday night. Last time the Red Sox faced Thornton was on July 15th. Thornton took the loss in the game, going 1.1 innings, allowing five runs off of five hits.
The Red Sox have yet to name a starter for the final game at the Rogers Centre. The Blue Jays will be sending former Red Sox pitcher Clay Buchholz to the mound. Buchholz has yet to face the Red Sox this season. Last time out for him was against the Rays. He took the loss, going six innings, allowing seven hits and three earned runs. Buchholz's season has limited him to eight games. He is 1-4 with a 5.31 ERA.
What's Next For Boston in 2019
After their trip to the Rogers Centre, the Red Sox head to Philadelphia for a two game series against the Phillies. Like the Red Sox, the Phillies are eyeing the final Wild Card spot. They are 74-69, and fifteen games back of the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. Prior to hosting the Red Sox, they will host the Atlanta Braves.
The Red Sox have two more homestands left in 2019. The first is against the San Francisco Giants next week, and then the last one against the Baltimore Orioles at the end of September. Their final road trip begins on September 20th, when they head to Tampa Bay, and then to Arlington, Texas.
Posted in Red Sox	| Tagged Blue Jays, Braves, clay buchholz, Giants, Jhoulys Chacin, nathan eovaldi, Orioles, Phillies, Red Sox, Rogers Centre, TJ Zeuch, Trent Thornton, Yankees	| Leave a reply
Player's Weekend Begins In San Diego
Posted on August 23, 2019 by Holly McCarthy
As the Red Sox begin their road trip, their first stop is Petco Park in San Diego. This weekend is also the annual Player's Weekend, in which the players will be wearing special uniforms with a nickname on the back. Instead of the usual Little League uniform style, MLB introduced a new style for this weekend. Players will either wear black on black, or white on white jerseys.
In the past, the Red Sox haven't done so well during the Player's Weekend. They're looking to turn it around this weekend, as they begin a three game series against the NL East San Diego Padres. This will be their first trip to Petco Park since September 2016, when they went 2-1 against the Padres.
The Baltimore Sweep
After taking the last two games in Cleveland, the Red Sox felt pretty confident heading back to Fenway Park to face the Baltimore Orioles. The first game was just what Red Sox Nation needed. The offense brought in nine runs, and Rick Porcello pitched six solid innings, earning his eleventh win of the season. Both Andrew Benintendi and Mitch Moreland tripled, and Mookie Betts hit his 21st home run of the season.
Eduardo Rodriguez got the ball in game 2 of the series. Rodriguez went 7.1 innings, allowing only four hits and striking out four. Both Brock Holt and Rafael Devers homered, and the Red Sox took the second game, 4-0.
Game three proved to be a challenge for the Red Sox. After taking the first two from the Orioles, and riding a four game winning streak, Alex Cora sent Nathan Eovaldi to the mound to start the game. After allowing six runs in three innings, the Red Sox offense went to work. Devers hit a grounder to the second baseman, which scored Chris Owings. Sam Travis hit a solo home run, and Devers hit a two run home run in the game. The final was 13-7, and allowed Boston to ride a five game win streak.
The Philadelphia Invasion
The Red Sox welcomed the Phillies for their annual matchup at Fenway Park. This two game set didn't go as planned for Boston, as they lost both games. Pitching in place of the injured Chris Sale, Brian Johnson got the ball in game one against Aaron Nola. Despite a home run by Jackie Bradley Jr, the Red Sox couldn't come back from the 3-0 deficit with a final score of 3-2.
Game two of two didn't go so well for Boston either. The Red Sox sent Rick Porcello to the mound against former Tampa Bay Ray, Drew Smyly. Boston started off the scoring, carrying a 2-0 lead into the top of the fifth. From there, the Phillies, led by a Bryce Harper two-run home run, scored three runs in the fifth. From there, the Phillies added on two more runs. The final score was 5-2.
Brockstar Walks It Off
After a two week wait, the Red Sox finally finished off the Royals. For those who don't remember, the Red Sox had the lead in the last game against the Royals, until Darwinzon Hernandez and Nathan Eovaldi allowed a run each to score. The rain, of course, was another factor in the delay. As the ninth inning started, the rain slowly came down. Rain eventually delayed the game, which was postponed to August 22nd.
Anyways, in a game that wasn't deemed to last long, the Red Sox walked it off in about 12 minutes. With one out, Christian Vazquez doubled to center field. Chris Owings came in to replace Vazquez as a pinch runner. Sam Travis was intentionally walked, leaving Richard Lovelady to face Brock "Brockstar" Holt. Sure enough, Holt hit a single to left field, allowing Owings to score. The Red Sox finally won, 5-4.
Player's Weekend – San Diego Edition
Eduardo Rodriguez has the ball in game one against rookie Chris Paddack. Game two will have Nathan Eovaldi going up against Donelson Lamet. Cora has yet to name a starter for the final game, but the Padres will be sending Joey Lucchesi to the mound.
The Red Sox will be seeing some familiar faces in San Diego this weekend. The most notable is Manny Machado. Lucky for him, Machado will not be facing Chris Sale this weekend. Another is former Royal Eric Hosmer. During the 2017 off season, Hosmer signed an eight year deal with San Diego. Former Red Sox prospect Manuel Margot is also with the Padres. Margot was acquired by San Diego in the 2015 off season that saw Craig Kimbrel come to Boston.
