Henry Wong in Harborne has been on my list of restaurants to try for a long time; its reputation for delicious Chinese food and luxurious dining experience precedes it. Though I rarely venture into Harborne (as I live on the other side of the city and, frankly, I'm lazy) when I was invited to a VIP blogger night at Henry Wong, I jumped at the chance.
Greeted with Laurent-Perrier Champagne on arrival and led through to a beautifully dressed table in the dining room, first impressions were VERY good. The menu had been devised especially for the night with 4 courses, each matched to a wine, although I was driving so sadly my one glass of Champers was all I had. Though when the food started arriving it was obvious that this wasn't going to be your usual Chinese meal.
The Hors D'oeuvre was a trio of prawns with honey pepper, wasabi cream and garlic glazes. Large, sweet, juicy prawns were hidden in a light coating of batter with sweet and spicy honey pepper dressing, punchy wasabi and crisp garlic. The honey pepper glaze was my favourite, giving an almost candied feel to the prawn.
The lobster was presented to impress. Delicate lobster meat had already been extracted from the shell, while the head and claws were stood upright. The lobster had a subtle garlicy flavour and was cooked very well, I just wished there was more of it!
Alongside the lobster we also had spare ribs with chilli and pepper which were falling off the bone, spicy and spiked with peppercorns. I love ribs, so it isn't hard to please me with them, but these were very good and I was pleased that they weren't drowned in a sticky sauce, much easier to eat in polite company!
The mains consisted of sirloin steak in teriyaki sauce, crispy sea bass with sweet chilli sauce and Cantonese crispy chicken.
The sirloin steak was intensely savoury with a sprinkling of sesame seeds for crunch and nuttiness. The seabass was interesting, as I'd never seen it presented like this before. It was cut into strips, coated in a light batter and doused with sweet chilli sauce.
I must say though I felt the strength of the garlic and chilli in the sauce did overpower the seabass a little bit, and it would have been lovely to have seen it presented whole, but the dish as it was, tasted delicious.
My favourite though was the Cantonese crispy chicken. The chicken was presented in thick slices with crisp, crunchy skin, almost resembling duck. The chicken itself was very moist, and the crispy skin was to die for! I would certainly order this again.
Everything was served with bowls of Singapore noodles and fried rice. The Singapore noodles were really good, fresh, crunchy vegetables, thin vermicelli noodles and a good curry flavour with no greasiness at all. The fried rice was served with pineapple which I found unusual but actually quite pleasant when served alongside the savouriness of the teriyaki beef and the Cantonese chicken.
As much as it pains me to say it though, the service was slow. We had to wait a long time for the food to start arriving, and in the end I had to leave before dessert as it had got to half past 10 and I had an early start for work the next morning. That said, there were over 20 of us and the waiting staff were very attentive all night, so I can't fault them on that, it was just a shame that I didn't get to try the puddings. Next time I'll be in for the night! Although I ducked out early, I was given a really generous goody bag with Chinese ingredients to take home, a bottle of wine from the night's selection and even some Henry Wong chopsticks, which was a lovely touch.
The standard of the food was what really impressed me though, this was Chinese food but not as we know it. No cloying, sickly sauces, no deep fried balls of questionable stuff, just fantastic fresh ingredients, punchy, authentic flavours and a wonderful atmosphere. It could easily be the best Chinese I've had in Birmingham and I'm definitely keen to go back and sample more of the menu.
There's a reason Henry Wong has been open for over 30 years. Long may it continue!
My meal was complimentary, many thanks to the team at Henry Wong & FU Media.
Special thanks to Jas Sansi for the use of his beautiful images of the evening.


Distribution PLUS Promotions PLUS Radio Campaign, Reviews, TV Spot and more.
Come JOIN US for Gnarly Wave Volume Two and be In Today's Largest Hottest Music Market ASIA a nd still sell your music at home on iTunes, CDBaby, Amazon and Others.
09.20.16 | Join Us Today !
Bongo Boy Records is stoked to add to Volume Two from Parker, Colorado, Les Fradkin and his SURF music KICK SAND.
Bongo Boy Records welcomes back this time on Gnarly Wave Volume Two from Beaverton, Oregon - Susan SurfTone with a crashing surf song SUBDUCTION. You can find S usan's other smashing surf song GREEN LIGHT on Gnarly Wave Volume One.
OFFICIAL WEB PAGE This Release Is A Hot One !
This digital release comes with lots of promotions, reviews, press releases and distribution in the hottest music market today ASIA and distribution WorldWide.This release will be made available for download sales, streaming and ringtones in Asia via our distributor in Hong Kong, China.
PLUS a radio campaign to DJS on Satelite Sirius/XM, FM and Internet radio. And guaranteed Heavy Rotation on iSPIN RADIO for 4 weeks.
Phone interviews to promote you and your music together with this release.
(Via Phone / Skype or via written Q & A) Made available online via archive files online for easy sharing.
PLUS this digital release is made available on iTunes, Amazon and other 1500+ online retail outlets worldwide. Including Africa and others available to Bongo Boy Records outside of the USA.
PLUS you will be promoted on 54 TV Channels in THE USA with Bongo Boy TV distribution and promotions. A TV Spot which will air on TV in cities like New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Nashville, San Antonio, Los Angeles and others all to promote this digital release.
In Skope Magazine, City To Country Magazine, Steel Notes Magazine and others; your song will be reviewed by international music reviewers and published online and/or in print and on the web page with Bongo Boy Records.
PLUS you will be endorsed by the most active Independent label: Bongo Boy Records and be listed on its own web page and heavily promoted under their record label name.
Each artist received 1 free swag bag which includes 1 physical cd and 5 download cards.
This is a non exclusive promotion campaign deal. You can continue to sell your song everywhere else simultaneously while your song is distributed, marketed and promoted with Bongo Boy Records Gnarly Wave Volume One.
Bongo Boy has made over the last year a movement in Asia with their Bongo Boy Records Compilations Volume series; which are an All Genre Compilation release. Others Genre Specific Volume Series include Garage Rock, Blues Christmas Holiday , and 80's Big Hair Bands with worldwide distribution with Radio and TV campaigns and Promotions.


Formerly known as Gundog, brewing began in 2011 using a 10-barrel plant. Brewing takes place twice a week producing three regular ales throughout the year, with new ales tried periodically. Two other ales are regularly produced by blending.
Pilgrim's Way (OG 1041, ABV 4%) A pale golden ale, crisp and hoppy with a flush of bitterness at the end.
Golden Cocker (OG 1042, ABV 4.1%) Dark gold-coloured beer with a good nose and citrus and melon finish.


Economical but powerful, the Triumph fireplace is a refined freestanding stove that can effectively heat a medium to large space with ease. With a timeless design that looks dignified but discreet, the fireplace is crafted from the very finest quality black steel what will keep you warm for many year of chilly nights to come. Despite its affordability, the Triumph will surprise you with the speed with which it heats your home, while still being incredibly efficient on wood. In addition, all Hydrofire fireplaces are imported from Europe and boast a strict CE certification, so you know you can rely on the quality of any model that you buy from us. Just to ensure you sleep well at night, our steel fireplaces come with a 2 year warranty too.


A parliamentary report of the major banks has labelled the big four an "oligopoly" and highlighted the "surprising" lack of regulation that has allowed the majors to harness significant pricing power in the residential mortgage market.
In its first report, tabled yesterday, the standing committee on economics warned that oligopolies are problematic when they are able to use pricing power to the detriment of consumers.
The report noted that the majors increased their oligopolistic powers after the GFC when they purchased a number of their smaller competitors, such as St. George Bank and Bankwest.
In addition, the committee noted the post-GFC collapse in securitisation markets, which had previously allowed the non-majors and non-bank competitors to access cheap wholesale funding.
"The committee finds it very surprising that no Australian government has completed a wholesale review of competition in the banking sector in recent times," the report said.
"None of these regulators, however, have a clear mandate to promote competition in the financial sector. The ACCC does.
To create this accountability, the committee recommends that the ACCC (or the proposed Australian Council for Competition Policy) establish a small team dedicated to the continual monitoring of competition in the banking sector.
"This team should make recommendations to improve competition in the banking sector to the Treasurer every six months," the report noted.
The report highlighted the out-of-cycle rate hikes of the big four banks in October last year, which the majors attributed to an APRA requirement to hold additional capital.


text:
/* TEMPLATE GENERATED TESTCASE FILE
Filename: CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic_17.c
Label Definition File: CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic.label.xml
Template File: point-flaw-17.tmpl.c
*/
/*
 * @description
 * CWE: 688 Function Call With Incorrect Variable or Reference as Argument
 * Sinks:
 *    GoodSink: Use the correct format to print a string
 *    BadSink : Use a string format to print an int
 * Flow Variant: 17 Control flow: for loops
 *
 * */

#include "std_testcase.h"

#define DEST_SIZE 100

#ifndef OMITBAD

void CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic_17_bad()
{
    int j;
    for(j = 0; j < 1; j++)
    {
        {
            char dest[DEST_SIZE];
            int intFive = 5;
            /* FLAW: int argument passed, expecting string argument */
            sprintf(dest, "%s", intFive);
            printLine(dest);
        }
    }
}

#endif /* OMITBAD */

#ifndef OMITGOOD

/* good1() uses the GoodSinkBody in the for statements */
static void good1()
{
    int k;
    for(k = 0; k < 1; k++)
    {
        {
            char dest[DEST_SIZE];
            int intFive = 5;
            /* FIX: use the correct format string */
            sprintf(dest, "%d", intFive);
            printLine(dest);
        }
    }
}

void CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic_17_good()
{
    good1();
}

