Blog — Horticulture Is Awesome!
Hunters and gatherers have existed for thousands of years. We as a species relied heavily on it before the discovery of agriculture. In fact, our brains are still programed to notice patterns in nature so that we could be better foragers of this great planet. Creative exploration is central to science, art, and cognitive development (Yuval Hart, 2017). Today, we have become more resourceful in food production but that doesn't mean that our very own backyards lack a bountiful harvest. For this post I will focus on food; however, know that medicine, tools, and even wisdom can be found past the tree line of your urban environment.
Foraging requires patience, understanding, and most of all a strong background in identification. Anything is edible; somethings are only edible once! It is important that you know what you're harvesting from the land before you actually harvest it. Without proper identification, you could be putting you and those you love at risk of sickness and death. Also, know your environment. Places not far from urban development have high risk-factors of contamination, so be cautious and knowledgeable (Department of the Army, 2009). Purchase a field guide, and do plenty of research on native (and non-native) poisonous plants, mushrooms, and animals. Be sure you are not trespassing as well!
In East Texas, we are lucky to have such an abundance of edible plants and mushrooms. Many are chalk full of vitamins and nutrients, and they come with no monthly subscription, fee, or price. It's all yours if you're willing to work for it. Blackberries, greenbrier, sumac, mulberry, passion-vine, and cattails are a few plants I can name that are readily available (and this list doesn't include the medicinal ones). Oyster, morel, and chanterelles are commonly sought after mushrooms in this region that are prized edibles to the local foragers, too.
The vast majority of plants are neither edible nor poisonous, they're just not very palatable or digestible (Elpel, 2004). Until 12,000 years ago—i.e., before the Neolithic revolution—virtually all humanity lived as hunters and gatherers (Svizzero, 2016). This fact means we have thousands of years of plant-based knowledge, paired with the recent knowledge of how chemistry works. Why am I bringing this up? Because there is no excuse to risk death over a tasty looking plant while foraging. It cannot be stressed enough, and this blog is intended to stress the importance of that before you consider becoming a part-time forager. Education is the key ingredient of identification. Don't embarrass your ancestors.
What you need to know next is what parts are edible. Some plants have specialized storage units knows as tubers while others simply offer only edible flowers and buds. Some plants are only edible during certain seasons, and others all year-round. So, the best advice I can give is to research native edible plants in your area and make a field guide! Note plant parts, seasonal harvest conditions, cooking requirements, and anything else you may find useful in the field or during processing time. Processing is something with which we are all familiar, and if you are lucky enough to gain a bountiful harvest, you'll want to process your food. Pickling, drying, cooking, storing, canning, and freezing are included during this process. You'll sometimes spend twice the amount of time processing your foraged treasure as you did finding it.
Remember that your safety comes first. The internet can offer valuable information but only if it is coming from a reliable source. Wear proper clothing, have fun, and enjoy the benefits of finding free food while getting exercise and breathing in that amazing clean air!
Department of the Army. 2009. The Complete Guide to Edible Wild Plants.
Thomas J. Elpel. 2004. Primitive Living, Self-Sufficiency, and Survival Skills: A Field Guide to Primitive Living Skills.
Yuval Hart, Avraham E. Mayo, Ruth Mayo, et. al. 2017. Creative foraging: An Experimental Paradigm for Studying Exploration and Discovery.
Hi, my name is Anna Claire, and I am a horticulture student at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX. As a child, the happiest memories come from beautiful experiences. Growing up, I found that the most extraordinary reality in life comes from the creation of magnificent surroundings. Today, I will be covering the topic of child-friendly gardening, and incorporating the importance of color, learning, and simple garden practices.
A student's perception on a specific outdoor space has been directly connected to their working with the landscape itself (Muderrisoglu and Gultekin, 2015). Having a basic knowledge of gardening allows children to see the fun that can come from working with a landscape (Holmes and Lewis, 2013). Working at the Plantery, our micro-farm and teaching garden at SFA, has given me many opportunities to teach children about plants. We frequently have young students visit for educational events. We give them a tour of our gardens and have them plant a plant to add to our collective landscapes. Last fall, we had a mass planting of our in our herb bed with some high school students from the area for college experience day where we planted a variety of ornamental vegetables. These included Beta vulgaris (Swiss chard) and a few lettuces including Lactuca sativa 'Tango' and Lactuca sativa 'Buttercrunch'. The addition of these vegetables to our landscape is a nice contrast to the usual cut flowers and herbs that might be expected.
When teaching up and coming students, it is important to emphasize the different opportunities available with gardening and the variety of options for any landscape. Foodscapes have become a staple in society today, and if we learn about the importance, convenience, and potential of placing veggies in the landscape at an early age, we could change the face of horticulture forever.
Some of the best forms of landscapes are unique ones, which is what we try to instill within our youngsters. One way to make a landscape more unique is by the addition of a wide variety of color, which is also conveniently very enjoyable for children to learn about. Gardens can provide a haven of all the colors available to the world, and fortunately, at SFA we have a variety of colorful plants just out our back door! One of my personal favorites is Symphyotrichum oblongifolium (aromatic aster) because of its vibrant purple color. It provides a delicate lushness to any landscape with a very full, branched system (Armitage, 2008). Another one of my favorites, due to its texture that looks like velvet and dark magenta color is Celosia cristata (cockscomb), which looks like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Gomphrena globosa (globe amaranth) is an example of a colorful, textured, and a picturesque spherically shaped inflorescence. Simply put, the more visually entertaining a plant, the more interesting the landscape, which increases the chance of students becoming more intrigued in the learning experience.
Overall, by simply teaching children about the variety of landscape options, we are planting the seed for a beautiful future. People all over the world are recognizing and continuing to explore the importance of having plants in the lives of students (Lucas, 1997). I have faith in the continual adventure we call the future of horticulture. I hope you will join me, shovels and water hoses in hand, in cultivating excitement and interest in the next generation of agriculturists. Together, we can improve the world of plants!
Armitage, A.M. 2008. Herbaceous Perennial Plants. 3rd edition. Stripes Pub Llc. Champaign, IL.
Holmes, L., E. Lewis. 2013. The Beginner's Guide to Gardening. Plant Friendly Publishing. Upper Saddle River, NJ.
Lucas, B. 1997. Learning Through Landscapes: The Importance of School Grounds. Australian Journal of Environmental Education. 13:85-88.
Muderrisoglu, H., P.G. Gultekin. 2015. Understanding the Children's Perception and Preferences on Nature-Based Outdoor Landscape. Sage Journals. 24(3).
By Jocelyn Moore, SFA Student and Assistant Education Coordinator at SFA Gardens. Jocelyn was a student in our Fruit and Vegetable Production class.
Need a feel good minute? Watch this short & super sweet video of school gardens in Nac!
I have never seen more joy radiating from children than during their first carrot harvest. The green, frilly tops popping out of the earth give no indication that a familiar root awaits below. Almost every time I've witnessed this scene, the child tugs and unearths their prize triumphantly, waving the carrot like a trophy above their head. This story, amidst countless others unfolding weekly in our school gardens, is just one small example of how and why children are embracing fruits and vegetables. With this level of engagement, it's easy to see why garden-based, experiential learning is a powerful tool for teaching a wide range of subjects—from science and math to nutrition and behavior—all of which can be happily gained in the fresh outdoors of the garden.
As a mother, gardener and outdoor educator for over fifteen years, my experiences have helped shape a vision I hold for the town I call home in rural East Texas. This vision involves children who understand where their food comes from, value their environment and healthy eating, and engage deeply in stimulating, hands-on education.
3rd grade Garden Bud marvels in her first carrot harvest.
At first glance, the multitude of school gardens sprouting up around our country appears to be the latest trend in foodie culture. But school gardens aren't a fad. Sure, we see a current upswing of interest; however, educators have long seen the value of children learning in the garden.
Recently, there has been an exciting movement growing in Nacogdoches. If you haven't heard about the horticultural happenings in our schoolyards, you are in for a treat of good news. It has been a truly awesome experience to support the revitalization project at the TJR School Garden, spearheaded by two of the most amazing and dedicated volunteers I know, Jim and Kerry Lemon. Three years ago, the Lemons had a vision for the empty garden boxes sitting adjacent to the TJR soccer field. With the support of volunteers from Resilient Nacogdoches and the Austin Heights Earth Care Ministry, the couple created a weekly program serving students during their elective time.
The Lemon's vision was fruitful and has inspired offshoots of over a dozen school and community gardens in the 2017-2019 school years. Wow!
3rd Grade TJR School Garden Buds harvest fresh mustard greens.
Moore brothers help water the Carpenter Elementary School Garden.
Last year, 3rd grade teacher Mike Moore and I reclaimed the dormant beds at Carpenter Elementary by creating an after school Gardening Club for 22 students. Fredonia Elementary and Head Start have taken off with raised beds, offering weekly vegetable gardening lessons. Brooks Quinn Jones Elementary recently received an education grant from Lowe's. They have hit the ground running, starting their first edible garden this spring and building an outdoor classroom, Class in the Grass. At SFA Gardens, we have built a native edibles garden and playscape at the Pineywoods Native Plant Center, where we teach weekly gardening and culinary lessons to Boys and Girls Club students.
And the list is growing. There has been exponential growth this past 2017-2018, with over a dozen new school and community gardens sprouting up in this year alone.
Garden-based learning is integrated and so are its benefits. I have seen students who literally gag at the thought of eating kale on their first day of Garden Club who quickly become happy eaters of Every. Single. Thing. We. Grow. And yes, I'm even talking about turnips and cauliflower! Children witness the magic of tiny seeds that sprout bigger each week as they nurture their plants until they begin to recognize actual vegetables, so of course students are eager to eat the fruits of their labor. Research shows this openness to trying new foods follows students outside of the garden with an increase of daily fruits and vegetable consumption.
2nd Grader at TJR is excited to try new vegetables at the end of the season Harvest Feast.
Beyond improved eating habits and nutrition, children are expected to be team players and learn how to problem solve with their peers. Garden Buds do meaningful work with real tools; their accomplishment is reflected in their boosted self-esteem. Furthermore, children and adults alike benefit greatly from getting outside and moving throughout the day.
3rd FBI (Fungi, Bacteria and Invertebrate) Agents investigate the soil for organic and inorganic matter.
A children's garden is full of learning for all ages. Volunteers and teachers often learn gardening skills right along with their students. As a bonus, volunteers develop a resilient network that cares for each other and the needs of their community.
Many partnerships have been formed in the school gardening movement. SFA student groups and interns have played an important role in supporting volunteer-powered programming. Nutritionist intern Nathan Slinkard taught students about cooking and healthy eating, developing recipes and nutrition games for students. Student president of the Environmental Awareness Movement (TEAM), Tom Knapp, spent a semester helping to coordinate SFA student work parties, community events, and implemented a rain catchment system at Carpenter Elementary.
Volunteers show off their hard work, building rich soil and creating pathways for Nacogdoches Naturally, an afterschool gardening club at the SFA Gardens Pineywoods Native Plant Center.
Claudann Jones, Shannon Morrison and Ashton Logsdon are All Stars at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, assisting in grants, workshops, consulting, and a myriad of culinary and gardening support!
Rachel Payne showing bees to visitors on her homestead. She brings an observation hive to school gardens for kids to view the bees through a class panel.
Rachel Payne, member of the Pineywoods Beekeepers Association, gives her time regularly as a special garden guest showing off bees in a mobile, handmade observation hive. Pineywoods Permaculture and Theron Beaudreau, holistic land consultant and teacher, lead workshops and service learning projects in the community about organic and holistic gardening methods.
The Healthy Nacogdoches Coalition has helped to connect these folks, and many others, together with monthly meetings. If you would like to join us for a lunch, speaker and Nac Gardens Alliance meeting, you are welcome! Please contact Jocelyn Moore at moorejv@sfasu.edu for details.
How do we ensure that these gardens and children continue to flourish? While gardeners add fertility to our beds each season to ensure future growth, how can Nacogdoches support the health and longevity of these budding programs? According to researcher Heather Ohly, who has evaluated existing literature on school gardening programs, she cites that a "lack of funding and over reliance on volunteers" has been a hindrance to long-term viability of these programs…" We've seen first-hand in the short history of school gardening in Nacogdoches that teacher, volunteer, and grant-based programs evaporate once those key people are no longer involved. School gardening volunteers advocate for the importance of paid coordinator positions at the elementary, middle and high school levels to guarantee longevity of the volunteer-driven programs.
SFA Phi Delta Theta worked hard this fall to revamp the beds at Carpenter Elementary.
There's plenty of research that illustrates the power in garden-based learning: improved nutrition, physical activity, behavior and academic outcomes. But nothing beats seeing it before your own eyes. If you'd like to support the ongoing efforts of the Nac Gardens Alliance by volunteering, fundraising, and/or connecting with city officials, please email Jocelyn Moore at moorejv@sfasu.edu. We also host seasonal work parties: a great way to get exercise, meet new folks, learn something new and serve your community!
To see more photos and inspiration, check out a presentation I shared with the Healthy Nacogdoches Coalition.
A Tremendous THANK YOU to Volunteers and Grantors!
Full, topical bibliography compiled by Emory University graduate student and Nacogdoches School Garden Alliance volunteer Jordan Johnson.
Ohly, Heather et al. "A systematic review of the health and well-being impacts of school gardening: synthesis of quantitative and qualitative evidence." BMC Public Health. Vol. 16, No. 286. 2016.
The great 1,500–2,000-mile Monarch migration is one of the most mysterious trademark phenomena of North America. This beautiful butterfly, given its name by early European settlers who named the creature "monarch" after King William, also known as "The Prince of Orange" (Urquhart, 1987), continues to delight gardeners as it makes its journey. However, concerns about its numbers are growing. From 1999 to 2010, Monarch populations have declined by 81%. This drop is due to a decline in milkweed (Asclepias spp.) growing in agricultural fields and an increase in herbicide use because milkweed is considered a weed in agricultural settings (Pleasants & Oberhauser, 2012).
However, a weed it is not! Milkweed is the only plant that Monarch caterpillars feed on. Without it, the Monarch cannot carry on with its life cycle. Milkweed also attracts other pollinators into the garden when it blooms throughout the year.
Whether you are a gardener, landscape designer, or just like to grow plants on the porch or balcony, you can participate in the conservation of this great species by growing milkweed.
There are various things to consider if you plan on incorporating milkweed into the landscape. Timing is very important because Monarchs absolutely need milkweed during the spring migration (Dole, 2003). It takes three generations in the spring to make the journey to Canada so they need the milkweed to successfully reproduce during this part of the migration. In the fall, only one generation makes the migration South; therefore, they need plants that produce greater numbers of pollen for energy consumption until they get to Mexico. With this in consideration, the most important time to have milkweed in the landscape is during the spring. High pollen producing plants can be grown during the fall (Dole, 2003).
When selecting the species of Asclepias to grow in the landscape, preference should be given to local species because they are better adapted to the environmental factors of the region. You can look at the Biota of North America Program's Asclepias page to figure out which species grow locally in your region (Monarch Joint Venture, 2017). Since milkweed is native to North America, you can grow any species you want without having to worry about it becoming invasive. It is believed that certain species are poisonous, so it might be a good idea to keep pets away. In Mexico, some people refer to milkweed as "locoweed" because it supposedly causes insanity among livestock (Urquhart, 1987).
Asclepias tuberosa flowers in an open field and provides food for Monarch caterpillars.
This picture is of a milkweed species (Asclepias tuberosa), shown with its seed pods, that is found in the southeastern region of the United States. When this particular species is in bloom, the flowers are orange!
Gardeners could also have their garden certified as a Monarch Waystation. For more information regarding Monarch Waystations, you can visit the Monarch Watch website. Another way that you can help Monarchs out is by growing plants that create adequate ground cover around the milkweed. This will make pupation easier and safer for the caterpillar when it reaches this stage. The picture below was taken within a foot of an adjacent milkweed plant where a caterpillar used the grass as cover during pupation. The chrysalis was left behind by a butterfly either during the previous spring or summer.
The picture above was taken within a foot of an adjacent milkweed plant where a caterpillar used the grass as cover during pupation. The chrysalis was left behind by a butterfly either during the previous spring or summer.
Agricultural practices and increased urbanization have had a huge impact on the Monarch butterfly's success in North America. Growing milkweed to aid Monarchs could also serve as an educational benefit to children, growing conservationists, or to the general public. As gardeners, we have the opportunity to participate in the conservation and success of this great species. Every plant makes a little difference!
Dole, Claire Hagen. 2003. The Butterfly Gardener's Guide. Brooklyn Botanic Garden Inc. Brooklyn, NY.
Urquhart, Fred A. 1987. The Monarch Butterfly: International Traveler. Nelson-Hall Inc., Chicago, IL.
Pleasants, John M. and Karen S. Oberhauser. 2012. Milkweed loss in agricultural fields because of herbicide use: effect on the Monarch butterfly population. Insect Conservation and Diversity. 6: 135-144.
Recently, SFA students attended the International Plant Propagators Society Southern Region in Dallas, Texas for a day of educational lectures, inspiring horticulture tours, and great networking. I asked each of them for three takeaways they had from the experience.
SFA students Anna Claire, Jade, and Laura stand in front of a pumpkin house at the Dallas Arboretum's Wonderful World of Oz.
1. I really enjoyed seeing the water retention system at Green Lake Nursery.
2. I also loved the overview and pictures of the gardens in England.
3. I enjoyed learning about different opportunities in the horticulture world and meeting people in the field.
1. The first thing that intrigued me was the student presentation over an experiment that tested whether mixing auxin with alcohol caused chemical burns to the plant. I found this interesting because it proved common conceptions to be wrong while also presenting a new reason as to why this burn happens.
2. During our trip to the Dallas Arboretum, I found the trial gardens to be exciting because we are looking at new cultivars that could possibly only be found there. There was also a luffa plant, which is my new found favorite.
3. Finally, during our tour of Southwest Perennials, I found their propagation process mesmerizing. Seeing those women pump out plugs reminded me of all the small people in the industry and how they are the most important. Without their attention to detail and efficiency the whole business would be in shambles. Overall, while the trip enlightened me on the business aspects of horticulture, it reminded me of the art of horticulture.
1. I loved visiting the Southwest Perennials farm. I liked that they stay true to their quality and products and that they work with the city and share the park area in trade.
2. I also loved the Dallas Arboretum. I plan on visiting there again and seeing the whole thing with my children.
3. I enjoyed meeting other people in the industry. It feels very like a very welcoming and genuine industry.
Jenny Wegley (second from right), Dallas Arboretum Vice President of Horticulture Operations and SFA Horticulture alumni, greeted current SFA students and Dr. Jared Barnes at the Dallas Arboretum.
SFA students were able to see great attention to detail in propagation at Southwest Perennials.
Perky pansies at Green Lake Nursery.
Green Lake Nursery also specialized in various hardy succulents and xeric perennials.
Written and edited by Jared Barnes, Ph.D.


