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April 16, 2010 A&E » Arts
A real grassroots party
10th annual 420 Festival features packed roster of reggae-inspired acts
By Holly Fraughton
What: 10 th annual 420 Festival
When: Tuesday, April 20, 4 p.m.
Where: Dusty's
April 20 is circled on the calendars of many of the 420-friendly folks around the world, and in Whistler this countercultural holiday has developed a loyal following.
Robbie Currie, who also goes by the musical moniker of MC Nobody Really, founded the community's 420 Festival 10 years ago with the help of another local musician, DJ Phroh.
"When I first moved to Whistler I met up with DJ Phroh, we started jammin' out and I knew that he was a really good reggae DJ, and I was doing my hip hop thing back in the day, and it just clicked one day," he recalled. "I looked around Whistler Village on April 20 and I thought, 'You know what? This town is full of snowboarders and riders that love smoking!'"
So, the two musicians decided to join forces to organize a 420 party for the people of Whistler, hosting the event at Merlin's for the first four years and Dusty's for the past five.
"This is a celebration of mainly Whistler locals getting together, celebrating the annual tradition of 420," Currie offered up.
"The party is just all about a celebration, it's not a party where, by any means, Intrawest or the police have to worry," he added.
Today, the party that started as an intimate reggae night has grown into a sold-out annual event, which drew almost 500 people to the patio of Dusty's last year. It's also amassed a pretty impressive group of sponsors - Vancouver's New Amsterdam Café, Katmandu and Hempire, and Armada Skis - who have anted up with some great prizes for party attendees.
"Every year, the party and the legend has grown, and grown, and grown," Currie laughed.
"I think the whole concept of 420 is all about freedom," he said. "I think it speaks to the kids in Whistler because the kids ride and live that lifestyle."
Aside from the somewhat illicit activities that may be associated with this "green" event, there's a strong musical element to the party, with a tonne of reggae-inspired hip hop acts on board. This year, Whistler's own Kostaman, Jux Cain from Toronto, DJ Phroh and Element MC (the Whistler Junglists), DJ Ten80, Keith Force, MC Clutch, Bill Zone and Phareke from Vancouver, MC Logic, Travlist, Animal Nation, Godfrey and, of course, MC Nobody Really, are slotted to perform.
"The target for the party is a good reggae-inspired vibe along with obviously good local hip hop," Currie explained. "Lots of really good beats."
In the typical laidback, laissez-faire attitude of the 420-friendly folk, the $10 tickets don't have to be purchased in advance: "We don't really worry about it too much. Every year it's at the door, people show up for 4 o'clock." But the first 100 people through the door will get a free gift bag from the New Amsterdam Café, so people who show up early will be rewarded.
More Arts »
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New multimedia installation kicks off on July 18
by Alyssa Noel
POP into the Audain Art Museum for new summer exhibit
Pop art show runs from June 30 until Sept. 17
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Debra DiGiovanni brings stand- up set to Whistler—finally
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Winterstoke celebrates the backcountry
Annual festival returns from Jan. 23 to 26 with art, film, conversation and clinics More...
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A prairie exploration
Olympic Games raise profile of Whistler as cultural destination
Continued funding key to ongoing success
A bittersweet goodbye
Sun., Jan. 26, 7-8:30 p.m.
Sound Bath Sanctuary
@ SPACE
You're invited to this unique 90-minute sound bath to slow down, rest, and receive healing... More.


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Q: Sharepoint 2013 survey list doesn't render all results We have a survey created on a SharePoint 2013 site collection. One of the questions is a Managed Metadata column. When an owner with full permissions clicks on the link for a graphical summary of responses, (summary.aspx) all of the questions render results except for the one with the Managed Metadata.
If I look at the view, it renders. I am a site collection administrator. Where can permissions be granted for the "owners"?
-Doug

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Writing a Satisfying Ending
It strikes me that the last chapter (or so) of any story needs to make the reader feel that reading the book has been a worthwhile experience. An exceptional ending might leave a reader with such a warm glow that they immediately search for more books by the same author.
So, my question is: what techniques exist for crafting an ending that leaves a reader satisfied and interested in exploring more of an author's work?