#endif /* OMITGOOD */

/* Below is the main(). It is only used when building this testcase on
   its own for testing or for building a binary to use in testing binary
   analysis tools. It is not used when compiling all the testcases as one
   application, which is how source code analysis tools are tested. */

#ifdef INCLUDEMAIN

int main(int argc, char * argv[])
{
    /* seed randomness */
    srand( (unsigned)time(NULL) );
#ifndef OMITGOOD
    printLine("Calling good()...");
    CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic_17_good();
    printLine("Finished good()");
#endif /* OMITGOOD */
#ifndef OMITBAD
    printLine("Calling bad()...");
    CWE688_Function_Call_With_Incorrect_Variable_or_Reference_as_Argument__basic_17_bad();
    printLine("Finished bad()");
#endif /* OMITBAD */
    return 0;
}

#endif

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


If you are on Keto, YES, you can eat bacon! Yeah, Bacon! It's a good source of fat and relatively low in calories and carbs. If you can afford it, get uncured, all natural, nitrate free bacon. I have to Keto within my budget, so I end up getting regular bacon, but making sure it is as natural as I can get, minimal processing, and none to very little sugar and carbs.
Bacon pretty much goes with everything. I have taken to baking my bacon, to save time, to spare my stove top the greasy mess and to have already cooked bacon at my beck and call. I can throw it on a burger or sandwich, crumble it up on some deviled eggs, roasted veggies or over a salad, eat it by itself, or however else you love to have your bacon.
I am by no means saying eat a package of bacon a day! I have seen some people out there who claim to eat bacon all day every day. Sure, it's low in carbs but everything in moderation people! A package of cooked bacon will last at least a week in my house (of 2 people), so we certainly aren't eating it at every meal, though I can't blame you for wanting to do so.
Pan frying bacon usually leaves the kitchen and stove top messy and greasy, but that doesn't happen when you bake it!
You normally don't have to flip bacon when baking it, though I may if I think it will help crisp it up more or if overlapped pieces are sticking together a bit.
Okay, so now are you convinced? Read on for How to Bake Your Bacon!
Your oven rack should be in the middle of the oven.
Cover/line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Line up Bacon on baking rack, like shown above. If you need to overlap the pieces a little to make it all fit that is fine. The bacon will shrivel up a bit when cooking.
Bake your Bacon for about 10-20 minutes.
This is really where your personal discretion comes in; some people like paler chewy bacon, some like almost burnt crispy and others like something in between.
Start checking the bacon after the first 10 minutes for your desired doneness, and every 5 minutes after that until it reaches your level of Bacon Heaven!
Remove pan from oven, transfer cooked bacon onto paper towel to drain fat.
If not eating it right away, let Bacon cool and store it wrapped in paper towel in a Ziploc bag in the fridge. When I am ready to throw it on a burger or sandwich I pop a slice or two in the microwave for about 30 seconds and done!!! BACON!!!
Hope you enjoy love this as much as I do!!!! Tried and Tested From Noreen's Keto Kitchen!!!!


text:
How to Use Your Brand Story to Win New Business
By Scott Summers | 21 June, 2019
What's your brand story? It might sound like a tricky question, especially if you've never really thought about it or you don't consider yourself much of a storyteller.
But here's the truth: We're all storytellers and everyone — including your customers — loves a good story.
That's because storytelling is part of our DNA. Folklore has been with our species since our earliest days, long before humans ever wrote anything down. And today, whether you're watching a sci-fi movie or listening to a dinner table narrative about a bad day at work, you're still learning and explaining through the art of story.
That's why your brand story so valuable to your business. And it's not just me saying it. In 2017, OneSpot found that 92% of consumers want brands to make ads that feel like a story.
Whether you've never considered your brand story before or you're not sure exactly how to tell it, here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Study the Classic Elements of Story
To really understand how to tell your brand story, we've got to go back to the classroom for just a second. In the past, you might've heard of the Hero's Journey. It's a concept invented by Joseph Campbell which details how most epic stories are told.
Take a look at this image. I'll get into each section below (briefly) so that we can match it to your brand.
If we're looking at the roadmap of the Hero's Journey, you'll notice that the hero has been called to adventure by forces greater than himself. He has help, difficulties, and failures along the way before he finally accomplishes what he set out to accomplish and returns home completely changed by the experience.
Simple enough, right?
Maybe. There are two ways to market your brand story and how it relates to the Hero's Journey:
Your company is the hero.
Your customer is the hero.
Your company has its own brand story — but your customer has a story, too. We all do, and the path of our narrative goes on as long as we (or our companies) continue to exist.
Here's where a lot of brand stories get it wrong: Your brand has a story to tell — but you have to frame it in a way that it aligns with the customer's heroic journey.
2. Match Classic Story Elements To Your Brand Story
Quickly, let's match the elements of that classic narrative arc to your business.
We're not trying to become masters of the art of storytelling here. We're just hitting the key points to find a rough frame for your brand story:
Like every great superhero, every brand has an origin story.
If you're a small business CEO, you might have some idea of what it is already. Bigger brands might have to find owners or founders and dig into the history of the company to learn more.
But every company has an origin story — a point of conception where someone thought it was a good idea.
Mentor / Helper
Every company, especially at the beginning, has mentors and helpers. It might be an investor or a subject matter expert who guides specific parts of the process, or it might be someone who has gone before and can provide guidance along the way.
This step is important for another reason, but we'll circle back.
Death / Rebirth
Very few companies are who they are when they started.
Most startups pivot multiple times before finding their niche. Executives step down. New leadership steps up. The company cycles through people, missions, and initiatives.
While internal office drama isn't part of the brand story, talking about where your company came from and where they are now can have a huge impact on the narrative itself.
In this stage, the hero comes back home completely changed after their journey. This one might seem a little tricky, but it doesn't have to be.
For a company, a better equivalent might be the story of Moses coming back down the mountain with the Ten Commandments in hand. He's coming back to his people with the solution to their problems: Follow these rules, and it'll all work out.
We've only hit the broad strokes here, but see if you can mindmap the key points of your business to the four major points that I listed above. Those four bits of information are the cornerstone to your brand story, and they're the key points you'll need to connect your customers with your brand.
And that connection is important. Adweek featured a study a couple of years ago which pointed out that when buyers knew the story behind a product or service, they were more likely to purchase that product and to do so at a higher price.
3. Build Your Own Brand Story
As Simon Sinek would tell you, most great organizations and great leaders don't start with the what or the how.
Great leaders start with why. They figure out what they or their organization stands for, the purpose of their own journey, and how they can share that success with others.
The key to a successful brand story is figuring out the why and matching it up with your customer's journey.
When a customer understands the narrative you're telling and that story resonates with them, they're more likely to purchase from and promote your brand. As the Harvard Business Review points out, customers who are "fully connected" with a brand are 52% more valuable to that brand.
And it works. Just look at Apple's green initiatives from the past few years. I'm not saying that it's all marketing, but the tech company is certainly using their environment to change the narrative around their brand.
National Geographic does this all the time, too. Their social media is filled with the stories behind their incredible images. Those stories keep you engaged and nudge the National Geographic brand away from something that just wants to sell you a magazine and more toward a platform where you can feel like you're part of the action.
Here's the thing, though: Both of those examples are components to the larger brand story at play.
Apple wants to pivot its brand narrative away from being a stereotypical tech giant. National Geographic doesn't want to shout at you from a newsstand; it wants to use its platform to talk about incredible photographs and, in doing so, show you what the magazine stands for from an ideological perspective.
At the end of the day, it's up to you to take control of your brand story and show your customer the highlights and key functions of your business.
4. It's Not About You
So far, we've talked about what a brand story is and how to begin building one for yourself by matching your brand's history up with the basic elements of the Hero's Journey.
Ready for the twist?
As you set up your brand story, remember that while the narrative tells your story, it's not some egotistical pat on the back. Storyteller marketing is about creating a positioning tool that helps your brand align with the customer's journey.
But, in the customer's mind, you're not the hero.
Remember that section earlier about the mentor and the helper? This is a key part of the classic Hero's Journey. The hero can't do it alone. He or she needs help. Frodo needs Gandalf. Luke needs Obi-Wan. Harry and the gang need Dumbledore and McGonagall.
Without help, the quest fails. And your customer is on a quest of their own. The product or service you offer may be attractive to them because of your own brand narrative, but it must also ultimately help them achieve their own goals.
If you can create a brand story that sets you up as a key differentiator based on your history and your ability to assist, you'll resonate well with your target audience.
That's one reason that targeted language is so important during the content creation process.
Developing your own brand story is important but, fortunately, it's not something that you have to do all at once or by yourself.
Great stories dig deep into the company history and flesh out the past, but modern stories are built slowly through content items like white papers, case studies, and other forms of content marketing.
If you're looking to build your brand story and need an assist, don't hesitate to reach out. We'll work together to develop a narrative that resonates with your target audience and create a content strategy around the story you want to tell.
© 2023 Scott Summers | B2B Copywriter & SEO Strategist. All Rights Reserved.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


"Obamacare" is a popular term used to describe the Affordable Care Act. As insurance advisors, one question customers frequently ask is "Do you offer anything other than Obamacare?" Understanding this question is most important before answering it.
First, Affordable Care Act compliant plans are not only health insurance plans offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace or "Exchange." They are also health plans offered "Off Exchange" or directly through insurance companies, as long as they meet all requirements under the Affordable Care Act. In North Carolina, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina offers the vast majority of the ACA compliant health plans both on and off the Exchange. Blue Cross offers plans in all 100 counties and in 2017 was the only company offering "On Exchange" plans in 94 of the 100 North Carolina counties. When considering alternatives to ACA compliant plans, the most common is Short Term, also known as Temporary Health Insurance.
Temporary health insurance plans are not compliant with the ACA regulations which allows customers to enroll outside the Open Enrollment Period without the requirement of a Qualifying Life Event. In the past, these plans were created and structured to bridge gaps in coverage. However, recently their attraction has grown and individuals and families have begun enrolling in Short Term plans for extended policy periods as an alternative to the ACA compliant options. The ACA compliant plans lack the flexible plan structure and low premiums that are attractive aspects of Short Term health insurance. Short Term plans exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions which is a requirement under Obamacare. Additionally, you must answer health questions on a Short Term application in order to be eligible to enroll. For these reasons, the plans are usually significantly less expensive than ACA compliant plans. These factors and others drive the premium prices down and often surprise shoppers when making a price comparison.
Furthermore, the Short Term health insurance regulations are expected to change on April 1, 2017. The policy periods will be limited to 3 months. For applicants that enroll prior to April 1, the policy period can last until Dec. 31, 2017 with certain carriers like United HealthOne.
For more information on North Carolina insurance coverage, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our experienced and professional agents.