Posted in Red Sox	| Tagged alex cora, Brian Johnson, Brock Holt, Chris Sale, Christian Vazquez, Darwinzon Hernandez, Drew Smyly, Eric Hosmer, Manny Machado, Manuel Margot, nathan eovaldi, Orioles, padres, Phillies, Player's Weekend, Red Sox, rick porcello, Sam Travis	| Leave a reply
Historic Series for Boston As They Take Two in Cleveland
After dropping game one in Cleveland, the Red Sox had a surge that lasted two games. This surge was fueled by Chris Sale, Rafael Devers and Xander Bogaerts. These three men had a historic series in Cleveland that propelled the Red Sox to victory. Sale became the fastest pitcher to get to 2,000 career strikeouts on Tuesday night. He achieved the milestone after pitching in 1,626 innings. The last person to accomplish the feat was Hall of Famer, Pedro Martinez. Both pitchers also accomplished the feat while playing for Boston.
That's not all. Rafael Devers, at the age of 22, went 6-6 in the game that led Boston to a 7-6 victory over the Indians on Tuesday. Devers became the first player in MLB history to record 6 or more hits, including 4 doubles. The last player to go 6-6 was Christian Yelich last season. Wednesday turned to be pretty special as well. Xander Bogaerts hit his 100th and 101th career home runs on Wednesday afternoon, helping the Red Sox beat Cleveland 5-1.
Historic Series for the Red Sox
After losing the final two games to the Angels, the Red Sox headed to Cleveland to take on the Indians. Game one had Eduardo Rodriguez going up against Zach Plesac. Rodriguez, who has been a reliable force in the rotation for Boston, pitched 6 innings, allowing 5 runs on 10 hits. Plesac went 5 innings, allowing 3 runs off of 7 hits. However, the game ended with the Indians walking off with a 6-5 victory in the bottom of the 9th inning. Marcus Walden gave up the game winning home run with no outs to Carlos Santana.
The first part of the historic series began on Tuesday night. With Chris Sale on the mound looking like his old self, it was only a matter of time before strikeout #2,000 of his career occurred. Indians center fielder, Oscar Mercado, was Sale's 2,000th strikeout. Mercado swung and missed at a slider to end the third inning, and allowed Sale to be the fastest pitcher to reach 2,000 strikeouts. The next historic moment came from Rafael Devers. The 22 year old hit 4 doubles, and went 6-6 in the game. His first hit, a double, came in the first inning, when he ripped a double to left field, allowing Mookie Betts to score. He also managed to raise his batting average to .325 following the game.
The final game of the historic series also had a great moment. In the top of the 3rd inning, Xander Bogaerts hit his 100th home run of his career off of Shane Bieber. In the 7th inning, Bogaerts wasted no time adding onto the 100 home runs, by hitting #101 off of Nick Goody. This allowed the Red Sox to win the game, 5-1.
Gearing Up for the Orioles
After a well deserved off day on Thursday, the Red Sox will be hosting the Orioles. Prior to their series in Boston, Baltimore was in New York playing against the AL East leading New York Yankees. Unfortunately for the Orioles, they were swept 4-0 against the Yankees, falling to a record of 39-82.
They'll be sending Aaron Brooks to the mound to face Rick Porcello in the first game. Brooks last pitched against Boston on April 30th, where he went 4.1 innings, allowing 6 hits and 5 runs. Rick Porcello is looking for win #11 of the season after taking the loss against the Angels this past weekend.
Game two will feature Asher Wojciechowski and Eduardo Rodriguez. The final game of the series on Sunday afternoon doesn't have starting pitchers named yet for either team. After this series, the next time the Orioles play the Red Sox is the final series of the regular season from September 17th to September 29th in Boston.
Harper and the Phillies Come to Town
After another long off season, Bryce Harper signed a mega 13-year, $330 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies. This allowed him to stay in the National League East, after playing the first 7 years of his career with the Washington Nationals. This will be the first time the Red Sox will be playing against the new look Phillies, as they also added JT Realmuto and Andrew McCutchen to their roster in the offseason.
The Phillies are currently 62-58, and are in 3rd place in the NL East. Before they come to Boston on Tuesday, they will be hosting the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park in Philadephia. The Red Sox will be playing there from September 14th to September 15th.
Posted in Red Sox	| Tagged Aaron Brooks, AL East, Andrew McCutchen, Asher Wojciechowski, Bryce Harper, Chris Sale, christian yelich, Eduardo Rodriguez, Indians, JT Realmuto, nationals, Nick Goody, NL East, Orioles, Pedro Martinez, Phillies, Rafael Devers, Red Sox, rick porcello, xander bogaerts	| Leave a reply
The Newest Hall of Famers Were Inducted into Cooperstown
Posted on July 23, 2019 by Holly McCarthy
Since 1936, baseball greats have been elected into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. That was no different on Sunday, as six legends turned Hall of Famers were inducted into Cooperstown. From the legendary Mariano Rivera, to the late Roy Halladay, Sunday was a day to celebrate these men and their accomplishments as Major Leaguers.
Their accomplishments on the field, and off the field is what makes them role models. To see players like Harold Baines, Lee Smith and Edgar Martinez get their special moment is truly remarkable, and a long time coming.
For Mike Mussina, who pitched for two American League East teams, it was definitely a special day for him, as those who doubted his ability to be enshrined in Cooperstown got to see him take the stage.
For the Halladay family, the Blue Jays and Phillies organizations and their fans, it was a day to remember a man who was a force on the mound. Roy Halladay will forever be remembered as a pitched no batter wanted to face.