Just to be clear - this question is not about cliff-hangers or sequels - just a solid, fulfilling, well-rounded ending to a stand-alone novel.
fiction technique plot narrative ending
linksassin
robertcdayrobertcday
Although I do not know a way to irradiate just the last page of a book, it will certainly leave your readers with a warm glow at the end of your story. I do not understand if this is the satisfactory ending you desire. Although I'm sure people will find it interesting enough to immidiately look up more of the work of this author. In the end I think it is highly subjective what people find a worthwhile experience as long as the expectations the novel build up on are met in the end. – Totumus Maximus Jun 12 '18 at 14:15
Good points one and all, @Totumus. ;) – robertcday Jun 12 '18 at 14:16
See also these questions: writing.stackexchange.com/questions/36295/… writing.stackexchange.com/questions/35826/… – Chris Sunami Jun 12 '18 at 16:08
Your premise isn't quite right. Most recently, a short story by Ken Liu left me not with a "warm glow", but "a punch in the gut". After which I ran off to buy everything he has ever written, because the story was just brilliant. "Interested in exploring more of an author's work" is quite separate from "warm glow" (but not, of course, from "worthwhile experience". – Galastel supports GoFundMonica Jun 12 '18 at 19:48
Throughout your book, you, the author, are continually making promises to the reader about the ending of your book, most notably (a) in your choice of genre, (b) at the beginning of your book, and (c) what happens close to the end. You don't have to keep all those promises, but if you want happy readers, you had better know what promises you are making and have a good reason for any that you break. (Note: I'm drawing some of this from @MarkBaker's excellent series of answers on the topic of story promises.)
The first set of promises is genre expectations. A fairy tale promises a happy ending. A detective story promises a solution to the mystery, and so forth. The next set of promises is the beginning of your book. A satisfying ending will both have some things that reflect or return to the beginning, and some other things that contrast with it. (Part of this is just mood. An orderly beginning promises an orderly end. A chaotic or abrupt beginning foreshadows a chaotic or abrupt end.) Finally, when you get close to the end, you can start signaling it by tying up loose ends (if that's the kind of book you are writing). You also create promises by foreshadowing, which can be helpful at prepping the reader if you're going to violate expectations. For example, if your fairy tale doesn't end up with the prince marrying the princess, you could foreshadow that by showing that he has a terrible temper, or kicks fairies, or something like that.
Personally, I like endings that come fairly soon after the main climax. I hate false ending syndrome, where the story wraps up, but the book keeps going. It's often better NOT to know what happens to the characters after the main plot ends, it gives the reader freedom to imagine whatever you want. But, on the other hand, if you give people too little, they'll find your book frustrating and unsatisfying.
Chris SunamiChris Sunami
Let's make it clear - there is conflict resolution and there is ending, and those two are usually different things. Conflict resolution is normally the climax of the book, but it is the ending that leaves that "warm glow" with a reader.
Conflict resolution should follow traditional plot building schemes, being at least somewhat unexpected, comprehensive and justified. Ending is where surviving characters are shown on their way to live happily ever after (which may be the way to more exciting adventures, like in the ending of first The Incredibles).
Let's take Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi as an example (the following is a spoiler, but I'm not going to hide it). Conflict resolution there was the death of both of the Emperor and Darth Vader. The ending is the party on Endor, where deceased Darth Vader/Anakin, Yoda and Obi-Wan appear in a ghost form, apparently enjoying their afterlife. That part was fairly unexpected, but nicely contributed to the "warm glow", which was not as strong in Episode IV and totally missing in Episode V.
A satisfying ending balances the expected and unexpected. You have to resolve some things, go where your readers are expecting you to go, give them some expected emotional catharsis, but surprise them at the same time. You can apply the structure of a plot twist to any component of your work (plot, character, theme, world view, imagery): an unexpected turn, a moment of realization, and it all makes sense in retrospect. The nuts and bolts of what is unexpected and what makes sense will depend on the genre (regardless of whether you follow or reject the conventions of that genre).
The Usual Suspects uses these elements in a traditional, workmanlike way, but to great effect.
Expected: We find out who Keyser Soze is
Unexpected: who Keyser Soze is
Moment of realization: we see the look on the detective's face as the cup drops to the floor and the shot pans around the office
The Grapes of Wrath also balances meeting and subverting expectations. Steinbeck does this with more nuance and conflict, but you have the same basic elements. It's a realist novel with a journey plot. They make it to California (the journey is complete), but life remains very difficult. They escape drought for flood. The turn occurs in a single image -- Rose of Sharon breastfeeding the starving old man after her baby is stillborn.
De NovoDe Novo
I can't tell you how to think of a good ending, but we can summarize what it should achieve (though you might not need all of these):
Have a character's personality or development somehow earn or rationalise the ending.
Challenge or even refute an assumption that's existed throughout the story, on behalf of you, a character or the reader.
Leave some question notably unanswered: not necessarily of what happened or will, so much as whether it's good or what it means. Or do that with multiple questions.
Above all, write something that you can imagine a book club discussing from a variety of viewpoints, maybe to the point of heated disagreement. That idea applies, perhaps, to the story as a whole; I think it's what they call polyphonic writing.
J.G.J.G.
The hero fought the good fight, as best they could, and that fight is done.
To me, for happy or sad endings (of a book or character within a book), and assuming the rest of the book makes the reader love the characters, this is a satisfying ending.
I would add, they didn't win/lose because of dumb luck, including the dumb luck of confronting a stupid antagonist.
This applies to standalone novels, or those with a sequel: The main fight in THIS novel is done, loose ends are tied, the hero succeeded or failed and the consequences are realized and permanent.
