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La cristianització de la Rus de Kíev es va dur a terme en diverses etapes. A principis del 867, el patriarca Foci de Constantinoble va anunciar a altres patriarques ortodoxos que la Rus', batejada pel seu bisbe, havia pres el cristianisme amb particular entusiasme. Els intents de Foci de cristianitzar el país semblen no haver tingut conseqüències duradores, ja que la Crònica de Nèstor i altres fonts eslaves descriuen el  de la Rus' com a fermament arrelat en el paganisme. La cristianització definitiva de la Rus de Kíev data de finals de la dècada del 980 (l'any concret és motiu de controvèrsia)), quan Vladímir I de Kíev va ser batejat a Quersonès, i procedí a batejar la seva família i gent a Kíev. El lloc del baptisme de Vladímir està marcat per la Catedral de Vladímir.

Prehistòria

Segons les llegendes, els cristians va arribar per primer cop al territori de l'actual Bielorússia i Ucraïna de la mà de Sant Andreu, el primer apòstol de Jesucrist. Va viatjar per la Mar Negra a la colònia grega de Quersonesos Tàurica a Crimea, on convertí diversos milers d'homes a la nova fe. Segons es diu, Sant Andreu també va viatjar al nord al llarg del Dnièper, al lloc on es va fundar Kíev al voltant del segle cinquè, i tant al nord com a la futura ubicació de Veliki Nóvgorod. El relat llegendari de la Crònica de Nèstor diu que Sant Andreu es va divertir amb els costums eslaus de rentar-se en un bany de vapor calent, la bania, en el seu camí.

Les colònies gregues del nord del Pont, tant les de Crimea i les dels moderns marges ucraïnesos de la mar d'Azov i la Mar Negra, romangueren com a principals centres del cristianisme a Europa de l'Est durant gairebé mil anys. Entre els llocs cristians més destacats cal esmentar el Monestir de la Cova d'Inkerman, un monestir medieval romà d'Orient on es troben les relíquies de Sant Climent, el quart bisbe de Roma, es van mantenir suposadament abans del seu trasllat a la Basilica di San Clemente al Laterano per part dels sants Ciril i Metodi.

Els sants Ciril i Metodi van ser els missioners del cristianisme entre els pobles eslaus de Bulgària, Gran Moràvia i Pannònia. A través de la seva obra van influir en el desenvolupament cultural de tots els eslaus, raó per la qual reberen el títol d"apòstols dels eslaus". Se'ls atribueix l'elaboració de l'alfabet glagolític, el primer alfabet usat per transcriure l'antic eslau eclesiàstic, així com l'alfabet ciríl·lic, utilitzat actualment en molts països eslaus, inclosa Rússia. Després de la seva mort, els seus deixebles van continuar la seva tasca missionera entre altres eslaus. Tots dos germans són venerats a l'Església ortodoxa com a sants amb el títol d"Isapòstols".

Segle

La font més autoritzada per a la cristianització de la Rus primerenca és una carta encíclica del patriarca Foci, datable a principis de 867. Prenent com a referència el setge de Constantinoble de 860, Foci informa els patriarques orientals i bisbes que, després que els búlgars es convertissin al cristianisme en 863, la Rus' va seguir el seu exemple. Tal com s'havia donat amb els búlgars, al patriarca li va semblar prudent d'enviar als bàrbars un bisbe de Constantinoble.

Amb algunes modificacions, la història es repeteix per Constantí VII a De Administrando Imperio, seguit per diverses generacions d'historiadors romans d'Orient, incloent Joan Escilitzes i Joan Zonaràs. Que la cort imperial i el patriarcat considerava la Rus' del  com a cristians, és evident pel fet que el bisbat de Rus' va ser enumerat en les llistes de les seus ortodoxes, compilada durant els regnats de Lleó el Savi i Constantí VII. També hi ha un argumentum ex silentio: cap font grega no registra el segon baptisme de la Rus' el 990.

Segle
Qualsevol que hagi estat l'abast dels esforços de Foci de cristianitzar la Rus', el seu efecte no fou massa durador. Tot i que deixen d'esmentar la missió de Foci, els autors de la Crònica de Nèstor eren conscients que una part considerable de la població de Kíev era cristiana pels volts del 944. Al tractat entre la Rus' de Kíev i l'Imperi Romà d'Orient, conservat en el text de la crònica, la part cristiana de la Rus' va jurar segons la seva fe, mentre que el príncep governant i altres no-cristians invoquen Perun i Veles segons el costum pagà. La col·legiata kievana de Sant Elies (el culte del qual als països eslaus segueix molt de prop el de Perun) s'esmenta en el text de la crònica, i fa que els erudits moderns reflexionin sobre quantes esglésies hi havia a Kíev en aquell temps.

Ja sigui en 945 o 957, la regent governant, Olga de Kíev, va visitar Constantinoble amb un sacerdot, Gregori. La seva recepció en la cort imperial es descriu a De Ceremoniis. Segons les llegendes, l'emperador romà d'Orient Constantí VII es va enamorar d'Olga, però ella trobà la manera de refusar-lo en enganyar-lo i fer-lo convertir en el seu padrí. Quan va ser batejada, ella va dir que era inapropiat que un padrí es casés amb la seva fillola.

Per bé en general es presumeix que Olga va ser batejada a Constantinoble en comptes de Kíev, no es fa esment explícit del Sant Sopar, de manera que cap de les versions està exclosa. Se sap també que Olga havia sol·licitat un bisbe i sacerdots de Roma. El seu fill, Sviatoslav (r. 963-972), van continuar adorant Perun i altres déus de la mitologia eslava. Seguí sent un obstinat pagà tota la seva vida; d'acord amb la Crònica de Néstor, creia que els seus guerrers li perdrien el respecte i se'n burlarien si es convertia al cristianisme.

El successor de Sviatoslav, Iaropolk I (r. 972-980), sembla haver tingut una actitud més conciliadora cap al cristianisme. Fonts medievals tardanes fins i tot afirmen que Iaropolk va intercanviar ambaixadors amb el Papa. El Chronicon d'Adémar de Chabannes i la vida de Sant Romuald (per Pere Damià) en realitat documenta la missió de Sant Bru de Querfurt a la terra de la Rus', on va aconseguir convertir al cristianisme a un rei local (un dels tres germans que van governar la terra). Aleksandr Nazarenko suggereix que Iaropolk va passar per alguns ritus preliminars del baptisme, però va ser assassinat per ordre del seu mig germà pagà Vladímir (els mateixos drets al troneren qüestionables) abans que no es formalitzés la seva conversió. Seguint aquesta teoria, tota la informació sobre el baptisme d'Iaropolk d'acord amb el ritu llatí seria suprimida pels cronistes ortodoxos posteriors, gelosos de mantenir la imatge de Vladímir, l'Apòstol rus sense tatxa per a les generacions futures.

Baptisme de Vladímir de Kíev

Antecedents

Durant la primera dècada del regnat de Vladímir, la reacció pagana fou la d'establir Perun com el déu suprem del panteó eslau i el seu ídol va ser col·locat al turó del palau reial. Aquest renaixement del paganisme va ser contemporani amb intents similars realitzats per Håkon Sigurdsson a Noruega i (possiblement) Sven Tveskæg a Dinamarca. Si bé sembla que Vladímir podria haver anat més enllà dels dos konungs escandinaus (fins i tot es va informar de sacrificis humans a Kíev), la seva reforma religiosa fracassà. A finals del 980 es veié en la necessitat d'adoptar el monoteisme des de l'estranger.

La Crònica de Nèstor informa que, l'any 986, Vladímir es va reunir amb representants de diverses religions. El resultat és descrit de manera divertida en la següent anècdota apòcrifa. Després de la reunió amb els búlgars del Volga musulmans, Vladímir va trobar la seva religió no apta per la seva obligació de circumcidar i els tabús en contra de les begudes alcohòliques i la carn de porc; suposadament, Vladímir va dir en aquesta ocasió: «Beure és l'alegria de la Rus', no podem prescindir-ne». També va consultar amb jueus enviats (que poden o no pot haver estat khàzars), els va interrogar sobre la seva religió, però finalment la va rebutjar tot dient que en la seva pèrdua de Jerusalem hi havia proves que havien estat abandonats per Déu.

