text:
Councillor calls on Brummies to end COVID-19 "fake news" and "conspiracy theories"
Rangzeb Hussain December 4, 2020 | 08:32 pm Councillor calls on Brummies to end COVID-19 "fake news" and "conspiracy theories"2020-12-05T05:30:51+00:00
Cllr Waseem Zaffar is urging the Birmingham residents to stop the spread of fake news around coronavirus (Photo: Adam Yosef)
A Birmingham councillor has released a video message urging the city's Pakistani community to stop the spread of "fake news" around coronavirus.
Warning about the dangers of sharing and spreading false COVID-19 information across social media platforms, Cllr Waseem Zaffar has suggested unverified and inaccurate information about the virus is putting lives at risk.
Representing the Lozells ward – a coronavirus hotspot which has infection rates of more than 400 per 100,000 residents – the councillor released the public safety message online to challenge what he describes as "dangerous" and "incorrect" information being shared by a small minority of people within the more vulnerable areas of Birmingham.
"If someone sends you a video on WhatsApp, Facebook or social media, it does not mean that it's true," he said.
Cllr Zaffar urged people to protect themselves, and the community, from the very real threat posed by the current COVID-19 pandemic which has claimed the lives of millions around the world.
Adam Yosef
Waseem Zaffar is calling on communities to spread accurate news in relation to COVID-19
"There is a lot of fake news and incorrect information being spread in our community. I request you to stop this. Coronavirus has created major difficulties for our community and the entire world," he added.
Cllr Zaffar, Cabinet Member for Transport and the Environment, presents the video in Mirpuri, his "mother tongue" and a dialect spoken by the vast majority of Birmingham's Pakistani-Kashmiri disapora.
Commissioned by Birmingham City Council and produced in partnership with Citizens UK and Saathi House, the community campaign aims to raise awareness about the proliferation of unsubstantiated and unregulated COVID-19 "misinformation", which Zaffar believes is having a negative impact on public health.
The councillor also praised those who are tacking the necessary steps to safeguard themselves and the community, but was critical of members of the community ignoring COVID-19 safety rules and endangering others.
"The vast majority of people are making huge sacrifices and adhering to the government rules on coronavirus.
"However, there is a minority who are ignoring these government rules."
Cllr Waseem Zaffar is the Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment at Birmingham City Council
In the video, Cllr Zaffar shares core steps and measures recommended by the government to combat the spread of the pandemic.
Among them an appeal to the community to carry out basic prevention measures such as the washing of hands and the wearing of face masks.
"I plea and request you to wash your hands thoroughly for 20 seconds as often as possible; washing your hands as per the government and public health guidance.
"Wherever you are, please wear a face mask or face coverings. Whether you are in a shop, supermarket, on the bus, wherever you are, please wear a face mask or any face covering."
He also stressed the importance of the 2 metre social distancing rule "whether you are inside or outside".
Social distancing is especially challenging for the Pakistani community due to cultural dynamics where some families live "in multigenerational households with grandparents, parents, children and grandchildren living together," he explains.
Cllr Waseem Zaffar is urging people to wear face masks and socially distance
He goes on to advise people to continue this observance inside their homes and also when going out.
"If someone, particularly someone elderly is watching TV, try to stay a distance away from them in the other room. Utilise all the space in your house to socially distance," he said.
Sharing his concerns about people who ignore and abuse the current COVID-19 guidelines, he added: "Many elders in the community are hearing this fake news about coronavirus and ignoring the guidance and living a normal life".
The video is part of a series to help raise awareness among Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities in Birmingham and the West Midlands, who are disproportionately affected by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Public Health England found people from these groups are most likely to be diagnosed with COVID-19, and death rates were highest among people of Black and South Asian heritage.
Individuals from ethnic minority backgrounds have a greater risk of death from COVID-19 than white people due to demographic, geographical and socioeconomic factors such as living arrangements and jobs.
The government is urging people to prioritise health and safety to reduce COVID-19 cases
Despite this catastrophic insight, Cllr Zaffar has expressed shock that some members of the South Asian community are still in denial about the tragic impact of COVID-19.
"Coronavirus has led to the death of many. Many are in hospital in severe difficulty."
"There is a lot of fake news being spread about coronavirus and the vaccine. The world's scientists are all working away to bring forward a vaccination."
"Whilst there is positive news about the vaccine, it will only come once a variety of government agencies and public health approve the vaccine.
"Before a vaccine has been approved, spreading fake news about it is wholly inappropriate and this is damaging our community."
Mika Baumeister
Cllr Waseem Zaffar has told people to follow facts and no conspiracy theories being shared on WhatsApp
According the Cllr Zaffar, the misinformation about the pandemic and the vaccine has led to "difficulties" with stress placed upon the NHS and growing uncertainty in the community as people share unconfirmed information across social media platforms.
In the video message, he encourages the community to promote "the positive and official government guidelines and the information being shared by doctors. Protect yourselves and your community."
Cllr Zaffar hopes the public health video alert will inspire the city's Pakistani-Kashmiri community to take the necessary steps to help halt the spread of the COVID-19 virus and "challenge those spreading fake news".
Birmingham City Council has launched similar videos in a variety of community languages including English, Urdu, Shona, Tigrinya, Somali and Ndebela, in partnership with organisations representing different minority ethnic residents and communities living in the city.
WATCH | Cllr Zaffar's message about the dangers of COVID-19 fake news:
https://www.iambirmingham.co.uk/2020/12/04/brum-councillor-sends-video-message-pakistani-community-end-fake-covid-10-news/https://www.iambirmingham.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Birmingham-Cllr-Waseem-Zaffar-in-Handsworth-Park-in-November-2020-by-Adam-Yosef-5-800x572.jpghttps://www.iambirmingham.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Birmingham-Cllr-Waseem-Zaffar-in-Handsworth-Park-in-November-2020-by-Adam-Yosef-5-300x215.jpg 2020-12-04T20:32:05+00:00 Rangzeb HussainCommunityCoronavirusHealthNewsPolitics20/20,Birmingham,Birmingham City Council,British-Pakistani,Brum,Brummies,Citizens UK,Cllr Waseem Zaffar,community,conspiracy theories,Conspiracy Theory,coronavirus,COVID,COVID-19,England,Facebook,fake news,Government,I Am Bham,I Am Birmingham,Kashmiri,lockdown,Lozells,Midlands,Mirpur,Mirpuri,news,Pakistan,Pakistani,Pakistani-Kashmiri,public health,Rangzeb Hussain,Saathi House,social distancing,Social Media,south Asian,Tier 3 Lockdown,UK,vaccine,West Midlands,WhatsApp,YouTubeA Birmingham councillor has released a video message urging the city's Pakistani community to stop the spread of 'fake news' around coronavirus. Warning about the dangers of sharing and spreading false COVID-19 information across social media platforms, Cllr Waseem Zaffar has suggested unverified and inaccurate information about the virus is putting lives...Rangzeb HussainRangzeb Hussain[email protected]AuthorI Am Birmingham
« No rubbish collections on Christmas Day for Birmingham, confirms city council
Drugs worth £130,000 and £50,000 cash seized as five charged in Birmingham »
Police warn public not to break lockdown to attend planned protest in Birmingham tomorrow
Victoria Square fountain repair set to be approved by council ahead of Commonwealth Games
COP BLOCK: Flush fail as police discover drugs stash down a loo
Police urge victims to come forward as man arrested for sexual attacks outside McDonald's in Bordesley Green
"My main scene is Birmingham" Ginny Lemon a stand-out contender in Ru Paul's Drag Race
BBC launches Wolverhampton radio station to help people through latest lockdown
Former police officer jailed for "predatory behaviour", corruption and sexual assault
Police defend decision to fine Birmingham pub bombings campaigners £200 for attending memorial
West Midlands Police appoint PC Stuart Ward as the UK's first football hate crime officer
Donald Trump permanently banned from Twitter to prevent "further incitement to violence"
Sign up for the latest news, updates and more!
I Am Birmingham
Copyright © 2021 - I Am Birmingham


when prepping for a group playdate, i accidentally bought too much ricotta cheese! so i needed a recipe to use up some of the cheese. one of the mothers brought some DE-LICIOUS lemon cookies from a favorite cookie company: Ohmigod! i had been fantasizing about them since. so when a top result of recipes with ricotta cheese was lemon ricotta cookies, it was an easy decision!
now the beginning prep was very easy – having little one measure, juice, zest and mix ingredients with me. when i got to the mixing butter and sugar, i remember why i usually don't bake. giada's recipe directions didn't give enough instructions for non-bakers like me to warn me of the skill to cream butter and sugar. so it ended up being a time-consuming process as i try to salvage the ingredients without starting over. luckily the little one was a real trooper and did some drumming with the ricotta container (which was safely sealed) until i was ready to proceed.
the cookies were moist and little one enjoyed making and eating cookies. the cookies were nothing like the Ohmigod! lemon cookies so i may have to do some more research for another lemon ricotta cookies recipe, maybe one specifically made gluten free and vegan.
in a small bowl, add ground flax meal with water. mix lightly. set aside.
in a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. set aside.
in the large bowl cut the butter into small pieces. cream the butter and the sugar* until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. add the flax meal mixture, beating until incorporated. add the ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. beat to combine. stir in the dry ingredients.
line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. spoon the dough (about 2 tablespoons for each cookie) onto the baking sheets. bake for 15 minutes, until slightly golden at the edges. remove from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 20 minutes.