Amadeus-Reinstate-MonicaAmadeus-Reinstate-Monica
Here are a few of the techniques that I've seen employed successfully.
Make sure that every chapter of your story has moved your readers closer to the ending. Sometimes in big ways, sometimes small, but they should feel the wind in their hair as they read, even if they don't know where they will end up. Even if you don't know at the beginning exactly where you want to end up, once you figure it out go back over each chapter and ask "how does this chapter move me toward my climax?" If it doesn't, cut it, no matter how much you love it.
Make sure that the protagonist deserves what happens in the end. Readers need to feel that it was the actions of the protagonist that caused the ending.
There must be something unexpected in the end. If we all see it coming, the ending becomes quite dull. However, it can't be completely unexpected, because that feels like a betrayal of writer contract.
The ending of a story should sit firmly on the foundation that the story laid. For example, if a superhero arrives to defeat the villain completely out of the blue while the protagonist looks on, that's what is considered a deus ex machina. It's very unsatisfying and feels like a cheat. But if we can look back and see how the arrival of the superhero was hinted at (even if we didn't recognize it at the time) and caused by the protagonist's efforts (either deliberately or inadvertently) throughout the book, the ending becomes more satisfying.
They need to feel that they could have seen it coming if they had just paid a little more attention, but didn't.
Be aware of what your conflict is, and make sure it is resolved. If there are minor conflicts and you want them to be kept in "reserve" for a future novel, then at least resolve the immediate crises but in doing so create others for later.
Keep your promises. This is a little more difficult to define, as each reader will have different expectations. Critiquers are invaluable in figuring out what expectations your writing has set up. They may be as subtle as the "mood" of a story (if your world is set up to be a gritty, unsettling world with horrific abuses happening everywhere, your readers aren't going to be satisfied with a fluffy pink ending). They often have to do with the fates of the characters. If readers like a character, they are not going to be happy with a casual death. If beloved characters die, their deaths need to mean something. If you make your villain an admirable person, readers won't be satisfied with a simple defeat. Perhaps it would be better to reform him. Or at the very least give him a fatal flaw that makes his downfall inevitable.
Go back to the beginning. A lot of people say this, but few are able to define it well. You should be able to hear the echoes of the beginning in the end, and the end in the beginning. For me, this means I go back to my beginning and ask "how is this setting us up for the climax?" and of the climax I ask "does this make me recall the beginning of the story?"
Some of the best, most satisfying endings come when all seems lost and the protagonist is able to turn the tide. This shouldn't be a haphazard case of stumbling into the Great Solution or an accidental happening. I like to be able to look back and see that if anyone else had been in his situation all would have been lost, but because the hero is who he is, he was able to win through.
Francine DeGrood TaylorFrancine DeGrood Taylor
Ask yourself what your story is about in simple terms, both externally and as regards the characters' inner experiences. Then, choose an ending that encapsulates or sums this up. I'll give two examples:
The film The Godfather (spoiler alert) is about Michael Corleone's at-first-reluctant rise to the top of his crime family, and his simultaneous moral decline. The last shot of the movie, where his wife watches the doors close on Michael and his advisors, as she realizes she's been lied to about his role in the recent murders, encapsulates this perfectly. Ending right at the climax (the assassination of the leaders of the five families) would have been too abrupt, because the movie is about more than just the external fate of the Corleone family.
The Harry Potter series (spoiler alert) is about Harry's struggle against Lord Voldemort, and also the coming-of-age of Harry and his friends. The much-maligned Epilogue was an attempt at addressing the second theme, by showing the characters as adults. But this was unnecessary, because Harry, Ron, and Hermoine had already come of age, and the story had demonstrated this well. In this case, ending shortly after Voldemort's defeat would have been preferable.
The ending is your chance to put extra emphasis on one particular aspect of your story, so ask yourself what the most important thing to emphasize is.
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Nachshon Oron introduced in Israeli Air Force
On 4 April 2021, the Heyl Ha'Avir (IAF, Israeli Air Force) officially introduced the Gulfstream Nachshon Oron at Nevatim air base (Israel).
The new aircraft, temporary registered N552GD (construction number 5552), is the most advanced intelligence aircraft of its kind at this moment. It is a joint development of the Administration for Research, Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure in the Ministry of Defence, the Air Force, the Intelligence Division, the Navy and the Aerospace Industry. The aircraft was designed following lessons from past operational events.
UPDATE: the Nachshon Oron received serial 452 and was noted late December 2021 performing test flights over the Mediterranean.
The Nachshon Oron will perform several electronic warfare roles. It will be equipped with an automatic information extraction layer based on advanced algorithms and artificial intelligence, and will enable the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) arms to preserve and deepen its intelligence superiority. The first role is intelligence gathering using advanced cameras and sensors. The second role is a flying relay station (cusrief) that connects the Air Force and IDF control posts to the forces on the ground. The third role is to mark targets with lasers and other means for attacking forces, like disrupting radars and enemy anti-aircraft batteries.