L'any 987, com a resultat d'una consulta amb el seu boiars, Vladímir va enviar emissaris a estudiar les religions de les diferents nacions veïnes, els representants de les quals l'havien estat instant a abraçar les seves respectives creences. Dels musulmans búlgars del Volga els seus enviats li van informar que no hi havia alegria entre ells, només tristesa i una gran pudor. En les esglésies ombrívoles dels alemanys els seus emissaris no hi veien bellesa, però a Santa Sofia, on s'havia posat en marxa tot el ritual del festival de l'Església romana d'Orient per impressionar-los, van trobar el seu ideal: «Ja no sabíem si érem al cel o a la terra». Van informar que «hi ha tanta bellesa que no sabem com explicar-ho».

El baptisme de Vladímir

Les fonts estrangeres, en un nombre no massa alt, presenten el següent relat de la conversió de Vladimir. Al-Antaki i els seus seguidors (al-Rudhrawari, Girgis al-Makin ibn al-Amid, Al-Dimaixqi i Alí ibn al-Athir) donen essencialment el mateix relat. L'any 987, els generals Bardas Escleros i Bardas Focas es van rebel·lar contra l'emperador romà d'Orient Basili II. Ambdós rebels van unir breument a les forces i van avançar cap a Constantinoble. El 14 de setembre del 987, Bardas Focas es va proclamar emperador. Ansiós per evitar el setge de la capital, Basili II es va dirigir a la Rus' per demanar-li ajut, tot i que eren considerats enemics en aquest moment. Vladimir va estar d'acord, a canvi d'un vincle matrimonial, però també va estar d'acord en acceptar el cristianisme ortodox com la seva religió i portar al seu poble a la nova fe. Quan els preparatius del casament van ser resolts, Vladimir va despatxar 6.000 soldats per a l'Imperi Romà d'Orient i van ajudar a sufocar la revolta.

En la Crònica de Néstor, el relat del baptisme de Vladímir és precedit per l'anomenada llegenda Kòrsun. Segons aquesta història apòcrifa, el 988 Vladimir va capturar la ciutat grega de Kòrsun (Quersonès) a Crimea, molt important comercialment i política. Aquesta campanya va estar dictada pel desig d'assegurar els beneficis promesos a ell per Basili II, quan ell havia demanat l'ajuda de la Rus contra Focas. En recompensa per l'evacuació de Quersonès, a Vladímir se li va prometre la mà de la germana de l'emperador, Anna Porfirogènita. Abans de les noces, Vladímir va ser batejat (ja sigui a Quersonès o a Kíev), i va prendre el nom de pila de Basili com a elogi al seu imperial cunyat. El sagrament va ser seguit pel seu matrimoni amb la princesa grega.

Baptisme de Kíev

En tornar a Kíev en senyal de triomf, Vladímir va exhortar als residents de la seu capital perquè anessin al riu Dnièper i allà es bategessin. Aquest baptisme en massa va esdevenir l'icònic esdeveniment inaugural en la cristianització de l'estat de la Rus de Kíev.

Al principi Vladímir va batejar els seus 12 fills i molts boiars. Va destruir les estàtues de fusta dels déus eslaus pagans (que ell mateix havia alçat tan sols vuit anys abans). Aquestes van ser cremades o bé tallades a trossos i l'estàtua de Perun - el déu suprem - va ser llançada al Dnièper.

Llavors Vladímir va enviar un missatge a tots els habitants de Kíev, "rics i pobres i captaires i esclaus", arribeu-vos al riu l'endemà, perquè sinó correu el risc d'esdevenir el "els enemics del príncep". Un gran nombre de persones van arribar, alguns fins i tot van portar amb ells els nens. Van ser enviats a l'aigua mentre que els sacerdots ortodoxos, que van venir de Quersonès per a l'ocasió, pregaven.

Per commemorar l'esdeveniment, Vladímir posà la primera pedra de l'església de la Rus de Kíev, anomenada Església dels Delmes, on el seu cos i el cos de la seva esposa van anar a descansar. Una altra església va ser construïda en el cim del turó on estaven abans les estàtues paganes.

Conseqüències

El baptisme de Kíev va ser seguit per cerimònies similars en altres centres urbans del país. La Crònica de Ioakim diu que l'oncle de Vladímir, Dobrínia, va obligar els novgorodians a abraçar el cristianisme "pel foc", mentre que l'alcalde de la localitat, Putiata, va convèncer els seus compatriotes a acceptar la fe cristiana "per l'espasa". En aquesta mateixa època, el bisbe Ioakim Korsúnianin va construir la primera Catedral de Santa Sofia de Nóvgorod, de fusta, a l'indret on hi havia un cementiri pagà

El paganisme persistí al país per un temps llarg, i emergí durant els alçaments de l'Alt Volga i altres manifestacions paganes ocasionals. La part nord-oriental del país, centrada a Rostov, va ser particularment hostil a la nova religió. Nóvgorod sí que es va enfrontar a una revolta pagana en una data tan tardana com el 1071, en què el bisbe Fèdor es va enfrontar a una amenaça real a la seva persona; el príncep Gleb Sviatoslàvitx dissolgué la multitud tallant un bruixot per la meitat amb una destral

La cristianització de la Rus s'alià fermament l'Imperi Romà d'Orient. L'aprenentatge i la cultura grega llibre va ser adoptada a Kíev i en altres centres del país. Es van començar a construir esglésies, seguint el model romà d'Orient. Durant el regnat del fill de Vladímir Iaroslav I de Kíev, el metropolità Hilarió escrigué la primera obra coneguda de literatura eslava oriental, un discurs elaborat on es compara favorablement la Rus a altres terres, coneguda com el "Sermó de la Llei i la Gràcia". L'Evangeliari d'Ostromirs, produït a Nóvgorod durant el mateix període, és el llibre més antic en eslau que ha arribat totalment preservat. Però l'única obra supervivent de la literatura laica, Cantar de les hosts d'Ígor, indica que un cert grau de visió del món pagà cristià romangué sota la Rus de Kíev.

El 1988, els fidels de l'Església Ortodoxa i de les esglésies que tenen arrels en el baptisme de Kíev va celebrar el mil·lenari de cristianisme eslau oriental. Les grans celebracions a Moscou va canviar el caràcter de la relació entre l'estat soviètic i l'església. Per primera vegada des de 1917, nombroses esglésies i monestirs van ser retornats a l'Església Ortodoxa Russa. En les comunitats ucraïneses de tot el món, els membres dels diferents esglésies ucraïneses també se celebra el mil·lenari del cristianisme a Ucraïna.

El 2008, el Banc Nacional d'Ucraïna posà en circulació monedes commemoratives de la "cristianització de la Rus de Kíev" dins la sèrie "renaixement de l'espiritualitat cristiana a Ucraïna".

Referències

Bibliografia

 Голубинский Е. История Русской Церкви. М. 1901;
 Томашівський С. Вступ до історії Церкви в Україні, тт. 1 -- 2. Жовква 1931;
 Zaikyn W. Zarys dziejow ustroju Kosciola wschodnio-slowianskiego. 1939;
 Ammann A. Abriss der Ostslavischen Kirchengeschichte. Viena 1950;
 Vernadsky G. The Status of the Russian Church During the First Half-century Following Vladimir's Conversion. The Slavic and East European Heview, Vol. XX. 1941;
 Назарко I. Св. Vladímir I de Kíev, governant i baptista de Rússia-Ucraïna. Roma 1954;
 Vernadsky G. The Origin of Russia. Oxford 1959;
 Карташев А. Очерки по истории Русской Церкви, т. І. París 1959;
 Чубатий М. Історія християнства на Руси-Україні, т. 1. Roma - Nova York 1965;
 Полонська-Василенко Н. Історія України, т. І. Munic 1972;
 Dvornik F. Les Slaves, Byzance et Rome au IX s. París 1926.