text:
How I Found Myself at Netflix
Edward Yoo
Today is my one year anniversary as a member of the Netflix Legal Team in Singapore. I had an interesting journey to Netflix because I didn't know exactly how or why I joined until much later. For starters, my legal path was a bit unusual for an American lawyer. I attended a small Christian international law school and began my career working at a law firm in Korea. As such, I often asked myself the same three questions: 1) Why did I end up working in Korea? 2) Why did I go to a small Christian law school? 3) Were my decisions part of something bigger? I never knew the answers but I always reminded myself that I made these decisions based on my personal faith and convictions. So I trusted my gut, believed in myself, and worked hard.
While working in Korea for a number of years, I got married, and soon expected a baby. This turning point made me explore new opportunities for my budding family. After a long process of tailoring over 500 resumes – I garnered 10 interviews, and received three offers. For various reasons, I did not accept any of them. But I did learn a lot from rejection. For example, when I came across Netflix's amazing culture memo, something prompted me to apply confidently despite fully knowing how competitive Netflix was. I promptly got rejected in the second round. I worked on my resume and tried again. This time, no response. I questioned whether it was because I was an American lawyer working in Korea or because I didn't attend a renowned ivy league law school. Instead of making excuses, I decided to focus on performing well in Korea. But oddly, I still had faith.
Much later, I surprisingly received a call from a Netflix recruiter. He saw that I had applied before and asked if I would be interested in applying for a position in Singapore. I was fully aware that being contacted out of thousands of candidates was a miracle so I did not take the opportunity for granted. In the road ahead, I researched earnestly about the company, internalized what it would mean to live and breathe the Netflix culture, and practiced countless mock interviews. Day and night, I prepared diligently and meticulously. My goal was simple: to respect each interviewer's time. After several rounds, I received an offer.
At the time of offer, I was freshly working at one of Korea's top law firms. In weighing pros and cons, my primary concern as a soon-to-be father was financial. Frankly, law firms paid more than companies. But two subsequent conversations with Netflix changed me. First, my recruiter detailed the relocation package, tax and lifestyle benefits of Singapore, the compensation philosophy, and he framed every detail in a manner that was focused on my family's well-being rather than just the job, and he meant it. Next, my would-be manager was simply honest. As a previous law firm lawyer, he said if I truly enjoyed being a private practice lawyer then I should not accept the offer. However, if I wanted to experience being part of a culture that would be supportive of my ambitions as both a lawyer and father, he vouched for Netflix. He explained the offer openly, concisely, and respectfully. In the end, it was the culture both individuals exemplified in their words and actions that won me over.
Today, it is very clear to me why I chose to join Netflix. Even after a year, I'm still amazed by the people and culture. Everyone is extremely passionate about doing what is in the best interest of Netflix. All the time. No one is ever slowed down by a web of political hierarchy or obstructed by someone's personal agenda. Everyone is sailing the same ship and in the same direction. For example, I remember a meeting when one of our leaders openly shared how he strongly disagreed with the informed captain. He opened a debate, farmed for dissent, and invited other perspectives so we could make the best decision possible as a team. In the end, the informed captain still decided against what the leader felt was right. Then, the leader immediately emphasized that now the decision was made, it was in the team's best interest to wholeheartedly support the informed captain because that's how we achieve growth at Netflix. I witness this kind of selflessness everyday. You never have to look far to discover a moment of truth or capture a constructive take away. As a result, the environment consistently motivates me to be the best version of myself so that I can contribute back into the ecosystem. The culture is both enriching and humbling.
Recently, I personally asked my manager why he hired me among all the stellar candidates he could have chosen from. In a nutshell, he said he liked that I would contribute to the team's diversity (Korea), he respected that I went against the grain for something I believed in (law school), and lastly, he had strong confidence that I would be a stunning colleague. I walked away from the conversation completely shaken because I could finally answer the three questions I asked myself over the past decade: (1) Why did I end up working in Korea? (2) Why did I go to a small Christian law school? (3) Were my decisions part of something bigger? Looking back, the most difficult decisions I made in my life were the decisions Netflix respected most. Ultimately, my choosing of diversity, and going against the grain, sparked the privilege to work with stunning people. This is how I found myself at Netflix. #WeareNetflix