The new intelligence aircraft is based on the Gulfstream G550 executive aircraft platform. It will be equipped with advanced radar made by IAI and advanced intelligence systems. The Nachshon Oron will be operated by the 122 The Nachshon Squadron. Today, the squadron operates Shavit and Eitam aircraft from Nevatim airbase, which are also used for intelligence purposes. The Oron strengthens the IAF superiority and capabilities to operate in the second and third circle, and to move between the arenas at a high pace and over time. The Nachshon Oron combines several capabilities including aerial imaging, control and radar, and maritime intelligence gathering for the Navy. The majority of these capabilities already exist in 122 Squadron and the Maof Rahav unit, however, with the new aircraft, the IAF will manage to condense them all onto a single platform.
The head of research and development at Mapat (the Administration for the Development of Weapons and Technological Infrastructure Research) at the Ministry of Defence, Brigadier General Yaniv Rotem, said that Mapat has been leading the development of Oron systems for over nine years. The new aircraft gives to the IDF Intelligence dimension through sensing systems, a variety of sensors and radar.
Upon landing in Israel from the United States, where it underwent a series of tests and test flights tailored to Israeli needs, the aircraft entered the Air Force integration and absorption process. This process is expected to take between a year and a half, In addition to Air Force personnel, the Intelligence Division, research and development experts from the Department of Weapons Development at the Ministry of Defense and members of the Israeli company Elta will also participate in the absorption process.
Photos: Amit Agronov and Gulfstream Aerospace
Heyl Ha'Avir
Gulfstream Aerospace
Israel Defense Force
Israel Aerospace Industries - IAI
G550 Nachshon Oron


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Natalija Istomina (* 5. Juni 1973 in Klaipėda, Litauische SSR) ist eine litauische Professorin, ehemalige Politikerin, Vizeministerin der Bildung.

Leben
Nach dem Abitur an der 23. Mittelschule der Hafenstadt Klaipėda 1995 absolvierte Istomina die Höhere Medizinschule Klaipėda und wurde Medizin-Krankenschwester und Kosmetikerin. 2001 absolvierte sie das Bachelorstudium der Edukologie an der Pädagogischen Fakultät der Klaipėdos universitetas und wurde Erzieherin (Lehrerin). 2002 absolvierte Istomina das Masterstudium der Sozialarbeit an der  Fakultät der Gesundheitswissenschaften der Klaipėdos universitetas und 2011 promovierte an der Medizinischen Fakultät der Universität Turku in Finnland zum Thema "Abdominalinės-chirurginės sveikatos priežiūros kokybė".

Von 1995 bis 2003  arbeitete Istomina im Klaipėdos jūrininkų ligoninė als Krankenpflegerin.
Ab 2001 war sie Fakultätsadministratorin und  Assistentin an der Klaipėdos universitetas.
Ab 2006 lehrte sie als Lektorin und war Prodekanin. Sie ist Professorin und Beraterin des Dekans der Medizinischen Fakultät der Universität Vilnius.

Von  2011 bis 2015 war  Istomina Mitglied im Rat der Stadtgemeinde Klaipėda. Seit Oktober 2014 ist sie Vizeministerin für Bildung und Wissenschaft, Stellvertreterin der Ministerin Pitrėnienė im Kabinett Butkevičius.

Seit 2008 ist  Istomina Mitglied der Partei Tvarka ir teisingumas.

Familie

Istomina ist verheiratet und hat zwei Kinder.

Quellen

Politiker (21. Jahrhundert)
Politiker (Klaipėda)
Pflegepädagoge
Pflegefachkraft (20. Jahrhundert)
Stellvertretender Bildungsminister (Litauen)
Hochschullehrer (Universität Vilnius)
Hochschullehrer (Universität Klaipėda)
Absolvent der Universität Klaipėda
Absolvent der Universität Turku
Sowjetbürger
Litauer
Tvarka-ir-teisingumas-partija-Mitglied
Frau
Geboren 1973

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HONOLULU – The State of Hawaii and Goa, India, signed an agreement to enter into a sister-state relationship today.
Gov. David Y. Ige, signed a historic agreement with delegates from Goa, a state in India, which is Hawaii's first sister-state relationship with a jurisdiction in India. The Director of Art and Culture, Gurudas Pilarnekar, signed on behalf of the Goa state government.
The signing ceremony took place at Washington Place.
The agreement will promote trade, tourism, information technology; and exchange of health and wellness, agriculture, culinary art, education and cultural programs between private sector organizations and universities of both states.
"The U.S.-India partnership is an important one, and the Hawaii-Goa relationship will help strengthen this bond. We welcome people from Goa to invest in Hawaii's economy, and share their traditional and cultural values with us," said Gov. Ige.