Last, but not least, Mariano Rivera. The MLB saves leader was finally enshrined in Cooperstown, just north of the ballpark he called home. When Mo was warming up in the bullpen, the game was basically over.
This class consisted of six total players: four pitchers, and two batters. When it comes to Hall of Fame inductions, there is criticism when it comes to who does, and who doesn't, get elected. This class, however, has a mix of some pretty amazing former players.
The Pitchers
Mariano Rivera – The lifelong New York Yankee made history in January, as he is the first and only player to be elected unanimously into the Hall of Fame. The Panamanian won five World Series rings with the Yankees, and is MLB's all time saves leader, with 652. The 13 time All Star has a lifetime ERA of 2.21. The man known as Mo is a true Hall of Famer. Mariano Rivera went into the Hall with the Yankees logo on his hat.
Roy Halladay – The late and great starting pitcher was elected into the Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. The former Blue Jay and Phillies pitcher was a force on the mound, winning two Cy Young Awards and pitching a no-hitter in the postseason for Philadelphia. The eight-time All Star had a career record of 203-105, and a ERA of 3.38. Doc, as he was known, has his number 32 retired by the Blue Jays. He is also in the Phillies, and Blue Jays, Hall of Fame. Additionally, Roy Halladay's hat doesn't have a logo on it, as he played for two teams in his career.
Mike Mussina – In his 6th year of eligibility, the former Baltimore Oriole and New York Yankee made it into the Hall of Fame. Mussina, a seven-time Gold Glove winner, finished his career with a record of 270-153, with an ERA of 3.68. He also was selected as an American League All Star five times, and is a member of the Orioles Hall of Fame. "Moose," as he was known to fans, had eight seasons where he won 17 games or more. In his final season with the Yankees, he won 20 games. Like Halladay, Mussina does not have a logo on his hat.
Edgar Martinez Gets His Day in Cooperstown
After a very long wait, Edgar Martinez was finally inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. The former Seattle Mariner was elected into the Hall of Fame in his tenth year of eligibility. The third baseman and designated hitter spent his whole career with the Seattle Mariners, and has his number 11 retired by the team.
Martinez was selected for seven All Star games in his career, and won five Silver Slugger Awards as well. In 2004, Martinez also won the Roberto Clemente Award. He has a lifetime batting average of .312, with 309 home runs and 2,247 hits. The Seattle Mariners Hall of Famer was finally honored in Cooperstown this past Sunday, to the delight of Mariners fans. His plaque has the Seattle Mariners logo on it.
The Honorable Mentions
Below are two great players who were elected into the Hall of Fame on the Today's Game Committee ballot. These Hall of Famers were also honored on Sunday along with Rivera, Halladay, Martinez and Mussina.
Harold Baines – The former outfielder played from 1980-2001. The six-time All Star has a career batting average of .289 with 2,866 hits, 384 home runs and 1,628 RBI's. In his 22 year career, he played in 2,830 games, most notably as a member of the Chicago White Sox. As a coach for the White Sox, Baines received a World Series ring in 2005. He also won the Silver Slugger Award in 1989, has his number 3 retired by the White Sox, and is in the Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame. Harold Baines went into the Hall of Fame with the White Sox logo, as he played for the White Sox for 14 seasons, split over multiple seasons.
Lee Smith – The former Major Leaguer pitcher played from 1980-1997 and was a member of the Red Sox from 1988-1990. Smith pitched in 1,022 games, had 478 saves, with a 3.03 lifetime ERA. He was a seven-time All Star, three-time Relief Man of the Year, and was the saves leader four times in his career. Lee Smith went into the Hall of Fame with the Chicago Cubs logo, which is fitting since he pitched for the Cubs from 1980-1987.
Future Hall of Famers
In January 2020, another group of legends will be elected into the Hall of Fame. A year from now, they will forever be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame. There will be many first timers on the ballot in 2020. Some of the most notable names are Josh Beckett, Derek Jeter, and Paul Konerko.
Of course, there will be a lot of returning names to the ballot. The most notable names are Curt Schilling, Roger Clemens, Barry Bonds, Manny Ramirez and Larry Walker. Now, if I had to choose between these guys, I'm going with Schilling and Walker. Schilling was amazing in the postseason. He was the co-MVP of the World Series as a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001. He also has a lifetime ERA of 3.46, with a 216-146 record. Walker, despite spending the majority of his career in Colorado, truly deserves the honor. He has a lifetime batting average of .313, with 383 home runs.
Posted in MLB	| Tagged baseball hall of fame, Blue Jays, Cooperstown, Cubs, curt schilling, derek jeter, Edgar Martinez, Hall of Famers, Harold Baines, Josh Beckett, Larry Walker, Lee Smith, Mariano Rivera, Mariners, Mike Mussina, Orioles, Phillies, Red Sox, Roy Halladay, white sox, Yankees	| Leave a reply
Shop Yawkey Way Report
Boston Red Sox Baltimore Orioles 2016 Opening Day Pin Fenway Park
MLB 2018 Opening Day Pin Fenway Park Boston Red Sox Tampa Bay Rays FREESHIP
2015 Fenway Park Boston Red Sox Washington Nationals Opening Day Pin
Sept 2014 Yawkey Way Report Fenway Park Red Sox Yankees Program Jeter Ortiz
August 2014 Yawkey Way Report Boston Red Sox Program Scorecard Yoenis Céspedes
Tweets by @YawkeyWayReport