We made sure to provide space to accommodate everybody. Many times it Is not just the buyers that suffer from the process of finding good creative talent, It is even embarrassing to admit that many professional talents carry their service around without being noticed or recommended.
Talented artists remain broke and frustrated yet having amazing enviable talents. With time, these priceless skills laying waste starts to depreciate as it is not being used. This is in essence, some one's extreme satisfaction and joy that is being destroyed and aborted from happening.


We are delighted to return to Pinner Parish Church for our spring 2018 concert. We hope our varied programme is sufficiently tempting for you to come along on Saturday evening. Of particular interest, perhaps, are Britten's Choral Dances from his opera, Gloriana. It is more common for amateur choirs to perform the a cappella version, but our musical director has set us the challenge of performing the version that includes a tenor soloist and harp accompaniment.
Pinner is an interesting place to visit, so why not spend the afternoon browsing the shops or enjoying a walk in Pinner Memorial Park, then have something to eat at one of the many restaurants in the high street before coming to the concert.


An easy crochet pattern using Fancy Image Hand Dyed DK Wt. Merino Yarn, and 2 Fun Buttons. Perfect for the Fun Pack of Colors located on the DK Wt. yarn page, you can crochet at least 6 Coffee Cup Sweaters with one Pack.


In a bid to remove controversy over western route under the $46 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) once and for all, the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (Ecnec) under chairmanship of Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday approved construction of motorway from Burhan/Hakla to DI Khan at the rationalised cost of Rs124.208 billion against earlier estimated cost of Rs129 billion.
The Ecnec meeting considered and approved proposal submitted by the Ministry of Ports and Shipping regarding provision of coal conveying system from Pakistan International Bulk Terminal (PIBT) to Railway Network at Port Qasim at revised cost of Rs13.332 billion. This project was approved with foreign exchange component of Rs6 billion.
The Ministry of Communication informed the meeting that the route for the Burhan/Hakla to DI Khan motorway was as per the joint declaration issued after the all parties conference. Another proposal by the Ministry of Communication regarding land acquisition, affected properties compensation and relocation of utilities for construction of the Burhan/Hakla to DI Khan motorway was also considered at the rationalised cost of Rs11.973 billion. Ecnec approved the two projects, subject to formal confirmation of the route being in accordance with the understanding contained in the joint declaration of the APC.
The project envisages construction of 285km 4-lane expressway from Hakla on M-1 to DI Khan near Yarik on N-55 as part of western route of the CPEC. The proposed motorway will be built as a controlled access facility and includes provision of 11 interchanges, 19 flyovers (6 lanes), 15 bridges (4 lane), 74 underpasses, 259 culverts, and three major bridges (6 lane); one at River Sawan, one at River Indus and third at River Koram. New proposed road network shall facilitate the traffic of backward areas of Punjab and KP. Besides above, the scope of work will also include construction of retaining walls, cross drainage and erosion works. The proposed expressway will have 100m wide right of way (ROW) to convert the proposed four lane facility to six lanes in future.
The prime minister had directed the NHA to conduct aerial survey to study various options for the western alignment of CPEC. Several alternate proposals were prepared and discussed with their merits/demerits and the proposed route from Hakla on M-1 to DI Khan near Yarik on N-55 having total length of 285km has been finalised.
The proposed motorway being part of the western corridor of the CPEC will serve as an international trade corridor of the country. Moreover, the existing connection from DI Khan to Rawalpindi/Islamabad is via Chashma may be closed down sooner or later owing to the sensitive establishments of Atomic Energy Commission in the road segment between DI Khan and Chashma. The new route will be a shortest and fastest facility as compared to the existing available road network from DI Khan to Rawalpindi/Islamabad.
Ecnec also considered and approved the proposal from Ministry of Ports and Shipping for construction of bridge across River Indus connecting Larkana and Khairpur districts with approach roads and river training works at a revised cost of Rs13.397 billion.
Ecnec also approved Kaitu Weir Irrigation and Power Project of Kurram Tangi Dam in Spinwam area of North Waziristan at rationalised cost of Rs21.059 billion.
After detailed deliberations, Ecnec approved the proposal of Ministry of Communications for construction of black top road Yakmach-Kharan via Distain Wadh Khurmagai in Baluchistan at the firmed up cost of Rs13.758 billion.
The Ecnec accorded conditional approval to western route project because KPK government's representative raised the issue that the route was not yet finalized. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar replied that the route was finalized in the All Parties Conference and his decision would stand nullified if it proved contrary to APC decision. So Ecnec approved this project conditionally.


SJ Clarkson is set to become the first woman to direct a Star Trek film, according to reports.
It is understood that Clarkson, who directed Jessica Jones and a number of episodes of Marvel's The Defenders, has been approached by Paramount. The studio has not yet confirmed this but it did announce at CinemaCon in Las Vegas that two new Star Trek films are in development.
Clarkson will direct Star Trek 4, which would feature the return of Chris Hemsworth, who appeared as Chris Pine's father in 2009's Star Trek, via a time-travel element. Zachary Quinto will also reportedly return as Spock.
The official log line reads: "In the next installment of the epic space adventure, Chris Pine's Captain Kirk will cross paths with a man he never had a chance to meet, but whose legacy has haunted him since the day he was born: his father."
There is also a fifth Star Trek film being developed by JJ Abrams and Quentin Tarantino but Clarkson's film will be released first.


St. Louis, MO –Beckwood Press Company, a leading manufacturer of configurable hydraulic presses and the Triform line of aerospace forming technologies, recently built and installed a new Triform deep draw sheet hydroforming press for Kreisler Manufacturing Corporation (New Jersey, USA), a global engineering and manufacturing services provider, catering to the aerospace, military & industrial sectors. The 16-10-7DD Triform features a 16" diameter forming area, 10,000 PSI of forming pressure and a 7" draw depth capacity to facilitate Kreisler's production of a variety of high-performance aircraft and aerospace engine parts for their customers which include Pratt & Whitney, GE Unison, Honeywell, Rolls-Royce and Volvo Aero, among others.
The in-house forming capability Kreisler has gained with the addition of the 16-10-7DD is part of a larger company expansion, which includes a new manufacturing facility, and the increased use of in-house 3D printing for the production of, among other things, sheet hydroforming tools. The combination of the Triform's inherent tool cost savings, with the rapid part production of the 3D printing technology, aids in Kreisler's goal of reducing costs at every stage of production, from design to assembly and inspection.
Kreisler is a manufacturer of precision metal components and assemblies for use in military and commercial aircraft engines and industrial gas turbines. These products primarily include tube and manifold assemblies. Kreisler utilizes sophisticated, state-of-the-art manufacturing and inspection equipment, combined with an experienced workforce, to deliver premium components to the aerospace & defense industries. Kreisler offers a wide variety of design & fabrication experience, including bending, welding, forming, EDM, CNC machining, engineering and other special processes including nickel plating, passivation and titanium cleaning. Kreisler's systems and processes are certified by a variety of industry standards, including ISO, AS9100 and NADCAP. One-piece flow, and cellular manufacturing strategies assure quality and a high level of productivity.