Dr. Raj Kumar, President of Indian-America Friendship Council (Hawaii chapter) and Gandhi International Institute for Peace, State Sen. Brian Taniguchi and State Rep. Ken Ito were also instrumental in passing legislation for this relationship.
• Goa's per capita GDP is one of the highest in India, a country that currently boasts the third largest GDP in the world.
• Goa has a growing market for US food and retail products, with imports of US agricultural food products doubling in 2015 to $20.6 million.
• Goa is a top tourist population globally (7,785,693 visitors in 2017), known for its beaches, abundant seafood, tropical climate, and historic architecture, which has also attracted film opportunities.
• Goa has many multinational companies with offices in the state covering various sectors like fisheries, pharmaceuticals, information technology, tourism, and hospitality.
• Goa's biodiversity is rich and is home to thousands of species ranging from plants, animals, and marine life.
• Hawaiʻi's agreement with Goa highlights the continued growth of US-India relationships, with the US-India 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue concluding earlier this month.


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Prescription channeling of COX-2 inhibitors and traditional nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: a population-based case–control study
Yola Moride1,2,3,4,
Thierry Ducruet1,2,
Jean-François Boivin2,3,
Nicholas Moore4,
Sylvie Perreault1 &
Sean Zhao5
This pharmacoepidemiologic study was conducted to determine whether risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding influenced the prescription of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors and traditional nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) at the time when COX-2 inhibitors were first included in the formulary of reimbursed medications. A population-based case–control study was conducted in which the prevalence of risk factors and the medical histories of patients prescribed COX-2 inhibitors and traditional nonselective NSAIDs were compared. The study population consisted of a random sample of members of the Quebec drug plan (age 18 years or older) who received at least one dispensation of celecoxib (n = 42,422; cases), rofecoxib (n = 25,674; cases), or traditional nonselective NSAIDs (n = 12,418; controls) during the year 2000. All study data were obtained from the Quebec health care databases. Adjusting for income level, Chronic Disease Score, prior use of low-dose acetylsalicylic acid, acetaminophen, antidepressants, benzodiazepines, prescriber specialty, and time period, the following factors were significantly associated with the prescription of COX-2 inhibitors: age 75 years or older (odds ratio [OR] 4.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.95–4.51), age 55–74 years (OR 3.23, 95% CI 3.06–3.40), female sex (OR 1.52, 95% CI 1.45–1.58), prior diagnosis of gastropathy (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.08–1.36) and prior dispensation of gastroprotective agents (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.47–1.67). Patients who received a traditional nonselective NSAID recently were more likely to switch to a coxib, especially first-time users (OR 2.17, 95% CI 1.93–2.43). Associations were significantly greater for celecoxib than rofecoxib for age, chronic NSAID use, and last NSAID use between 1 and 3 months before the index date. At the time of introduction of COX-2 inhibitors into the formulary, prescription channeling could confound risk comparisons across products.
Although randomized clinical trials have confirmed the advantage of cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitors over traditional nonselective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with respect to gastrotoxicity [1–8], a large number of spontaneous reports have incriminated COX-2 inhibitors [9]. Numerous editorials and letters have been published that question the safety of these products [10–17]. The randomized clinical trial is the design best suited to determine drug efficacy, but it is inadequate for the evaluation of effectiveness, which applies to heterogeneous patient populations and patterns of drug use observed in a real life setting. In addition to pharmacological differences across products, the dosages used for the various indications [18] and past experience with the drug (through the 'depletion of susceptibles' effect) [19] account for differences in the risk of adverse effects. In an observational setting, such as postmarketing surveillance, the decision to prescribe one product over another is influenced by the characteristics of the patient, the prescriber and the health care system [20]. In the absence of randomization, it is consequently of utmost importance, when comparing the risks associated with individual drug classes, to determine whether the patient populations are indeed comparable.
The present study was conducted to compare the prevalence of selected risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding among patients prescribed COX-2 inhibitors with those among patients prescribed traditional nonselective NSAIDs, and to compare the characteristics of patients prescribed celecoxib and rofecoxib, which are the two COX-2 inhibitors marketed in Canada at the time of the study.
A case–control analysis was conducted in which the prevalence of selected gastrointestinal risk factors and medical histories of patients prescribed COX-2 inhibitors (the cases) were compared with those of users of traditional nonselective NSAIDs (the controls).
The study involved prescriptions acquired through community pharmacies by members of the Quebec public drug program. Identification of eligible patients and acquisition of study variables were conducted via linkage with four administrative health care databases containing information on beneficiaries, health professionals, pharmaceutical services and medical services.