Història del cristianisme
Rus de Kíev

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First of all, this post is not a "scientific post" on the sun and sleep, but if you want that, I have written one found here: Regulatory Sleep Systems.
This post is a lot more simple than that one (whew!). This is an anecdotal post about my family and how the sun affects our sleep. My hope is to get you thinking about the many possible affects of sun on your family so you can do what is best for each individual with naps and bedtime.
The first and most obvious reaction with sleep and the sun is "no sun allowed" while sleeping.
Some of us are what I call "sun risers." This means that when the sun is up, we are up.
I have always been this way since I was a little girl, and I am still this way. My parents were not structured, so I was allowed to get up when I got up and I got up at 6 AM every day.
Being a sun riser is great when you want to get up early–but can be hard when it is the longest day of the year and the sun is gracing you somewhere around 4 AM. It can be hard to sleep unless you have blinds to help block the light.
Brayden is also this way. He has always risen with the sun–even as a brand new born. I remember one time when he was two years old and he threw up in his bed in the 3 AM hour. My husband just happened to be working over the night that night, which was a very rare occurance. Kaitlyn was a newborn, so of course sleep was precious to me.
Oh, and it was summer.
So there I was in the 3 AM hour, cleaning Brayden up and changing his bedding. And not only that, I was racing the sun. I knew without a doubt that if I did not get his bedding changed and him back in bed before that sun came up, he would be up for the day.
That was one loooooong day.
In present day, if Brayden ever happens to sleep past time to wake up, all I have to do is open his blinds and he wakes up within 30 seconds. Winter is the only time of year he sleeps in because that is when the sun is up late.
How are we "sun-risers" impacted by the sun and our napping? In my best estimation, the sun doesn't really matter for naps most of the time. I usually left blinds open or at least partially open for Brayden, and when I am napping, the presence or absence of the sun doesn't really impact my sleep either way.
For some people, the sun has basically no impact on sleep. My husband is this way. The sun coming up does not in any way wake him up.
Kaitlyn is also this way.
An interesting thing with Kaitlyn is that she naps much, much better if she has some sunlight in her room.
I was closing her blinds–dark blinds that help block the sun–for her naps and she was not napping well. One day I left them open and she took a great nap! So I started experimenting and she consistently sleeps better if her blinds are open. I do tilt them so the sun can't shine directly on her, but it is bright in her room when she sleeps.
You might be curious as to where McKenna falls in this discussion. The truth is, I am not positive. As a newborn, she did not nap well with blinds open. She needed them shut. So ever since then, I have done shut blinds for nap and night.
I do know she is a sun-riser. What I don't know is how the sunshine impacts her napping. In thinking about this post, I decided to crack her blinds a bit for her nap to see how she does. I though there is a possibility that babies need darkness but toddlers do better with some light. She is sleeping right now, and it will take some time of experimenting to get a better idea.
The take away for you from this post is to make sure you experiment with your children. Some need to go as far as black out blinds or curtains to sleep well at night and for naps. Others sleep fine with light, and some even better with some light for naps. Do some testing to find out what is best for your child.
Previous Post Love Language: Why Be Multi-Lingual?
We love blackout curtains at our house! My kids get too stimulated otherwise, especially for naptimes. Thus, sometimes we have a hard time getting good naps out of them if we're staying at some else's house.
Our daughter (22 mos) has been napping in our walk-in closet since she was about 6 mos old. We keep a mattress & blanket in there just for her. It's great to be able to pull the door closed and have instant darkness – she falls asleep right away.
ODs, My opinion is it is better to have her sleeping really well for the 98% of the time she is in that sleep environment than to sleep okay 100% of the time. You can't always provide that environment, but you will most of the time. And as she gets older, she will most likely be less sensitive to everything.
Update: baby turned 3 months on the 20th and today I layed her down in her basinet with out the black out curtain – she went to sleep quickly! We just returned home from a two week vacation, and it seemed like about halfway through the trip she was all of the sudden less sensitive to the light.I'm so excited about this :)Off topic: which of your blogs talk specifically about when to extend babies day time feedings? I read something before, but now am having difficulty finding it. Thanks in advance!!!


Pupils discuss learning and how we feel about school and our subjects. They will study and compare different education systems and give an opinion on them.
This is also an introduction to the world of work, talking about different types of jobs, discussing part time work and how we earn money. Future plans will also be discussed, thus requiring students to use the future and conditional tense.
Global Citizenship is the main theme here. Pupils will look at issues surrounding child soldiers, child labour and poverty. They will design posters to be displayed around the school and send off red hands with signatures to the European Parliament in protest.
In this unit pupils will learn what we need to do in order to secure the future of the planet. They will develop awareness of many environmental issues and solutions to these problems. Students will be expected to use the language they have learned to produce posters to raise awareness.
This unit is designed to help students develop more of an awareness of Spanish culture and traditions and comparing them to our own.
Students will be expected to describe traditional events in both Scotland and other Spanish speaking countries and look at their origins.


text:
Troy Cole ( Liberty House Cats - Div 11 )
# 17 Troy Cole
2019 Liberty House Cats Div 10 2 3 4 7 1 0 0
2018 Liberty House Cats Div 11 24 1 10 11 0 0 12
TOTALS: 26 4 14 18 1 0 12
2018 Liberty House Cats Div 11 10 0 5 5 0 0 2
TOTALS: 10 0 5 5 0 0 2
09/05/17 Liberty House Cats at Hooligans 8-6 W 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
09/15/17 Liberty House Cats vs Riverfolk 4-5 L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
09/19/17 Liberty House Cats vs Plague 7-6 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
09/26/17 Liberty House Cats vs STORMTROOPERS 6-3 W 0 3 3 0 0 0 0
09/29/17 Liberty House Cats vs River Rats (Amyn Allidina) 10-2 W 1 1 2 4 0 0 0
10/06/17 Liberty House Cats vs Plague 10-3 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
10/12/17 Liberty House Cats vs STORMTROOPERS 1-2 L 0 0 0 2 0 0 0
10/16/17 Liberty House Cats vs Ice Kings (Henry Gill) 12-7 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
10/30/17 Liberty House Cats vs Riverfolk 14-6 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
11/06/17 Liberty House Cats vs Riverfolk 7-1 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
11/18/17 Liberty House Cats vs Team Classy 10-3 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
11/20/17 Liberty House Cats at Ice Kings (Henry Gill) 6-3 W 0 1 1 2 0 0 0
12/07/17 Liberty House Cats at Riverfolk 7-2 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
12/16/17 Liberty House Cats at Team Classy 2-7 L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
12/18/17 Liberty House Cats vs Snake Arm 6-8 L 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
01/15/18 Liberty House Cats vs Los Banditos 9-6 W 0 1 1 0 0 0 0
01/22/18 Liberty House Cats at Kingz 3-10 L 0 2 2 0 0 0 0
01/27/18 Liberty House Cats vs Buzzards 4-3 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
02/26/18 Liberty House Cats vs Pissedbird Penguins 4-5 OTL 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
04/12/18 Liberty House Cats vs Tighthawks 4-3 W 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