text:
Home News and Editorial Samsung Galaxy S8 will not be Google Daydream compliant
Samsung Galaxy S8 will not be Google Daydream compliant
I bought myself a new Daydream off eBay the other day, thinking I was all set for the future. Now it seems that my future phones may not be Daydream compliant. The LG G6 is not complaint due to it being an LCD and not AMOLED (not all LCDs are ruled out though and Google ARE working on that — it's a latency issue) and the next applicant to my daily driver list, the Samsung Galaxy S8 is also not going to be Daydream compliant.
If ever there was going to be a phone that was Daydream compliant (spec-wise) you would think it would be the Samsung Galaxy S8. It has top of the line specs in nearly every regard. Unfortunately being Daydream complaint requires the manufacturer and Google to agree to a distribution agreement before Google allow Samsung to insert the single line of code required to allow Daydream to install on the phone.
Obviously Samsung have their own VR system, the Oculus-powered Gear VR, and as such are reluctant to allow others into their Galaxy S8 party. Samsung have never been good at playing with others and in this case they also have their relationship and deals they currently have with Oculus to consider. For this reason it is difficult to see Samsung ever doing it.
It is a pity that the code is not included as having the Daydream app installed opens up a heap of cool apps on the Play Store, apps that Samsung and Gear VR do not have access to. Fear not though, the line of code can be inserted manually, although root access is required for that. Unfortunately this will most likely require voiding of warranty etc.
We will watch this space closely and wonder whether an agreement between all three parties involved can be sorted out. For our sake, as consumers and customers, I certainly hope so.
Source: VR Heads.
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twister286
That effectively leaves daydream dead…Only Pixels support it properly, and for the Axon 7, ZTE has been so slow and buggy with software updates, I'm not bothering with ZTE again unless it's the bargain-basement prepaid devices I use for music players…
Having bought the S7 on preorder and the VR by redemption, I've used the VR for a few times just out of curiosity…beyond that it's of limited use.
The Note 7 preorder offer of free 256GB micro SD was much more worthwhile in my opinion…
Reply to twister286
Agree. A 256GB MicroSD is something you'll use regularly, unlike VR which remains a bit of a gimmick.
SachmoJoe
Is it going too far to say that without support from the Samsungs and LGs of the world that Daydream is dead in the water? We've got what, a Pixel exclusive VR platform? A bit of a worry.
Yianni soc
Reply to SachmoJoe
yeah, i'd agree with that statement.
it does have axon 7 and moto z, plus one or two others, but not the big players.
it's sad because the platform does have a nice polished feel to it.
LG has effectively given up on VR it seems though…
If you tried last year's LG 360 VR, you'd want their efforts to be finished too. It was pretty bad.
Is anyone surprised by this? They would be pushing their own VR. They even just released a motion controller.
Major Sceptic
Not really surprised , why would samsung encourage people to use the other mobs system , in the end it comes back to the mighty dollar , and from what little i have seen googles efforts in some areas of the VR appear somewhat lack lustre .
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Whether rail, road or boat, residents of Bishops Gate have outstanding transport connections on their door step, facilitating fast and convenient travel across the capital and beyond.
Putney Bridge station is 200 metres away, with the District line going to Wimbledon in 11 minutes, Westminster in 19 minutes and Blackfriars in 24 minutes respectively. Putney Railway Station is also a short walk away, with trains to London Waterloo in 17 minutes. For those seeking a more leisurely way to travel, the Riverboat from nearby Putney Pier reaches Chelsea Harbour in just 15 minutes and Embankment Pier in under 40 minutes, allowing residents to soak up London's beautiful vistas from an alternative viewpoint.


Hike Woody Gap to Jarrard Gap on the Appalachian Trail, catching stunning views from Preachers Rock on North Georgia's Big Cedar Mountain.
This view-packed hike departs from Woody Gap, located just North of Dahlonega, following one of the most popular and most beautiful stretches of the Appalachian Trail in Georgia. The hike catches beautiful summit views on Preachers Rock at Big Cedar Mountain and rolls through mountain ascents on meandering trail switchbacks, wandering through wildflower and fern-filled mountain gaps in the lush, mountainous Blood Mountain Wilderness.
This is one beautiful hike, filled with lush, green forest, abundant warm-weather wildflowers, and some of North Georgia's most exceptional summit views. And the trailhead is one of the most easily accessed on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, adding to this hike's popularity. The trail departs from a paved highway, one of Georgia's few AT trailheads with direct highway access and ample parking.
The hike departs from Woody Gap (view maps and driving directions), catching views of the nearby rolling Appalachians from the trailhead's overlook south of Highway 60. After pausing to take in the view, the hike follows the Appalachian Trail north from the gap, meandering past several trailside campsites and diving into a fern-filled deciduous forest. The trail steadily gains elevation through a series of switchbacks at .8 mile.
The trail crests near the Big Cedar Mountain summit at 1 mile, catching stunning long-range views from the summit's broad, exposed expanse of rock, nicknamed 'Preachers Rock'. The views from the rock outcrop are superb, and easily some of the best on the AT in Georgia.
For many hikers, the hike turns here to return to the trailhead, a short 2-mile hike with a fantastic summit view. But the AT treks beautiful forest north of Big Cedar Mountain, worth a deeper hike into the wilderness. This hike departs the summit, following the iconic, white rectangular blazes of the Appalachian Trail and trailing northbound toward Blood Mountain.
The trail descends elevation after passing a campsite at 1.45 miles, diving through a fern-filled, shady forest.
The AT loops in a wide arc through Augerhole Gap at 1.75 miles, trailing through sharp switchbacks. Rolling mountain views emerge through the treeline in a rocky, ferny deciduous forest before the trail crosses a trickling stream at 2.3 miles. The Appalachian Trail begins a descent at 2.6 miles, passing two large campsites. The AT passes a junction with the Dockery Lake Trail on trail right and a large campsite on the left at 3 miles. The AT levels elevation, crossing Lance Creek at 3.35 miles via a wooden bridge in a beautiful foliage-filled creek valley. Level tent pads offer fantastic creekside campsites near Lance Creek, accessible via a side trail at 3.5 miles.
The AT continues its northbound journey, gaining elevation as it departs the Lance Creek campsites and crossing a stream at 4 miles. The trail levels elevation at 4.4 miles, grabbing views of neighboring summits through the treeline on trail right. After passing a campsite at 4.6 miles, the trail rolls elevation through a series of wide switchbacks in a leafy hardwood forest.
The trail crosses a spring just before reaching Jarrard Gap at 5.8 miles. From here, the Appalachian Trail continues north towards Blood Mountain, passing a large group campsite on the trail's left. The Jarrard Trail departs to the left, hiking 1.15 miles to the glassy mountaintop waters of Lake Winfield Scott. Wildflowers, including native trillium, carpet the forest floor near Jarrard Gap in late spring.
This hike turns around, hiking south to retrace its steps on the AT over Big Cedar Mountain, reaching the trailhead at 11.6 miles and completing the adventure.
Excellent campsites dot this hike's length, including campsites near the stunning, long-range views at the Big Cedar Mountain summit. Backpack to one of the many campsites along the Appalachian Trail (view the trail map for locations) – or camp at one of the sites near the parking area. All campsites on the Appalachian Trail are first-come, first-camp, so start your hike early the best pick of the campsites.
The campsites are located in the Blood Mountain Wilderness, where black bear are active. Overnight food storage in a bear-resistant canister is required at campsites on the Appalachian Trail from Jarrard Gap to Neels Gap from March 1 through June 1. And due to heavy campsite use near Blood Mountain, campfires are prohibited on the AT from Jarrard Gap to Neels Gap.
Easily add mileage to this hike, or create an overnight backpacking adventure by continuing on the Appalachain Trail from Jarrard Gap to Blood Mountain. The AT passes the Jarrard Trail and the Slaughter Creek Trail, and an intersection with the Duncan Ridge Trail, which connects to Vogel State Park via the Coosa Backcountry Trail. The AT descends from Blood Mountain to Neels Gap, and continues its northbound journey to Cowrock Mountain.
And departing south from Woody Gap, the Appalachian Trail hikes to Gooch Gap, catching beautiful views from the Ramrock Mountain summit.


CHICAGO, Feb. 19, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- CNA Financial Corporation (NYSE: CNA) today announced that it has priced $400 million aggregate principal amount of 4.50% senior notes due March 1, 2026 in a public offering. The notes were offered to the public at 99.975% of the principal amount with a yield to maturity of 4.503%. CNA expects the offering to close on February 24, 2016, subject to customary closing conditions.
CNA intends to use all of the net proceeds from the offering, which are estimated to be approximately $398.6 million, after deducting the underwriting discounts and estimated offering expenses, to redeem the $350 million outstanding aggregate principal balance of its 6.500% senior notes due August 15, 2016 as well as for general corporate purposes.
U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc., 214 N Tryon Street, 26th Floor, Charlotte, North Carolina 28202, telephone (877) 558-2607, Attn: Debt Capital Markets.
The offering is being made solely by means of a prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any securities.
Serving businesses and professionals since 1897, CNA is the country's eighth largest commercial insurance writer and the 14th largest property and casualty company. CNA's insurance products include standard commercial lines, specialty lines, surety, marine and other property and casualty coverages. CNA's services include risk management, information services, underwriting, risk control and claims administration. "CNA" is a service mark registered by CNA Financial Corporation with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Certain CNA Financial Corporation subsidiaries use the "CNA" service mark in connection with insurance underwriting and claims activities.
This press release may include statements which relate to anticipated future events (forward-looking statements) rather than actual present conditions or historical events. These statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and generally include words such as "believes", "expects", "intends", "anticipates", "estimates", and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements, by their nature, are subject to a variety of inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results projected. Many of these risks and uncertainties cannot be controlled by CNA and include CNA's successful completion of the offering and the satisfaction of other customary conditions to the closing of the repurchase, redemption, repayment or retirement of its 6.500% senior notes due August 15, 2016. For a detailed description of these risks and uncertainties please refer to CNA's most recent 10-K on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission available at www.cna.com.
Any forward-looking statements made in this press release are made by CNA as of the date of this press release. Further, CNA does not have any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement contained in this press release, even if CNA's expectations or any related events, conditions or circumstances change.