text:
Q: Как распаковать переменные из строки используя шаблон Есть патерн:
pattern = 'Тесттест констант текст {0-9.}*% текст текст {0-9.}* to {0-9.}*'

И набор строк по типу:
strings['1'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 120% текст текст 3423 to 6754'
strings['2'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 56% текст текст 12 to 34'
strings['3'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 0% текст текст 345 to 423'
strings['4'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 3% текст текст 34 to 45'

Строки и патерны естественно могут отличатся, программа определяет соответствие строки патерну путем re.fullmatch(pattern, string). Собственно сабж в том чтобы распаковать переменные в список.
Как сделать это для конкретного шаблона я конечно понимаю, но таких шаблонов тысячи, есть-ли какая-то библиотека позволяющая просто распарсить переменные в список.

Вот моя текущая костыльная реализация.
import re

AffixList = {
    1:
        {
        'pattern': 'Area contains [0-9.]*% increased number of Remnants',
        'tag': 'PERCENT',
        'crutchs': ['Area contains ', '% increased number of Remnants']
        },
    2:
        {
        'pattern': 'Area contain [0-9]* to [0-9]* additional Chests Markers',
        'tag': '2FLAT',
        'crutchs': ['Area contain ', ' to ', ' additional Chests Markers']
        },
    }

def GetAffixVal(str):
    for k in AffixList:
        affix = AffixList[k]
        if re.fullmatch(affix['pattern'], str):
            for c in affix['crutchs']:
                str = re.sub(c, " ", str)

            vars = []
            list = re.split(" ", str)
            for var in list:
                if var != '':
                    vars.append(float(var))
            return (k, affix['tag'], vars)
    return None

AfixData = GetAffixVal("Area contain 3456 to 34567 additional Chests Markers")
print(AfixData)

Собственно функция возвращает кортеж (2, '2FLAT', [3456.0, 34567.0]) что мне и нужно. Суть в том чтобы сделать это проще без необходимости прописывания кучи кусков строк между которыми висят переменные.

A: Не знаю правильно ли я тебя понял
import re

strings = {}
pattern = r'Тесттест констант текст (\d+)\s*% текст текст (\d+) to (\d+)'

strings['1'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 120% текст текст 3423 to 435'
strings['2'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 56% текст текст 12 to 34'
strings['3'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 0% текст текст 345 to 423'
strings['4'] = 'Тесттест констант текст 3% текст текст 34 to 45'

for i in strings:
    string = strings[i]
    s = re.fullmatch(pattern, string)
    if s != None:
        print(re.findall(pattern, string))

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
A Pathway Trace - Solidarity - Our Sincere Toils - What Takes Hold - Shutdown - Overview - About - Instagram
▾info
Since the fall of the Iron Curtain, Ukraine has enjoyed its longest period of independence in centuries, but the nation has never ceased to question which foreign power they should be aligned with. Before the presidential elections of 2004, the answer had been Russia but everything changed with the street protests of the Orange Revolution and the forced resignation of president-elect Yanukovych. Sadly, the pro-European government that took control was plagued by scandal, corruption and internal disagreements. In 2010, Yanukovych returned to power in an election deemed free and fair.
In November 2013, I visited Western Ukraine. Spending time with Ukrainian people my own age, I began to understand the problems and restrictions they faced. During this period, I witnessed Ukraine's response to the European trade deal U-turn that had enormous economic and political implications.
This experience resulted in a fascination with the culture and politics of Ukraine, and I decided to go back to the country to continue observing and exploring this complex and troubled nation. I returned to Kiev on the 21st February 2014, the day after more than 50 pro-European militants were shot dead by government forces and the course of Ukraine's history irrevocably altered.
In the second part of this project, I traveled across the country, exploring and observing life outside the Euro Maidan protest site. I wanted to gain an insight into how ordinary Ukrainian people sought to free themselves from corruption and exploitation.
My imagery represents a personal record of the everyday life of individuals against the backdrop of Ukraine's uprising. I was interested in the human details of a country going through a swift revolution and the subsequent annexation of part of its territory. These photographs contemplate the aftermath of Ukraine's bloody uprising that led to the ousting of President Viktor Yanukovich and the unpredictable future facing the people I met on this journey.


Sign up for Zimbabwe Sanctions e-mail updates.
Sanctions Brochures are an overview of OFAC's regulations with regard to the Zimbabwe Sanctions. They are useful quick reference tools.
It may be in your and the U.S. government's interest to authorize particular economic activity related to the Zimbabwe Sanctions. Visit the link below to apply for an OFAC license.
Certain activities related to the Zimbabwe Sanctions may be allowed if they are licensed by OFAC. Below OFAC has issued guidance and statements on specific licensing policies as they relate to the Zimbabwe Sanctions.
OFAC occasionally produces charts of the Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs) of Zimbabwe.
The Zimbabwe Sanctions represent the implementation of multiple legal authorities. Some of these authorities are in the form of executive orders issued by the President. Other authorities are public laws (statutes) passed by The Congress. These authorities are further codified by OFAC in its regulations which are published the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Modifications to these regulations are posted in the Federal Register.


Just a day after Oberon Release Day in Kalamazoo a thief made off with a huge inflatable object for the popular beer, and polices are asking for help identifying the one responsible.
At about 4:30 a.m. March 28 an unidentified man was observed on surveillance cameras near 100 W. Michigan Ave. stealing an inflatable Oberon bottle that stands more than 12 feet tall. The advertisement is worth more than $2000.
Authorities ask that anyone who may recognize the man or who knows any details about this incident to contact the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety at 337-8139 or Silent Observed at 343-2100.