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Tag Archives: assassins
Killing November: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
Posted on December 9, 2020 by missprint
November Adley agrees to leave her quaint small town to stay safe while her father takes care of a family emergency. When November wakes up in a remote building without electricity, completely off the grid, she realizes her father may not have given her the full story.
The Academy covers everything from poisons to the art of the deception, students should never reveal details of their past, and the school adheres to an eye-for-aye punishment.
November is pretty sure she can survive anything for a few weeks while her dad wants her to lay low. But even November isn't sure what to expect when students start dying and everyone seems to think it has something to do with her in Killing November (2019) by Adriana Mather.
Killing November is the high octane start to Mather's November duology which concludes with Hunting November.
Killing November is a fun, cinematic read. Mather leans heavily on movie conventions notably including flashbacks, but these elements never integrate fully into the story. Honestly, November is often quite annoying as a protagonist. Her constant shock and horror at the Academy's brutality is understandable at first but begins to grate as it continues for almost the entirety of the novel.
Despite numerous details, the world building for the Academy and the students who attend it are never fully explained instead serving as a backdrop for all of the novel's action. Where this story really shines is with the secondary characters notably including Layla and Ash who add dimension to a story that otherwise runs the risk of falling flat.
Killing November is a fresh if underdeveloped take on the classic boarding school mystery. Recommended for fans of that sub-genre and spies reminiscent of James Bond and his ilk.
Possible Pairings: I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter, A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallero, Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson, Running Girl by Simon Mason, Two Can Keep a Secret by Karen M. McManus, In the Hall With the Knife by Diana Peterfreund, The Deceivers by Kristen Simmons
Posted in Book Reviews	| Tagged 2019, action, Adriana Mather, assassins, boarding school, books, Chick Lit Wednesday, murder, Publisher: Knopf (Penguin Random House), spies, suspense	| Leave a reply
Mortal Heart: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
Posted on October 22, 2014 by missprint
"The sum and total of who I am and who I will ever be is already contained within me."
Sired by Death himself, all of the girls at the convent of St. Mortain are blessed with gifts from their godly father and tasked with carrying out his dark work in the world. Annith has watched her sisters come and go from the convent of St. Mortain, all the while waiting patiently for her own chance to serve Mortain and leave the confines of life in the convent behind.
After years of proving herself the perfect novitiate, after passing every test, Annith's future outside of the convent is less than certain. When she learns that the abbess wishes to groom her as the next Seeress, Annith knows it is time to strike out and choose her own path–wherever it might lead–in Mortal Heart (2014) by Robin LaFevers.
Mortal Heart is the conclusion to LaFevers' His Fair Assassin Trilogy. It is preceded by Grave Mercy and Dark Triumph.
Like its predecessors, Mortal Heart works largely on its own since Annith is a new narrator and the arc follows her. The larger events of 1488 Brittany and the young Duchess' struggles to hold onto her country continue as do the machinations of the Abbess.
Although there is a lot of overlap between these books in terms of their timelines, Mortal Heart is the first time readers truly get to know Annith as more than an extremely skilled and obedient novitiate of Mortain. However, Annith soon reveals that she has quite a bit of grit. Even without special gifts from Mortain like her closest friends, Ismae and Sybella, Annith is a fierce protagonist who is not afraid to seek out her own path.
Readers of the first two books will anticipate a certain order of events to this story. While many expected elements (and familiar characters) do feature here, Mortal Heart still has numerous surprises to keep readers guessing (or, more accurately, gasping in surprise).
As always LaFevers delivers a well-researched historical fantasy as well as a detailed author's note separating fact from fiction and outlining the actual historical events featured in the novel. This book is well-plotted with a perfect balance between new story and tying up elements from the previous installments in the series. Mortal Heart is an expertly written conclusion to a delightfully clever series. The only regret readers will have is realizing that the series is truly over.
*This book was acquired for review consideration from the publisher at BEA 2014*
Possible Pairings: The Wrath and the Dawn by Renee Ahdieh, The Candle and the Flame by Nafiza Azad, Hunted by the Sky by Tanaz Bhatena, Three Dark Crowns by Kendare Blake, Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken, Etiquette & Espionage by Gail Carriger, The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson, Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Fire by Kristin Cashore, The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi, The Wicked and the Just by J. Anderson Coats, Vessel by Sarah Beth Durst, The Lost Sun by Tessa Gratton, The Shadow Behind the Stars by Rebecca Hahn, The Agency by Y. S. Lee, Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, The Winner's Curse by Marie Rutkoski, The Sin Eater's Daughter by Melinda Salisbury, Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder, The Boneless Mercies by April Genevieve Tucholke, The Thief by Megan Whalen Turner
Posted in Book Reviews	| Tagged 2014, alternate history, assassins, books, Brittany, Chick Lit Wednesday, fantasy, favorites, feminism, gritty, historical, intrigue, journey, myths, politics, Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Robin LaFevers	| Leave a reply
Dark Triumph: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
Posted on March 20, 2013 by missprint
Nantes, Brittany, 1489: Trained by the convent of St. Mortain in the arts of death and seduction, Lady Sybella is no stranger to killing or spying. Even before learning she was a daughter of death and coming to the convent, Sybella had done much of both to stay alive.
Over the years Sybella learned to harden her heart until even she begins to believe she has none. She dreams of revenge and justice, the day she will become a divine instrument of vengeance when she can kill the traitorous Count d'Albret.
But instead of her desired mission of vengeance, Sybella finds herself acting as a spy in d'Albret's household, a dangerous mission for anyone but even more so given Sybella's past. Her formidable array of weapons and skills may not be enough to escape this living nightmare. Not alive anyway.
Mortain has already rejected Sybella twice, though, so death is hardly an option either.
Sybella is trapped until new orders arrive from the convent.
A prisoner is locked in d'Albret's dungeon. The prisoner is of extreme importance to the young Duchess of Brittany as she struggles to hold onto her kingdom and keep d'Albret and his ilk at bay.
Sybella is only meant to initiate the prisoner's departure. Instead, she is swept into the escape as a reluctant nurse and travel companion. This one change thrusts Sybella into an entirely surprising direction–one where her life may not have to end in order for vengeance to be served. Stranger still, Sybella may learn there is more to live for than the promise of revenge, or even justice, in Dark Triumph (2013) by Robin LaFevers.
Dark Triumph is the second book in LaFever's His Fair Assassin trilogy, preceded by Grave Mercy (with the conclusion, Mortal Heart, due out in 2014). (She is the author of several middle grade novels including my beloved Nathaniel Fludd books as R. L. LaFevers.)
There is a very satisfying overlap between the plots of Grave Mercy and Dark Triumph. It's also becoming clear that the books are building together to an epic finish. That said, I really think Dark Triumph could work as a standalone. It doesn't have to. And it's certainly better to start at book one. But if you really wanted to, Sybella's story stands on its own quite nicely.
I didn't realize how much I loved this improbable series about assassin nuns until I finished Dark Triumph. As great as Ismae's story and voice were, Sybella's is better. Dark Triumph is a grittier read with sharper edges but also more satisfying outcome. As LaFevers points out in her author's note, the story takes many more historical liberties. Happily, the atmosphere and language remain.
I also enjoyed the expanded view of Mortain. Sometimes I have problems with books that deal with some kind of "faith" because they veer into the territory of conventional religious dogma. LaFevers artfully shifts the theology of His Fair Assassin into a different direction. Reading about Mortain never feels like reading about a god or even religion. He really feels like a father. And I appreciated that nuance.
Sybella is an angry, broken narrator who is at pains to convince everyone that she has no heart–especially herself. Dark Triumph is the story of her own healing as much as it is a stunning historical fantasy filled with action and intrigue. I can't talk about some other aspects without spoiling both books, but the way Dark Triumph comes together with Grave Mercy is impressive. I also adore these heroines and their male leads. These books, right here, these are what true partnerships look like.
Dark Triumph is a surprising, original read sure to appeal to anyone who likes historical fiction, journey-based fantasies, or a damsel who rescues herself (and maybe the prince while she's at it).
Posted in Book Reviews	| Tagged 2013, assassins, books, Brittany, Chick Lit Wednesday, fantasy, favorites, gritty, historical, intrigue, journey, myths, politics, Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, Robin LaFevers, war	| 2 Replies
Throne of Glass: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
After a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier, assassin Celaena Sardothien knows better than to expect glad tidings when she is summoned at sword-point.
Much to her surprise, the Crown Prince Dorian has come to offer a deal: her freedom in exchange for acting as Dorian's champion in a competition to find a new assassin for his father, the king.
Celaena has no love for the king and no desire to work for him. But freedom is a tantalizing thing after a year in Endovier and one competition is a small thing to come between Celaena and her freedom.
While her rivals in the competition are as unimpressive as she expected, court life is duller than she could have imagined. The boring castle particularly chafes when she is kept under lock and key by the Captain of the Guard, Chaol Westfall, who acts as her trainer when he is not watching her like a hawk. (As if he could stop her escape if she really set her mind to it!)
Then again, Celaena could still be working in the salt mines.
Just as the assassin is beginning to appreciate how easy her new life can become, one of the other contestants turns up dead. And then another. Are the murders to do with the competition? Or is something darker at work somehow tied to the disappearance of magic from the kingdom? If Celaena wants to make it to the end of the competition with her freedom and her life she'll have to do more than win–she'll have to find a murderer in Throne of Glass (2012) by Sarah J. Maas.
Throne of Glass is Maas' first book. It is accompanied by a slew of e-book prequel/companions and was work-shopped years before publication online at the FictionPress community.
I came to Throne of Glass after a few disappointing reads that had left me wondering if I'd ever see a believable strong heroine again. While this book has other flaws, lack of a strong female character is definitely not one of them. Even when she is being obnoxious and brash Celaena is a capable, entertaining heroine (albeit one with a somewhat unlikely skill set at the tender age of eighteen).
Overall Throne of Glass is a decent if unexceptional read. Maas creates an interesting world that mostly makes sense. Time will tell if holes in the landscape come from lack of world building or lack of proper explanation in favor of plot suspense.
The story is on similarly uneasy footing: the story begins presenting Celaena, the competition, and her training with some back story mysteries from Celaena's past thrown in to taste. About a third of the way in, we get the strange addition of a murder mystery, a magical secret, and an unsatisfying love triangle.
I am never partial to books that change the story direction midway through, but it was a minor point since Celaena was so very likable. I could even overlook the painfully forced romantic scenes with Dorian and Celaena because it was so very obvious that Chaol was the superior male lead.
Then the mystery got thrown in.
Aside from being heavy handed right from the beginning, the mystery angle of the story was poorly handled. Celaena missed obvious clues. She jumped to conclusions. Worse, Celaena doubted not only the only character who had ever been unconditionally kind to her but also the singular minority* character in the story. Thus, in order to move the plot forward readers were presented with this clumsy change in Celaena's personality.
Throne of Glass sits somewhere between high fantasy and more action driven stories. The premise is clever and Maas' writing is lively. Readers who can look past everything to do with the sloppy mystery sub-plot will be rewarded with an enjoyable heroine in a somewhat disjointed but generally exciting narrative.
*Minority is a funny thing in a fantasy. Here what I mean is that Celaena and the kingdom where the story is set are predominantly white from what readers see. The "minority" character I mention is from a foreign kingdom and is described as having brown skin.
Possible Pairings: Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi, Roar by Cora Carmack, The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rae Carson, Fire by Kristin Cashore, The Selection by Kiera Cass, Truthwitch by Susan Dennard, All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace, Grave Mercy by Robin LaFevers, Sabriel by Garth Nix, Snow Like Ashes by Sara Raasch, Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor, Bring Me Their Hearts by Sara Wolf
*This book was acquired for review from the publisher at BEA 2012*
Posted in Book Reviews	| Tagged 2012, assassins, books, Chick Lit Wednesday, fantasy, love triangle bait and switch, magic, mystery, politics, Publisher: Bloomsbury, romantic, Sarah J. Maas, swords and sorcery	| Leave a reply
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Week in Review: January 16: In which I go to many (virtual) meetings
Tales From the Hinterland: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
Author Interview: Melissa Albert on Tales From the Hinterland
Week in Review: January 9: What a week . . .
Lore: A Chick Lit Wednesday Review
Comic/Graphic Novel Reviews
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Thank you everyone for visiting our booth at Anime Expo! We had such a great time meeting so many talented cosplayers, friends, and fans, and can't wait to see you guys next year!
We would like to extend our gratitude to the amazing staffers and convention organizers who made our booth possible, and Dragonrock Armory for collaborating with us. Also congratulations on receiving 1st prize for the masquerade novice class!
We are now focusing on order fulfillment, and we apologize for the delay on current orders. All orders should be processed and shipped by the end of this week. If you do not receive an e-mail for the tracking of your order, please contact us.