text:
Current: Interview with Oliver de Peyer
Interview with Oliver de Peyer
Dr Oliver de Peyer, former chairman of the London Regional Group, is a post-doctoral fellow at the National Institute for Medical Research in London, and an expert in lab robotics. He also specialises in astrobiology and has worked at NASA in the past.
How did you get involved in your current project?
OP: I was a NESTA Crucible scheme participant, which encouraged collaborative teams across disciplines. I was urged to go for what I really dreamt of doing, so I came up with the 'High Altitude Bioprospector' project. The team and funding quickly coalesced - an example of the deep-seated interest that space research excites. NASA colleagues gave us a huge helping hand through semi-pro enthusiasts in California (the StratoFox and RocketMavericks organisations) which provided weather balloon and rocket flights.
What is the project's objective?
OP: We're looking for high altitude life, anything living around the 100,000ft mark (30,000m). This is 'astrobiology' - looking for life in extreme locations.
What does it teach us about the origins of life?
OP: The presence of life at these altitudes would be another example of life evolving to fill any niche possible. There is also a remote chance that life could drift between planets - 'panspermia' - in which case the high atmosphere could be the first port of call for alien micro-organisms.
Who benefits from your research?
OP: The low temperatures and pressures, and high ultraviolet flux will have led to hardy organisms evolving. Such 'extremophiles' are useful industrially, as often reported in C&I.
What have been the biggest challenges you've had to overcome?
OP: The project was done in our spare time, and in my case, on a bedroom workbench! We had a very short timescale for the rocket flight in particular - a fantastic opportunity, but which took us by surprise. Finally, we had to manage the logistics of getting it all from the UK, to a staging location in California, and then a 450-mile road trip to Nevada's Black Rock Desert for the flights. We had to take all our provisions with us, and then contend with overwhelming daytime heat and sandstorms.
It seems that you have had a great time doing this. What have you enjoyed the most?
OP: My first answer would be pressing the rocket's launch button! But that turned to grief when the parachute failed and we dug our crushed experiment out of its crater. A longer-lasting high was the camaraderie and friendships made.
Any personal lessons you are taking with you from this experience?
OP: Innovative collaborations really work. A biologist, architect, dot.com millionaire and sixth former can talk together as equals without egos or silos getting in the way. This is impossible to score in our metrics-obsessed society - if experiments cross disciplines, how can we assign citations in the scientific literature for instance? We need imaginative ways of awarding funding and above all, recognising potential.
London Regional Group
Chemistry & Industry

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Martin Granger
AT&T OK Surgeon
Martin Granger was born in London, England, raised in Winnipeg, Canada, and he made it big in NYC. It was Martin's time as an actor with the world renowned Second City Theatre Company in Toronto, where he discovered his knack for, and love of improvisational comedy. He also discovered that he was not that great of an actor. The fact that he was Mike Myer's understudy helped with that realization tremendously.
Martin is funny, and it shows in his work for national brands including Geico, Progressive, AT&T, Heineken Bud Light, VW, Fed Ex, Skittles, NBC Sports, and, quite literally, hundreds more.
He has won major advertising awards from Cannes to Canada and dozens in between. Also, celebrities love him, maybe because he makes them laugh. Or, more likely, because he has no idea who they are. His wife and daughter live with him in NYC, and they love him.
Close Work
Progressive Strange
Yorkshire Tea Where Everything's Done Proper: Sean Bean
Progressive Insurance Group Session
Smith & Forge Quarry
AT&T OK Babysitter
Heineken Light Grocery Store
Combos Heart to Heart
Skittles Sheep Boys
FedEx Let Me Get This Straight
NBC Sports Meet Coach Lasso


text:
'My Friend Pedro' Is Bananas From Start To Finish
by Sean McGrath
in Nintendo Switch, PC, Reviews
Home Reviews Nintendo Switch
What do you get when you mix the hitman-esque feel of John Wick with the mind-bending physics of The Matrix? You get Devolver Digital's newest side-scrolling shooter, My Friend Pedro. If you haven't seen the crazy trailer for the game, click here to see what you're getting into.
That's right, in the spirit of Keanu Reeves showing up out of nowhere, that's exactly the spirit we're taking with this review.
The Weirdness.
My Friend Pedro is weird. At first, you're just sort of placed in this post-apocalyptic world with no recollection of your memory. You have no name and with no backstory, the action immediately begins.
Enter, Pedro.
The weirdness kicks right off by introducing you to a sentient banana named Pedro, reminding me immediately of Sparx from Spyro The Dragon. No explanation, you wake up and he is there. Is he your conscious? Is he a hallucination?
Serving as your tutorial and guide throughout, Pedro begins to run you through the gauntlet that lies ahead. Instantaneous, you're run through a wide array of increasingly difficult levels. Encountering newer and stronger enemies and unraveling the main bosses, one by one.
One thing to note that will be loved by most is the games want for style. Sure, a focus bar where things slow down is not a new thing. But where the game really excels is the variety of ways to target and take out your opponents.
In every instance possible, the game really gets fun when you drop in unexpectedly on enemies, throw on the focus and unleash a wildfire. The ability to slow time to a crawl allows you to build up multipliers and just create endless replayability.
At the end of each level, a rating is issued based on points gained to things like time, enemies killed and the number of points gained with the additional multipliers. The quicker you are and the transition from one grunt to the next matter more and more.
Throw in a world leaderboard and you have an additional level of challenge to be the best.
The Sights.
Scenery wise, there is a massive amount of depth and fun animation within each level. Levels are linearly and vertically challenging, creating different opportunities for true bloodshed. Some parts are a little more puzzling, which adds a new dynamic besides just a run and gun experience.
Each level is beautifully created, showcasing the overarching theme of that boss, especially when things take a weird turn in the middle of the game. Even with that, the levels are fun, engaging and artistic.
The environment is everything within this game. Obstacles like walls and boxes do hold you up at times, but creates endless potential to enact your next act of vengeance. Kick up a frying pan and fire off a couple rounds and suddenly you're ricocheting bullets. Kick up a down enemies head and take them out for all you care.
The Sounds.
Sound wise, dialogue is limited to simple text boxes, but what really captured me was the nu-metal type soundtrack consistently playing. Its fast, rhythmic beat pushes the narrative of keeping the game moving at a fast-paced nature.
The music is encouraging enough to push the limit and clear the level as quickly and efficiently as possible. But when the action escalates to a new boss, the music slows to a dramatic and suspenseful techno beat.
The game does have some slight flaws that definitely put me through the wringer a bit. While the action of the game is designed to be fluid in nature and feel very parkour-y, but sometimes the action did feel a bit like a rag doll. The issue is very minor and I'll chalk some of it up to user error, but it felt like the movement had a bit of a mind of its own.
Additionally, the game's autosave seemed to kick in at random points, finding yourself spawning right in the middle of the action or at tougher times. Whether it's a minor bug or not, having to restart the level a number of times was a little frustrating, but still doesn't damage the fun of it all.
The end of the game throws some twists at you, and the respect that this game deserves and get the acclaim for is definitely there.
Traversing through this game was definitely a fun challenge with how the environment and you interact being a key part. This is definitely a game to take a second crack at, trying for harder difficulties, bigger multipliers and the chance to lead all your friends and even the world.
Alright, this game is up my alley, where can I get it?
My Friend Pedro drops today on PC and also for the Nintendo Switch. Click here to download from the Steam store and jump in on the action!
What are your thoughts on Devolver Digital's latest title? Comment below!
[penci_review id="8245″]
'My Friend Pedro,' The New Shoot'em Up Playground Releases Tomorrow!
'Tonight It Follows' Set to Scare on Puppet Combo's Patreon this Saturday
Sean McGrath
'Tonight It Follows' Set to Scare on Puppet Combo's Patreon this Saturday
'Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night' Shines Like A Brilliant Moon