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


SqrSoft Advanced Crossfading Output - A fast & smart crossfading output plugin, perfect for radios, parties or what ever! Download SqrSoft Advanced. Winamp Plugins Downloads. Advanced Crossfading Output (v) · Advanced Crossfading Disk Writer (v) · Compressor/Limiter DSP (v). Free Download SqrSoft Advanced Crossfading Output - Define crossfading options for your audio files using this highly customizable plugin.
There is no need to have any advanced mixing equipment or be a professional in mixing in order to crossfade songs. This is because there is an application like. From the Tools|Options|Output plug-ins menu, change the output plug-in to the SqrSoft output konzol.info copy the installed files from the. SqrSoft Advanced Crossfading Output SHOUTcast Discussions The free customizable Winamp media player that plays mp3 + other audio files.
SqrSoft Advanced Crossfading Output, a brother to Crossfading Writer by the same author, is a free Winamp output plugin that will let you mix. I have finally got the Sqrsoft Advanced Crossfading Output Winamp plugin working with MusicBee. If you are not familiar with this plugin.


text:
module SchemaGenerator
  module SortedHash
    refine Hash do
      def deep_sort(&block)
        recursive_deep_sort(self, &block)
      end

    private

      def recursive_deep_sort(property, parent_key = nil, &block)
        if property.is_a?(Hash)
          children_sorted = property.each_with_object({}) do |(k, v), memo|
            memo[k] = recursive_deep_sort(v, k, &block)
          end

          sorted = children_sorted.sort do |a, b|
            block.call(a, b, parent_key)
          end

          Hash[sorted]
        elsif property.respond_to?(:map)
          property.map { |item| recursive_deep_sort(item, nil, &block) }
        else
          property
        end
      end
    end
  end

  class Schema
    using SchemaGenerator::SortedHash

    def self.read(filename)
      @parsed_json_cache ||= {}
      @parsed_json_cache[filename] ||= JSON.parse(File.read(filename))
    end

    def self.write(full_filename, schema_hash)
      schema_json = "#{JSON.pretty_generate(ordered_schema(schema_hash))}\n"
      FileUtils.mkdir_p(File.dirname(full_filename))
      File.write(full_filename, schema_json)
    end

    def self.ordered_schema(schema_hash)
      # Custom consistent sorting for JSON Schema objects
      schema_hash.deep_sort do |(a, _), (b, _), parent_key|
        a = a.to_s
        b = b.to_s
        # We don't want to sort any items properties
        next a <=> b if parent_key == "properties"
        # a description is always first
        next (a == "description" ? -1 : 1) if [a, b].include?("description")
        # then we want anything prefixed with a $
        next a <=> b if [a, b].grep(/^\$/).any?
        # Then we want type and required
        next (a == "type" ? -1 : 1) if [a, b].include?("type")
        next (a == "required" ? -1 : 1) if [a, b].include?("required")
        # definitions are the last item
        next (a == "definitions" ? 1 : -1) if [a, b].include?("definitions")

        # otherwise it's alphabetical
        a <=> b
      end
    end
  end
end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Amazon Prime day doubtless put a strain on Amazon Logistics and third party carriers as they rushed to deliver customer's purchases around the world, but what's not often realised is that Amazon have a whole fleet of Prime Air planes at their disposal to assist.
Latest number put Amazon's Prime Air fleet at 26 Boeing 767 planes with a further four on order and due to join the growing fleet. Each plane can carry an astronomical number of parcels – for instance you could fit 1,000,000 Echo Dot devices into a Prime Air 767.
Trailers arrive at the airport, each carrying perhaps 2,000 parcels which are unloaded and swiftly sorted and then repacked into Unit Load Devices – containers shaped to fit the plane's hull with the minimum of wasted space. 30 of these containers are then loaded onto each plane ready for take off to the destination airport and onward shipment across the US to meet Amazon's two-day delivery promise to their customers.
Amazon's logistics operation is an amazing network of couriers, long distance hauliers, planes and soon drones, not to mention the millions of square feet of warehouse space that is growing at a rapid pace. It's easy to place an order on Amazon and expect the delivery to be flawless and on time, but it's a modern miracle that's taken billions of dollars and years to build and the scary thing is that they've hardly got started.
Amazon's ultimate aim is to be able to delivery within the hour or even within 30 minutes and, accepting that this won't be possible for every product Amazon or their 2 million third party sellers supply, Amazon will continue to buy planes, recruit couriers and build drones and the network will grow, soon to the point where they start offering their logistics services to third parties and start carrying purchases not even sold on Amazon.


text:
package hmarinjr.PizzaDelivery.Entity;

public class ProductType
{
    int id;
}


In French-speaking Belgium Christian democrats and victorious greens intend to start talks with the Parti Socialiste, the Francophone socialists, with a view to forming coalition governments across Francophonia.
After the regional elections on 7 June working majorities are needed in the Brussels Regional, Walloon and French-speaking Community Parliaments.
The PS, wracked by a series of scandals, lost heavily, but remained the largest party in Wallonia.
The Christian democrats - that maintained their support - and the greens of Ecolo - that made large gains - have now made a joint decision about who they want to form a coalition government with.
The MR (Francophone liberals) - the largest party in the Brussels Region are disappointed by their choice.
The leading Francophone liberal François-Xavier de Donnea has indicated that his party, the MR, will remain in the Federal Government.
Following the Italian example this type of coalition is called an "olive tree coalition" in Belgium.


Left: Rectangular Block See the back and a size comparison with a soda can.
Right: See the back and a size comparison with a soda can.
These are real giant forest scorpions or giant blue scorpians encased in acrylic. They come in a lined box. These scorpians can reach lengths of 10 to 12 cm. They have shiny black bodies with highly developed pincers. Its venom causes severe pain, vision disorders, and mild numbness in the affected area but is not lethal for humans. They can be found in South East Asia.
Genus and species: Heterometrus spinifer.


We stock Ridgid Reed, and Rothenberger Tubing Benders up 1 1/8". Ridgid ratcheting benders for 1/2" 5/8" and 3/4". Rothenberger electric Robend 3000 for 1/2" to 1 1/8". Also Ridgid new 600 series with rollers designed for stainless steele tubing. Please call for more info.