Only happy at the hob.
The simplest way to make food more interesting.
Ceviche - time to cure your winter blues!
At this time of year, with New Years' resolutions in full swing, try this painfully healthy and delightfully delicious South American staple.
Mackerel Pate with a difference.
Basic, but oh so important - how to season your food to perfection.
A quick look at Heston's spuds.
An idiot's guide to bread baking.
Try this food crack - but don't blame me when you wolf it all down in seconds.
Perfecting these little beauties is not always within your control, but the failures are still bloody delicious!
The classic victoria sponge recipe, given a change for the better!


text:
Rules of the Coalition
The purpose of the Coalition
Coalition mission
Network of Monitors
Map of threats
Statement of the Coalition for Protecting Civil Society on establishment of Temporary Investigation Commission of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of IX convocation to investigate cases of attack on Kateryna Handziuk and other civic activists.
Civil society in Ukraine demands from Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of IX convocation to establish Temporary Investigation Commission in order to investigate attacks on Kateryna Nadziuk and other civic activists.
In 2017-2018, a wave of unprecedented attacks on civic activists took place in Ukraine. Civic activists gathered information on the most violent attacks and murders starting from 2017. This is so-called "List of Handziuk", which includes 55 cases of attacks 5 of which were murders. On November 6, 2018, after two days of the death of Kateryna Handziuk, on a demand of the society, Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine established Temporary Investigation Commission, which aim was to investigate attacks on Kateryna Handziuk and other activists. Commission existed for 6 months. For this period, it directed inquiries to law enforcement agencies of Ukraine with regard to 55 attacks on civic activists and interrogated number of law enforcement officers as well as had 3 outer sessions in Kherson, Odesa and Kharkiv.
Due to the work of the TIC, cases of attacks on civic activists were under control of the Parliament, which allowed to reduce the risk of ineffective investigation of the law enforcements. The report, prepared by TIC and adopted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine in July 2019, TIC identified gaps and failures of law enforcement agencies during the investigation of attacks on civic activists.
However, law enforcement agencies did not make any conclusions from the report of TIC. Those who ordered these attacks are still free and not a single person, responsible for sabotaging the investigation was not identified and punished. Victims of these attacks are afraid that in the nearest future these cases will be closed down. Only an active control of the Parliament will allow to avoid these risks and finish investigations of attacks on civic activists to its logic end i.e. making all responsible for the attacks liable.
With this said, we demand from the MPs and Parliamentary forces of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine of IX convocation to establish Temporary Investigation Commission of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine to work for one year and investigate the attacks on Kateryna Handziuk and other activists.
© 2018 Coalition for the protection of civil society. All rights reserved.


Cutting and trading of mangrove trees are now banned in Kenya, but Kenyans warn their houses and mosques may collapse. by Mohammed Adow.
Coach Melis Medo finally led his new team to a win against league leaders Mathare United while Ingwe suffered yet another defeat in the KPL.