When you factor in the top reasons to improve your life where do you end up? Usually it's money, relationships, or some big dream you've put off for years. If you're anything like most people, you don't make a conscious effort to prepare for each day. You grudgingly roll out of bed, shower, eat breakfast, and head off to work. All your actions are automatic, and come natural from years of repetitious, doing the same thing over and over. You don't have to think about your next step because you've done it a thousand times before.
While routines can make our lives easier, they can also prevent us from growing, and experiencing new ways of doing things. For this reason many choose a life of mediocrity, and never realize their full potential. Overtime their childhood dreams begin to fade, and reality sets in as they learn to tolerate a life they hate. Here are 7 steps that you can do "now" to improve your life.
It's hard to imagine that most of us are so preoccupied that we never learn to live in the present moment. All our life we are taught to put off happiness for another time at another place. We constantly seek fulfillment in people, places, and things. When we are not present we lose focus on what really matters. Living in the "now" will dramatically boost your happiness, and sharpen your focus. It brings fresh ideas, and a deep rich quality of living that can only improve your life in every way.
Living in the moment naturally makes us more empathetic, and compassionate for people. We can actually hear what their saying without being preoccupied over the next words out of our mouth. Developing this new skill will cause peoples trust factor, and perception of you to elevate. They will love and trust you with their life. This is the first step to improve your life. Take time to smell the coffee, and learn to enjoy every moment that you have breathe. I highly recommend reading: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. Learn the art of living in the now.
Many people go through their whole life, and never find their true passion. Without a passion life becomes tasteless with no meaning. People who never find their passion usually don't get far in life. If you haven't found your passion in life there's several things you can do to find it. Sometimes our passion is hidden in layers of the past. What did you love doing in the past that you are not doing now? Another way to find your passion is to take time to test your life, and the direction it's going. Are you moving toward things you love, or are you drifting farther away. You need passion to fuel the energy it takes to live out your purpose. Without a passion it's will be much harder to improve your life.
Once you have a passion you're ready to start setting some realistic goals. Staying motivated is not always easy. Even people who have achieved great success find it hard at times to stay motivated on their goals. Setting goals allows you to fix your mind on a single idea. Something you truly want to do. Here are some areas to help set some goals: relationships, career, finances, friends, health, self-esteem, appearance, possessions, recreation, travel, spirituality, accountability, and personal growth.
Determine exactly what you want and make it time bound. Your mind will do its magic when there's a deadline attached to your goals. Always make sure your goals are relevant with any particular goal. Your goals may cost you your friends, respect from family members, and even your sanity at times. If goals are not realistic, or relevant you will never get past these barriers. If you want to improve your life learn the art of making goals happen successfully.
Without a dream your day-to-day life will be more about survival than success. On the other hand any dream worth having will always come with challenges. Either way everyone pays their dues in life. If you're going to pay your dues you might as well make the best of it. In other words learn to dream big even though there are challenges that come with it.
Let's face it there are times when things don't work out as planned, but that doesn't mean we give up on our dream. You take past mistakes and learn from them so each time you're faced with new challenges you're more equipped to do things better, smarter, and efficient the next time around. This is the exact method that successful entrepreneurs have used throughout history. Having a dream is the foundation principle to happiness, success, and an amazing life. Do everything in your power to develop a dream, and it improve your life in every way imaginable.
Life is a busy place, and when we don't take time out to reward our-selves we become less enthusiastic,and more robotic. The best way to solve this problem is to start providing yourself with gifts to enjoy. If you work on commissions set aside 15% to splurge on yourself. This might sound like bad advice, but think again. By encouraging yourself to make more money you become richer, which motivates you to succeed. We should take care of our-selves mentally, physically, and emotionally so life is more tolerable, fun, and joyful. Rewarding yourself is a great way to improve your life, and spice things up a bit. You don't have to buy a yacht. Sometimes a great movie with someone you love is perfect.
Simply learn to let go, and let it happen. This is one of the best things you can do to improve your life. This is not about letting go of responsibilities, but the things you just can't control. For example not every person is going to like you. Learn to except what you can't change, and do your best in what you can. Let go of bitterness, hatred, and regret, and life will be a much better place to live. Not for the one who did you wrong, but for yourself. When we try to force things on people everything we do creates friction. We attract what we focus on.
With a goal you're attached to the outcome. You measure your progress with determination to meet your objections. When you let go you detach yourself from the outcome, and focus your attention on being happy, alive, and alert, regardless of the outcome. Letting go will keep you incomplete control of your life whether you succeed or not.
One of the most effective ways to happiness is gratefulness. There's a deep yearning for happiness in us all that money just simply can't buy. The art of happiness is to live present, and be grateful for everything. No matter who you are there's always something you can be grateful for. As long as we measure our happiness with our stuff it will always be limited.
Make your happiness internal regardless of your surroundings or circumstance. Focus on nothing except what you want your life. Then meditate on it day, and night. Happiness is a choice that we all can make in our life. The more we try to buy happiness the more obvious it becomes that no amount of money will fulfill our true desires. These seven things will improve your life , and bring more happiness, and success then you can imagine.
The path of destiny has captured the imagination of philosophers, and great thinkers from every culture. We have discovered how to make observations and formulate fundamental principles to live healthier, happier and more successful. At least on the surface depending on how you define personal success.
Do you believe that you hold the power to shape your destiny, or is your fate signed, sealed, and delivered? The way we think about ourselves, others, and the world around us shapes our present life, and our future. In fact when you don't shape your destiny it will be shaped by circumstances, and people. We are literally shaping our life with every breathe we take.
"Destiny is no matter of chance. It is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." William Jennings Bryan.
Developing your destiny toward a successful life belongs to you alone. What does success look like to you? Maybe it's to make more money, become a better parent, husband, or wife. Perhaps your success is a lifetime dream you want to accomplish, or something else entirely different. Whatever it is ….. are you willing to do what it takes to make it happen? Here's a few tips below that may help.
Be conscientious of each moment: There are those who seem to succeed in whatever they do, while others seem destined to fail? Both success, and failure are never a final conclusion as each moment passes by. Every moment you have is another chance to do things right, and create the life that you desire.
Understand your thoughts: Thoughts of courage, power, harmony, inspiration, can substitute thoughts of despair, limitation, lack, and failure. Any achievement we possess depends on our method of thinking. Diverting negative thought patterns into positive substitutes can shape a destiny of failure into life changing success.
Developing a deliberate mind-set: Many highly successful people have a intentional mindset toward accomplishment. The law of probability systematically works in their favor: but the average Joe will explain away his misfortunes as random coincidences, bad luck, or mishaps. He never realizes that his thoughts are constantly shaping his destiny.
Start dream building: Without a dream life becomes tasteless, repetitious, and meaningless. Do everything in your power to establish a dream then take action at once. If you want to shape your destiny for success be deliberate in every action you take to move closer to your dreams.
Once a dream is established it needs a defined avenue toward success. When dreams are not defined they become wishful thinking, and never manifest into destiny. Make your mental image clear, distinct, and define: hold the thought firmly: the means will come: you will be led to do the right thing, at the right place, in the right time. Earnest desires with a positive mindset can bring confidence, expectation, and relentless determination to make any dream a reality. Shape your destiny for success at once, and soon you'll be living the dream life.