After multiple rainy days in a row, I was more than a little nervous for the weather on the day of Brett and Susan's wedding. I've had a few rainy weddings this year and had to reschedule almost 10 engagement shoots due to this ridiculous Virginia rain, so while I was more than prepared I was NOT ready to break out the rain boots again (yes I may have purchased a crappy pair from target and forgotten to break them in. Can you say blisters?). To say I was overjoyed when I woke up to a perfect fall day was an understatement! I have been so excited for Brett and Susan's wedding since their engagement shoot last fall and let me tell you, it did not disappoint!
The ladies started their morning with mimosas, snacks, and dancing while they got their hair and makeup done. The guys opted for pizzas (a solid choice) and everyone was just so excited that the day was finally here. All of their friends and family are so laid back and relaxed it made for a really fun group. Susan told me that the inn across from the Country Club's main building is where they would be staying that night and she wanted to put her dress on there. When I opened the door to the Inn my jaw dropped! It was so beautiful and a PERFECT place for wedding day pictures! There were spiral staircases, lots of windows for natural light, and a massive, all wood master suite. Just wait until you see it! Some of my favorite pictures from the whole day were taken in this Inn.
There were so many sentimental aspects to the day that Susan and Brett planned and I really loved them. From the gifts they exchanged to the dances (I'll get to that, I may have cried), they really wanted everything to be special. One of my favorite things was that Susan had a picture of her father who had passed away on her bouquet so she could carry it with her all day. Not only that, but she gifted Brett with a picture of his father who passed away and told him to put it in his jacket pocket so he could have him by his heart on their wedding day! Are you crying yet? You will. They also had pictures of them on a table and when we finished their portraits, we walked by the table and decided to stop and grab one more picture of them holding the frames. It's probably one of the most meaningful pictures of the day. I love that we were able to give them a picture with both of their dads even though they couldn't be there physically.
For their bride and groom pictures, we had a dream of a golden hour. I know I know I say that all the time, what can I say? I love a good glow! Susan literally looked like a Disney Princess. The red roses, the dark hair, the incredible layered tulle ball gown, anyone else getting major Belle vibes? I was one happy photographer and her bridal portraits look stunning! I may be a little biased, but she really looked so beautiful.
The reception was so much fun! You may or may not see my cameo in their wedding video eating a slice of cake (thanks Christy for throwing that in there). While I definitely shoot weddings because I love seeing couples become husband and wife and supporting their marriages in any way that I can, the cake aspect of the gig isn't too bad either!I'll share their wedding video at the end for your enjoyment. My favorite part of the reception by far were the dances. Susan chose to have a special dance with her mom, her brother, and her grandpa and it was such a special thing for her to do! You could tell it meant so much to each of them.
Susan and Brett, I loved being a part of your day so much! You guys are a ton of fun and it was an honor to capture you becoming husband and wife. Thanks for not laughing at my pathetic attempts to drive a golf cart and for wanting to jump in the photobooth with me at your reception! I hope you guys love these as much as I do!
One of my favorites! This room was perfect.
I'm still obsessing over this dress.
Special thanks to Christy Stevens for being so amazing to work with as usual! Love this wedding video and love knowing I can send my clients someone the can trust to do a great job.


Teena is just my "Shelter Name"
Give "Teena" a new name.
We usually don't know the pups' names when they arrive at the shelter. So we have to make them up! Do you have a better name for Teena? She would love it if you gave her a new name. Remember, dogs respond best to short names. Keep it simple! After you rename Teena, she will be added to your favorite pups.
What do YOU want to call Teena?
Well Done! Teena is now known as . We have also added her to your list of favorite pups.


text:
Wall Street Has Many Things to Be Sorry About -- Just Not Corporate Jets
Jonathan Berr, AOL.com
Jan 13th 2010 12:15PM
JPMorgan Chase (JPM) CEO Jamie Dimon and Bank of American (BAC) head Brian Moynihan flew via corporate aircraft to Washington, D.C., Wednesday to testify before a Congressional panel investigating the banking crisis. In previous years, the media would not raise an eyebrow over such a disclosure, but these are not ordinary times.%%DynaPub-Enhancement class="enhancement contentType-HTML Content fragmentId-1 payloadId-61603 alignment-right size-small"%% Wall Street is now seen as the villain riding on its 21st-century steed, known as the corporate jet, as it pillages the cash-strapped American public. But the furor over corporate aircraft is misplaced.
Jets, made by companies including General Dynamics' (GD) Gulfstream, are indeed as luxurious as people might imagine (I flew in one a couple of years ago). The seats are comfortable with plenty of room to stretch your legs and get work done. Some even have full-sized beds so the globe-trotting executive can arrive at the next business meeting refreshed. Corporations are not snapping them up the way they used to, however. Sales of Gulfstream were down in 2009 as the company cut planned production to 73 large cabin and 24 mid-sized cabin planes from 94 and 30 respectively. Manufacturers are so worried about the negative publicity surrounding their products that it launched a "No Plane No Gain" advertising program last year, featuring legendary golfer Arnold Palmer.
However, amenities aside, there is a sound business reason for big-shot executives to use corporate jets. Oftentimes, it's the most practical way for CEOs to get from one place to another. The aviation system used by most of the public is not always a suitable alternative for these fliers. It can't get them to the places they need to be in a timely manner. As a taxpayer, I would rather have Dimon and Moynihan show up at an important hearing than be stuck at an airport somewhere.
Last month, Citigroup Inc. (C) Chairman Dick Parsons, Morgan Stanley (MS) head John Mack and Goldman Sachs Group Inc.'s (GS) CEO Lloyd Blankfein could not make a meeting with President Obama because their flights were canceled due to inclement weather. Smaller jets are not going to fly in dangerous weather that would ground commercial airliners either, but perhaps the executives would not have been subject to such extensive delays.
To be sure, Wall Street does have many, many things to apologize for and has certainly not appeared remorseful. As The New York Times noted, being a CEO means never having to say you're sorry, even when you really should. An exception was former Time Warner Inc. (TWX) CEO Jerry Levin, who recently stunned Wall Street by apologizing for the disastrous AOL merger. It was late, but nice to hear nonetheless. I am not holding my breath for the financial services industry to be that contrite.
Sadly, the attitude of Wall Street toward the public has not changed much since Congress investigated the cause of the Great Depression. Ferdinand Pecora, the head of the investigation, blasted the banks of the time in terms which seem hauntingly familiar today.
"Bitterly hostile was Wall Street to the enactment of the regulatory legislation." he wrote in his memoirs. "Had there been full disclosure of what was being done in furtherance of these schemes, they could not long have survived the fierce light of publicity and criticism. Legal chicanery and pitch darkness were the banker's stoutest allies."
Corporate aircraft are a red herring that distracts Congress and the American public from the real issues affecting the country.
Brian Moynihan
John Mack
Lloyd Blankfein
TWX


text:
The AIG Story: the enduring value of values by Lawrence A. Cunningham
Lawrence A. Cunningham
Author: Lawrence A. Cunningham
Business & Economics, danhmuc_tangkem_1, danhmuc_tangkem_2, Finance, Financial Services Industry, Insurance Companies
Selected as one of Motley Fool s "5 Great Books You Should Read" In The AIG Story, the company's long-term CEO Hank Greenberg (1967 to 2005) and GW professor and corporate governance expert Lawrence Cunningham chronicle the origins of the company and its relentless pioneering of open markets everywhere in the world. They regale readers with riveting vignettes of how AIG grew from a modest group of insurance enterprises in 1970 to the largest insurance company in world history. They help us understand AIG's distinctive entrepreneurial culture and how its outstanding employees worldwide helped pave the road to globalization. * Corrects numerous common misconceptions about AIG that arose due to its role at the center of the financial crisis of 2008. * A unique account of AIG by one of the iconic business leaders of the twentieth century who developed close relationships with many of the most important world leaders of the period and helped to open markets everywhere * Offers new critical perspective on battles with N. Y. Attorney General Eliot Spitzer and the 2008 U.S. government seizure of AIG amid the financial crisis * Shares considerable information not previously made public The AIG Story captures an impressive saga in business history--one of innovation, vision and leadership at a company that was nearly--destroyed with a few strokes of governmental pens.
The AIG Story carries important lessons and implications for the U.S., especially its role in international affairs, its approach to business, its legal system and its handling of financial crises.
21 Secrets of Million-Dollar Sellers: America's Top Earners Reveal the Keys to Sales Success by Stephen J Harvill
Free to Focus: A Total Productivity System to Achieve More by Doing Less by Michael Hyatt
Coffee: A Dark History by Antony Wild
Extreme Economies: What Life at the World's Margins Can Teach Us About Our Own Future by
Predictably Irrational : the Hidden Forces That Shape Our Decisions by Dan Ariely
12 : The Elements of Great Managing by Rodd Wagner, James K. Harter
Producing Results by Gary Neilson, Bruce Pasternack
Leadership Presence : Dramatic Techniques to Reach out Motivate and Inspire by Kathy Lubar, Belle Linda Halpern
Jack Ma - Alibaba and the 40 Thieves of Success by Think Maverick


now you can remove the old number and/or enter a new number. Confirm with the checkbox.
On each platform, you can only enter a number that is unique. So if the entered number is already used by another agent, you will not be able to save it.


Set in Providence, Rhode Island, it focuses on eight sisters of Irish descent who meet on alternate Friday evenings over a ten year period to play bridge and gossip. Ann Conroy, married to a man who drinks too much, is a no-nonsense schoolteacher who hosts the bridge nights. Martha McDermitt, the widowed eldest sister, is known for her sense of responsibility and stern personality. Mary Margaret Donovan is a spinster who lives with younger sister Alice Monahan and her husband Walter, who have no children. In the second act, Mary Margaret uses a wheelchair and has a slight speech impediment due to a stroke. Nora Hiller is an easy-going woman devoted to her husband Lawrence and their children. Connie Emerson is always quick with a wisecrack. Lil Carmody is a free spirit who plays piano, and Betsy Bailey is the youngest, a melancholy married woman with two children who is struggling to find her own identity.