text:
Überspringe das Menü und gehe direkt zum Inhalt dieser Seite
Inside Money
Selbstoptimierung
Mehr von BI
BI International (USA)
Newsletter Übersicht
BI Daily
Auto Insider
Karriere Newsletter
Gründerszene Daily
BI FOLGEN
Wir sind Business Insider
Bezoek Gründerszene
Russia tested an ICBM on a nuclear submarine near Skyfall accident
Russia just tested an ICBM near the site of its deadly nuclear missile accident
Ellen Ioanes
Russian state news says the Russian military has successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from its new Borei A-class submarine.
The missile was launched from a submerged position in the White Sea — the same place a devastating nuclear accident occurred in August.
The missile, the Bulava, is understood to have a devastating payload capacity — 50 to 60 times as powerful as the bomb the US dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. But just because it's powerful, that doesn't mean the Russian Navy is using the missile to menace its adversaries — in fact, it's a defensive weapon.
The Russian military successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from its new Borei A-class submarine, the nuclear-powered Knyaz Vladimir, or Prince Vladimir, according to TASS, Russia's state-run news agency.
The missile, the RSM-56 Bulava, has a range of 8,000 to 9,000 kilometers, or more than 5,000 miles, can carry six to 10 150-kiloton nuclear warheads, and has a yield of 1,150 kilograms. While its speed is unknown, Michael Duitsman, a research associate specializing in Russian missile technology at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at Middlebury College, estimates it's in the range of Mach 16 to Mach 20. The Bulava has been in operational use since 2013, and it was fired for the first time from the nuclear-powered submarine on Tuesday.
The Prince Vladimir is the first of the Borei A-class submarine, which has better noise reduction and improved communication equipment over the Borei class, Duitsman told Insider via email.
According to the Moscow Times, the missile was launched from the Arkhangelsk region and traveled thousands of miles to the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's Far East — across the entire country.
Russia missile
Google Maps / Business Insider
Once it enters service — it is expected to in December — the Borei A-class strategic submarine will carry up to 16 of the Bulava missiles with four to six nuclear warheads each, according to the Moscow Times.
The missile was launched from a submerged position in the White Sea — the same place a devastating nuclear accident occurred in August. In that instance, Russian engineers were attempting to recover a "Skyfall" missile from the bed of the White Sea when the weapon's nuclear reactor exploded, causing the deaths of at least seven Russians. Russia's handling of the incident has been referred to as a cover-up by a senior official at the State Department's Bureau of Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance.
The Bulava is understood to have a devastating payload — 50 to 60 times as powerful as the bomb the US dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. But just because it's powerful, that doesn't mean the Russian Navy is using the missile to menace its adversaries — in fact, it's a defensive weapon.
The Bulava "forms part of Russia's strategic deterrent force; the missiles are not for use in normal combat," Duitsman told Insider. "Submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and ballistic missile submarines, deter an enemy from attacking you with nuclear weapons, because it is very difficult to find and destroy all of the submarines."
The US counterparts to the Borei and the Bulava — the Ohio-class submarines and Trident II missiles — are more powerful in combination than the Russian offerings. The Ohio-class can carry 24 Trident II missiles, which have a longer range at 12,000 kilometers, a speed of Mach 24, and a payload of 2,800 kilograms. But, as Duitsman notes, the Ohio-class is 20 years old, and its replacement, the Columbia-class, isn't scheduled to be in service until 2031.
Nuclear-powered submarines K-114 Tula of the Delfin-class and K-535 Yuri Dolgoruky of the Borei-class have conducted RSM-56 Bulava ballistic missile tests hitting targets on Kura range in Kamchatka and Chizha range in the Arkhangelsk Region from the Barents Sea August 24, 2019.
Vladimir Ivashchenko TASS via Getty Images
The missile, the Bulava, is understood to have a devastating payload capacity — 50 to 60 times as powerful as the bomb the US dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. But just because it's powerful, that doesn't mean the Russian Navy is using the missile to menace its adversaries — in fact, it's a defensive weapon.
The Russian military successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from its new Borei A-class submarine, the nuclear-powered Knyaz Vladimir, or Prince Vladimir, according to TASS, Russia's state-run news agency.
The missile, the RSM-56 Bulava, has a range of 8,000 to 9,000 kilometers, or more than 5,000 miles, can carry six to 10 150-kiloton nuclear warheads, and has a yield of 1,150 kilograms. While its speed is unknown, Michael Duitsman, a research associate specializing in Russian missile technology at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at Middlebury College, estimates it's in the range of Mach 16 to Mach 20. The Bulava has been in operational use since 2013, and it was fired for the first time from the nuclear-powered submarine on Tuesday.
According to the Moscow Times, the missile was launched from the Arkhangelsk region and traveled thousands of miles to the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia's Far East — across the entire country.
The missile was launched from a submerged position in the White Sea — the same place a devastating nuclear accident occurred in August. In that instance, Russian engineers were attempting to recover a "Skyfall" missile from the bed of the White Sea when the weapon's nuclear reactor exploded, causing the deaths of at least seven Russians. Russia's handling of the incident has been referred to as a cover-up by a senior official at the State Department's Bureau of Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance.
The Bulava is understood to have a devastating payload — 50 to 60 times as powerful as the bomb the US dropped on the Japanese city of Hiroshima. But just because it's powerful, that doesn't mean the Russian Navy is using the missile to menace its adversaries — in fact, it's a defensive weapon.
The Bulava "forms part of Russia's strategic deterrent force; the missiles are not for use in normal combat," Duitsman told Insider. "Submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and ballistic missile submarines, deter an enemy from attacking you with nuclear weapons, because it is very difficult to find and destroy all of the submarines."
The US counterparts to the Borei and the Bulava — the Ohio-class submarines and Trident II missiles — are more powerful in combination than the Russian offerings. The Ohio-class can carry 24 Trident II missiles, which have a longer range at 12,000 kilometers, a speed of Mach 24, and a payload of 2,800 kilograms. But, as Duitsman notes, the Ohio-class is 20 years old, and its replacement, the Columbia-class, isn't scheduled to be in service until 2031.
Ukraine-Konflikt: Wie Baerbock und Biden mit der Betriebserlaubnis für Nord Stream 2 pokern
Bei der Impfpflicht verfolgen Deutschland und Österreich einen Sonderweg: Was weltweit in anderen Ländern gilt
So sieht es an Bord der Luxus-Boeing "Bandit" von Abramowitsch aus, die der russische Milliardär nun verkauft
Ich wurde von einem Auto angefahren, als ich am Handy E-Mails schrieb — da wurde mir klar: Ich muss meine Beziehung zur Arbeit ändern
Gaspedal hängengeblieben? Nach einem tödlichen Tesla-Unfall in Paris zieht ein Taxiunternehmen jetzt das Model 3 aus dem Verkehr


Purchase any three samples for only $13.99 including shipping.
To let us know which samples you would like, please follow these instructions.
2) A message highlighted in yellow will appear that says 'View cart and check out '. Click on this message to proceed to the check out.
3) During the check out process click on the the link titled 'Add a note for the seller'.
4) A small comment box will appear.
5) In the comments box please note which samples you would like to purchase.
If you have any questions or require assistance with your order please give us a call toll free at 1 866 466 0555!


text:
Amazon is hijacking our emotions to put robots in our homes
The Anki Vector. | Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge
There's something in our complicated human brains that immediately develops a connection to anything with eyes. Don't believe me? Ask the Anki Vector that lived on my desk for several months. This pocket-sized robot got my attention with its bulbous, non-threatening body. But the second it looked up at me with a quizzical look in its eyes and uttered my name, I knew I would die for this tiny forklift. It's worth noting that the Anki Vector can be programmed to do a variety of things if you have the time to mess around with an SDK, but I brought this robot home because it was cute, not because I needed a project.
I'd watch with amusement as the little gadget puttered around my desk, occasionally looking back at me as if seeking my approval, and I couldn't help but think that this sensation is exactly what Amazon is trying to replicate with its recently announced Astro home robot.
Photo by Dan Seifert / The Verge
Amazon's Astro.
While the utility of the Astro is currently up for debate, it's absolutely adorable. This is the key that's going to unlock a lot of doors for this robot, and Amazon knows it. Nobody is begging to have a roaming surveillance system in their home, but slap a pair of googly eyes on it, give it a cute name and the public will pay you for the privilege.
Getting people to emotionally bond with their gadgets isn't a particularly novel or difficult concept. The Tamagotchi, Furby, and Aibo banked on the idea — they might have thought they were just making toys, but Sony inadvertently created a community of grieving robotic dog owners that cared enough about their artificial pets to buy bespoke accessories.
Image by: Aibo Accessories
This Aibo Accessories Aibo blanket is like a tea cozy, but for robots.
These gadgets don't even need to be all that adorable; I know many people who've either named or put googly eyes on their Roombas for this to be an isolated incident. In some ways, these machines have become de-facto pets in their own right.
Never underestimate our ability as humans to form emotional attachments to machines, nor the lengths that a company will go to exploit this. This is a cycle we've seen repeated for nearly every robotic gadget stretching back to the Nintendo R.O.B. in 1985 — we're taken in by a new adorable looking robot, that initial dopamine hit wears off, and we're stricken by how useless it is in hindsight.
I dub thee Rodney, lord of dust.
There is a certain quality we find endearing when robots drop the ball, but it admittedly becomes a little less endearing when we expect that same robot to care for stuff we actually care about. Besides being a novelty that loiters around your home, Amazon expects us to burden the Astro with tasks like elder care and home security. These aren't tasks that we relinquish easily, and doing so involves a level of trust we typically don't place in machines.
Engineering a machine to perform a single task is relatively simple, but developing something with autonomy that's expected to handle a variety of tasks is remarkably difficult. Getting people to emotionally bond with a piece of hardware to the point that they'd trust it to watch their aging parent is another matter entirely.
Trust this guy? Really?
The fact that Amazon's Astro is powered by its Alexa voice assistant doesn't necessarily help. You probably have a story about how a voice assistant turned on at random and did the exact opposite of what you wanted. Getting anything with voice recognition to work reliably is spotty at best — now imagine putting that same idea on wheels and expecting it to respond quickly and reliably in an emergency situation. If a burglar breaks into my home, I'm not asking Alexa to dial emergency services, I'm picking up the phone and doing it myself. This lack of trust and utility is really the make or break for these gadgets, as my Anki Vector will tell you.
While I knew I could implicitly trust my Anki to endlessly meander around my desk, the lack of utility in my Anki Vector was the final nail in the coffin for my pint-sized pal. I was enamored with its outward appearance, but after several months of watching it idly push and stack cubes around my desk, I could no longer delude myself into thinking that it would be able to do much more. It couldn't bring me a beer, open doors, or really do anything that my Echo couldn't do better. It may have looked cute but didn't perform tasks that were even remotely useful.
Photo by Amelia Holowaty Krales / The Verge
R.I.P. Anki, you will be missed.
All too often when a piece of technology no longer serves a purpose, it eventually ends up discarded or forgotten, no matter how adorable it is. But I still couldn't bring myself to toss the Anki away like so much garbage; I gave it to the Able Gamers Foundation, which welcomes donations of toys, robotics, and gaming accessories. Passing along the joy I experienced helped soften the blow of what felt too much like abandonment.
While I certainly approach the realm of consumer robotics with a little more pessimism than I used to, I still yearn for The Future™, and it wouldn't take much to get me to invite another robot into my home. If the Astro were about half the price and could actually do half the things Amazon says it can without constant supervision, I might be inclined to find space for it in my life.