text:
Home » Chanukah
Dreidels on the Brain by Joel ben Izzy for Readukkah
Ages 10 and up, Children's Book Reviews, Children's Books > Social Situations > Family Life > New Experiences, Contemporary Issues for tweens, Emotions & Feelings, Facing Challenges, Family, Family & Relationships, Fitting In, Growing Up, Growing Up & Facts of Life, Hanukkah, Historical Fiction, Holidays & Celebrations, Holidays & Festivals - Jewish Holidays, Humor, Jewish Fiction, Juvenile Fiction, Magic, MG Fiction, Middle Grade Fiction, Middle School, Middle School & Teachers, Religious Fiction, Siblings
DREIDELS ON THE BRAIN
By Joel ben Izzy
(Dial BYR; $17.99, Ages 10 and up)
When I adore a book, and I did adore Joel ben Izzy's Dreidels on The Brain, I tend to read every last word from the dedication to the acknowledgements. In doing so I happened to find this gem at the bottom of the copyright page:
"This is a work of fiction… and of friction–the kind that filled the author's childhood. Although much is based upon actual people, places, and events from his life, he has taken great liberties in all these realms–as well as spelling–to recount a story set over the course of the eight days of Hanukkah, 1971."
There's more, but you'll just have to get a copy to read on.
Ben Izzy is a renowned storyteller and Dreidels on The Brain is his first foray into fiction for kids, middle grade readers to be precise, and I hope he writes more. His ability to convincingly convey time, place, character, conflict and voice was not lost on this reader who grew up in that era. Dreidels on The Brain is so much more than a Hanukkah story. It's a heartwarming coming-of-age novel filled with memorable laugh out loud moments and it seems to have fun with itself and the reader who will quickly catch on to all the zany things Izzy's included. He's spelled Hanukkah a ton of different ways and, when he gets the opportunity, does the same with ketchup. On top of this there are lots of jokes, insight into magic tricks, great cultural references, and just the right amount of Yiddish words added to an already winning mix.
As mentioned above, Dreidels on The Brain is set in 1971, Temple City, California, just east of Los Angeles with no temple to be found. The main character's Jewish family (whose last name shall not be revealed here) actually attends a temple or synagogue in nearby Rosemead. Joel, the self-proclaimed funny-looking main character, is short, has braces, wears glasses, and is the odd man out as the school's only Jewish student.
Nine chapters take readers through Joel's eight days and nights of Hanukkah. Ben Izzy has managed to seamlessly weave magic, miracles, matzoh balls, and music from Fiddler on The Roof into an unforgettable story of a boy, on the cusp of adulthood according to the Jewish religion, wanting to be anyone, but himself. This all plays out over the Hanukkah holiday while touching upon faith, family, friends, and one particular female named Amy O'Shea. Readers will find it easy to root for the lovable protagonist and, like him and the message of his dreidel game, wish that a great miracle could happen there.
Joel, a tween with soon-to-be teen angst, is questioning his belief in God as he navigates his role as school dork, token Jew, and the youngest son in his family of five including two older brothers. His parents are struggling financially, but his mom never gives up hope for better times ahead. His dad, unemployed, is always on the verge of creating the next must-have invention, all while coping with his debilitating arthritis. Although it's clear there's much love in Joel's family, as seen through the eyes of this twelve-year-old boy, there's not much to be desired about his life. For example, he never gets a Hanukkah present as it's simply not affordable. Joel does manage to make some spending money by performing magic tricks at parties, but when classmate Amy suggests they team up because an assistant will add to a magic show's appeal, Joel finds himself falling for this girl he considers to be way out of his league.
The plot lines center around Joel having to perform a magic show at his grandma's nursing home, his dad needing surgery over Hanukkah, and an invitation from the principal to present the Hanukkah story to the entire school at a special assembly. Will everything go according to plan convincing Joel that miracles can happen? "All I can do is answer the way Jews always do–with another question. Why not?"
Reviewed by Ronna Mandel for #Readukkah
Gift It! The Power of CUTE
Juvenile Fiction, Novelty Books
Like the monster featured in this adorable and truly original lift-the-flaps, pull-the-tabs, turn-the-wheels and pop-ups book, I succumbed to the fearless main character's contagious cuteness.
The Power of Cute by Charise Mericle Harper ($10.99, Robin Corey Books, ages 4-8) had me from the first speech bubble! "I am not afraid of you!" is spoken boldly by a superhero baby after encountering the stomping and roaring big monster. In what is billed as My Very First Graphic Novel, young readers will find a baby they can identify with; a baby who does not whimper in the face of something scary, but rather, relies upon his own inherent powers to turn what could be a fearsome creature into a reduced-sized, tame and cute baby monster. The clincher for me was when the cute baby brought her new friend home to a house full of cute little monsters, who had already experienced The Power of Cute. Your child's self-esteem is sure to be buoyed by this charismatic hero, a match for any menace who happens to cross his cute path.
Gift It! The Wizard of Oz: A Scanimation Book
Juvenile Fiction, Novelty Books, Novelty Books
This blog post comes from Ronna Mandel:
Who doesn't love giving and getting books as presents? The best part about giving a book as a gift is that you can dedicate it on the inside cover with a personalized book plate or a simple, but meaningful handwritten note. I may donate a lot of books, but I can never part with a book that has a date and message inside, reminding me of a special friend's present to one of the children or to me and my husband.