The study targeted all ambulatory adult residents (aged 18 years or older) of the province of Quebec who were members of the public drug coverage program. In Quebec, coverage of prescribed medications was universal for all elderly residents (those aged 65 years or older) regardless of income as well as for all welfare recipients. The program was broadened in 1997 to include patients who do not have access to a private insurance program regardless of age. For everyone, the program now includes a deductible payment and a co-payment, with a monthly premium that depends on the beneficiary's income. In practice, the program includes the following segments of the population: the great majority of community-dwelling elderly persons (>94%), welfare recipients and patients younger than 65 years who do not have access to private insurance (e.g. the self-employed).
A sample of 100,000 drug plan members who received at least one celecoxib or rofecoxib prescription between 1 January and 31 December 2000 was randomly selected. A sample of 60,000 nonselective NSAID users was also randomly selected during the same time period, and patients who used low-dose aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA] ≤325 mg/day) only were excluded from the comparison group. The study population included both new (incident) users and longer time (prevalent) users. The status of patients with respect to being a user of COX-2 inhibitor or nonselective NSAID was determined at the end of the study year. Patients who had received both a COX-2 inhibitor and a nonselective NSAID were considered to be COX-2 inhibitor users. The index date was defined as the date of first dispensation of a COX-2 inhibitor or, for the traditional nonselective NSAID group, the date of the first dispensation of a nonselective NSAID.
The following inclusion criteria were applied: participants were required to have been a resident of Quebec for at least 2 years before the index date; and they were required to have had continuous coverage of medical and pharmaceutical services for at least 2 years before the index date. These criteria were verified through the beneficiary database.
Study variables
The dependent variable was the prescription of COX-2 inhibitors (celecoxib or rofecoxib) or traditional nonselective NSAIDs. The independent variables were selected risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding: patient demographic characteristics (age, sex); prescribed dosage; concomitant use of corticosteroids or anticoagulants; history of gastropathy (using four indicators: prior diagnosis of gastropathy, history of upper gastrointestinal procedures, prior dispensation of gastroprotective agents, and prior referral to a gastroenterologist); and prior history of NSAID use. Comparisons were controlled for prescriber specialty, patient overall health status (using the Chronic Disease Score [CDS]) [21], income level, past use use of low-dose ASA, acetaminophen, antidepressants and benzodiazepines, and time period.
Risk factors for gastrointestinal events
Patient demographic characteristics included age, sex and income level, which were sought from the beneficiary database. For reasons of confidentiality, only age on 1 July 2000 was available. Income level was indirectly derived from the type of coverage (amount of deductible payment and co-payment), which was assigned to the patient based on their income.
History of gastropathy was assessed during the year before the index date through the presence of a diagnosis consistent with upper gastrointestinal bleeding in the medical services database. When present, this diagnosis was found to be reliable [22]. However, because it is not mandatory for the physician to be reimbursed, it is often missing. Consequently, three other markers were used: presence of an upper gastrointestinal procedure (e.g. gastroscopy, radiological examination) in the medical database; prior referral to a gastroenterologist, using physician specialty in the medical database; and prior dispensation of gastroprotective agents in the prescription database. Prescribed daily dosage of the COX-2 inhibitors and the traditional nonselective NSAIDs was derived from the dose per unit, quantity dispensed and prescribed duration. Daily dosages were subsequently categorized into low, standard and high, (for each product the dosage thresholds are listed in Table 1). Standard dosages were the recommended anti-inflammatory dosages. The threshold for low-dose corresponded to the maximum approved over-the-counter dosage, or, for products available on perscription only, dosages below the recommended prescribed anti-inflammatory dosage. High dosages were those above the maximum recommended anti-inflammatory dosage.
Table 1 Dosage categories for each product
Details regarding the dispensation of acetaminophen, low-dose ASA, corticosteroids (excluding asthma-related drugs) and anticoagulants during the year before the index date were obtained from the prescription database. Past use of NSAIDs was assessed through records of the dispensation of these agents during the year before the index date. Patterns of use were defined using three categories of recency (last dispensation ≤1 month, >1 to 3 months, and >3 to 12 months before the index date). For recent users, two categories of duration of use were obtained: chronic (defined as at least one dispensation in each quarter of the previous year) and nonchronic (defined as less than one dispensation in each quarter).
Covariables
Other variables may influence the prescription of NSAIDs and could act as confounders if they are also associated with risk factors for gastrointestinal events. Patient overall health status was assessed through records on medications dispensed during the year before the index date using the CDS [21]. Scores are weighted according to the number of different chronic diseases under treatment and the severity of the diseases. The CDS has been found to predict subsequent mortality and hospitalization rates. Because health status at the index date was the variable most likely to influence the physician's prescription, dispensing data for the year before were used for the calculation. Based on the distribution of scores, four categories were defined: 0, 1–4, 5–9 and ≥10. In addition, prescriptions of antidepressants and benzodiazepines were also considered to confirm the findings of a previous unpublished study that demonstrated an association between antidepressant and benzodiazepine use and prescription of COX-2 inhibitors. Prescriber specialty at the index date was determined from the prescription database.