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Entertainment, Marvel, Movies
The Top Ten Post-Credit Scenes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe
December 3, 2021 Annlyel James Leave a comment
I haven't done of these ranking posts in a while but after watching Ant-Man the other day and seeing the film's second post-credits scene (which is the scene from Civil War when Falcon mentions recruiting Ant-Man) I got serious chills and a yearning to write this post. So, here we are, trying to rank ten out of many awesome post-credit scenes. Here we go.
10. Is Steve Rogers Still Alive?-What If…?
I may be in the minority here when I say that What If…? is one of the best entries in the entire MCU but I, personally, loved every second of it. The animation was gorgeous, perfectly illustrating the characters to make them feel almost lifelike, most of the actual actors were able to voice their characters which, of course, added extra depth to the story, and each week's episode surprised me more than the last.
For this to be Marvel Studios' first venture into animation they did a remarkable job.
And to end off the season we got another wonderful tease, that being Steve Rogers' potential survival into next season. Will he be evil like Bucky or will the story take a different turn? Whatever the case, I'm excited to see what happens next for Captain Carter's story.
9. Thanos' Debut-The Avengers
Nine years ago a movie came out called The Avengers. It was an unprecedented achievement as it brought together six of Earth's Mightiest Heroes and shattered the box-office with its engaging story and iconic moments. The experiment that was the Marvel Cinematic Universe had paid off and from there it's been quite the ride ever since.
But Kevin Feige had something greater in mind. An endgame that would lead to the highest-grossing film of all time thanks to a certain purple villain whose name would end up sending chills down the spine of any avid MCU fan; Thanos.
His first appearance in the MCU is small as he performs an out-of-character evil grin and simply side-eyes the camera with foreboding music playing in the background but for loyal comic book fans, they understood exactly what was coming. I, however, did not but after watching Infinity War I understood what the hype was about.
8. "Welcome to the circus."- Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings
How do you know you've officially joined the MCU? When you get a post-credits scene opposite Wong, Bruce Banner, and Captain Marvel.
Yep, that's what happened to Shang-Chi and his best friend Katy as Wong gathered them to discuss the importance of the ten rings and the creepy pulsing beacon in them. Clearly, things are about to start getting really wild for Shang-Chi and this scene perfectly encompasses the exciting premise of Shang-Chi finally becoming an Avenger.
This scene makes me smile every time.
7. Ant-Man Gets Trapped in the Quantum Realm-Ant-Man and the Wasp
Ant-Man and the Wasp, after Infinity War, was a light film from top to bottom but it finally went dark with its first post-credit scenes. Suddenly the events of Infinity War came crashing down on Scott Lang and his situation looked incredibly dire. I will always remember the absolute shock/horror I felt while watching that scene in theaters.
6. An Ant Playing Drum?-Ant-Man and the Wasp
Speaking of Ant-Man and the Wasp's light tone its second post-credits scene leaned into the silly factor hard by giving fans something completely unexpected, Scott's pet ant playing drums.
It's actually one of the funniest jokes in the MCU and when I saw it for the first time it was so funny it brought tears to my eyes. Hence its place on this list.
5. Nick Fury and Maria Hill Were Skrulls All Along?!-Spider-Man: Far from Home
Spider-Man: Far from Home was a fun movie with an absolute jaw-dropping first post-credits scene that we'll talk about later but it's second post-credits scene wasn't too shabby either.
It's one of the more shocking plot twists in the MCU when we learn that Nick Fury and Maria Hill are in fact Skrulls Talos and Soren were impersonating them the whole time. That reveal leading to the next reveal that Nick Fury isn't even on Earth but instead is chilling on a gigantic spaceship with a bunch of Skrulls (and most likely Captain Marvel) is top-notch Marvel happiness right there.
4. Loki Meets His Loki Variants-Loki
Loki's fourth episode left me dazed. I thought Loki had been disintegrated and with that, all theories about the show flew out the window. Just when I was about to turn off the credits this scene popped up and I remember stopping in my tracks. There on the television were four Loki variants staring back at our Loki and my mind was absolutely blown!
It's undoubtedly one of the best post-credits scene surprises there is.
3. The Avengers Get Shwarma-The Avengers
There's something so perfect about this post-credits scene that I had to put in my Top 3 for this particular list. What started as a throwaway comment from Tony Stark after a victory at the Battle of New York turned into one of the best post-credit scenes as we see The Avengers, tired, eating shwarma in a half-destroyed shwarma joint.
Not only is it funny but it humanizes these heroes by showing their exhaustion. I love this scene.
2. Spider-Man's Identity Is Revealed-Spider-Man: Far from Home
Even though the MCU is filled with heroes whose true identities are widely known, Peter Parker was trying to stay anonymous as Spider-Man. That is until Mysterio blew his cover in a post-credits scene that literally changes the game for our friendly neighborhood Spidey.
The moment is so shocking and I can't imagine what it was like to experience this in theaters with a bunch of fans.
Let's hope the post-credit scenes for No Way Home are just as exciting.
And 1. The Avengers Initiative-Iron Man
In the same vein of Iron Man's iconic final scene that changed the entire scope of the Marvel Cinematic Universe when Tony Stark tells the world he's Iron Man the post-credits scene is just as impactful because it delivers a promise, a promise that this one really good Marvel superhero movie wasn't the end, it was just the beginning.
Tony Stark enters his mansion's living room to find Nick Fury standing in the shadows waiting for him. He tells Tony Stark about the Avengers Initiative and boom goes the dynamite.
Kevin Feige had a grand plan, a plan that actually paid off! And that's why this is my favorite post-credits scene.
I thank you for reading and I hope you have a fantastic day.
Ant-Man and the WaspfeaturedMarvel Cinematic UniverseMarvel StudiosShang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten RingsSpider-Man: Far from HomeThe AvengersWhat If...?
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Snapping your fibula over the top of your ski boot might be a disappointing way to cap a dominant World Cup season. But when Toby Dawson broke his leg while practicing a Cork 540 at a halfpipe competition last March, he embraced the setback. "I felt a little bit of relief, confesses the 25-year-old Vail resident, who'd already sewn up the number-two spot in moguls. "I needed time off, and I knew I'd be back on the snow soon.
The injury gave Dawson a chance to hobble around his hometown, reflect on his six-year U.S. men's team career (World Cup wins in '01 and '03 and two World Championships bronzes in '03), and bask in the glory of his recent mogul assault. In 2004, he nabbed seven podiums: three golds, a silver, and three bronzes—enough to wind up just behind Finland's Janne Lahtela in World Cup standings.
Dawson has built a cult following with his off-axis tricks—like his signature Cork 720 and Iron Cross—and he's always trying to rejigger halfpipe aerials for bump competitions. But his trademark innovation happens on the ground: Instead of ramming moguls head-on, he carves his tips into them and then springs off. It's a technical maneuver that makes for smoother absorption and increased control. "Who do you want to emulate—a racer smearing down the course, or a racer who is carving? explains Dawson. "I'm just taking skills that make a good skier and incorporating them.
Off the hill, Dawson, who was born in South Korea and adopted by two Vail ski instructors at age three, is trying to reconnect with his native peninsula. His rags-to-Rossis story has made him a celebrity in Korea, where news organizations are helping him track down his biological parents. But, broken bones aside, he won't be distracted next goal: 06 Olympics in Turino, Italy. "I need to hold the same level of consistency I had at the end of last year, says Dawson. "If I can do that, I'll have the confidence to make it.
Foreign Fan Club: As in Korea, Dawson has a huge following in Japan. "They like me because of my Asian descent, he says. It might also have something to do with the 2004 World Cup in Naeba—Americans captured five podiums, led by Dawson's gold.
Let's Hear It For The Boy: A bad joke to a reporter a few years ago spawned the rumor that Dawson warms up by listening to the Footloose soundtrack. He denies it—but admits he can probably quote the entire movie.
Pimp My Ride: Dawson drives the only vehicle in Vail without a ski rack—a stylin' '53 Buick Super with a red body and black top. "I can't take it into the mountains. It's a lead sled, says Dawson, who restored the car himself. "If it starts sliding I can't stop it. That's why I only insure it three months at a time.


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HOMEARCHIVESKurowarabi So Sculpture exhibition
Kurowarabi So Sculpture exhibition
Familiar with wood carving since early childhood, the self-taught artist Kurowarabi So developed his unique style as he continued to sculpt even while working as a computer engineer. Making a name for himself as a prize-winning artist at a number of public-invitation exhibitions throughout Japan from the 1980s, in 2015 he received the Hirakushi Denchū Award for notable Japanese wood sculptors.
Kurowarabi pays great attention to detail, closely mimicking the textures of what he sculpts — whether cloth, shoes, or insects — while addressing relevant social issues and making statements about the human heart. Viewers find themselves drawn into the world of his subjects — seeing themselves or others as silhouettes overlapping everyday objects or parts of the body, as reflected in the mind of the artist.
This exhibition shows both early works and newer ones, including "Chotto kyūkei (Have a break)" (1985), a highly acclaimed piece now in the museum's private collection. We trust that visitors will capture glimpses of the recurring themes in Kurowarabi's artistic endeavors and see how his forms of expression relate to one another.
【Sponsor】Kirishima Open-Air Museum
【Sponsorship】Yusui town / Yusui town Board of education
Minami-Nippon Shimbun Co., Ltd. / The Asahi Shimbun Company / Yomiuri Shimbun / Minaminihon Broadcasting Co., Ltd. / Kagoshima Television Station Co.,Ltd. / Kagoshima Broadcasting Corporation / Kagoshima Yomiuri Television / FM Kagoshima
《Anote・Konote》(2009-2010) Photo by FUKUOKA Sakae
《Sou Shoku danshi (Kuwagata)》(2016) Photo by FUKUOKA Sakae
《Chotto kyūkei (Have a Break)》(1985) Owned by Kirishima Open-Air museum
* Click here for the exhibition flyer
Kirishima Open-Air Museum Art Hall
Closed on Mondays.(except when Monday is a national holiday, in which case the museum is closed on Tuesday.)
Viewing time
9:00-17:00 (last entry : 16:30)
Admission fee
General Public : ¥320 (¥250) / High School・University Students : ¥210 (¥160) / Elementary・Middle School Students : ¥150 (¥120)*Figures in parentheses are admission fees for groups of 20 or more.*Admission free for residents of Kagoshima Prefecture over 70.*Students of elementary, junior high and senior high schools within Kagoshima Prefecture admitted free of charge on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. (proof of age, school enrollment required)
Kurowarabi So
Born in Akune City, Kagoshima Prefecture in 1951, wood sculptor Kurowarabi So presently lives in Aichi Prefecture.
He studied under sculptor Horiuchi Masakazu (1911-2001) starting in 1984, winning grand prizes at both the 1st Contemporary Japanese Woodcarving Festival (1988) and the Asahikawa Award for Contemporary Wood Art (1996).
In 2015 he received the Hirakushi Denchū Award, one of Japan's top awards in sculpture. He has also held numerous solo and group exhibits.
Kurowarabi participated in the artist-in-residence project in the event of the first anniversary of the opening of the museum's main building in 2001.