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News Jan-29-2020
AUSTIN GILGRONIS TAKE ON NEW OWNERSHIP AND FIND NEW HOME AT CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS FOR 2020 SEASON
Austin Major League Rugby Team Prepare for 2020 Season Kickoff Game on February 9
AUSTIN, TX (Wednesday, January 29) – Formally known as the Austin Herd and based in Round Rock, TX, Loyals LLC have purchased the Austin Major League Rugby franchise. The team will debut as Austin Gilgronis (the AGs) and relocate to Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, TX, for the 2020 Major League Rugby (MLR) season on February 9 at 7 pm (CST, local time).
Loyals LLC has taken immediate control of the franchise and all operations from previous ownership by Austin Herd. The "Gilgronis" are named after a new Texas-sized cocktail, to be released soon.
World Cup-winning rugby skills coach Michael Byrne has been appointed head of rugby to ensure the team's success.
"We are excited to bring Austin Gilgronis to Central Texas and share the excitement of rugby with Texas football fans. We look forward to bringing even more heat to Texas by introducing the Austin community to the rough and tumble world of rugby. Fans can look forward to high-adrenaline matches and pre-game festivities, including a human fireball, fire spinner, fire breathers, BBQ championships, cheerleading championships, and much more," commented Loyals LLC CEO Matt Burgess. "Each game is going to bring the same high-stakes and competitive energy Texas sports fans demand but with a focus on premium entertainment around the match for both corporate and community supporters."
Exciting upgrades to the team's new home stadium at Circuit of The Americas are being discussed, including pool bars, premium hospitality structures, entertainment suites and a significant increase to seating capacity. These world-class facilities will ensure COTA can provide the greatest rugbytainment experience in the world.
"We cannot wait to welcome the Gilgronis to COTA and look forward to adding one of the most exciting sports in the world to our one-of-a-kind sports and entertainment destination," said Tim Prukop, COTA's Chief Revenue Officer. "The Gilgronis will offer COTA guests yet another way to experience the thrill of being alive, and we are proud to help them move the needle in their business."
The Austin Gilgronis hope to engage families and children of all ages, emphasizing the significant benefits of playing and spending weekends experiencing the non-stop entertainment and unique environment rugby matches provide. Young sports fans can look forward to a new rugby youth training facility and pre-game fun like face painting, carnival rides, inflatable rugby games, live music, and more.
Some unique, community-first ideas that the Gilgronis have include:
Paying for every youth players' annual fees;
Capping ticket sales at $5 per person for families;
Sponsoring the U16, U18, and U20 teams to travel nationally as they strive to win their respective national championships;
Provide all uniforms, boots, and training kits to youth at a wholesale price to make the sport more affordable. No jersey will cost more than $25.
In addition to the above community initiatives to drive the great game, the team will be building the world's largest youth strength and conditioning center that will be made available to both male and female rugby players representing the great city of Austin.
After a 2019 season of 0-16 and with the support of the Austin community, AG's strive to make a name for themselves in Central Texas by bringing home the 2020 championship.
Anyone who purchased Austin Herd merchandise from December 2019 onward can replace it for FREE with AG's merchandise at home games.
Ticket prices will be just $8 for general admission and $5 for families. For more information on the AG's and the 2020 schedule visit: https://www.gilgronis.com.
Courtney Knittel, Courtney@giantnoise.com, (512) 997-8279 – Giant Noise
Stephanie Brown, Stephanie.Brown@giantnoise.com, (858) 213-3894 – Giant Noise
Katy Fordyce, Katy@giantnoise.com, (512) 653-4178 – Giant Noise
ABOUT LOYALS RUGBY
Loyals LLC (Loyals Rugby) is a rugby investment company founded in Australia that has invested in rugby globally, including the purchase of a Major League Rugby franchise in Austin, USA. Loyals Rugby was established to innovate, revolutionise, and enhance the global rugby economy. It engages the world's best rugby personnel and integrates game-changing concepts from health, fitness and other sports or business to a game that appears to be stagnant. The current global rugby landscape provides an incredible expansion opportunity which Loyals Rugby is excited to explore.
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE RUGBY
Major League Rugby is a professional rugby league that is entering its third season (2020) and represents the highest level of competition in North America. The league evolved from 7 teams in 2018 to 12 teams in 2020, featuring 11 from the United States and one from Canada distributed across an Eastern and Western Conference. The competition follows a league plus knockout format where teams play 16 regular season matches for a chance to advance to the playoffs. Matches are broadcast on CBS Sports Network, Facebook Live (for international viewers) and on different platforms in each local market. MLR prides itself on its incredible athletes, the passionate community behind them, and its strong values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition.
ABOUT CIRCUIT OF THE AMERICAS:
Experience the unfiltered thrill of being alive at Circuit of The Americas, in Austin, TX. Feel the rush of the world's greatest drivers competing in motorsport's biggest events. Get lost in the music of the hottest musical acts as they perform live at Austin's largest outdoor music venue. Take charge of your own 602 horsepower race car as part of our exciting driving experiences. Experience the thrill of racing others at the COTA Karting track. Inspire your most valuable stakeholders in our expansive meeting and hospitality spaces designed for large groups and private or corporate events. At Circuit of The Americas there is fun at every turn.
For more information and to download videos and photos, visit www.thecircuit.com. For an experience as unique as Austin and a rush you'll never forget, visit Circuit of The Americas, where exhilaration happens!


Determines the fill mode to use when rendering (see D3D11_FILL_MODE).
Indicates triangles facing the specified direction are not drawn (see D3D11_CULL_MODE).
Determines if a triangle is front- or back-facing. If this parameter is TRUE, a triangle will be considered front-facing if its vertices are counter-clockwise on the render target and considered back-facing if they are clockwise. If this parameter is FALSE, the opposite is true.
Depth value added to a given pixel. For info about depth bias, see Depth Bias.
Maximum depth bias of a pixel. For info about depth bias, see Depth Bias.
Scalar on a given pixel's slope. For info about depth bias, see Depth Bias.
Enable clipping based on distance.
The hardware always performs x and y clipping of rasterized coordinates. When DepthClipEnable is set to the default–TRUE, the hardware also clips the z value (that is, the hardware performs the last step of the following algorithm).
When you set DepthClipEnable to FALSE, the hardware skips the z clipping (that is, the last step in the preceding algorithm). However, the hardware still performs the "0 < w" clipping. When z clipping is disabled, improper depth ordering at the pixel level might result. However, when z clipping is disabled, stencil shadow implementations are simplified. In other words, you can avoid complex special-case handling for geometry that goes beyond the back clipping plane.
Enable scissor-rectangle culling. All pixels outside an active scissor rectangle are culled.
Specifies whether to use the quadrilateral or alpha line anti-aliasing algorithm on multisample antialiasing (MSAA) render targets. Set to TRUE to use the quadrilateral line anti-aliasing algorithm and to FALSE to use the alpha line anti-aliasing algorithm. For more info about this member, see Remarks.
Specifies whether to enable line antialiasing; only applies if doing line drawing and MultisampleEnable is FALSE. For more info about this member, see Remarks.
Rasterizer state defines the behavior of the rasterizer stage. To create a rasterizer-state object, call ID3D11Device::CreateRasterizerState. To set rasterizer state, call ID3D11DeviceContext::RSSetState.
If you do not specify some rasterizer state, the Direct3D runtime uses the following default values for rasterizer state.
The settings of the MultisampleEnable and AntialiasedLineEnable members apply only to multisample antialiasing (MSAA) render targets (that is, render targets with sample counts greater than 1). Because of the differences in feature-level behavior and as long as you aren't performing any line drawing or don't mind that lines render as quadrilaterals, we recommend that you always set MultisampleEnable to TRUE whenever you render on MSAA render targets.


WARNING: This listing contains artwork that is NSFW. View at your own discretion.
Garvin Tieseler Art – See the artwork of Garvin Tieseler. Garvin writes, "For many years, I have had stories unfolding in my imagination that wanted a life outside myself; to exist independent of me. When the story convinces me sufficiently, I submit and act as a drawing instrument serving the will of the narrative. My aim is to get out of the way and let the story dictate how to achieve its desired path. I always begin by drawing the eyes of a character on paper with pencil. If the eyes are honest to the character, it will then reveal to me its face. The process continues until the character is born. I use pencil drawing, oil painting, photography and CAD to create their environments. I am satisfied at the end, if I am able to bring these characters out of isolation into the world." Garvin creates characters and design element using traditional artist techniques; pencil drawing, photography and oil painting to create his provocative visions.
Posted on May 12, 2018 August 18, 2018 by David ThriftPosted in Art & CultureTagged Art, Artists, CL, Contemporary Art.