Index dates were categorized into three time periods during the study year in order to account for differences in the date of entry of COX-2 inhibitors into the formulary of reimbursed medications (July 1999 and April 2000 for celecoxib and rofecoxib, respectively). The time periods considered were January–June, July–September and October–December 2000.
The strength of the association between each patient characteristic and prescribed drug class was measured using odds ratios. The concomitant effect of patient characteristics was examined using multivariate logistic regression. Three models were used: COX-2 inhibitors as a class versus traditional nonselective NSAIDs, celecoxib versus traditional nonselective NSAIDs, and rofecoxib versus traditional nonselective NSAIDs. All data were analyzed using the SAS statistical package (SAS versions 6.12 and 8.0 for Windows; SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA). The level of statistical significance was set at 0.05 and the statistical uncertainty of the estimates was assessed using 95% confidence intervals.
No patient or physician identifiers were provided to the researchers; only scrambled identifiers were used throughout the study. The study was approved by the Université de Montréal Health Sciences Ethics Committee.
After applying the selection criteria, 42,422 celecoxib, 25,674 rofecoxib and 12,418 traditional non-selective NSAID users were identified for the study. The characteristics of the study population are presented in Table 2. Because of the very large sample size, all differences were statistically significant and therefore P values are not reported. Patients treated with celecoxib were on average slightly older than those treated with rofecoxib or traditional nonselective NSAIDs, and a larger proportion of women were treated with COX-2 inhibitors as opposed to traditional nonselective NSAIDs. For each of the four indicators of prior history of gastropathy, there was a larger proportion of COX-2 inhibitor users with a positive history as compared to nonselective NSAID users. For all indicators used, the proportion was also greater for celecoxib than for rofecoxib. Very few patients had used anticoagulants during the year before the index date, but again the prevalence of use was greater for COX-2 inhibitors than for traditional nonselective NSAIDs.
Table 2 Characteristics of the study population
Using the data presented in Table 2, we were able to determine that, overall, very few patients had used a nonselective NSAID for the first time during the month before the index date. The proportion of patients who had received their last NSAID prescription in the distant past (between 3 and 12 months before index date) was greater for celecoxib than for rofecoxib. Of the patients treated with rofecoxib, 72.8% had not received any NSAIDs during the prior year, which means that it was often used as a first treatment obtained under prescription. This proportion was lower for celecoxib (63.7%) and traditional nonselective NSAIDs (55.2%). Only 6.3% of rofecoxib users had received their last NSAID prescription between 1 and 3 months before the index date, as compared with 7.8% among celecoxib users and 15.7% among nonselective NSAID users.
The great majority of NSAIDs were prescribed by general practitioners (85.9% of traditional nonselective NSAIDs, 85.3% of celebrex and 88.3% of rofecoxib prescriptions). Dosage levels were highly heterogeneous across products. A large proportion of traditional nonselective NSAIDs were prescribed at dosages lower than those recommended for anti-inflammatory indications (22.1%) in comparison with celecoxib (3.4%) and rofecoxib (18.2%). Conversely, the majority of COX-2 inhibitors were prescribed at standard anti-inflammatory dosages (65.3% of celecoxib and 73.0% of rofecoxib prescriptions). A relatively high proportion of COX-2 inhibitors, especially celecoxib, were prescribed at dosages in excess of standard recommendations (31.2% of celecoxib and 8.8% of rofecoxib prescriptions). There was a strong correlation between dosage and age. For all products, the proportion of low dosages increased with age, and conversely the proportion of high dosages decreased with age (data not shown). This relationship was also found for overall health status; the higher the CDS, the higher was the proportion of prescriptions for low dosages (30.4% of all prescriptions were of low dosages for patients with a CDS 10+ versus 14.5% for those with a CDS of 0).
Results of the multivariate logistic regression are presented in Table 3. Increasing age and female sex were both associated with greater likelihood of receiving a COX-2 inhibitor. Compared with patients aged 18–54 years, older patients were more likely to receive a COX-2 inhibitor, but this association was greatly confounded by dosage category. Income level marginally influenced the choice of product; patients with lower income favoured the less costly traditional nonselective NSAIDs. According to crude odds ratio estimates, there was a positive association between each indicator of history of gastropathy and the probability of receiving a COX-2 inhibitor. However, when all the indicators were fitted simultaneously in the multivariate model, a history of gastrointestinal procedures was no longer significant; this finding is probably attributable to correlation between the various indicators. The analyses revealed an association between the CDS scores and the probability of receiving a COX-2 inhibitor, although no trend was observed.
Table 3 Multivariate analysis of the factors associated with dispensation of selective COX-2 inhibitors versus traditional nonselective NSAIDs
Use of acetaminophen, corticosteroids, anticoagulants, antidepressants and benzodiazepines during the year before the index date were all associated with the prescription of COX-2 inhibitors. On the other hand, patients who had received low-dose ASA during the previous year were more likely to receive a traditional nonselective NSAIDs than a COX-2 inhibitor. Specialists were less likely to prescribe a COX-2 inhibitor than were general practitioners.