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by Robin StevensonRobin Stevenson
It's 1963, and Jack's family is still reeling from the SIDS death of his baby sister. Adrift in his own life, Jack is convinced that setting a world record will bring his father back to his senses and his mother back to life. But world events, including President Kennedy's assassination, threaten to overshadow any record Jack tries to beat, from sausage eating to face slapping. Nothing works, and Jack is about to give up when a new friend suggests a different approach that involves listening to, not breaking, records.
Lexile:
590L (what's this?)
Robin Stevenson is the author of ten books for children and young adults. Robin has also worked as a social worker, counselor and university instructor. She enjoys reading, traveling, visiting schools and talking to people of all ages about books and writing. Robin lives in Victoria, British Columbia, with her family.
Gr 4–7—Jack desperately wants to break some sort of world record because he believes that by doing so he can restore his family to what it was before his sister died of SIDS. Stevenson vividly portrays how Annie's death affects the whole family. Jack's mom suffers from depression, barely getting out of bed each day. Jack and his father neglect all but the basic necessities, including the fallout shelter Jack's dad began before Annie died. It is when the 12-year-old finds Kate, a girl whose family has relocated from the United States to Canada, that he begins the healing process. Kate and her mother are like a balm to Jack and his mother, and the catalysts behind a positive turning point for the family. The author injects much-needed humor into the story through Jack's failed record-breaking attempts and Kate's inability to play the recorder or cook. Historical references, like the JFK assassination and the specter of the Cold War, ground the novel in the early 1960s. Jack's emotions, particularly the fear and guilt he feels, and his preoccupation with the family's situation, are realistic. This is a compelling novel, even with the weighty subject, and many of the characters are well rounded and believable. The author also brings hope to Jack's family and readers without giving the story a pat ending. A solid offering.—Hilary Writt, Sullivan University, Lexington, KY
It's 1963, the world is in turmoil, and so is the life of 12-year-old Jack in small-town Canada. Ever since the sudden death of his newborn sister nearly a year ago, Jack has been starved for attention; he hopes to snap his parents out of mourning and make them proud by breaking a world record. "A few weeks ago I tried to eat twenty-four raw eggs in less than two minutes and eleven seconds but threw up after the first seven," he says. "Eggs, not minutes." Jack's resilience and sense of humor prove to be crucial assets as his father builds a fallout shelter, his depressed mother stays in bed, and President Kennedy and Lee Harvey Oswald are assassinated. When Jack meets an independent-minded new girl named Kate, it improves his iffy friendship with his irritating cousin Allan, who feeds Jack's fears that his family might be cursed. Stevenson (Hummingbird Heart) gives Jack a straightforward yet sensitive narrative voice, constructing a believable portrait of the anxiety of this moment in history, as well as of how scary and lonely childhood can be. Ages 9–12. (Mar.)
"Stevenson has crafted an enjoyable and moving tale. Jack is a relatable character, built with right balance of flaws and charm that allows the reader to truly explore and examine the story through his eyes...Stevenson's construction and use of dialogue is particularly notable. Word choice and tone matched the situations and characters perfectly, carrying forward both the plot and character development...Record Breaker is an enticing, well-paced read that will delight readers with its engaging dialogue, its historical setting and a well-developed cast of relatable characters. Highly Recommended."
CM Magazine
"A quiet novel that delves into difficult subjects, Stevenson's latest shines a warm light on both grief and friendship...A thoughtful evocation of an uneasy time on both a personal and global level."
"This book will capture the attention of all readers, especially male reluctant readers. The historical references, combined with the unusual record-setting attempts, will keep the reader immersed. This book would also fit as a high interest, lower reading level selection for middle school readers."
Library Media Connection
"An excellent story of 12-year-old Jack and his family coping with the loss of another family member...What shines is Jack's determination to bring his mother out of her year-long depressive slump and connect with her authentically once again...Recommended."
Southwestern Ohio Young Adult Materials Review Group
"Stevenson has captured the innocence of childhood in the face of serious issues while maintaining an enjoyable sense of humour. Jack's struggle to come to terms with his feelings of helplessness over his mother's depression is not only powerful, but his childlike understanding, creative solutions and enduring love for his mother will touch any reader."
Canadian Children's Book News
"Stevenson shares the grief and fears and innuendo of a time unknown to most young readers. But, by making the focus in Record Breaker a local one, with the grief related to the loss of a family member...young readers will be able to empathize."
CanLit for Little Canadians
"[Stevenson] uses world records as a device to draw in readers and tell a deeper tale about love and loss and thinking beyond yourself...Her protagonist...[has] a solid, thoughtful personality and friends who are likeable for their quirks."
The Coastal Spectator
It's 1963, and 12-year-old Jack struggles to cope with his mom's depression after his baby sister's sudden death. Jack was interested in The Guinness Book of Records even before he found his baby sister Annie dead in her crib, but since then, he's been determined to break a record, any record, in an effort to distract his mother from her severe depression. She spends most days in bed even though Annie died over a year ago, and his dad tries to keep the family going. Jack first decides to rock a rocking chair for three days, then to eat a record number of sausages far too quickly, failing both times. However, he meets Kate, a new girl in his small Ontario town, and starts working on a new project: With help from Kate's music-teacher mom, he'll sing his mom's favorite Perry Como song. Stevenson keeps the tone light but the story serious as Jack copes with his own grief and his family's distress. The recent historical setting, which includes newly introduced color television and the Kennedy assassination, helps to grant some distance to readers from the heavy emotions surrounding the baby's death. Jack's growth as he makes a new friend and works on his performance caps this sensitive exploration with charm. Perceptive and quite lovely. (Historical fiction. 9-12)
book by robin stevenson
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Desolación: (Outback)
Desde que lo dejó su novia, Jayden ha estado evitando la escuela...y la vida en ...
Desde que lo dejó su novia, Jayden ha estado evitando la escuela...y la vida en general. Cuando su excéntrico tío Mel lo invita a Australia porque necesita ayuda en su investigación de biología, Jayden piensa que no tiene nada que ...
En el bosque: (In the Woods)
Cuando Cameron rescata a una bebita abandonada en el bosque, todos dicen que es un ...
Cuando Cameron rescata a una bebita abandonada en el bosque, todos dicen que es un milagro, un golpe de suerte que diera la casualidad de que él estuviera ahí paseando en bici por ese sendero y escuchara el llanto de ...
Lou's dad has been addicted to painkillers since an accident left him unable to work. ...
Lou's dad has been addicted to painkillers since an accident left him unable to work. He's a good, loving dad, but kind of useless. Lou's mother, Zoe, a successful novelist, abandoned Lou at birth and showed no interest in her ...