Jong-Won Choi is a eurythmist who teaches at the Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School in NY. Originally from Korea, she studied eurythmy at the Rudolf Steiner College in Fair Oaks, CA. After completing her eurythmy training, she began to teach at the Hawthorne Valley Waldorf School. While teaching, she also completed TETNA (the Therapeutic Eurythmy Training in North America) in Copake, NY.
Jeanne Simon-MacDonald is a free-lance eurythmist, therapist, and teacher, who was on the faculty of Sunbridge College for many years. She performed with Eurythmy Spring Valley throughout the U.S. and abroad, before co-founding Grasshopper Productions in 1999. She is also a Licensed Practical Nurse and works as Therapeutic Eurythmist at Camphill Village, Copake, NY.


text:
package org.conqat.engine.core.core;

/**
 * Interface used by processors to report current progress.
 *
 * @author hummelb
 * @author $Author: juergens $
 * @version $Rev: 35194 $
 * @ConQAT.Rating GREEN Hash: 48D212854C35A717BBCE9A362D739C59
 */
public interface IProgressMonitor {

	/** Via this method, a processor may report the amount of work done. */
	void reportProgress(int workDone, int overallWork);
}


In 2019 The Soft Road is developing and running Retreats as part of our program and this has led me to consider deeply the nature of retreat.
These contemplations draw on my direct experience of going on Retreat – at least once a year – over fifteen years, five continents, a diverse range of environments, Retreat leaders, and topics.
Answering the Call – To Escape or Advance?
If called to Retreat, take a moment to explore what is calling you, and what you are seeking.
Retreat – the very word draws us in. For almost everyone there's something seductive in the idea of getting away; the prospect of escaping the daily routine and all its responsibilities, and maybe even hiding away, from the world.
It's a measure of 21st century living that retreat-based vacation is one of the fastest growing sectors of the travel industry. The term is often borrowed to package the idea of "retreat" as escape or getaway. And while the intentions of the provider may be good, this inescapable truth will meet us there: there's no hiding from ourselves. Wherever you go, there you'll be.
Let's not judge, or make wrong, this desire to escape. Rather, we learn it's possible to go towards ourselves, not away, whilst also enjoying a different form of retreat.
The original meaning in the call to Retreat has been integral to personal transformation for millennia. This choice to remove from familiar surroundings and detach from distraction is even more relevant now — an increasingly rare opportunity to regroup, recalibrate, and establish deeper foundations from which to progress.
Retreat in this context is not a capitulation or an escape. It's a conscious and strategic choice to deepen knowledge of the Self and learn how to apply this knowledge for an elevated experience of life.
Early references to the age-old purposes of Retreat are in the realm of spiritual devotion and relationship to God; participants seeking to know God, to see and hear more clearly the presence of God.
And whilst this is rarely the aim for a retreat in the 21st century model of world travel and personal discovery, an element of higher purpose is a defining feature in the transformative potential of taking time on Retreat.
We seek to know ourselves, to look inside and go deeper within — to open our hearts and to hear more clearly the inner voice, to recognise intuitive guidance and develop self-trust.
Retreat in this tradition supports us to simplify, to empty out and take stock, so that we may go deeper. We go beneath the white noise and cease the constant motion – both physical and mental – of daily life, in a setting offering peace and quietude. There is a structure and purpose to the days, decided for us, no thinking or organising required!
Yet being on Retreat is not a passive experience. It requires active participation and some work on our own behalf. And whilst it's not always comfortable, profound breakthroughs can come when we place our attention inside and take the opportunity to look within.
Reflecting on my own experiences, the considered choice to go away and invest in me – to pursue my personal and spiritual development away from my everyday world – was both a gift to myself, and more, a transformative contribution to the woman, the teacher, I am today.
We don't – nor did I – do this on our own. Nurture and support are vital elements to the Retreat experience, as are love and non-judgment, and the wisdom and direction of a masterful teacher.
When all these elements come together, the true nature of Retreat is an opportunity, like no other, to be enriched and equipped with new tools and insights, to advance our lives – towards greater happiness.
Melanie Kirkbride is co-founder of The Soft Road. She frequently writes and teaches on topics of personal and cultural transformation to help people unlock their potential and thrive. To contact Melanie and to receive her Notes and Soft Road Essays, click here.
© THE SOFT ROAD LTD.


text:
Roman er en by i Neamţ distrikt i det nordlige Rumænien. Byen har  indbyggere.

Galleri

Referencer

Eksterne henvisninger

Byer i Rumænien
Byer i distriktet Neamț

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Q: tree structure in html with dynamic content I have data coming from the database as the below format on query execution
[('Country-1', 'state1'), ('Country-1', 'state2'), ('Country-1', 'state3'),
('Country-2', 'state1'), ('Country-2', 'state2'), ('Country-2', 'state3'),
('Country-3', 'state1'), ('Country-3', 'state2'), ('Country-3', 'state3')]

I want to convert to as this resultset as below format
context = {
    'countries': [ { 'Countryname': 'country1',
                    'state': [ {  'Statename': 'state1'},
                               {'Statename': 'state2'},
                               {'Statename': 'state3'} ]
                    },
                    { 'Countryname': 'country2',
                    'state': [ {  'Statename': 'state1'},
                               {'Statename': 'state2'},
                               {'Statename': 'state3'} ]
                    },
                    { 'Countryname': 'country3',
                    'state': [ {  'Statename': 'state1'},
                               {'Statename': 'state2'},
                               {'Statename': 'state3'} ]
                    }
                ]
}

So that I can iterate the data in the in HTML in Django to create the tree format:

  {% for country in data %}

 {{ country.countryname }}

              {% for state in country.statename %}

{{state.statename}}

                {% endfor %}

  {% endfor %}

Expected output for HTML is:
   Country-1
             State1
             State2
             State3
   Country -2
             State1
             State2
             State3
   Country -3
             State1
             State2
             State3

A: Try the following:
Data parser:
data = [('Country-1', 'state1'), ('Country-1', 'state2'), ('Country-1', 'state3'), ('Country-2', 'state1'), ('Country-2', 'state2'), ('Country-2', 'state3'), ('Country-3', 'state1'), ('Country-3', 'state2'), ('Country-3', 'state3')]

reformatted_data = {}

for pair in data:

    state_list = reformatted_data.get(pair[0], None)

    if state_list:
        if pair[1] in state_list:
            pass
        else:
            reformatted_data[pair[0]].append(pair[1])
    else:
        reformatted_data[pair[0]] = [pair[1]]

# Try this print in your console to make sure it's working properly
print(reformatted_data)

Template to display data:

  {% for country, statelist in data.items %}

 {{ country }}

              {% for state in statelist %}

{{ state }}

                {% endfor %}

  {% endfor %}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
You pay, but can't access
TV-tip that takes you on holiday Forskningsverden got a surprise now in the late summer when the european research council, ERC, withdrew support for what is
03 August 2020 Monday 05:42 - 8 reads.
TV-tip that takes you on holiday
Forskningsverden got a surprise now in the late summer when the european research council, ERC, withdrew support for what is known as Plan S. Plan S is a strategy to make the research available for everyone by ensuring that the research results will be published on open platforms, and not in closed journals with expensive subscriptions. The plan is developed by a coalition of national and international research organizations, including the Norwegian research council.
Current situation has long garnered criticism, and rightly so. There is talk about a scheme that adds up to dobbeltbetaling for academic research: First, that the public pays for the research activity itself, then by the fact that the published results are only available to those who pay for it. With other words: As a taxpayer you are funding large amounts of research, but the research produces, you will not see. The major journals and the publishers are the ones who have earned rough on this scheme, and it is understandable that forskerorganisasjonene trying to get as much of the research over on platforms where everyone can read it.
the Dream was immediately abused Comment
at the same time, it is not so simple either. Magazines driver with important quality assurance and facilitation of the drug which is not free. If not, the subscribers pay for this work, it is unclear who should do it. The ERC provide that reason to withdraw, is that the coalition behind the Plan S do not want it to be possible for researchers who have received research funding from them to publish in the so-called "hybridtidsskrifter", where there still will be a form of betalingsmur.
the Scientists will thus be forced to opt-out from prestigious journals that still charge, and choose the so-called "open access"channels. As ERC points out, it can in particular go beyond the young researchers, who need to showcase their research in the most famous magazines in order to be able to build a name for themselves. Those who have felt themselves overridden by the major journals will still be overridden, but now of forskningsorganisasjonene.
the Road from better access to research requires a balancing act. The desire to get the commercialization in the sector to life must be balanced against the limitations that researchers in a vulnerable situation can experience because of new regulations. At the same time as it is all the more reason to support efforts to make research available for several, the process must ensure that other considerations also are taken care: Considerations for quality assurance of forskningsartiklene and to the scientists ' freedom.
Turn On the LydErrorAllerede plus customer? Log into herError INFECTED CELL: Researchers at the university of hong Kong has released a picture of a cell that is infected by coronaviruset. Photo: the University of hong Kong Show more You can submit your article and opinion piece in Dagbladet here
Want to discuss?
Visit Dagbladet debate!