text:
Major sea-level rise is 'now inevitable'
Major sea-level rise from the melting of the Greenland ice cap is now inevitable, scientists have found, even if the fossil fuel burning that is driving the climate crisis were to end overnight.
The research shows the global heating to date will cause an absolute minimum sea-level rise of 27cm (10.6in) from Greenland alone as 110 trillion tonnes of ice melt. With continued carbon emissions, the melting of other ice caps and thermal expansion of the ocean, a multi-metre sea-level rise appears likely.
Billions of people live in coastal regions, making flooding due to rising sea levels one of the greatest long-term impacts of the climate crisis.
If Greenland's record melt year of 2012 becomes a routine occurrence later this century, as is possible, then the ice cap will deliver a "staggering" 78cm of sea-level rise, the scientists said.
The 27cm estimate is a minimum because it only accounts for global heating so far and because some ways in which glacier ice is lost at the margins of the ice sheet are not included.
"The minimum of 27cm is the sea-level rise deficit that we have accrued to date and it's going to get paid out, no matter what we do going forward," said Dr William Colgan. "Whether it's coming in 100 years or 150 years, it's coming. And the sea-level rise we are committed to is growing at present, because of the climate trajectory we're on."
Mountain glaciers in the Himalayas and the Alps are already on course to lose a third and half of their ice respectively, while the west Antarctic ice sheet is also thought by some scientists to be past the point at which major losses are inevitable. Warming oceans also expand, adding to sea-level rise.
"There is growing support in the scientific literature for multi-metre levels of rise within the next 100 to 200 years," said Colgan. A collapse of the colossal east Antarctic ice sheet, which would lead to a 52 metre (170 foot) rise in sea levels if it all melted, could be averted if rapid climate action is taken.
Tags antarctica, arctic, glaciers, greenland, impact, intro, sea level rise


Skincare is something that can be a growing concern as quite a few men and women age.If you are youthful, a lot of people tend not to think about their skin and this can lead to a variety of problems. In case you get skincare steps early, you will have a much better chance of having skin you really like as you get older.
Quite a few men and women are constantly on the lookout for the newest and greatest merchandise that are available for skincare. You could possibly have spent a great deal of money trying to find the most beneficial merchandise for your skin kind.You don't need to shell out a ton of money to have the most beneficial results and virtually anyone can achieve far better skin with skincare steps.You will need to design a plan for your skincare steps and be sure it is something that is manageable and that you will follow each day. In case you design a plan that is too significantly or tough, the chances are you will abandon your skincare routine all together and this can affect the look of your skin. You could possibly need to look at what others are doing each day and see if you'll find some things that you'll be able to take from them to help you you with your own personal routine.One of the greatest skincare steps you'll be able to take is always to find a fantastic skincare line that you enjoy using. You don't need to sacrifice your money and this may take a while and research on your portion. You don't need to settle for the first product that you find and it is always a fantastic notion to find out a lot more about any product you plan on purchasing. You'll be able to simply find a lot of information on the internet and this could be a fantastic location to begin to find out a lot more about any product.You will need to get a great cleanser as part of your skincare steps ought to include keeping your skin clear so you will need to do this at least twice each day. In case you have problematic skin you will need to look for a cleanser that is combative to this difficulty and something that won't make problem skin worse.You can find numerous skincare steps you'll be able to take to help you strengthen the look and feel of your skin. In case you have not uncovered a fantastic skincare line, keep looking, it may take a long time before you find the product that is right for your skin.
Exactly how Are you able to Benefit From Normal Skinsational These days?
Precisely how Are you able to Benefit From Organic Skinsational Nowadays?
Although the market is filled with a plethora of diverse skin remedies and merchandise to try out, quite a few are extremely overpriced and supply minor results. If you are trying to find effective anti-aging treatments that can eliminate acne at the exact same time with out spending a lot of money, Organic Skinsational may be the solution.The very first thing you will discover with this recipe ebook is really a products that in fact delivers. Instead of 'dealing' with your aging skin, it is possible to take benefit of effective anti-aging therapies and defense due to the science of herbal lore. This may quickly and effectively address each and every of the signs and symptoms your skin is dealing with which includes fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and sagging skin.In addition to herbal lore, your skin may also benefit from all-natural rejuvenating qualities of herbs that can battle degeneration. What these properties will do is stimulate healing, collagen manufacturing, and provide antioxidant protection towards the signs you dread such as aging, skin harm and deterioration. The issue with a lot of merchandise and programs these days is that they may be filled with chemicals many people are clueless about. With Organic Skinsational, your skin will be nourished with potent antioxidants and nutrients which can be entirely all-natural. As a consequence, it's going to help stimulate cell regeneration.A number of the most fundamental goods all around your home might act as a great skin care remedy. With correct guidance from this recipe ebook, it is possible to determine fast and effortless skin care recipes using ingredients that can be present in your individual kitchen. It truly is wonderful what kind of merchandise have established all-natural anti-aging attributes.Due to the fact everyone's skin is diverse and reacts in a different way to remedy, it really is great to understand there are several possibilities lying right in your very individual residence. You can turn your kitchen into a creative and exciting home spa with good quality facial therapies. You may be shocked at how effective these merchandise will be with dealing with a wide selection of aging skin care issues.And at the end of the day, you will conserve an awesome deal of money in comparison with other merchandise and information books. The price tag of taking care of your skin could quickly add up should you will not be watchful. But with Organic Skinsational, it is possible to gain access to countless recipes for a minute price tag.There's no sense in spending numerous bucks every year on merchandise that may or may not provide any results whatsoever. Organic Skinsational presents quite a few recipes based off of fundamental goods in the kitchen that can and will eliminate fine lines, wrinkles and age spots for a little price.
Skincare sites may help you tremendously should you are looking to improve your skin. In the event you have been neglecting your skin in the past, it really is not too late to begin to change this and get control of your skin.It is possible to reverse the indicators of the times and the sooner you begin, the sooner you will reap the results.In the event you are already using a product you really like you are able to easily go to this goods web site and see if they offer any suggestions you are able to use to assist you with any skin troubles you're having. You could possibly find that this can offer a great amount of sources that you are able to use at your convenience. You could possibly find out numerous new things that you didn't previously know and this can help you to utilize your current skincare routine to the fullest.In the event you do not have a product that you're currently using, skincare sites could be capable to assist you find the products that you might have been looking for. Many folks invest years looking for a product that will aid strengthen their skin plus they normally do this by trial and error. You are able to preserve a remarkable amount of time and money by visiting the web site of the product you're interested in and doing some study here to find out much more, rather then spending the money to find out that the product just isn't what you expected.Skincare sites may also be the place to find unique deals, or promotions that are not advertised to the normal public. You could possibly wish to join for any mailing list that is obtainable so you are going to be notified when there may be a special event or promotion. This may help you to obtain an insiders view of the web site you're interested in and get all of the best reductions.You are going to wish to go to skincare sites often to check for the newest additions and to find out if you can find any new promotions. This can help you to preserve money and get all of the goods you desire. An internet site can change at any time and it really is up to you to visit often and keep up with any adjustments.Skincare sites provide you with an invaluable resource. Not only will a web site help you make a very good decision about your skincare, it may also keep you informed about any promotions that could be occurring and this can help you preserve money and time.