text:
Review: Writers' "Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead"
Long live "Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead"
Writers' Theatre present:
Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead
By Tom Stoppard
Directed by Michael Halberstam
Thru December 6th (but tickets)
The pre-show announcement for Writers' Theatre's Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead asks audience members to lean forward and engage rather than sit back and relax. This is probably to reduce whiplash when director Michael Halberstam grabs you by the brain, straps in your heart, and sends you flying through the rush of heightened language and emotion that is Tom Stoppard's tragicomic masterpiece. The story of Hamlet's two school chums that become accomplices in their friend's destruction while discovering the impossibility of life has become one of the defining pieces of modern theater, and Writers' production never loses steam. Anchored by the electric Sean Fortunato and Timothy Edward Kane as Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, Halberstam directs his cast through the labyrinth of Stoppard's incredibly dense and wordy script to find the emotion beneath the absurdity of the play, and the end result is a Stoppard production that is accessible while still maintaining its academic roots.
From the very top of the show, Fortunato and Kane capture the chemistry that comes from years of comraderie. They acheive a synchronicity that makes it difficult to imagine the two separately, and even their monologues benefit from the other's presence. The two actors listen to each other actively and react realistically, and their friendship is a connection to a more relatable and emotional world. Furthermore, they're fantastic comedic actors, employing a refreshing dryness instead of the over-the-top humor of the other characters. They have incredibly quick reflexes in conversation, creating a forward motion that pushes the entire production with it.
Rosencrantz and Guildensterns are always outsiders, never quite remembering where they've come from or are going, and Fortunato and Kane do a remarkable job capturing their collective confusion, but also their collective loneliness. Stoppard's play has comedic moments, but its heart lies in two friends that are beginning to realize how insignificant they really are. Kane carries the majority of the dramatic weight between the two, considerably more concerned and disturbed by life's absurdity, but his fears seem to weigh him down less whenever he engages with Fortunato. And while Fortunato stays primarily light-hearted and optimistic throughout the play, his extended monologue in Act Two has the similar sadness and heaviness of Guildenstern's musings. Its fascinating how the director has found a way to increase the density of the production based on the when the two actors are in dialogue with one another versus the moments when they singularly explore their fears and insecurities.
The other actors all do commendable work, and those playing Shakespeare's characters do so with a theatricality that is completely appropriate, yet is hilariously over-the-top compared to the title characters' subtlety. The scenes pulled from Hamlet are all performed with the actors facing upstage, performing to a drop that has been imaged after an empty auditorium; the trick is maybe a little too on the nose of Halberstam, but is still a clever way to emphasize the life versus art themes of the play. These ideas become prevalent when Rosencrantz and Guildenstern interact with the Tragedians and their flamboyant leader, the Player, impeccably portrayed by Allen Gilmore.
Gilmore has found a way to tap into the chemistry that the two lead actors share, and he matches their rapid fire wit with ease. He directs his actors with an iron fist, and while the players' scenes are primarily comedic, his argument that audiences come to the theater for gratuitous murder, seduction, and incest reveals an intriguing aspect of art's function: it is a way to experience the dehumanizing and immoral acts that all people secretly desire. While Gilmore handles the humor with fervor, he really shines when he gets to showcase his character's obsessive personality. After Rosencrantz and Guildenstern abandon the players before they've had the chance to perform, the Player performs a monologue describing the pain and humiliation his actors and he shared. Guildenstern criticizes the melodrama of the speech, but in the hands of an actor like Gilmore the melodrama becomes the foundation for honest despair and real pain, a compliment that can be given to the entire ensemble Halberstam has gathered.
Rating: ««««
Featuring Laura Coover, Brandon Ford, Sean Fortunato, Allen Gilmore, Dane Halvorson, Terry Hamilton, John Hoogenakker, Gregory Isaac, Timothy Edward Kane, Joey Steakley, Jeff Trainor and Karen Janes Woditsch
Scenic Design by Collette Pollard
Lighting Design by Keith Parham
Costume Design by Rachel Anne Healy
Sound Design by Andrew Hansen
Properties Design by Meredith Miller
View Full Album
Filed under: 2009 Reviews, Oliver Sava, Tom Stoppard, William Shakespeare, Writers' Theatre | Tagged: Allen Gilmore, Andrew Hansen, Brandon Ford, Collette Pollard, Dane Halvorson, Gregory Isaac, Jeff Trainor, Joey Steakley, John Hoogenakker, Karen Janes Woditsch, Keith Parham, Laura Coover, Meredith Miller, Michael Halberstam, Rachel Anne Healy, Sean Fortunato, Terry Hamilton, Timothy Edward Kane, Tom Stoppard, Writers' Theatre |
« Chicago theater openings/closings this week wednesday wordplay: Babs, Anna and Phil – you lie!! »


There's probably no better way to understand the geography of Franciacorta than the photo above.
It was take a few weeks ago atop Mt. Orfano (Mount Orfano or MOHN-teh OHR-fah-noh in Italian). The mountain lies in the southwest corner of the appellation and from its peak, you can see Lake Iseo (Lago d'Iseo or LAH-goh dee-ZEH-oh in Italian), which marks the northern boundary of the appellation.
Lake Iseo was formed when the ancient glaciers melted in prehistory.
Look at the Google map below.
You can see the route of the ancient river bed that fed Lake Iseo at the top of the image.
As the glaciers melted, they deposited their debris — stones ranging in size from boulders to pebbles — in the foothills and valley below.
The hills that you see around the lake are so-called Morainic hills. Note how they jut out of the landscape violently. They were formed by the glaciers' debris.
Morainic hills like these dot the pre-Alps throughout Lombardy and the Veneto. And they are easy to recognize because of their distinct shape.
Their ideal for the production of fine wine grapes: their rocky subsoils are nutrient poor and they create excellent drainage. These two factors force the vines to struggle in their search for water and nutrients. The more the vines are stressed by the this, the richer their fruit becomes.
There's a lot more to say about Franciacorta geography but this is a good place to start.
In the photo at the beginning of this post, you can see the village of Erbusco and its tower in the foreground.
In the photo below, I opened up my lens even more and you can see the highway, A4, in the foreground (use it as a reference with the Google map screenshot above).


I changed everything I could think of: Using a debugging perl and keeping debug symbols in my C library and XS module made the failures happen less frequently (making debugging ever more frustrating). perlbrew was a big help here, letting me switch between different versions of perl, debugging perl, threaded perl, and combinations thereof.
After playing with GDB (once again succeeding 19 times out of 20), I gave up and searched the web. I found the same mailing list thread multiple times, and read it multiple times, not coming up with anything that was relevant to my situation.
Until I read the thread again after another frustrating half-hour with GDB: I had forgotten to put a prototype in the .h file, causing the char* pointer being returned to be treated as an int. On my 64-bit system, this causes segfaults. The compiler was warning me of this, "warning: initialization makes pointer from integer without a cast", but I didn't understand the warning (and the web was not helpful on that one).
Adding the function prototype to the C wrapper header and recompiling fixed the problem.
And that is why I need to learn a lot more about C. Function prototypes? Header files? Why are those necessary (I'm asking rhetorically, of course)? Heap and stack? Might as well be herp and derp.
Lesson reinforced: Depth of knowledge does not equal breadth of knowledge.
Also, having IRC at work might have saved me a few hours of hassle.


Each ninth grade student is assigned to a team of teachers when entering Franklin High School. That team is composed of a Language Arts teacher, a World History teacher and a Physical Science teacher. Those three teachers share the same group of students and those students travel together as a class between those three subjects. We feel that this structure makes a student's entry into Franklin more personal by giving students a common group of peers and a common group of teachers. These teachers work together throughout the year to create the best learning experience possible for each student. Each ninth grade team completes common projects, like Student Lead Conferences (SLCs) and the 9th Grade Poetry Slam.
After familiarizing themselves to the FHS campus during their 9th grade year, 10th grade students choose from one of four theme-based academies and follow this community until graduation. Similarly to their 9th grade academies, students will continue most academy courses in cohorts. These academies share common course content, skill development, and instructional practices. what academy students join, they will participate in a carefully coordinated program of study that will take other interest-based elective courses, college preparatory course work and career exploration opportunities suited to their personal educational goals, whether in post-high school studies and/or work.


text:
Q: How to use a variable "holding" a string value as list name? One of the parameter the I want to pass to a Class init is a variable with a string value. this string value is a name of a list. The init should use this string value to append the class object to that list. what I'm doing wrong?
I've tried using the locals() and globals() but it ended with "TypeError: unhashable type: 'list'". tried also vars() with no use as well.
refList = []
cmpList = []

class Part(object):
    def __init__(self, origin, name, type, listName):
        self.origin = origin
        self.name = name
        self.type = type
        partListName = locals()[listName]
        partListName.append(self)

#... some file parsing..

part1 = Part((str(origin), str(name) ,str(type), 'refList')

# ... some other file parsing ...

part2 = Part((str(origin), str(name) ,str(type), 'cmpList')

A: Welcome to SO Ram! I think you should rethink your code because this is not a good approach to do it always. It is better for example pass directly the list or something related.
However your issue with your code is that you should use the globals() function. I really recommend you see the next post in order to get more knowledge about how/when use this useful functionality of Python3.
Also, you must declarate your variables with global keywoard because you are going to reference this variables from your Part class.
global refList = []
global cmpList = []

Said all this, your critical code line should look like:
partListName = globals()[listName]

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Jobs 1 To 2 of 2 Page 1 of 1 Page [1]
Contract Specialist, Safety & Security
Job Description I. JOB OVERVIEW Job Description Summary: The Division of Safety and Security aims to provide a safe and secure campus for all members of the university community through best-in-class technological and physical infrastructure,...
From AfterCollege
Job Description I. JOB OVERVIEW Job Description Summary: The Division of Safety and Security aims to provide a safe and secure campus for all members of the university community through best-in-class technological and physical infrastructure, proactive assessment and analysis, and a caring team of professionals dedicated to upholding the university's values with the highest degree of conscientiousness. Reporting to the Director, Safety & Security Support Services, the Contract Specialist, Safety & Security position will manage the development, operations and facilities of the auxiliary...
Command Watch Officer
- Duties Summary You will serve as the COMMAND WATCH OFFICER with the ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, G-3 DIVISION of MARINE FORCES PACIFIC. Responsibilities - You will provide leadership, guidance and direction to the Command Watch Team. - You will...
'Aiea, HI
- Duties Summary You will serve as the COMMAND WATCH OFFICER with the ASSISTANT CHIEF OF STAFF, G-3 DIVISION of MARINE FORCES PACIFIC. Responsibilities - You will provide leadership, guidance and direction to the Command Watch Team. - You will serve as the subject matter expert and provide continuity for all matters related to the day-to-day execution of command watch operations. - You will collect, filter and convey critical operational information to higher commands. - You will develop SOPs and guides for work accomplishment. - You will oversee and execute control during an exercise or...
Build your skills!
University of Toledo offers courses to help you get started or improve your Pharmacy Administration and Pharmacy Policy and Regulatory Affairs skills.
Occupation: Security Guards
Industry: Administration & Support Services
'Aiea (1)


Varsha Wide : Download For FREE, View Character Map And Create Your Own Counter Using Varsha Wide.
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The course provides students with an academic and experiential learning opportunity abroad. The primary goal of the course is to learn how to do business in an international setting.
Requisites: MGT 321 , instructor permission. (Required, Previous).
Notes: Special course fees apply.


text:
Q: Filter grouped rows with at least one value under and over criterion R Trying to figure out how many of the companies in my panel data have at least one observation before and after a cut-off date.
Say I have the following data:
df <- data.frame(year = rep(c(2010,2012,2017,
                              2010,2012,2017,
                              2008,2009,2018,
                              2017,2008,2009,
                              2017,2008,2009,
                              2005,2004,2002,
                              2003,2004,2008, 2020)),
                 company = rep(c("A", "A", "A", "B", "B", "C", "C", "D", "D", "E", "E",
                                 "F", "G", "G", "G", "H", "H", "I", "J", "K", "K", "K")))