I n the next few days I'll be writing about books that would make wonderful holiday gifts whether as stocking stuffers or wrapped and placed under the tree. Or like me, you can plan on giving a book for each of the eight nights of Hanukkah.
Now here's a book that's perfect for everyone in the family – The Wizard of Oz: A Scanimation Book from Rufus Butler Seder ($14.95, Workman, all ages) – because we should all have at least one book with the amazing Scanimation technology on a coffee table at home! If you haven't perused the pages of one of these types of books (i.e. Gallop!, Swing!, Waddle!, and Star Wars: A Scanimation Book), it's time to be introduced. The book opens with Dorothy's ruby slippers clicking together because with this technology, pictures move bringing motion with every turn of the page, recreating memorable moments to enjoy all over again. You'll find famous quotes opposite the iconic images such as the Wicked Witch of the West warning, "Ill get you, my pretty, and your little dog, too!" or the Tin Man's line, "The tinsmith forgot to give me a heart. No heart. All hollow." There are 10 terrific scenes in all and each one cleverly conveys the movie's progression in much the same way a movie or video work. Why not see for yourself?
Children's Holiday Book Roundup and Giveaway
Contests & Giveaways, Juvenile Fiction, Juvenile Nonfiction
We may not get snow here in sunny Southern California, but we do get all the wonderful holiday books to help us get into the festive mood! Ronna Mandel and Debbie Glade have put together a brief collection of recommended books for parents to consider when making up their gift lists this season. No matter what time of the year, one of the most important things to do with your child is read. So buy a book or two, put the kettle on and then snuggle up close to your little ones and explore lands near and far as they come alive with every page you turn. For a chance to be the winner of three of these terrific holiday books, please leave a comment on the blog, LIKE Good Reads With Ronna on Facebook and be sure to provide an email where you can be contacted. The contest ends at midnight on Friday, Dec. 23, 2011. Scroll down for contest *rules.
Record a Memory: Our Family Christmas Memories (approx. $15.95, Publications International, Ltd., all ages) makes it easy for families to share memories and then treasure them for years to come. The sparkly, embossed cover beckons readers to open the book, fill in the requested info, add voice messages wherever there's an icon pictured and turn good times into a customized scrapbook. With a little help from an older sibling or adult, even the youngest child can add their input by simply following the handy instructions provided on the opening page. Everyone will enjoy the 48 beautiful pages, with their ample room to include photos of Christmas stockings, Christmas dinner plus places to jot down specific recollections like a favorite Christmas past or yummy recipe. Best of all is the six-button module designed to allow users to record a special memory, making Our Family Christmas Memories a keepsake families will return to again and again. Three AAA batteries are included and the books can be found at major retailers nationwide. Add Record a Memory to the rest of your family's holiday traditions and capture cherished moments for a lifetime.
A Bad Kitty Christmas ($15.99, A Neal Porter Book/Roaring Brook Press, ages 4 and up), written and illustrated by Nick Bruel cannot fail when its cover alone cracks me up! Anyone who knows me knows I adore cats and now, having just adopted two maniacal brothers whose exploits compare to those of Bad Kitty's, I love Bruel's series more than ever. The picture book opens with, "Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the city, not a creature was stirring … (Blam! Crash! Kaboom! indicating sound of garbage pails flying) … Except for Bad Kitty." If this line does not set the tone for what havoc will be wreaked by this fabulously feisty feline, I'm not sure what does. Soon Kitty shows her disinterest in spending Christmas Eve with Uncle Murray and leaps from her owner's auto (followed by Puppy), getting lost in the big city until rescued by an elderly lady. After an afternoon of listening to the old lady reminisce, Bad Kitty yearns to return home to his family. Sensing the cat's homesickness, the caring woman realizes she has an important holiday mission to accomplish. Will Bad Kitty (and Puppy) be reunited with their family for Christmas? Put this book on your holiday list to find out how they all fare. Still eager to continue the craziness? Check out more shenanigans at the Bad Kitty website.
Chanukah Lights ($34.99, Candlewick Press, ages 5 and up), is written by Michael J. Rosen with pop-art by Robert Sabuda. Not all pop-up books are created equal and when you combine the talents of the masterful Rosen with those of Sabuda, you get a rare Chanukah treat for the entire family to enjoy. Travel across the globe and through time by experiencing eight wondrous and intricately designed scenes of the Jewish Festival of Lights. Whether viewing the Temple where the oil that lasted eight days was discovered, journeying to a shtetl where "six lights flicker," or traveling to a kibbutz in the Promised Land replete with olive groves and this time showing eight glimmering flames, the faith of those who have carried on the Chanukah tradition is beautifully reflected on every page. This unique interpretation of the holiday will not disappoint.