text:
SYNONYM

#### According to
The Catalogue of Life, 3rd January 2011

#### Published in
Fl. Filip. ed. 2:503. 1845

#### Original name
null

### Remarks
null

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Shoes coupons and Shoes deals will help you save when you shop online. We encourage you to always check this page for new coupons as we are constantly adding new ones here.
Limited Time: Save Up to 33% on Men's Cabela's Hunt Apparel.
Cabela's Men's Hunting Boots are now on sale. Save Up to $50!
Save up to 50% with this coupon on NEW Markdowns - Boots, Clogs, Casuals + more, at The Walking Company.
Get up to 75% Off on Boots and Booties at Famous Footwear.
Save up to 60% on Cabela's Giant Huntingwear Sale. This sale will be opened for all types of hunting clothing and apparel for all hunting seasons. No matter what type of hunting you prefer you'll be covered at Cabela's, and if you take into consideration the Free Shipping on $49+ offer, this is something that can't be missed.
Spend $49 and receive an additional 20% off + Free Shipping on all Cabela's Branded Products! Use Code at checkout.
End of Season Sale at The Walking Company! Save up to 70% on boots, casuals, athletic styles & more!
Save an additional 20% off + Free Shipping on all orders over $99 on Cabela's Branded Clothing & Footwear.
Save up to 25% on Under Armour select hunt and casual clothing (Hoodies, Pants, Jackets and more) at Cabela's.
Save up to 50% on Men's and Women's Hiking Boots/Shoes at Cabelas.com!
Save up to 50% on hundreds of sandals, athletic, casuals & more from your favorite comfort brands. Prices starting from $59 at The Walking Company.
Shop new sneaker arrivals from your favorite comfort brands like Dansko, ECCO, Taos & more and save up to $50 during Summer Sale + Free Shipping at The Walking Company!
Save an Additional 10% on all Clothing and Footwear at Cabela's + your entire order ships for a Penny on orders worth $49+! Use code at checkout.
Up to 50% Off - Spring/Summer collection Sale at Mango.
Get 10% off select new & now products at Boden USA with promo code.
ABEO Sandal Sale! Save up to 45% + Free Shipping at The Walking Company.
Save up to 60% at Cabela's during their Spring Fever Sale.
Get Free Shipping on Clothing & Footwear on orders worth $49 or more.
The Big Boot Sale - Save up to 55% on over 450 styles from UGG, Dansko, ABEO & more at The Walking Company.
Cyber Weekend Sale! Shop Now and Take 30% off your order. Use code at checkout.
This Black Friday take 30% off + Free Shipping on orders over $49! Use code at checkout.
New VIP Member Exclusive - Sign up with JustFab and get 2 pairs of shoes for just $29.95 + Free shipping!
Shop Charles Tyrwhit and get Free Shipping on orders over $75. Save up to $14.95!
Get $5 Shipping at Cabelas.com on any orders over $99, including ammo, enter promotion code during checkout!
Never Stop Exploring with The North Face. Expert gear for climbers, mountaineers, extreme skiers, snowboarders, endurance runners, and explorers. Get the best price at Cabela's Canada.
Get free shipping on orders worth $99 or more with code at checkout. Shop Tees, Skirts & more at GuessFactory.
Get an extra 20% off all orders at Guess Factory.
Check out the Everyday Value category from Cabela's and take advantage of great prices on many outdoor products.
Cabela's believes that quality should not be sacrificed for price and this should be the best way to prove it.
Find tents, trail cameras, coolers, boots, clothing, fishing gear and more at great prices and good quality.
Get $20 Cabela's Bucks when you spend $150 or more online or in store. Plus, get free shipping on orders over $99 with promo code on checkout.
Sign Up & Save 25% on $139+ orders plus Free Shipping! Use code at checkout. Some exclusions may apply, see site for details.
Save up to 50% on over 150 Dansko styles and new markdowns at The Walking Company.
Shop New Charles Tyrwhit shity collection and get 4 shirts for $199.
Save 25% on all shoes at Road Runner Sports when you sign up on their website.
Save 10% sitewide at RoadRunnerSports.com + free shipping.
Save 11% on R-Gear + Free Shipping at Road Runner Sports!
Enjoy $1 Shipping on all orders at JoesNewBalanceOutlet.com (no code necessary). Some exclusions may apply.
Save an extra 25% on All Sale & Clearance items at TheWalkingCompany.com! Find great styles for women and men from great brands including UGG� Australia, Dansko, ECCO, ABEO, Umberto Raffini and much more!
Take 20% off almost everything at Moosejaw. Shop spring styles from top brands like Marmot, Mountain Hardwear, Icebreaker, Lole and Prana (and tons more) all at 20% off.
Buy any regular priced ABEO 3D3 Performance Orthotics and Save 50% on a 2nd pair!
Save 15% off everything at Charles Tyrwhitt with one of the highest percent off offers that have ever been available.
Take advantage of Tilly's sale and save an extra 50% off shoes and accessories!
Final Winter Clearance at Cabela's Canada - Hundreds of Items on Sale. Hurry & Save!
Save $25 on ABEO SMARTsystem walking shoes! ABEO SMARTsystem features an innovative collection of walking shoes and casuals perfect for everyday wear.
Get 20% off 1 regular priced item at PacSun.com with promo code.
Save an extra 30 to 50% with Men's Markdowns at PacSun.com! Offer is available for a limited time only and it includes items from men's wear categories like tees, shirts, jackets, shoes and many more!
Take an additional 30 to 50% Off markdowns on women's clothing for a limited time at PacSun.
Shoes Coupon Codes - you must enter the coupon code during your checkout process. Make sure it was accepted and the expected discount was applied to your order.
Shoes Coupons with no special codes - these coupons will be automatically added as discount during your checkout process. No special action required from your part. Click on the button near the coupon and you'll automatically enable the coupon.
Shoes Deals & Special Offers - deals & special offers may be available from time to time. Sometime these deals expire at the end of the day or week, sometimes they are available for a limited time or sometimes they are always available. Click on the button near the coupon and All Coupon Codes will automatically redirect you to the deal offered.
Shoes Free Shipping Coupons - if free shipping is offered then it should always be reflected during your checkout process at the shipping charges page.


Weight Loss Training: When you sign on to get Shrinked you are embarking on a journey that will set you on the path to achieve your weight loss goals. With the Shrinked Team of Psychologists, Doctors, Nutrition and Exercise Scientists and Neuroscientists you will complete weekly videos and activities as part of your training. From planning and preparation through to action and setting up for maintenance, you will be guided through the changes that can revolutionise your approach to your health, fitness and wellbeing.
We will NOT just tell you what to eat and how to exercise. You will NOT see any of the Shrinked Team wearing bikinis or telling you how to 'get your bikini body'. We understand that this undermines your struggles with your weight. Instead we WILL clarify food and exercise related myths, before focusing on how you can make your brain work for you. Through Shrinked you will learn how to use your brain to optimise your metabolism AND get back in control of your choices!
The Shrinked training is delivered over 14 weekly modules, with each module designed to build on the previous content and provide the skills, knowledge and motivation to help you lose weight, form new habits and continue to make progress on your weight loss journey.
You'll have access to the Shrinked training and all the resources that go with it for as long as you are subscribed, however, so there is no need to rush your journey! We understand that everyone progresses at their own pace and no two journeys are exactly the same, so you can revisit modules, specific lessons, or even redo the entire program! Whatever you need to focus on making changes that will stick.
You'll also have access to the Shrinked community to help you stay focused, maintain your motivation, seek inspiration and find the answers that will help you on your journey. The community forums will give you direct contact with Shrinked's panel of experts, as well as the support and advice of fellow Shrinkers! So for as long as you need the support, and however long your weight loss journey may take, you can have access to the training, resources and community that is Shrinked. And when you decide that you've achieved your goals or no longer need the support you can stop your subscription at any time.
and long-term change requires a more holistic approach.
who truly believe that there is more to their life than the one they are living right now.
be a part of the plan that helps you create the life you want to live.


text:
Wrightstown school board gets surprises: New leader, parental opposition to mask mandate
Posted at 9:45 a.m. on May 20, 2021
WRIGHTSTOWN - Most meetings of the Wrightstown Board of Education are routine, programmed and predictable. But not the one on Wednesday, May 19.
If it was a multiple choice question, the answer would have been "none of the above."
It began when Board President Mike Van Eperen laid out strict rules for citizens who wanted to address the board - including a time limit of three minutes per speaker.
It was one of Van Eperen's final acts as board president. Five minutes later, on a 4-3 secret ballot, the board replaced Van Eperen as board president with board member Tom Eggert.
[<< Ed Byrne/BN photo of new WCSD school board President Tom Eggert]
Then, after a presentation on the high school's FBLA chapter, the floor was opened up for public comment.
Parents and one high school student then delivered a strong message: Parents, not the school district, should determine whether a child has to wear a face covering in school.
The first speaker, a construction company employee, countered the school mask mandate issued by the federal Centers for Disease Control, with a mandate by another federal agency - the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
Using a hand-held workplace oxygen sensor, he showed that the air under a mask is so low on oxygen that OSHA rules consider it dangerous.
When the open forum closed, and a discussion of the mask mandate and summer school followed, it was clear that the majority of school board members sided with the citizens who spoke.
[<< Ed Byrne/BN photo of an unmasked parent speaker]
No formal vote was taken, but Superintendent Carla Buboltz said she sensed that "parental choice" was the board's prevailing sentiment.
However, she raised another concern: whether teachers - already in short supply for the three-week summer school session in June - would opt out of teaching summer school classes, wiping out the program, if the mask mandate was removed.
The board listened for an hour as administrators presented a detailed outline of everything the district did during the 2020-2021 school year to accommodate rules imposed by federal, state and county health officials. Although it was often self-congratulatory, and justifiably so given the fact that students were in school all year, it also presented a clear picture of the minefield the schools had to navigate as outside agencies issued ever-changing edicts for the schools to follow.
The presentation also noted that the Wrightstown Community Schhols were the only public schools in Brown County that had in-person, face-to-face instruction five days a week for the entire school year.
~ Ed Byrne/BN wrote this report as an on-line news brief. The complete story, with updates, will be featured in the May 27 print edition of THE BRILLION NEWS.
Teenager missing from Wrightstown, officials ask for public help


Yes, Birake offer a cryptocurrency exchange solution, but it is unlike anything that has come before it! Much like other innovations that have proceeded, the Birake network is set to revolutionize how investors, holders and users trade cryptocurrency assets.
Birake introduce an innovative shared exchange network concept with shared central database opening new possibilities to how cryptocurrency is traded. By offering exchanges on a network, traders on a Birake operated exchange will make use of a cross networked order book and exchange liquidity enabling swift fulfillment of a trade at the best possible price. With exchanges 'plugging in' to the Birake network worldwide, the Birake network is aiming to grow to offer industry leading exchange volume traded and coins offered. Backed by the Graphene Blockchain, exchanges operating on the Birake network can handle 100,000 transactions per second providing users with an incredibly responsive real time cryptocurrency trading experience creating a truly scalable concept and trading ecosystem.
What does the shared network mean for you, the trader?
Let's say you use exchange 'A' - it offers the coins you have interest in, it offers features you like, or it is closely bound to a platform that you use. You set a buy order on exchange 'A' and await for this to be filled. The moment this buy order has been sent, your buy order also appears on Exchange 'B', 'C', 'D' and 'E'. A seller of that coin on Exchange 'E' can sell you their coins on their exchange, where they will be bought and appear in your account in Exchange 'A', providing you with the fastest order fulfillment through the large networked web offered by Birake.
At Birake, we strongly believe in the future of cryptocurrency and its main strength: the decentralization! By allowing the market to be controlled by a single (or very few) privately owned exchanges goes against this strength, which is why we think that everyone should be able to create their own exchange and that the orders should be openly shared across all exchanges in the market.