Which looks like
year company
2010       A
2012       A
2017       A
2010       B
2012       B
2017       C
2008       C
2009       D
2018       D
2017       E
2008       E
2009       F
2017       G
2008       G
2009       G
2005       H
2004       H
2002       I
2003       J
2004       K
2008       K
2020       K

Now I want to get a sense of which companies have at least one observation before 2017 and one observation after or in 2017 (in this example that would be companies A, C, D, E, G, and K)
I tried
df <- df %>%
  mutate(pre = case_when(year < 2017 ~ 1),
         post = case_when(year > 2017 ~ 1)) %>%
  mutate(both = pre + post) %>%
  filter(both == 2)

But I need some form of grouping, adding group_by(company) does not give me the desired results either. Anyone with an elegant solution to this puzzle?
Many thanks

A: You can use any by group:
df %>%
  group_by(company) %>%
  filter(any(year < 2017) & any(year >= 2017)) %>%
  ungroup()

output
# A tibble: 15 × 2
    year company
   <dbl> <chr>
 1  2010 A
 2  2012 A
 3  2017 A
 4  2017 C
 5  2008 C
 6  2009 D
 7  2018 D
 8  2017 E
 9  2008 E
10  2017 G
11  2008 G
12  2009 G
13  2004 K
14  2008 K
15  2020 K


Researchers have run a new analysis of the Russian-speaking Sofacy APT hacker group. The new analysis shows that the state-sponsored group marches toward Far East targets. They are also overlapping activities with other groups like Lamberts, Turla, and Danti.
Sofacy is also known as APT28, Fancy Bear or Sednit. We expect Sofacy to evolve in 2018.
The most intriguing part discovered by researchers is the overlap between Sofacy and the English-speaking hacker group behind the Lamberts, also known as Longhorn.
This discovery was made by connecting the two APTs when the presence of Sofacy was found on a server in China. The server didn't have any cybersecurity solution implemented, and in consequence, it was compromised by a modified version of Grey Lambert malware named Sofacy's SPLM aka Xagent, aka CHOPSTICK. We suspect that the APT planted the malware on this server because it had a shallow level of cybersecurity. In this case, a PowerShell script or legitimate but vulnerable web app was exploited to load and execute the SPLM code.
The samples of SPLM that was analyzed showed how Sofacy maintains distinct subdivisions for each of its main tools.
We are very worried regarding global cybersecurity because of the usage of many different new modules like file stealers, remote shells, or keyloggers.
Remember! If you have a device that runs on Windows or macOS, it must be protected by antivirus for Windows or antivirus for Mac, and if you are a company, you must hire professional cybersecurity firms to do regular checkups to their internal network a couple of times per year. These checkups must always include a penetration test and various ethical hacking tests.
The cybersecurity problems don't stop here because for the past months this Russian speaking hacker group concentrated in developing. Net and Power Shell malware activity.
Sofacy's roots go back in time to around 2007. From 2007 to 2018 they have evolved incredibly, last year, for example, they targeted various devices with a fullback door (SMLP/Xagent).
This kind of cyber attacks would only go upwards shortly and because of this all companies and individuals must protect their devices with at least one cybersecurity solution like an antivirus. Remember always to choose the right antivirus software for your OS. For example, if your device is running Windows choose only the best antivirus for Windows or if your device is running macOS choose only the top antivirus for Mac.
Regarding companies, we recommend various cybersecurity checkups like penetration testing or ethical hacking tests.


As the piece's name "Kairos" means: the fleeting rightness of time and place that creates the opportune atmosphere for action, words, or movement; this piece with its own sense of time and place creates the opportune atmosphere for the performer's actions and words in two movements.
This movement is a clarification against a world overloaded by meanings and symbols, a short manifest against "The Pressure of Meaning" as Slavoj Žižek would say.
As this whole concept is influenced by Jacques Lacan's "Three orders" theory, it is dedicated to him. The musical materials used in this piece are natural sounds of singing skylarks, sounds of everyday life, and modal music (Persian).
Talking about skylarks, the main musical material of this movement comes from the singing skylarks,specially one kind: "Greater hoopoe-lark" that appears the most in desserts of Middle East; and the concept of this movement comes from an old Persian idiom about this skylark that in Persian they call it "Shabān farib"; the idiom is about a person who tries to catch this skylark, at first the skylark looks like a dying bird and when the hunter goes near it, it awakes and flies a little away, and this inconclusive process goes on and on.
In Persian they call the hunter of this skylark "Ablahe dun" which means idiot. It's the story of humans trying to hunt their desires and dreams.


The Biometrics Institute has launched its 2013 industry survey, which asks members and key stakeholders to provide input on the current status and future developments of the biometric space.
Now in its fourth year, the survey assesses trends and developments in the biometrics industry. The results of this survey will provide some projections and expectations for the performance of the industry in the coming year and to also show areas for development and research.
"Over 200 biometric industry representatives responded to last year's Industry Survey and predicted the adoption of biometrics in everyday life as the most significant development during 2012-13," Isabelle Moeller, Chief Executive of the Biometrics Institute said.
The survey is presently being circulated to all members of the Biometrics Institute and other key.
According to the institute, initial results will be released at the upcoming Biometrics Technology Showcase Europe on June 27, 2013 in London.
More information on the annual survey is available from the Biometrics Institute website.
Reported in BiometricUpdate.com, the Biometrics Institute Asia-Pacific Conference 2013, is set to take place soon, on May 30, 2013, in Dockside Sydney.


Strictly's coming…have you got your ticket?
Not too long to go now for the dancers to commence their training in earnest…and time for you all to get your tickets for what will be the hottest show in town.
Ticket numbers are limited and, with the 30 dancers already having sold nearly two-thirds of those available, you better be quick. You can arrange to buy your ticket from any of the dancers or from a member of the organizing committee.


text:
Georgia: The Balcony of Europe
If the balcony is the most beautiful part of an apartment building, well, it's the same thing as the country of Georgia. This is, after all, the famed balcony of Europe.
Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is the heartbeat of the Caucasus. The city is making an effort to catch up after being left behind during the days where it was still part of the Soviet Union. There are upscale hotels, restaurants and nightlife in the centre of the city. I arrived in the capital at 05.00am on Sunday and noticed that the streets were filled with young people just getting home after a night of partying.
The ancient fourth-century fortress of Narikala overlooks Tbilisi and that is where I was headed on Sunday morning. On the way I stopped at Saint Nicholas Church, which was originally built in the 13th century but was rebuilt in the 1990s after being destroyed in a fire. The sound of the ringing church bell signalled that the service was about to begin.
I enjoyed attending Saint Nicholas Church that very beautiful Sunday, not to mention the gorgeous sights from the fort of the city of Tbilisi. The warm weather, gentle breezes and red poppies gently waving in the bright sunlight completed the postcard-perfect scene on my first day in Georgia. The mix of the old and new can really be sensed in Tbilisi. The majestic Bridge of Peace spans the Kura River and served to connect the old town of Tbilisi with the modern city.
Nature and Churches
It doesn't matter where you go, Georgia's natural beauty will leave you speechless. It is hard to believe that with how magical this country is that there are so few tourists. Keep in mind that while in Georgia, one should enjoy the beautiful spectacle of the mountains. The country is home to the Caucasus mountains, making this one of the most wonderful places I had ever visited. In other words, it is immense and beyond words.
The Orthodox churches in Georgia have a lot of mystique and tradition. Georgia is one of the oldest Christian countries in the world and is home to lots of old-style churches that trace the history of Christianity in the country. For me, Gergeti Trinity Church is the most spectacular of Georgia's churches. It is located in Gergeti village, at an elevation of 2,170 metres, below Mount Kazbegi. The Church of Gergeti Trinity, or The Holly Trinity, was built during the 14th century and is isolated right above a very steep mountainside, surrounded by the nature that has made it the symbol of Georgia.
House of Stalin
Georgia was part of the former Soviet Union and there are signs of that everywhere, including the old Soviet-made vehicles that people are still driving, especially outside of Tbilisi. Joseph Stalin, who was the leader of the Soviet Union from the mid-1920s until his death in 1953, was born in Gori, part of today's Georgia. Even though Stalin was a violent dictator, lots of Georgians respect him.
Some of the best times I had in Georgia were when I was out with the locals, enjoying traditional meals together. The cuisine of Georgia has been influenced by European and Middle Eastern food. One of the most iconic foods of Georgia is khinkali, a kind of dumpling. Khinkali is usually filled with seasoned pork, beef and sometimes lamb. There is a preferred way to eat this traditional dish. After the first bite, you suck out all the juices from inside the dumpling, and then you savour the rest of the khinkali.
Georgia made me see and realize the true meaning of authenticity, especially when I had the pleasure to spend time with the locals. They were strangers, yet they treated me like we were old friends and welcomed me with their warm embrace. This is because for Georgians, a guest is a gift from God.
Text & Photos by Fabiola Lawalata
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Until recently it was difficult to tell Garden Roses apart from others. Unlike Europe which keeps Garden and Florist roses separate, in the United States they were mingled together.
Thankfully this is changing. Many rose breeders introducing new roses today have disease resistance (a very important characteristic of Garden Roses) at the top of their list.
However, it's important to keep in mind that not all roses do well in all parts of the country – or the world.
Local information is going to be your best source for knowing which roses do best in your area. Visit botanical gardens, talk to other gardeners and visit garden centers that have knowledgeable rose growers on their staff.
From here we suggest you go to Part 3 of Roses 101.