Nikki Zea has retired from the NYDI Board of Trustees (BOT). An alumna of NYDI, having participated since she was 8 years old, she has served in DI as a participant, appraiser, manager, coordinator in the university level, writer, and overall supporter and advertiser of DI. She says she is "always in complete awe of the genius that DI kids demonstrate in their solutions."
Residing in Massachusetts, in real life Nikki is a chemical engineer serving as a products manager in a multi-national corporation. She reports that "everyday I use the skills of DI to solve problems and generate teamwork in my corporation."
The NYDI BOT will miss Nikki's presence and enthusiasm.
Nikki has been appointed the TENSION BUILDS Affiliate Challenge Master for Massachusetts DI and the NYDI BOT is convinced that she will be a wonderful leader for all those TENSION BUILDS teams and appraisers in Massachusetts.
Best wishes, Nikki! We hope to see Nikki at our Affiliate Tournament on April 5.


text:
Nicki Minaj Defends Registered Sex Offender Boyfriend Amid Pregnancy And Engagement Rumors
Nicki Minaj is unhappy with critics of her controversial relationship.
Carlos Alvarez / Getty Images
Nicki Minaj, 36, is unhappy with critics of her relationship with boyfriend Kenneth Petty, reports Hollywood Life.
On a July 26 episode of her Apple Music Beats 1 show, Queen Radio, the Grammy nominee decided to defend her controversial boyfriend. She told skeptical fans that her relationship does not need their validation and that she does not care if Kenneth, 40, is neither rich nor famous.
"When a person is with [someone] that loved them before they had a dime in their pocket? How do you not understand that? How f***ing dare you talk about lowering standards," she said. "It's the truth, money cannot buy me happiness and good sex."
During her radio show, Nicki did not discuss Kenneth's worrisome past.
As reported by People, Nicki's man was sentenced to jail time for manslaughter in the shooting death of a man named Lamont Robinson in 2002. He is also a registered sex offender. Online records from the New York Division of Criminal Justice Services show that Kenneth was convicted of attempted rape of a 16-year-old girl in 1995. Until May 2019, the 40-year-old was on supervised release.
Nicki has previously defended her man, who she has publicly dated since December 2018, from critics.
I remember when I cried like "why me?" Now I wouldn't Exchange my life for Armani ♥ 〽????????
A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj) on Jul 25, 2019 at 3:35pm PDT
"He was 15, she was 16 … in a relationship," she wrote on Instagram, regarding Kenneth's status as a registered sex offender.
Despite Kenneth's trouble with the law, Nicki seems to be head-over-heels for her man.
Us Weekly noted that the couple have known each other since they were teenagers living in Queens, New York.
According to Hollywood Life, the 36-year-old views Kenneth as her "soulmate." On July 23, the rapper went on to Twitter to explain that her beau loves her for her and not her fame.
"I wouldn't date anyone cuz I'm about to be married to my soulmate… Others r infatuated w/ Nicki Minaj he DGAF about this industry & is very protective," she passionately wrote.
Nicki's revelation that the pair are set to wed seems to confirm fans' belief the couple is engaged.
Throw up da ????'s on him
A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj) on Jun 28, 2019 at 6:33am PDT
A recent collaboration with Chance the Rapper has seriously excited fans, reported People.
"He the Clyde to my Bonnie, 'bout to walk down the aisle and be a mommy," she rapped in her verse on "Zanies and Fools."
Nicki also recently posted a picture of the pair on Instagram, with an excerpt of the song's lyrics in the caption.
While Nicki hasn't responded to the engagement or pregnancy rumors, fans were quick to express their excitement and well wishes on social media.


text:
England vs Denmark (July 7): Prediction, Team News, Betting Tips - Euro 2020 semi-finals
England will face Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-finals with a place in the final at stake.In the article below, we update the preview, prediction, team news, betting tips and odds of the match.
Charlotte Pho
How to watch Czech Republic vs Denmark: TV channels, live stream, online
How to Watch Belgium vs Italy: TV channels, Live stream, Online
How to Watch Switzerland vs Spain: TV channels, Live stream, Online
England head back home for one of the biggest games in their history as they host Denmark in the Euro 2020 semi-finals.
A thrashing of Ukraine in Rome saw the Three Lions make the last four at the tournament, as they did at the World Cup three years ago and last at Euros in 1996.
Denmark have overcome near-tragedy following Christian Eriksen's on-pitch collapse to sail into the semi-finals with little trouble. Can they stun Wembley on Wednesday and continue the fairytale?
Date, kick-off time and venue
England vs Denmark is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off on Wednesday, July 7, 2021. The match will be held at Wembley Stadium, in London.
England eliminated Ukraine in the quarterfinals, beating the rivals with 4-0. So that is yet another clean sheet for Gareth Southgate's boys. They are by far the best defense in the entire tournament, without a single goal conceded.
They would keep the net intact for the seventh straight match, the ninth in the past 11 games. But that is Southgate's strategy, defense first, and after that counter-attacks.
One by one, the Croats, Scots, Czechs, Germans and at last Ukrainians couldn't beat Pickford, who was masterful with his teammates in the backline. In the meantime, Harry Kane woke up, scoring three goals during the knockout stage, showing his class when needed the most. He tied with Raheem Sterling, who also has three goals each.
Denmark solved the Czech Republic without too many problems, 2-1, and even though the Czechs had the initiative in the second half, the Danes would rebuff their attacks without any problems. Their mentality in those stressful situations is extremely resistant, which is one of the biggest reasons for entering the top four
Kjaer and the boys have four straight matches with over 2.5 goals, and three of them during that span ended with both teams netting, which wasn't that frequent before the start of EURO 2020.
The Danes are playing powerful football, with a strict system in which every player knows its exact place. Above all, they are physically impeccable, with all 10 players in the field prepared to run for all 120 minutes if needed. All of them are very fluid and flexible when it comes to transformation but also know how to play positional football.
So far, there aren't any injured nor suspended players in either team.
Christian Eriksen's situation is already known, and he is long gone from the Danish protocol
England Team News - The Full Squad List
Gareth Southgate has named his final 26-man squad and preparations will be the winner at Euro 2020's final match in Wembley stadium, London, in July 11.
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, Sam Johnstone
Defenders: John Stones, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Connor Coady, Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, Reece James, Ben Chilwell, Luke Shaw
Midfielders: Mason Mount, Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Jesse Lingard, Phil Foden, Kalvin Phillips, Jack Grealish
Forwards:Raheem Sterling, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Harry , Calvert-Lewin, Ollie Watkins
Denmark Team News - The Full 26 man Squad List
Goalkeepers: Kasper Schmeichel (Leicester), Jonas Lossl (FC Midtjylland), Frederik Ronnow (Schalke)
Defenders: Simon Kjaer (AC Milan), Andreas Christensen (Chelsea), Jannik Vestergaard (Southampton), Joachim Andersen (Fulham), Mathias Jorgensen (Copenhagen), Daniel Wass (Valencia), Jens Stryger Larsen (Udinese), Joakim Maehle (Atalanta), Nicolai Boilesen (Copenhagen)
Midfielders: Christian Eriksen (Inter Milan), Thomas Delaney (Borussia Dortmund), Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (Tottenham), Mathias Jensen, Christian Norgaard (both Brentford), Anders Christiansen (Malmo)
Forwards: Kasper Dolberg (Nice), Jonas Wind (Copenhagen), Andreas Cornelius (Parma), Martin Braithwaite (Barcelona), Robert Skov (Hoffenheim), Mikkel Damsgaard (Sampdoria), Yussuf Poulsen (Leipzig), Andreas Skov Olsen (Bologna)
Bukayo Saka was not in England's squad for the game against Ukraine after carrying a 'slight knock'.
Gareth Southgate otherwise had a fully fit squad to choose from having brought Jadon Sancho in for his first start and Mason Mount back into the side.
Yellow cards are also wiped for the semi-finals, meaning Declan Rice, Kalvin Phillips, Phil Foden and Harry Maguire can breathe a little easier.
Two teams with huge momentum, it will be about which team manages the occasion better. England have the experience and will have the home crowd behind them.
On paper, Gareth Southgate's side are the more talented, but the Danes have showed time and again they have the ability to beat the best.
I'm backing an enthralling game decided by fine margins, and England to reach the final. 2-1.
England to win: 22/31
Denmark to win: 43/10
Moneyline pick
Like fellow semifinal favorites Italy, England handled their first away trip of Euro 2020 with ease, cruising by Ukraine in an emphatic 4-0 win. After a passive start to the tournament, England have not only improved in every match (with the exception of a blip against Scotland) but played with more attacking intent.
With their hammering of Ukraine, the Three Lions head into the semifinals in a fantastic situation. Their full squad is available for selection, as the three players on yellow cards made it through the quarterfinals unscathed. As a result, they can continue along with the back-four and midfield pair of Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips who are yet to concede a goal at the tournament. Crucially, too, their forward players are in their best form yet, with their 2.14 xG against Ukraine the highest from England at the tournament, while Harry Kane's brace put him level with Raheem Sterling on three goals at Euro 2020.
Though Denmark lost two straight games to begin the tournament, their quarterfinals win over the Czech Republic made it four good games out of five. A brief spell for the Czech Republic to begin the second half got them back in the game and actually led to them winning the xG battle 1.63-1.57, but Denmark was quick to adjust and saw out the game with relative ease.
Danish midfielders Thomas Delaney and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg did a fantastic job of pushing possession out wide and into the channels, where they've created the majority of their opportunities at the Euros. However, they'll find it difficult to have success doing so against England. Manager Gareth Southgate has consistently overwhelmed wide areas during the tournament, with central midfielder Mason Mount drifting wide to press against Croatia and Ukraine, while against Germany, wing-backs were used to pin Germany's own wide defenders back.
England have proven that they aren't just a collection of talented players, but a well-managed team capable of adjusting to their opponent. By doing so again at Wembley on Wednesday, they'll be able to get through to the final at Euro 2020.
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Vietnam vs Saudi Arabia World Cup Qualifier: Date & Time, Match Preview, Team News, Predictions
Vietnam will kick off against Saudi Arabia in a match on Tuesday in My Dinh Stadium, with Vietnam preparing themselves to face a strong opponent of World Cup Qualifier.
Vietnam vs Japan World Cup 2022: Date & Time, Preview, Team News, Prediction
Vietnam will face off with Japan this November 11 at My Dinh Stadium, and Vietnam is hoping to improve and raise their chances in this upcoming and challenging match with a strong opponent.
Vietnam vs Oman World Cup 2022: Date and Time, Preview, Prediction, Team News
Vietnam will clash against Oman in a match on today, Tuesday October 12 at 11 pm (Hanoi time), which is supported by a lot of football fans. Here is the match's predictions, preview, team news, date and time, and more information.
Vietnam vs China World Cup 2022: Date and Time, Team News, Preview, Prediction
Vietnam and China will kick off against each other in the final round of World Cup 2022 at 0am on October 8 (Vietnam time), which many football lovers await for the match. It will be played behind closed doors due to COVID-19, according to Sharjah stadium's managing board.
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Orji Kalu sets for retrial as Supreme Court nullifies conviction after months in prison
The Supreme Court has voided the conviction of Former Governor of Abia State Orji Kalu after spending about five months in prison.
A Federal High Court sitting in Lagos had in December 2019 convicted Kalu of a 39-count charge pressed against him by the Economic and Economic Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), including a N7.1 billion fraud during his eight-year tenure as governor of Abia State.
Kalu, who is currently the Senate Chief Whip, was consequently sentenced to 12 years in prison.
In March, the embattled former governor had approached a Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja to challenge his conviction but Justice Olabisi Ige had upheld the judgemet.
But in its ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court dismissed the judgement which convicted Kalu and ordered a retrial of the accused and his co-defendants.
Delivering the judgement, a panel of seven Justices led by Amina Augie held that the conviction of Kalu was void as the trial judge, Mohammed Liman, lacked the jurisdiction to hear the case.
The apex court also held that Liman, who heard the case, lacked the authority to preside over the trial then as he had already been elevated to the Appeal Court as of the time of the ruling.
Reacting to the judgement, Kalu stated the development has further reaffirmed his belief and confidence in the Nigerian project as well as its justice system.
He said: "I want to use this moment to thank my family, my colleagues, my friends, my supporters, the people of Abia State, and all Nigerians for their unflinching and unwavering confidence and trust in me through the very testing period. We all know today that their prayers have not been in vain.
"I also use this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Nigerian Correctional Service for the unalloyed professionalism and sincere humanity extended to me by its staff while I was in their custody.
"I must accord a special mention to the Justices of our Supreme Court for their unwavering commitment to rule of law. We all stand reminded of the consistent and strategic relevance of the Nigerian Supreme Court in holding this country together, even in moments of great peril. As far back as in the 1971 case of LAKANMI V. ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE FEDERATION, (the Ademola Adetokumbo-led Court) the Nigerian Supreme Court has severally rescued this country from the precipice.
"My case is a true Nigerian story with a bold MADE-IN-NIGERIA stamp on it. It is a story of initial injustice that was caught and ultimately corrected. It is a story of restoration. It is a story of how a wrong was righted and how justice and truth prevailed in the end.
"I have come to know that the course of justice will not be complete if it stopped at my case. It must continue until it touches the lives of millions of Nigerians who face injustice anywhere in this world.
"I shall be dedicating my time henceforth to ensuring there will be justice for all Nigerians whether they are in Sokoto or Akwa Ibom or in Lagos or Maiduguri or in Jos or Enugu, or wherever they may be.
"A system whereby over 70% of all prison inmates population is made up of people awaiting trial cannot be allowed to continue. Situations where innocent people are falsely charged with murder just to get them out of the way does not dignify our country and cannot continue.
"Justice must now mean justice for all. That is my pledge to Nigerians."
Meanwhile, the EFCC has revealed that the former governor would face immediate prosecution for money laundering following the reversal of his earlier conviction by the apex court.
In a statement issued through its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, few hours after the judgement, the EFCC described the Supreme Court's ruling as "a technical ambush against the trial of the former governor."
The statement read: "The attention of the Economic And Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has been drawn to the judgment of the Supreme Court nullifying the trial of a former governor of Abia State, Orji Kalu , his firm, Slok Nigeria Limited and Jones Udeogu, a former Director of Finance and Account of Abia State Government and ordering their fresh trial at the lower court.
"The apex court based its verdict on the grounds that Justice Mohammed Idris, who convicted Kalu and others had been elevated to the Court of Appeal before the judgment and returned to the lower court to deliver the judgment which it considered as illegal.
"The EFCC considers the judgment of the apex court as quite unfortunate. It is a technical ambush against the trial of the former governor.
"The Commission is prepared for a fresh and immediate trial of the case because its evidences against Kalu and others are overwhelming. The corruption charges against Kalu still subsist because the Supreme Court did not acquit him of them. The entire prosecutorial machinery of the EFCC would be launched in a fresh trial where justice is bound to be served in due course."