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Notorious Mob Boss' Rhinebeck Farm Hits Market For $1.5M
Boris Published: June 29, 2022
Google Maps/FBI
How would you like to own the former Hudson Valley retreat of a famous New York crime boss?
A 98-acre farm once owned by the head of the Genovese crime family is currently listed for 1.5 million dollars. The property is located in both Rhinebeck and Red Hook and features a caretaker's studio, three barns, an in-ground pool that "needs work" and a massive 8,200-square-foot indoor riding rink.
According to The Real Deal, the farm was originally owned by Anthony "Fat Tony" Salerno.
Hudson Modern
Salerno worked his way up through the ranks of the Genovese crime family, becoming one of their top earners in the 1960s. The mobster wound up in prison for three years in the 1970's after being charged with illegal gambling and tax evasion. After his release, Salerno returned to the mafia, eventually taking over for Frank Tieri as boss of the Genovese family in 1981. He was indicted in 1985 and sentenced to 100 years in prison. Salerno eventually died behind bars at the age of 80.
If you were expecting this farm to be a lavish home with luxury details, you may be disappointed. Photos show that most of the structures are in need of repair and the pool is described as "holding water but needing work." There's also no actual home on the property, but the listing says it's suitable for two huge homes that can be built by whoever purchases the property.
While Francis Ford Coppola claims that the horse head scene from The Godfather was a work of fiction, one can't help but imagine what sort of clandestine activity happened at this isolated farm hidden away in the Hudson Valley.
Although the farm has a colorful past, the official listing for the home makes no mention of the property's infamous former owner. Aside from a sign on one of the barn's that says " Fat Tony's Horse Farm," There doesn't appear to by any reminders that the land was acquired by one of the most notorious gangsters in New York City history.
Those interested in this beautiful piece of land in Rhinebeck and Red Hook with views of the Catskill Mountains can check out the online listing to make an appointment to tour the property either in person or virtually.
This Hudson Valley Home is Hiding Another House in the Attic
A home that's currently for sale in the Hudson Valley comes with a bonus house... in the attic. We wouldn't have believed it if we didn't see it ourselves. Scroll down for photos of this truly unique home.
Peek Inside The Most Expensive Home For Sale in New York
The most expensive home for sale in all of New York State is found in the Hudson Valley.
Oldest Home For Sale in America is in New Paltz
A home built in 1710 recently went up for sale in New Paltz. It's the oldest home in America that went on the market during the second week of April and it can be yours for just $550,000. Take a peek inside this incredible living piece of history.
Categories: The Boris and Robyn Show
Hudson Valley Snowstorm Fizzles Out: Why Forecasters Failed
New York Concert Venues Now Scanning Fans' Faces; May Violate Law
Hudson Valley Drivers Creeped Out, Confused by Mysterious Sign
Will the Hudson Valley Outlaw Plastic Utensils and Ketchup Packs?
Former WPDH DJ Passes Away After Health Battle
2023 Battle Of The Best Vote: Your Favorite Hudson Valley Foods
New Waterpark to Open on LEGOLAND Site in Goshen This Summer
Hochul Announces NY Program Will Pay Off Your High Utility Bills
Did Anyone Lose a Jeep? Vehicle Discovered in Hudson Valley Woods


Sometimes the simplest designs are the most memorable. I don't get a lot of snail mail anymore, but every once in a while, I still get one of those envelopes where you have to rip the tab to open it. I'm sure you know which envelopes I'm talking about. Every time I receive one of those envelopes from now on, I'll think of these. Leave it to a creative Japanese designer to come up with a way to make ripping that tab fun. These are high speed envelopes.
Well, they are high speed from the standpoint that you'll be leaving a pretend trail of smoke behind the plane, train or automobile on your envelope. Look at the pictures below, and you'll know what I'm talking about. The innovative, Japanese company that designed these is called D-Bros. They are called D-Bros Booooon Envelopes.
My guess is that these were created for kids, but I wouldn't mind having a pack of them for myself. It's the first time I've ever seen an envelope that is probably more exciting than whatever is tucked inside. The funny thing is, if we saw a car with a real trail of smoke like this, we'd gasp and complain that it was bad for the environment, but on some high speed envelopes, it's cute.
If you'd like to pick up a pack of these for yourself, you can click over on the D-Bros link above. Maybe companies that send junk mail should look into changing the design of their envelopes. I mean, if you received one like this, you'd surely open whatever it is they are trying to send you. Well, at least I know I would. My favorite one is definitely the little red racecar. Yup, I need some of these.
Do You Qualify For These Home Buying Discounts?


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Case study: mature law student - Mark Pentecost
11 Jun 2019 •
Before starting on a law career, Mark worked in cancer research, as a professional actor and in insurance. A redundancy led him to take on work for a solicitor friend and after realising how much he enjoyed it and just how suitable his skill set was, he decided to become a solicitor.
Mark acquired his Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) through distance learning and did the Legal Practice Course (LPC) part time, both separately over two years. He did his training contract with general practice high street firm Sanderson McCreath & Edney Solicitors. He qualified as a solicitor in January 2014, and became a director in 2018.
Why did you decide to become a solicitor?
I was made redundant from a management role that I had been doing for some years in insurance after being a personal injury senior claims handler / adjuster. A solicitor friend started putting some work my way, such as proofing witnesses and clerking at court, and I really enjoyed it. What I realised early on was that the work of a solicitor uses all the skills I have developed over the years and it is a role that involves plenty of variety.
What did you do before becoming a solicitor?
I worked in cancer research, went to university to study drama and theology, worked as a professional actor for 10 years and then worked in insurance as a claims handler, senior technical manager, audit manager and ops manager.
What was your route to qualification?
Common Professional Examination by distance learning at Northumbria University (2007-2009), LPC part time, also at Northumbria (2009- 2011) and training contract at Sanderson McCreath & Edney Solicitors (January 2012 to January 2014).
Did you need to refresh your study skills (such as essay writing) and if so, how did you do it?
Yes I did! Essay writing in a legal context is totally different to critical analysis in the arts. I had to start from scratch and to help I took advantage of tutorials with lecturers to go over practice answers.
How did you go about funding your studies?
Self-funded, largely from the settlement I received from my previous employer.
Did you find any particular challenges with being a mature student?
Juggling full-time work and a family life was a challenge!
How did you know which area of the law you wanted to work in?
I didn't really. I quite deliberately kept an open mind because you don't know if you'll enjoy an area of law until you try it. Luckily, I'm in a general practice high street firm so I haven't needed to specialise just yet.
Do you feel you faced any prejudice due to your age from prospective employers? If so, how would you advise that this can best be overcome?
Yes I did, although it was never overt. It was frustrating not being shortlisted for training contracts when younger applicants were; and when I knew I was the stronger applicant in terms of academics and legal work experience. All you can do is try not to become despondent, and make as much of the skills you have acquired and how they would be useful to your potential employer as possible.
At what stage of your route to qualification did you secure your training contract? How many applications did you submit?
Five months after completing the LPC and after applying to about 100.
What advice would you give to anyone considering embarking on a career as a solicitor as a mature student?
Try not to become disheartened and cynical. Keep a positive attitude. Do as much research into the legal market as you can and network as much as possible.
Think about how to effectively market your experience and skills based on your research in the legal market and have clear goals and objectives. Be open to advice and act on it.
Get involved in the Junior Lawyers Division (JLD), attend their free events and use their online resources. Make contacts in your local JLD.
Remember, there are firms out there who will value your skills and experience. As for the others, chances are you wouldn't really enjoy working there anyway.
Blind recruiting
Case study: Promoting social mobility in the legal sector through apprenticeships
Interview with Kayleigh Leonie for Mental Health Awareness Week
This page was printed on 19/01/2021 and the up-to-date version can be found online at https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/junior-lawyers/case-study-mature-law-student-mark-pentecost


ViVi Therapy offers a wide variety of therapeutic services including Registered Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, TCM, Cupping and Feldenkrais Awareness Through Movement Classes. Weekly and monthly classes, private sessions and are also available. The Massage Store at ViVi Therapy supplies massage tables, chairs, SAKKS and bodywork accessories such as linens, oils, and table warmers. Massage table and chair rentals are now also available.


I am cleaning closets and going through pictures. I'm going to make my boys each an album of all the pictures I have (will probably have enough to make all the grand kids one also). I had fun last night sending my DGD Ashley some picture of her when she was little. She was posting them on FB. I'm going to do the same with her two brothers and my other granddaughter. Pictures are to be shared not stuck in a closet like most of mine have been.
You're so right about the pictures Irene. Hope you enjoy your project. Mine are disgracefully stored in boxes. I wish I could hire someone to do that for me!
I remember that pattern...it was cute. Digital photos are such a gift...for sharing and never having to put in books. Hubby went through our books recently and scanned the best of thousands! We have been sending to friends and family having a good laugh.You're right they should be shared!


In 2008, we moved our office to the new address: 51 Hang Quat street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi to support for the development and abroad of the company. The office is right in the old quarter, 2 minutes of walking from Hoan Kiem lake. It is not only close to many famous touristic spots that you can take a walk, for instance Turkle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple and Dong Xuan Market…, is also center of hotels, restaurants and shopping areas. The new office is very convenient for welcome our guests as well as a good place of effective working environment.


text:
Константи́н Петро́вич Казако́в (18 ноября 1902, Тула — 25 августа 1989, Москва) — советский военачальник, маршал артиллерии (28.04.1962). Командующий Ракетными войсками и Артиллерией Сухопутных войск СССР (1963—1969).