Create-A-Story Kit: StoryWorld – Christmas Tales ($9.99, Templar Books, ages 9 and up) by John & Caitlin Matthews is just the answer for kids stuck indoors with relatives and other visitors over the holiday break. Christmas Tales allows everyone to take control of their boredom transforming it into fun and games when using the set of cards provided. There are multiple ways to use the colorful cards and a handy storytelling book included that gives tips to get players started. Pick a card and begin telling a tale, or maybe play a card game of hidden clues. Kids can even put on a play based on the card images. My favorite card, The Christmas Ghosts (who appear only at Christmastime) sets my imagination soaring. Thought provoking questions on the card's reverse side ask: "What stories can they tell about their lives?" "Why have they appeared this year?" Or in my case, the question would be "Why have they NOT appeared this year?" Then I would also incorporate the last question, "Who is able to see them and who cannot?" and so would begin my tale … Make Create-A-Story series part of your family's annual celebration and see what a good time being stuck with relatives and visitors can really be!
The Littlest Evergreen's talented author and illustrator Henry Cole, ($16.99, Katherine Tegan Books by Harper Collins, ages 4 and up) really knows how to captivate the hearts of his readers. This is an enchanting story, with an environmental message, about a how a tiny evergreen grows into a Christmas tree and about what happens to him after the holiday is over. Cole's illustrations are beyond exceptional – so much so that I found myself looking at them over and over again. He uses vivid acrylic paints in such a way that they have crisp edges to make featured objects contrast beautifully with the backgrounds. This artist has illustrated more than 50 children's books, including several he has written himself. Every child, who celebrates Christmas and loves to choose a fresh tree every year, will also adore this book. It is without-a-doubt one to keep and read every year before Christmas. It sure got me in the Christmas spirit!
*This giveaway will run through midnight on December 23, 2011 (PST). Winner will be chosen using Random.org from all valid entries and notified via email. Winner will have 48 hours to contact us at Ronna.L.Mandel@gmail.com before another winner is chosen. Giveaway is open to U.S. (18+) residents only.
*Good Reads With Ronna did not receive monetary compensation for these reviews. Three (3) giveaway items worth a total value of $67.97 will be provided by Good Reads With Ronna. The reviews are in our own words and is our opinion. Your opinions may differ.
Making New Friends From a Hanukkah Mishap
Engineer Ari and the Hanukkah Mishap written by Deborah Bodin Cohen and illustrated by Shahar Kober ($17.95 hardcover, $7.95 paperback; Kar-Ben, ages 5-9) was reviewed by Ronna Mandel in the December issue of L.A. Parent.
Engineer Ari is trying to get from Jerusalem to Jaffa, Israel, to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah with friends Jessie and Nathaniel. He's bringing dreidels, a hanukkiah, a bottle of oil, a bag of Turkish coins and some sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts; a glossary in the front of the book offers more handy definitions), and children he meets on the way to the station chat about the story behind the holiday.
On board the train Ari can almost taste Nathaniel's potato latkes and hear Jessie singing the Hanukkah blessings, but he will have to wait. Coming around a bend, Ari spots a camel relaxing on the tracks and must make an emergency stop, causing his caboose to derail.
Kalil, a Bedouin with long robes and a shepherd's staff, comes to help Ari remove the stubborn camel. As the sun sets and the two men wait in a desert tent for help to arrive, Ari misses the chance to celebrate Hanukkah's first night with his old friends, but is blessed to share the Festival of Lights with a new one.
While there may be a mishap, it turns out that everything about Engineer Ari and the Hanukkah Mishap is just right!
Hanukkah Around The World
Here's a book for the whole family to share this December after the Menorah candles have gone out and all the latkes have been eaten. Called Hanukkah Around The World from Kar-Ben Publishing, this enlightening book, is written by Tami Lehman-Wilzig and illustrated by Vicki Wehrman.
From Istanbul, Turkey to Turin, Italy to Nabeul, Tunisia, readers are introduced to Hanukkah customs, traditions and recipes they'll want to return to again and again.
I found the facts included both in each country section and in the end Hanukkah Potpourri end pages to be of particular interest. For example I had no idea it's traditional to sing two songs after lighting the candles, nor did I know that Gerona, Spain has one of Europe's best preserved medieval ghettos or that the Jewish community in Bukhara, Uzbekistan supposedly goes back 2,000 years.
Between the beautifully drawn maps and other artwork plus the tempting international recipes and the handy glossary, there is much to enjoy and learn about. Whether you already celebrate The Festival of Lights or are just interested in other cultures, Hanukkah Around the World will take you on a fascinating journey.
Hanukkah (or Chanukah) Down Deep
Happy Hanukkah! I have been hearing such wonderful things about this new book from Kar-Ben Publishing I had to blog about it. So the first thing I did when I got the galley was to ask my son, Coleman to read it. On a scale of 1 – 4, he enthusiastically rated it a 5!
Menorah Under The Sea by Esther Susan Heller introduces readers to marine biologist, David Ginsburg, at work one December in Antarctica. As The Festival of Lights approaches, Ginsburg wonders how, with constant daylight, he can celebrate this holiday when we traditionally light candles for eights days at sundown? While he had a portable Hanukkiah, a nine branched Menorah used only at Hanukkah, it was the darkness he sought.
My son and I enjoyed the photographs in this book because they took us down under to explore the sea along with Ginsburg, and in such a colorful way. But most of all, we loved the imaginative way marine biologist Ginsburg created his Menorah from sea urchins and star fish!
This/These [image[s] from Menorah Under the Sea appear with the permission of Kar-Ben Publishing, a division of Lerner Publishing Group, Minneapolis, MN. Copyright © 2009 by Lerner Publishing Group. For more information, please visit www.karben.com.