In March 2009, Rumble released his first solo single "Always Be Here". The track debuted on the RIANZ New Zealand Singles Chart at number 33 and peaked at number 13. The single was later certified gold status for selling over 7,500 copies digitally. A second single, "Don't Know What to Do", was released in July, and after a nation-wide radio tour, funded by New Zealand On Air, the single reached number 10 on the chart, becoming his first top 10 single as a solo artist.
A third single titled "Cruel" was released in November, and debuted at number 17 on the New Zealand singles chart. The track has since then climbed to number 3, making the track his third consecutive top 20 single, and on top of that, Cruel was certified platinum with sales over 15,000. Rumble spent the summer of 2009/10 performing on both 'Coca Cola Bands on Beach Tour' & 'The Woah Oh Oh Tour'.
Rumble's debut solo album, The Experiment was released on 29 March 2010. The album debuted at number 1 on the New Zealand Albums Chart.
Basic metalcore band, but with an average age of like 17. Won the Smokefree Rockquest last year, unfortunately calling it quits late this month. It's a shame really, they had some talent.
Zed were a New Zealand Pop/rock four-piece band formed in 1998. Originally formed while still students at Christchurch's Cashmere High School, Zed (Originally known as "Supra") is the dream child of Nathan King, Ben Campbell and Adrian Palmer, along with manager Ray Columbus.
In 2000, Zed were no longer a three-piece, joined by second guitarist Andrew Lynch. Soon after their inception, Nathan felt there was someone missing from the band and they hired Andy.
Assisting with the re-shaping on Silencer was producer David Nicholas. Rhythm and vocal tracks were recorded at Revolver Studios in Auckland, with final overdubs and mixing at Mangrove Studios, north of Sydney, Australia. Recording sessions were over in seven weeks, although after all band members and production staff came down with the flu.
Silencer was released in 2000 in New Zealand and debuted at number one on the New Zealand Album Charts, quickly achieving triple platinum status, and creating six hit singles. "Renegade Fighter" was the number-one song in New Zealand for the year 2000.
Zed took an "extended break" in 2005, with band members looking into new musical ventures. Nathan King has launched a solo career and is now based in London. Ben Campbell and Adrian Palmer have formed a new band, Atlas. Andy Lynch is working as a session musician in Auckland. More recently, Adrian Palmer has left Atlas, and Andy Lynch has since joined.
The band recently reunited for a one off performance at the Vector Arena for the company Yellow's, Homemade Jam which was held on the 11th December 2008.
The dozen-strong strummers of the WIUO faithfully reproduce hit songs from across the musical spectrum. They are a consistent sell-out act in their home country, where the ukulele has been a beloved instrument since its appearance on the first official New Zealand pop single.
The orchestra provides harmonious and hilarious renditions of classics, rock hits and folk tunes as well as songs in their country's native tongue. The comedy comes from the witty banter, but when the WIUO bursts into song it could go several ways: the sweet sounds can silence a room in a nanosecond, or bring a crowd of thousands to their feet.
At their gigs, you can expect inviting sing-a-longs, outstanding instrumentals, well-dressed individuals, sparkling harmonies and comic banter. The WIUO has rocked rock venues, botanic gardens and vineyards, and they've also been known to rock libraries, museums, art galleries and the inter-island ferry.
Their debut EP, Starlifter, was released on the independent Wellington label Wishbone in 1998. Their debut album Pet was produced by David Long, guitarist of the Six Volts and the The Mutton Birds and was released in 2000, also on Wishbone Records. Pet featured the single Lydia which reached number one on the New Zealand singles charts. The band scooped the pool at the 2001 Tui New Zealand Music Awards, walking away with 4 "Tui's".
In 2001 the band moved to Melbourne, Australia where they inked their first major record deal, with Universal Music Australia. Their second album, Collider, was released in New Zealand in 2003 and Australia in early 2004. The album, produced by British producer Mark Wallis and recorded in Melbourne's Sing Sing studios, was a move away from the catchy, more radio-friendly pop sound of Pet. The first single, Precious, was heavier and darker than earlier offerings. Its music video, which showed the band members collecting fan's ears, was filmed in Hollywood, California.
The 3-piece released the 4-track Long Distance Runner EP in May 2007 and their third full length album Local Kid on 29 September 2008. Local Kid was produced by Australian producer Tony Cohen.
Opshop is a New Zealand rock band formed in 2002. Their first album, You Are Here, was released in 2004. Their second album, Second Hand Planet was released in 2007 and received Triple Platinum certification. Second Hand Planet produced the successful single, One Day. Opshop was formed by Invercargill born, Christchurch raised, singer/songwriter Jason Kerrison. He based himself in Auckland, writing music while at a residency in a backpacker's bar in Auckland.
Growing tired of the solo shows, he invited guitarist and old school friend, Tim Skedden to join him and share the acoustic vibe that the club and its punters had come to enjoy. In the following year, Kerrison met up with another old school mate and long time jamming drummer, Bobby Kennedy (also from Christchurch) and invited him to join the very young band. In the following few months, another long-term friend crossed Kerrison's path. The band's name was GST (Goldfish Shopping Trolley), but was soon changed to Opshop.
Guitarist Matt Treacy (yet another Cantabrian) was also living in Auckland and was soon to be a member of this emerging act. So with four members in place, jamming, interacting, along with plenty of nostalgia and catching up on the Christchurch days, the Opshop bandwagon was now rolling.
It was then that the band recruited a friend of Jason's that he had met while studying ethnomusicology at Auckland University. English born Ian Munro became Opshop's bass player.
Some of Opshop's success is thanks to the ZM radio station where during the winter of 2003, Opshop were the winners of Project NZM a competition designed to help small bands make it big. Project NZM helped Opshop with the release of their single Saturated by giving the song airplay on the ZM network.
As the band remained behind closed doors, a demo recording of their work found its way into the hands of Adrien de Croy and Tracy Magan, of the newly founded label Siren Records, who are also the record label of Goldenhorse, who liked the band's music.
Siren then offered Opshop an opportunity to record some of their material at York Street Studios in a 'live' demo session. The following night, Opshop played their first ever gig alongside Che-Fu and Ted Clarke at the then Leftfield Bar on the Viaduct in Auckland.
In the weeks that followed, Siren approached Opshop with a deal that would provide both opportunity and artist integrity with the benefits of an independent label, alongside the distribution capabilities of major label Capitol/EMI.
They became a signed act and they continue to receive a good deal of support from NZ on Air and New Zealand's broadcasting community. Opshop finished their new album You Are Here in 2004 and have done many large concerts all over the country. Their first single "Nothing Can Wait" was recorded by Malcolm Welsford at York St Studios.
The single "No Ordinary Thing" did very well in the charts and made it on to Now That's What I Call Music Volume 16.
The Band went through some drastic changes that proved to be very challenging to deal with. Tim Skedden unfortunately had to leave the band due to family commitments and Ian Munro decided to head back home to his native Britain.
This left a void that was eventually filled by Bobby Kennedy's former band mate Clinton Harris on Bass guitar. Clint and Bobby first teamed up as part Christchurch's Hornby High School rock band called Outer Control. The lead singer of this band was Pearl Runga (sister to Boh Runga and Bic Runga). Outer Control was the first ever winner of the New Zealand National High School Rock Quest competition. Bobby and Clint carried on together on the Christchurch Music scene in another band called Gorilla Biscuit with Jason Kerrison singing lead vocals.
Jason Kerrison, the singer, auditioned for Rock Star Supernova but even though he impressed, he wasn't selected for the finals. At the auditions, he was talking to Tommy Lee, who was saying that he loves Snow Patrol, which inspired Jason when making Second Hand Planet (He said this during an interview with The Rock radio station). Coincidentally, Opshop supported Snow Patrol in September 2007 for their 2 New Zealand shows.
With the single "Maybe", they are the first New Zealand band to go to the #1 position on iTunes New Zealand in its history. Beating out Mika, Regina Spektor, Avril Lavigne, Beyoncé & Shakira, The Fray, Silverchair, Fall Out Boy, Justin Timberlake and Snow Patrol. "Maybe" is the first single off the album Second Hand Planet, released in April 2007.
When they were on tour with Luke Thompson in New Zealand in 2008, they came up with a song for each place they visited on the day of the concert. In Auckland, they forgot the words to it and made it up on the spot.
Opshop have been voted New Zealand's favourite band according to readers of the EDC magazine. The poll was conducted on the 19th April, 2010. Two days after they released their newest single "Pin's and Needles" which was released 17th April, 2010.
Foamy Ed is a New Zealand pop punk girl band.
They formed in high school in 1996, since then the band released their debut EP Go Where U Know in 2000 and another EP A Moment's Need. They have performed in the Big Day Out and many national gigs. They have also performed alongside huge international bands such as Blink 182, Pennywise, 28 Days, The Vandals, The 5.6.7.8's, Plain Sunset and BugGirl. New Zealand supports include; Fur Patrol, Elemeno P, HLAH, The Feelers, Sommerset and many more.
In 2003, Aimee left the band and Mieke was brought in to replace her on guitar. Aimee returned in 2004 to make Foamy Ed a five piece.
Lani Purkis is currently in another band Elemeno P.
And that, ladies and gentlemen, concludes New Zealand Music Month 2010. I hope you have enjoyed your month long insight into New Zealand music, and I hope you walk away with knowledge of a new artist!
Minuit (pronounced min-wee, French for midnight) are an electronic band from New Zealand, originally from Nelson.
The members of Minuit are Paul Dodge, Ruth Carr and Ryan Beehre. Minuit started as rock band with lead vocalist, Ruth Carr, on drums. Ryan Beehre bought a sampler and turned the band Electronic. The band released four self-released EPs, Sonic Experience (1998), Silver (1999), Luck (2000) and Except You (2002)In 2003 Minuit signed to Tardus music and released their debut album, The 88. Some of the songs had already been released on their earlier EPs. The 88, achieved gold certification in New Zealand.
Minuit first came to prominence in 2002 when their first single "Species II" was used in the intro to the New Zealand TV show Queer Nation.
A video of the single "Except You" was made by their flatmate Alyx Duncan who thought it would be fun. The result was an eerie carnival themed music video.
In 2004 the band released a limited edition 7 track EP, The Guns EP, featuring the single "I Hate Guns" (which has an animated video mimicking the TV show Are You Being Served?). The CD also included 3 music videos and a video interview from Sticky Pictures' "The Living Room". The Guns EP was only available for a limited run that sold out in the first week. This won the band 'Best Electronic Release' at the b-net music awards 2005, and a nomination for 'Breakthrough Artist' at the Vodafone New Zealand Music Awards. Released in 2006 was the album The Guards Themselves, with this album the band turned to Alyx Duncan once again to make a video for their single "Fuji." The album also features singles "Suave as Sin" with a video directed by Mike Bridgman (Nektar Films, Wgtn) featuring a 4 year old Kiel Beehre and, "A Room Full of Cute".
In 2007, their music was included in the PS3 Downloadable version of Sidhe Interactive's GripShift. The songs "Fuji", "A Room Full of Cute", and "This Music is Good for the Species" were all a part of the game's final track listing.
The Minuit live show toured NZ and Europe extensively throughout 2006-2008. While doing so they released a series of 12" Remix Vinyls. "Fuji", "Except You", and "A Room Ful Of Cute".
A European compilation of The 88, The Guns EP, and The Guards Themselves called I Went To This Party And There Were 88 Guards With Guns was released in April 2008 to expand their fanbase to the UK, also re-releasing "Except You" and "Menace." In March 2009, Minuit released "Wayho", the lead single off their album, Find Me Before I Die A Lonely Death.com, which was released in New Zealand on 20 July, 2009. Another single, "25 Bucks," has also been released with video by Brendon Davies-Patrick and "Aotearoa" is planned for release later this year.
The single "I'm still dancing" was used in an episode of Grey's Anatomy which was aired in the US on February 5 2010.
yes.. Minuit are awesome. I saw them in Nelson in their beginning days.