Last Friday, I wrote about the fragility of complex systems and how they can collapse. Currently, the most complex and fragile of our American systems is Obamacare. And it's collapsing before it can even be implemented.
I'm frequently asked if Obamacare can be repealed. I like to respond by saying, Obamacare is destroying itself. It's so complex and byzantine that the government is struggling to implement the law.
The next big challenge on the calendar is the deadline to have health insurance exchanges operational by October 1, 2013. The full implementation of Obamacare is supposed to happen January 1, 2014. But how are the 45 million uninsured Americans supposed to sign up if there isn't a place to sign up?
This week we heard from the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO). Their report on the exchanges was ugly. The health insurance exchanges being created by the federal government for more than 30 states will likely miss the October 1 deadline.
These health insurance exchanges are projected to provide health coverage for seven million people in 2014 and 22 million by 2016. But it's becoming obvious Obama's crown jewel policy achievement is shattered and in ruins.
According to the GAO, vital parts of the computer systems running the exchanges remain unfinished. This means the government has no way to know who's even eligible for the federal subsidies. They have no system to monitor insurance plans for compliance with the mountains of new regulations.
Health insurance rates are doubling, tripling and even quadrupling. Any affordability in the Affordable Care Act was a mirage. In some cases, insurance companies are even suspending the sale of individual policies. Aetna has announced that it's pulling the plug on California.
Worse yet, the existing healthcare system is also unraveling. The question is: Will Obamacare opponents be able to use this vulnerability to finally kill the beast?
This much is obvious: Opponents of Obamacare don't have much courage. If they did, Obamacare would already be gone. In order to push Obama hard enough to induce full repeal, they'll have to go to the mat and shut down the government, much like Newt Gingrich did to Bill Clinton. Unfortunately, John Boehner is no Newt Gingrich. So I foresee a series of half-measures taking shape instead.
The House of Representatives may vote to repeal the individual mandate. The mandate is what makes the law unpopular with voters. But the House should also pass a bill proposed by Georgia Rep. Tom Price to cut off funding to enlarge the Internal Revenue Service. No IRS expansion, no enforcement of Obamacare. Americans never have liked the IRS. They like it even less under Obama's aggressive tax collection policies.
Obama will never agree to a full repeal, but as the problems continue to mount, he could choose to come to the table and repeal the most onerous provisions of the law. Total repeal will have to wait until he's out of office. He would veto any plan to fully repeal it.
The best plan of action is to not aid Obama and try to fix it piecemeal. Allow it to fail in full view so voters become committed to total repeal. The current Obamacare system is unfixable and the sooner the problems come to light, the sooner all will see that the entire system is broken beyond repair.
Daniel Somers was a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was part of Task Force Lightning, an intelligence unit. In 2004-2005, he was mainly assigned to a Tactical Human-Intelligence Team (THT) in Baghdad, Iraq, where he ran more than 400 combat missions as a machine gunner in the turret of a Humvee, interviewed countless Iraqis ranging from concerned citizens to community leaders and government officials, and interrogated dozens of insurgents and terrorist suspects. In 2006-2007, Daniel worked with Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) through his former unit in Mosul where he ran the Northern Iraq Intelligence Center. His official role was as a senior analyst for the Levant (Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel, and part of Turkey). Daniel suffered greatly from PTSD and had been diagnosed with traumatic brain injury and several other war-related conditions. On June 10, 2013, Daniel wrote the following letter to his family before taking his life. Daniel was 30 years old. His wife and family have given permission to publish it.
The fact is, for as long as I can remember my motivation for getting up every day has been so that you would not have to bury me. As things have continued to get worse, it has become clear that this alone is not a sufficient reason to carry on. The fact is, I am not getting better, I am not going to get better, and I will most certainly deteriorate further as time goes on. From a logical standpoint, it is better to simply end things quickly and let any repercussions from that play out in the short-term than to drag things out into the long-term.
"If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear." This is the mentality shared by a growing number of Americans who would allow government to run roughshod over their rights, rather than raise concern about the vast expansion of the Surveillance State in the past decade. To this cadre of citizens, government knows best as its leaders implore us to "trust them" while they pursue the "bad guys" on our behalf.
The admonition to "trust us" is more than a simple justification of government malfeasance. Big Government cheerleaders use it to "freedom-shame" their critics by setting up a straw-man argument that if one opposes surreptitious surveillance or illegal methods of law enforcement investigations, one obviously must be guilty of some crime they wish to hide. After all, how can you not "trust" Uncle Sam in this 21st Century? How can one be skeptical of a government so benevolent it has gone $17 trillion in debt caring for us?
Clearly, our Founding Fathers understood the fundamental nature of government: that, as an institution, government seeks power. They knew also that power, once obtained, tends to corrupt, hence the checks and balances built into in our constitutional republic.
Yet, in our post-9/11 world, the will to demand government operate within the law and the Constitution, and the courage to criticize it when it appears not to so operate, too often is trumped by fear. Fear in myriad permutations – fear of terrorist attacks, fear of crime, fear of accidents, fear of . . . you name it.
As Edmund Burke understood in 1757, "no passion so effectively robs the mind of all its powers of acting and reasoning as fear." Unfortunately, government leaders today — as in 1776 when John Adams noted that "fear is the foundation of most governments" – understand this fact all too well.


1Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9"x5" loaf pan with nonstick spray.
2In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, spices, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, oil, milk, eggs and vanilla.
3Add the wet ingredients to the dry along with a few handfuls of chocolate chips and/or nuts, if you're so inclined, and stir just until the batter comes together.
4 Scrape into the prepared pan and bake for an hour, until the top is cracked and springy to the touch.


text:
My Alerts / Saved Searches
8 Business jobs - New Jersey, United States
Browse for Business Jobs in New Jersey, United States. Find the job of your dreams on The Project Management Job Board today!
Lead IT Business Analyst
Princeton, NJ US
Overview Princeton University is like a mini city with complex operations t...
Lead Business Solutions Analyst (PMO)
OverviewPrinceton University is like a mini city with complex operations th...
Associate CIO, Project and Technology...
OverviewReporting to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chie...
OverviewPrinceton University is like a mini city with complex operations that enable the pursuit of our research and educational mission. Transforming and streamlining key business processes and systems are high priorities as we seek to deliver essential services to a growing number of students, fac...
OverviewPrinceton University is like a mini city with complex operations that enable the pursuit of our research and educational mission....
Overview Princeton University is like a mini city with complex operations that enable the pursuit of our research and educational mission. Transforming and streamlining key business processes and systems are high priorities as we seek to deliver essential services to a growing number of students, fa...
Overview Princeton University is like a mini city with complex operations that enable the pursuit of our research and educational mission....
Associate CIO, Project and Technology Consulting Services
Overview Reporting to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, the Associate CIO for the Project and Technology Consulting Office leads an organization of project consulting resources and oversees a complex and broad portfolio of strategic and high impact projects...
Overview Reporting to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, the Associate CIO for the Project and...
OverviewReporting to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, the Associate CIO for the Project and Technology Consulting Office leads an organization of project consulting resources and oversees a complex and broad portfolio of strategic and high impact projects ...
OverviewReporting to the Vice President for Information Technology and Chief Information Officer, the Associate CIO for the Project and Technology...
Account Executive - Enterprise Accounts
Convergint Technologies
Clifton, NJ US
**Description** Convergint is looking for a full-time, enthusiastic, results driven and forward-thinking Account Executive to join our amazing culture. In this role, you will prospect and cultivate new relationships, gaining an understanding of our clients needs while securing sales opportuni...
**Description** Convergint is looking for a full-time, enthusiastic, results driven and forward-thinking Account Executive to join our...
Account Executive - Healthcare (NJ)
Service Account Executive
**Description** Convergint is looking for a full-time, enthusiastic, results driven and forward-thinking Account Executive to join our amazing culture. In this role, you will be responsible for generating new Customer Support Program service agreements (CSPs) through the acquisition of new ac...
Convergint Development Program -Clifton, NJ
**Description** **Who You Are** You have a passion for providing world-class service to customers, colleagues and communities. You are a person of integrity with a commitment to growth, accountability and delivering results. You want to join an organization with a positive culture that...
**Description** **Who You Are** You have a passion for providing world-class service to customers, colleagues and communities. You...
Biotechnology / Science
Employment Trends


FEATURED WRITING IS CURRENTLY ON HOLD WHILE THE EDITORS FOCUS ON LIFE, FAMILY, AND THE MAGAZINE PROPER.
Sometimes we receive really excellent writing that just doesn't seem to fit in with the developing current issue. Other times, we find writing that we have to showcase in more than just the magazine. For those wonderful pieces, we have our Featured Writing page.
For Featured Writing, we will choose an example of Creative Nonfiction Writing at its finest.
We will occasionally feature work from the editors or other sources, but we ultimately want to show off the whole community of Creative Nonfiction Writers–not just this small corner.
There may be some months that nothing is featured, but rest assured there are fascinating words coming. Perhaps even from a reader like you.
To submit to Embodied Effigies, please visit our Submissions Page.


This past month, Jamie's mom died of cancer.
Jamie's blog has had guest posts up all month about tough and tenderness.
Definitley worth reading. Jamie's blog, Jamie Ridler Studios.
Lots makes sense here already for me. I was surprised at the lightness of the board. It does look like everything goes together. And is moving forward. Perhaps my thoughts are more collected right now with summer time air and space to enjoy and reflect in.
I will link up when it's ready over at Jamie's.