Биография
Родился в городе Тула в семье рабочего-оружейника. Окончил Тульское городское училище. Начал свою трудовую деятельность на Тульской литейной фабрике промывщиком литья в 1914 году, а в 1915 году начал работать подмастерьем, а затем и слесарем на Тульском оружейном заводе. Вступил в РКП(б) в 1920 году.

В марте 1921 году был призван в Красную Армию и направлен на учёбу. Окончил 1-ю Советскую объединённую военную школу РККА имени ВЦИК в Москве в 1923 году, после чего ему было присвоено звание красного командира. С 1923 по 1930 годы служил в частях Московского военного округа в Орле и Белгороде, прошёл путь от командира взвода до командира батареи.

В 1930 году окончил Академические курсы усовершенствования среднего комсостава РККА и направлен на работу в ту же 1-ю Советскую объединённую военную школу РККА имени ВЦИК, в которой учился сам. Там был командиром батареи, командиром дивизиона, преподавателем цикла артиллерии, начальником цикла тактики. Окончил вечернее отделение Военной академии РККА им. М. В. Фрунзе в 1936 году. В 1936—1939 годах преподавал во 2-м Московском артиллерийском училище. С августа 1938 года служил военным советником в Испании. С осени 1939 по март 1941 года — военный советник в Китае, участвовал в японо-китайской войне.

Великую Отечественную войну Казаков встретил в должности командира 331-го гаубичного артиллерийского полка Резерва ВГК Киевского особого военного округа в Житомире. Полк в составе 5-й армии Юго-Западного фронта участвовал в Львовско-Черновицкой и в Киевской оборонительной операции С февраля 1942 года — начальник оперативного отдела штаба артиллерии Юго-Западного фронта. С апреля 1942 по 1944 год был начальником оперативного отдела штаба Главного управления начальника артиллерии Красной Армии, будучи в этой должности выезжал в служебные командировки на Западный, Сталинградский, Донской, Воронежский фронты. Во время Сталинградской битвы несколько месяцев находился на фронте в составе группы при командующем артиллерией РККА Н. Н. Воронове.

С января (по другим данным, с июля) 1944 года и до конца войны командовал артиллерией 2-й ударной армии Ленинградского и 2-го Белорусского фронтов. В 1944 году был тяжело ранен. После излечения участвовал в разгроме немецко-фашистских войск на территории Германии. Войну закончил в звании генерал-майора артиллерии на острове Рюген.

В мае 1945 года назначен командующим артиллерией 1-й Краснознамённой армии на Дальнем Востоке. Во время советско-японской войны участвовал в разгроме японской Квантунской армии на Харбинском направлении. После капитуляции Японии в звании генерал-лейтенанта артиллерии был назначен комендантом Харбина. 16 сентября 1945 года командовал Парадом Победы над Японией в Харбине.

В 1948 году окончил Высшие академические курсы при Высшей военной академии имени К. Е. Ворошилова. С июня 1948 года по май 1951 года командовал артиллерией Северной группы войск в Польше, с мая 1951 года по апрель 1953 года артиллерией Приморского военного округа на Дальнем Востоке, с апреля 1953 года по сентябрь 1954 года артиллерией Центральной группы войск в Австрии.

В 1954—1958 годах командовал 1-й армией противовоздушной обороны особого назначения. Тогда же ему было присвоено воинское звание генерал-полковника артиллерии.

В 1958—1960 годах командовал зенитно-ракетными войсками и зенитной артиллерией Войск Противовоздушной обороны страны. С июля 1960 года по март 1963 года — в должности командующего зенитными ракетными войсками и члена Военного Совета ПВО страны.

Воинское звание маршал артиллерии было присвоено 28 апреля 1962 года.

В 1963—1969 годах командующий Ракетными войсками и Артиллерией Сухопутных войск, член Военного Совета Сухопутных войск.

С июля 1969 года — военный инспектор-советник Группы генеральных инспекторов Министерства обороны СССР.

В послевоенные годы избирался депутатом Верховного Совета Белорусской ССР.

Награды
 4 ордена Ленина (04.02.1943, 06.05.1946, 22.11.1962, 17.11.1982)
 Орден Октябрьской Революции (17.11.1972)
 4 ордена Красного Знамени (06.11.1941, 03.11.1944, 24.06.1951, …)
 2 ордена Суворова 2-й степени (04.10.1943, 08.09.1943)
 Орден Кутузова 1-й степени (10.04.1945)
 Орден Кутузова 2-й степени (05.10.1945)
 Орден Богдана Хмельницкого 1-й степени (31.05.1945)
 Орден Отечественной войны 1-й степени (11.03.1985)
 Орден «За службу Родине в Вооружённых Силах СССР» 3-й степени (30.04.1975)
 3 иностранных ордена
 Медали.
 знак «50 лет пребывания в КПСС»

Мемуары
 Казаков К. П. Всегда с пехотой, всегда с танками. Военно-исторический очерк о боевых действиях артиллерии в крупнейших операциях Великой Отечественной войны. — Изд. 2-е. — М.: Воениздат, 1973. — 296 с.
 Казаков К. П. Огневой вал наступления. — М.: Воениздат, 1986. — 320 с.
 Казаков К. П. Артиллерийский гром. — Таллин: Ээсти раамат, 1982. — 222 с.

Память
 Памятник в Москве на Новодевичьем кладбище.

Примечания

Литература
 Передельский Г. Маршал артиллерии К. П. Казаков (К 70-летию со дня рождения). // Военно-исторический журнал. — 1972. — № 11. — С.126-128.
 Москва в жизни и судьбе маршала артиллерии: воспоминания, исторические очерки, документы [составитель В. А. Арцыбашев]. — Москва: ЦГА Москвы, 2015. — 462 с. ISBN 978-5-7228-0251-4.

Выпускники Московского высшего военного командного училища
Выпускники Военной академии имени М. В. Фрунзе
Члены КПСС
Советские военные специалисты в Испании
Участники Японо-китайской войны (1937—1945)
Военачальники Великой Отечественной войны
Артиллеристы Великой Отечественной войны
Участники советско-японской войны (СССР)
Персоналии:Тульский оружейный завод
Мемуаристы СССР
Похороненные на Новодевичьем кладбище
Делегаты XXIII съезда КПСС
Депутаты Верховного Совета Белорусской ССР
Статьи с эдитнотисом об осторожности при редактировании


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text:
MYANMAR CRISIS
Myanmar court sentences US journalist to 11 years in prison
EFEBangkok 12 Nov 2021
A staff member of Myanmar's correctional department prepares barricades before the release of detainees at the main entrance of the Insein prison in Yangon, Myanmar, 19 October 2021. EPA-EFE FILE/STRINGER
Family members and friends hold flowers as they wait for the release of detainees outside Insein prison in Yangon, Myanmar, 19 October 2021. EPA-EFE FILE/STRINGER
Staff members of Myanmar correctional department close the main entrance of Insein prison before the release of detainees in Yangon, Myanmar, 19 October 2021. EPA-EFE FILE/STRINGER
A court in Myanmar has sentenced American journalist Danny Fenster to 11 years in prison for three charges, his employer reported on Friday.
Frontier Myanmar, the online magazine for which Fenster is managing editor, reported that the journalist was sentenced for incitement and violations of immigration and unlawful associations laws after a closed-door trial in a court inside Yangon's Insein Prison, where he is being held.
"The sentences imposed were the harshest possible under the law," it said.
The charges were based on allegations that Fenster was working for the Myanmar Now news outlet, which was banned by the military junta after the Feb. 1 coup, Frontier Myanmar said. However, it added that the journalist had left the outlet in July 2020 and had been working for Frontier Myanmar for nine months at the time of his arrest.
Frontier Myanmar said it had provided "a significant amount of evidence" of Fenster's employment, including tax and social security records and a testimonial.
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