Shares vs Stock Options. May 30th, 2011 Mike . to an employee, CRA (Canada Revenue Agency) considers this an "employment benefit" on which income tax is payable. This benefit is the difference between what the employee paid for the shares and their FMV (Fair Market Value).
Employee Stock Options; Determination of Adjusted Cost Base (ACB) Employee Stock Options for a public company; David and I have worked on many different CRA and business files over the years, including voluntary disclosures, audits and appeals and the purchase and sale of businesses. He provides practical and timely tax and business advice.
Re: Technical Interpretation - Employee Stock Options. This is in response to our telephone conversations (XXXXXXXXXX/Kohnen) and your submissions in 2005 to the Winnipeg Tax Services Office, which has been forwarded to our attention for our response.
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Positive Divorce: More on psychopaths: New research show their brains really are different!
More on psychopaths: New research show their brains really are different!
Viewers of TV shows like "Criminal Minds" have been saying this for years when viewing episodes of the incredible, sadistic crimes committed by villains identified as 'psychopaths" by the BAU good guys: "There is something wrong with those guys". Well, it turns out, there is.
New research just completed by researchers from the U of New Mexico MIND institute, and a group from the U of Wisconsin School of Medicine compared the brains of 20 true psychopaths (not antisocial personality disorder) with 20 matched convicted criminals in the Wisconsin Department of Corrections facility who did not fit the strict criteria for psychopathy. Using two different brain imaging technologies, fMRI and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), Dr. Kent Keihl (who I visited last summer in Albuquerque) and Dr. Michael Koenigs found that psychopaths had identifiable structural and functional deficits when compared to regular criminals.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is like a movie of the brain at work. Diffusion tensor imaging is designed to image the white matter (the connections) deep in the interior of the brain. fMRI analysis demonstrated that "ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), the part of the brain responsible for sentiments such as empathy and guilt, and the amygdala, (a small structure deep in the center of the brain) which mediates fear and anxiety,, were NOT as active in psychopaths as in the convicted criminals who were not psychopaths. Further, the DTI images showed that the connections between those two critical brain regions were also less in the psychopath group.
It has long been known that psychopaths lack empathy and are extreme risk takers, exhibiting abnormally low anxiety and fear. A common description includes the inability to learn from experience, poor impulse control, and a lack of remorse. Until now, these behavioral and character traits have been attributed to family history, substance abuse, and sometimes to "genetics" but without an adequate neuro-scientific foundation. Sentencing and "rehabilitation" decisions have been based on personal beliefs (or biases) and sometimes on psychological testing, which is only marginally better. Now, if this research is confirmed by larger studies (the Wisconsin project is ongoing-personal communication), there will be a scientific neuro-imaging technology available for identifying the anatomical deficits inherent in psychopathy.
The application to family law will provide courts and litigants with a non-fakable, reliable imaging technology to identify psychopathy and prevent the emotional and potentially violent damage that these guys (most psychopaths are male) do to children, their own or someone else's. The new research documents why treatment is ineffective and the psychopathic behavior is ongoing--their brains are both anatomically deficient and functionally defective in areas responsible for impulse control and empathy. Until science advances further so that this kind of brain damage can be treated and corrected, courts will be limited to protecting the past and future victims of these individuals when they are identified.