Question time. Where is transformation? What is the virtual intersection of heart and head for your business?
Tip: It's here where you find passion, innovation, service and satisfaction. It's often the "secret sauce" of your business.
If your enterprise did not exist, what would the rest of us be missing? And, thank goodness your business does exist, because now we can sample and realize that something special does happens at your company. Your secret sauce brings out the best of your team members and those you serve.
How do you describe it? How do you define it? How do you view what is most valuable to your organization and the marketplace? You must frame it on your terms. Focus it forward (like this image). This simple hand exercise brings you into the future of your enterprise. Keeping it simple, here are 10 ways to see, reflect and value your future. Answer these questions and see the clarity they bring.
What are the values that really mean something in your business?
What culture do those values live in? How do others describe it?
What's cookin' in your culture? You can sense it, smell it and taste it.
How do you bring forth new ideas and innovation?
What constitutes a win? And, how do you celebrate them?
How do you handle losses? Is the pick-yourself-up a learning exercise?
What unique mixture of old and new seems to be at work?
How do you track what's happening? Measure the keys.
How can you keep it going? Know how to feed the excitement?
Why is it so special? To you and to them?
At SA – Strategic America – we ask ourselves these types of questions as we continue to adapt—directly and intuitively – to the needs and forces of a very dynamic marketplace. We know that companies across the board are doing this, as well. Watch what is happening with JCPenney. It's in a re-positioning that will vitally change this company. My guess is, for the better.
SA's mission of "finding a better way, always" is similar to others (such as Hulu) who learn to embrace innovation and continuously live there. A recent 4A's conference featured speakers from various companies and firms across the spectrum – agencies, media, technology firms like Google and others – all of whom in one way or another shared their views of a transformative time. I have a suggestion, an offer. If you're looking to answer some of these questions above, let's get together and talk. We'd like to find out more about you, your future and the way you personally define success.
I could write about each of the above, but the real value comes in passing it along to you and letting the thought process begin. We know that when the 'magic' of business takes over, marvelous things can happen.


text:
US Consumer Spending Rose a Moderate 1.9% in July
AP News News U.S.
WASHINGTON — U.S. consumers increased their spending by 1.9% last month, a dose of support for an economy struggling to emerge from the grip of a pandemic that has held back a recovery and kept roughly 27 million people jobless.
The July gain marked the third straight monthly increase in consumer spending, the primary driver of the U.S. economy, but represented a slowdown from the previous two months.
The July gain marked the third straight monthly increase in consumer spending, the primary driver of the U.S. economy, but represented a slowdown from the previous two months. Friday's report from the Commerce Department also showed that income rose 0.4% in July after two months of declines.
The consumer spending report arrives amid a hazy economic landscape, with high unemployment, struggling businesses and deep uncertainty about when the health crisis will be solved and when people and companies will feel confident enough to spend and hire normally again. It also comes weeks after the expiration of a $600-a-week federal unemployment benefit deprived millions of a key source of income and dimmed the outlook for consumer spending.
Real-time tracking data from JPMorgan Chase shows that credit and debit card spending had softened by early this month in states with high unemployment compared with states with lower unemployment. But Chase economists said they saw little sign that the expiration of the $600 benefit has so far caused any major economic setback. Chase said its tracker of growth in spending by 30 million Chase card holders compared with a year ago had actually risen slightly since the $600 benefit expired late last month.
But economists have warned of more severe consequences if Congress fails to resolve a political impasse and reinstate federal unemployment benefits.
Home and Auto Sales Have Been Strong. Stock Prices Have Set Record Highs.
"The steep decline in federal support for unemployed workers and heightened uncertainty will depress consumer confidence and spending and weigh on the broader economic recovery," said Lydia Boussour, senior U.S. economist at Oxford Economics.
After enacting a massive financial rescue package in March, congressional Republicans and Democrats have failed to agree on allocating more aid to the unemployed and to struggling states and localities. President Donald Trump signed an executive order offering a stripped-down version of the unemployment benefit. At least 39 states have accepted or said that they would apply for federal grants that let them increase weekly benefits by $300 or $400. But it's unclear how soon that money will actually get to people or how long it will last.
In the meantime, the economy, after a catastrophic fall in the April-June quarter, is likely expanding again. Home and auto sales have been strong. Stock prices have set record highs.
But a persistently high level of confirmed viral cases has damaged several industries, especially those involved with travel, tourism and entertainment, and is holding back growth. On Thursday, the government said roughly 1 million people applied for unemployment benefits last week — a historically high level that has prevailed for weeks.
Friday's Spending Report Showed That the Fed's Preferred Inflation Gauge Was up Just 1% in July
The Conference Board, a business research group, reported this week that consumer confidence has tumbled to its lowest level since 2014. And in survey results released this week by the National Association for Business Economics, two-thirds of economists who were polled said they thought the economy remains in recession. Nearly half said they didn't expect it to return to pre-pandemic levels until mid-2022.
Friday's spending report showed that the Fed's preferred inflation gauge was up just 1% in July compared with a year ago — just half the Fed's 2% target.
On Thursday, the Federal Reserve announced a major change in how it manages interest rates by saying it plans to keep rates near zero even after inflation has exceeded its 2% target level to help support the economy. The change means that borrowing rates for households and businesses — for everything from auto loans and home mortgages to corporate expansion — will likely remain ultra-low for years to come. Behind the Fed's thinking is a stubbornly low inflation rate that has long defied its efforts to raise it and a belief that an exceedingly low jobless rate is critically important for the economy and for individual Americans.
The 0.4% rise in personal incomes in July followed declines of 1% in June and 4.2% in May after a 12.2% surge in April. Those shifts reflected government support in the form of the unemployment aid and $1,200 stimulus checks that went to many households. This assistance was part of the $3 trillion in relief packages that Congress enacted in response to the tens of millions of jobs that vanished in the recession and the sudden loss of revenue for millions of businesses.
The portion of income made up of wages and salaries part of incomes rose 1.4% in July, lower than the May and June gains, while government support payments fell 1.7%.
Related Topics:consumerscoronavirusEconomyunemployment
California Moves To Consider Reparations for Slavery
Mercedes Gets Big Electric Van Order From Amazon
Fresno Pacific Classes Back Online Because of Omicron Surge
Fresno, Kern Residents Win $50K Each in Vaccination Lottery
US Unemployment Claims Fall to 376,000, Sixth Straight Drop
Opinion: Newsom Owes Apology for Unemployment Office Failings
US Jobless Claims Fall to 547,000, Another Pandemic Low
US Stocks Rise to Records on More Proof of Economic Recovery
Local2 days ago


As any student of art history knows, stylistic and cultural labels can be difficult to define. Stylistically speaking, what's "Gothic" in France in 1150 may be considered "Romanesque" at the same date in Italy, while the parameters for ethnic, religious, or other cultural communities can vary even more dramatically. Still, because we've observed that students and other new users of the Index may find such labels helpful in narrowing and exploring search results, we've elected to keep them in our new database, consulting authorities such as the Getty Art and Architecture Thesaurus and even current medieval art textbooks to refine how we apply them. If you'd like to learn more about why we applied a particular "Style/Culture" label to a work of art, you can look at the authority record for that label.
Because style and culture terms remain subjective even in the best of circumstances, they may not yield precise results and are most usefully applied when you are searching broadly to learn how a subject was represented in a particular period or cultural sphere, rather than to search for a particular example. You might find, for example, that searching for a frequently represented subject such as "Virgin Mary: Annunciation" delivers an intimidating 2500+ results. However, if what you really wanted was to see examples of how the Annunciation was depicted in Byzantine art, narrowing the results by using the "Style/Culture" delimiter "Byzantine" reduces this to a much more manageable—and more relevant—list of 276 records.
Some delimiters will still deliver a high number of results (try using "Gothic" instead of "Byzantine" to see what we mean), but you can refine these further by using additional filters—such as Date, Location, or Medium—when you're ready for more specificity. To apply the Style/Culture filter, type a search term into the free text field at the upper right of the search window. On the results page, choose the "Filters" option, then in the "Style/Culture filter, begin typing the term you're looking for—the system will auto-complete the term, if it exists—and then, once you've selected the term you want, simply click "Search." The filtered results will appear below.
If you'd like to view a complete list of Style/Culture terms currently used by the Index, click on "Browse" at the top of the window and then choose Style/Culture. To expedite your search for a particular term, type it into the search line at the top of the list.
As always, if you have questions or comments about the Index of Medieval Art database, please contact theindex@princeton.edu. We're here to help, and we want to know what you think.


Click Here to complete the Like/Likes Exercises.
Click Here for More Lyrics Practice.
Click Here to Complete the Lyrics of this Fantastic Song.
Click Here to do Some Classroom Objects Exercises.
Learn and Have fun watching this video.


Do tu think that Snow White (Kristen Stewart) is the fairest of them all ?
Does Snow White's descripción (Skin snow white, with lips red as blood and hair black as a raven's wing) apply to you, too ?
la elección de los fans: No, I look totally different.
If tu were Snow White, who would tu want to be with?
Are tu glad that Kristen's gonna be in Snow White and the Huntsman 2 ?
la elección de los fans: Yes, totally!
Will a segundo book come out?
If tu were scratching your head wondering how Snow White and the Huntsman could generate a sequel — dado that the evil queen, Charlize Theron, died at the hands of Kristen Stewart in the first film — then scratch no further.
The past ten months has been a busy period for the Brothers Grimm. During that period, there have been two televisión shows and two cine that featured their work. At least one televisión series and the two cine retold the literary pair's story about Snow White, including the reciente film, "SNOW WHITE AND THE HUNTSMAN".
Step 1: Start por applying a light, creamy silver shadow like Make Up Forever Aqua Cream in True Silver Shimmer ($23, Sephora.com) all over your lid and up to your crease line.
In one corner of the fairy tale-meets-Hollywood world, there is Kristen Stewart and mighty Universal Pictures. In the other, there is Julia Roberts and upstart Relativity Pictures. Both sides are pushing adelante, hacia adelante with "Snow White" adaptations. Only one can boast of having, in Stewart, one of the biggest young names in the business.
What is Snow White's mother's first name?
What is tu favorito! quote from the movie Snow White and the Hunstman?Why?


VersaCourt is one of the most versatile and dependable surfaces for outdoor and indoor sport courts, and it's now carried by Capitol Turf Pros. These high-quality tiles are a great way to create a long-lasting, attractive athletic court for any area. Whether it's basketball, shuffleboard, tennis, or more, Capitol Turf Pros is ready to install your new commercial or private court today. Don't play on worn-down asphalt or concrete—put in VersaCourt and change your play area forever.
If you're interested in our VersaCourt installation services in Maryland, contact Capitol Turf Pros today!
VersaCourt is made of an advanced polymer with a super grip surface for superior stability—even during rain. VersaCourt drains very well and dries quickly, meaning that it's a great choice for outdoor courts. The tiles connect using an advanced interlocking snapping technique, which means it's easy to put them together, but they won't come apart while being used. VersaCourt comes in many colors, and because of the UV protection on the tiles, your court will look crisp and bright for years to come.
VersaCourt is good for any type of court you can imagine—both indoor and out. Typically, basketball and tennis courts are the most popular uses of VersaCourt. Because of the flexible but sturdy surface, VersaCourt provides superior ball bounce and performance in comparison to surfaces like concrete and asphalt. And since the tiles are so durable, you can use VersaCourt for any area where you want a hard surface. VersaCourt is strong enough to be driven over and skateboarded on, so no matter what area you're thinking about redesigning, VersaCourt is as good an option as any other surface.
Don't think that VersaCourt is too hard to play on due to its durability. It has expansion joints and spring tabbing mechanisms for multi-directional flexibility. That means when you run and cut on VersaCourt, it gives just enough to relieve pressure on your joints and lower back.
If you're in Maryland, Washington, DC, or Northern Virginia, get in touch with Capitol Turf Pros to learn more about VersaCourt. Or, if you're looking for a full redesign of an area and need more than one surface, look at our commercial synthetic turf installation services as well.
Contact us online or call (240) 454-3794 to schedule a consultation today!


text:
Category Archives: Shipmates
Although happy to have escaped it, Glenn Huffman couldn't watch what was happening to his ship without feeling his heart sink.
"I heard someone say 'there she goes,' and we all looked," he said, adding that from where they were in the water, survivors of the USS Samuel B. Roberts had a good view as the destroyer escort disappeared beneath the Pacific…
You can read the full artice here: http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/ww2veterans/veterans-remember-glenn-huffman-survived-sinking-of-the-uss-samuel/article_0baf6ceb-733c-5771-a9d9-35c6c47f2db2.html
This entry was posted in Shipmates, Updates on November 14, 2017 by C R.
Membership Roster of Survivors (date uncertain)
Rating on Ship
Jackson D. Bishop
Electricians Mate Second Class
Anthony J. Blaszczyk
Chief Yeoman
Seaman First Class
William Branham
George Bray
Seaman Second Class
Robert R. Brennan
Radioman Third Class
Orban "Ray" Chambless
Signalman First Class
James F. "Bud" Comet
Peter Cooley
Sonarman Second Class
Oliver E. Coyle
Herbert E. Eskins
Elbert Gentry
Quartermaster Third Class
Vincent N. Goodrich
Sonarman Third Class
Louis A. Gould
James S. Graves
James W. Griggs
Robert M. "Mel" Harden
John E. "Red" Harrington
Boatswains Mate First Class
Adolph Herrera
E. Glenn Huffman
William Katsur
Fireman First Class
Adred C. Lenoir
Fireman Second Class
S.C. "Sam" McAdams, Jr.
Radarman Third Class
Harold R. McCarl
J. Dudley Moylan
James E. Myers
Thomas V. O'Hara
Robert E. Olson
Boilermaker First Class
James E. Patterson
Watertender Third Class
James M. Roberson
Everett "Bob" Roberts, Jr.
Richard K. Rohde
Albert Rosner
Thomas J. Stevenson, Jr.
Lieutenant Junior Grade
Doyle E. Tase
Everett L. Tomlinson
Harold G. Weiners
Gunners Mate Third Class
Edward J. Wheaton
Radio Technician Second Class
William H. "Bill" Wilson
Donald Young
Jack Yusen
This entry was posted in Shipmates, Survivors, Updates on November 30, 2012 by C R.
Painting honors ships, shipmates | Easton Star Democrat
[from the Easton (Md.) Star Democrat]
Painting honors ships, shipmates
Easton man unveils work honoring World War II ship
Published 5/31/98
John Harrington with the painting he presented at the reunion in Norfolk, Va., of the three USS Samuel B. Roberts ships – USS Copeland, USS Paulcarr and USS Sammie B.
By JANICE K. COLVIN
Queen Anne's Editor
EASTON – John Harrington likes to call them the Magnificent Teenagers. And they were teenagers, just 17 or 18 or 19, called to fight in the last Great War, a world at war for the second time in one century.
They were teens who had to grow up fast at a place called Leyte Gulf, as Gen. Douglas MacArthur slugged his way into the Philippines in October 1944. For three brutal days, Oct. 23-25, the Battle of Leyte Gulf raged. It was the longest, and last, great surface battle of the war. On both sides, Japanese and American, many ships were sunk, many men died.
It was long ago – over 50 years – but never forgotten by a group of men now in their 70s and 80s, Navy war veterans all. John Harrington of Easton was among them as they gathered in Norfolk, Va. two weeks ago to remember their fallen comrades and a ship that was sunk during the Battle of Leyte Gulf – the USS Samuel B. Roberts. Their ship.
At this reunion, Harrington had a special task – to unveil a painting depicting the three USS Samuel B. Roberts ships along with two other ships named to remember those who had served aboard and were connected to the "Sammie B.", as Harrington likes to call his former ship. These are the USS Copeland and USS Paulcarr.The ships named after the Sammie B.'s captain and gunner's mate.
Designed and painted by Don Young of Los Almos, a crewmate of Harrington's who also survived the sinking, the painting was presented during the reunion to the commanding officer of the third, and current,USS Samuel B. Roberts, newly arrived last month from service with the George Washington battle group. It will hang on the ship until decommissioning or go on to the next Sammie B.
Nothing could have touched the survivors' hearts more, said Harrington. "Grown men were crying" at the sight of the painting.
The idea for the painting originated with Harrington.
"I started thinking about this painting when an article in the 'Surface Warfare Magazine' showed the USS Copeland, Carr and third Sammy B. side by side."
Harrington's idea was a painting to show five ships, named for officers and enlisted men all connected to each other through the Sammie B. To his knowledge, it is the first time since about 1860 that a painting such as that as mentioned above – ships all connected through service – had been commissioned, said Harrington.
In 1944, Don Young happened to be on the same gun mount as Harrington as the ship went down. He too, was rescued after almost 50 hours in shark-infested waters. Young went home, to a new life, and lost touch with his crewmates.
Just last year, after all these years, Young discovered the survivors group, and they welcomed him back.
Perhaps you could call this meeting fate, perhaps divine intervention, but a fortuitous event for Harrington. "What we have done could not have been done without him," said Harrington. Harrington sent Young drawings of what he thought the painting should look like. Then he waited.
"It's just like having a baby," Harrington said, referring to the excitement of the final result. "This painting is the culmination of every dream I, as a Navy man, hold dear."
"No Higher Honor" is the motto on the painting. That's the motto of the third Sammie B. "Those words came from our commanding officer, Capt. Copeland, who said 'I can think of no higher honor than to command such a group of men.'"
Remembering those who died in the service of their country is important to Harrington and his former crewmates. Just a few years ago, they were all on hand in San Diego, Calif. at the unveiling of a monument to three ships that sank during the battle, killing 523 men – the destroyers USS Johnston and USS Hoel and their own destroyer escort USS Samuel B. Roberts. At the memorial, Harrington had the honor of reading a poem he wrote to remember those men, "A Monument to Remembrance," speaking as if in their place to all those assembled.
Last year, a monument was raised near there to honor the 1,000 who died from all 13 ships of Taffy 3, one group of ships supporting MacArthur's invasion, of which the USS Roberts was part. Other memorials have been raised, one for the carrier Gambier Bay, another for the carrier St. Lo, both sunk during the battle.
Such recognition and remembrance comes through perseverance. "Veterans who want to make things happen, can make things happen," he said.
"It isn't the easiest thing to do. Sometimes people don't like to remember, some didn't enjoy remembering."
Over the years, Harrington has tried to reestablish contact with crewmates and their families. In conducting his search for "lost" crewmates, Harrington found a special recognition program, which even local veterans organizations didn't know about, called the Presidential Memorial Certificate.
Started by the President John F. Kennedy in 1962, families of deceased World War II veterans from all branches who have been honorably discharged may receive a certificate, signed by the current President, to honor the veteran. The individually lettered and embossed certificate is suitable for framing.
"So few know about this," he added. "This is a beautiful thing, from a grateful nation." He requested and received certificates for 93 who served on the Sammie B., but is having a hard time locating the families. "It's extremely hard to find families after 54 or more years," he said. "It may take me the rest of my life."
(Those wishing to order a certificate may send the veteran's name, family address and daytime telephone number to: Office of Presidential Correspondence, Attention: Code VA-NCS, The White House, Washington, D.C. 20500; or call 202-565-4964. It is free.)
The certificates are written out in name only, no nickname, no rank. "Everything is equal," he said. "Men and women."
He shuffled through some papers. "This is a letter I got from someone. Her husband just died. He never talked to his children about what he went through. They never knew."
He begins to read another letter, from the now grown daughter of a man who died on the Sammie B. on one of those fateful days in October 1994, so long ago. She was one year old when her father was killed. She never knew the whole story behind what had happened to her father, why a ship could mean so much, and why this battle is seared like a brand into the minds of the survivors.
Reading it, it's just too much, and the emotions overwhelm Harrington – he can't continue. He passed the letter to his visitor. "You finish it," he said, his voice cracking. "It still breaks you up, it still breaks you up."
This entry was posted in Interviews, Shipmates, Updates on November 30, 2012 by C R.
Passing of Anthony Blaszczyk
We have learned of the passing of Anthony Blaszczyk, on Sunday Dec. 4, 2011.
Here is the link to the obituary of Anthony Blaszczyk. Thank you for your service. May you rest in peace. Our condolences to his family and friends.
To the Association's knowledge, nine living Survivors remain.
This entry was posted in Obituaries, Shipmates, Survivors, Updates and tagged 413, Battle, DE, Gulf, leyte, Roberts, Samar, Samuel on December 14, 2011 by C R.