Results from the multivariate logistic regression models specific for celecoxib and rofecoxib are presented in Table 4. As shown, the strength of the association with gastrointestinal risk factors was significantly greater for celecoxib than for rofecoxib for age, past use of NSAIDs between 1 and 3 months before the index date, and recent chronic NSAID use. Point estimates of odds ratio for sex, other patterns of NSAID use, prior dispensation of gastroprotective agents, prior referral to a gastroenterologist, prior gastrointestinal procedures, prior use of antidepressants and benzodiazepines, and anticoagulants were greater for celecoxib than for rofecoxib, but the difference was not significant.
Table 4 Multivariate analysis of the factors associated with dispensation of celecoxib and rofecoxib versus traditional nonselective NSAIDs
Because rofecoxib was only included in the list of reimbursed medications in April 2000, it was not available for half of the first time period, which explains its lower likelihood of being prescribed than nonselective NSAIDs (odds ratio 0.24, 95% confidence interval 0.22–0.26). However, for the second period (July–Sept) there was no significant difference between rofecoxib and celecoxib.
This study provides empirical evidence that channeling exists in the prescription of COX-2 inhibitors. Patients with risk factors for gastropathy were more likely to receive a COX-2 inhibitor than a traditional nonselective NSAID. Age, sex and history of gastropathy are well known independent risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding, and it is therefore not surprising that they influenced prescribing practices. The effect of sex may be explained by greater use of over-the-counter NSAIDs in the past, not recorded in the databases, for the treatment of dysmenorrhoea. The effect of corticosteroids and anticoagulants is also not surprising, given that these drugs represent contraindications to the prescription of traditional nonselective NSAIDs. These findings are consistent with those obtained in a recent study conducted in a UK primary care setting [23] but they contradict those reported in a elderly Medicare population in the USA [24]. In the latter study it appeared that there was over-treatment with COX-2 inhibitors in patients without risk factors, and under-treatment in patients who had at least one risk factor. The effect of past NSAID use is more difficult to interpret because of the lack of data regarding reasons for discontinuation of NSAIDs. Although past NSAID use has been found to be associated with decreased incidence of gastrointestinal bleeding, the impact that such a 'depletion of susceptibles' effect may have on prescribing practices remains to be clarified. Regardless of the underlying mechanism, it can be concluded from these results that past NSAID use is likely to confound risk comparisons across drug classes because it is an independent risk factor for gastrointestinal problems as well as influencing prescribing practices.
Patients who had received acetaminophen in the past were more likely to switch to a COX-2 inhibitor than to a traditional nonselective NSAIDs. Patients who had received antidepressants and benzodiazepines were also more likely to receive a COX-2 inhibitor than a traditional nonselective NSAID. This empirical finding is difficult to interpret. It may be hypothesized that physicians may be more likely in general to prescribe newer agents to patients who are anxious. More studies are needed to explore further the interaction between patients and physicians in order to elucidate this issue.
Although there was an association between physician specialty and prescription of COX-2 inhibitors or traditional nonselective NSAIDs, the results did not confound the associations between patient characteristics and prescription practices.
Results for patient overall health status and prescribing practices were highly confounded by dosage. This suggests that, for the sickest patients, prescribing practices are largely determined by dosage rather than by drug class. Patients with a high level of comorbidity still receive traditional nonselective NSAIDs but at lower dosages. Such findings are likely to be time-sensitive because COX-2 inhibitors were just introduced into the Canadian market during the study period, and there might have been reluctance in the medical community to prescribe newer agents to sicker patients.
Comparisons between the two COX-2 inhibitors indicated that for several risk factors under investigation the channeling process is stronger for celecoxib than rofecoxib. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution because for several of the risk factors investigated the differences between products were not statistically significant. On the other hand, celecoxib was not always at a disadvantage; past chronic NSAID use, which, according to the depletion of susceptibles effect, places patients at a lower risk for upper gastrointestinal events [19], was associated with a greater probability of being prescribed celecoxib than rofecoxib.
Many risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding could not be ascertained in this study, such as smoking status and alcohol use, which are known risk factors for gastrointestinal events and have also been found to influence prescribing practices [23]. Also, there were no data on indications but we controlled for dosage, which, according to Griffin and coworkers [18], is more likely to influence the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding than indication per se. Dosage had a very large impact on the results, and its exclusion would have produced spurious differences across products. There were no data on over-the-counter use of NSAIDs such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Therefore, it was not possible to explore the concomitant use of nonprescribed NSAIDs. Finally, data are generalizable only to recent use (in the previous year). We were not able to explore the impact of more distant history. Nevertheless, the use of retrospective data obtained from administrative databases allowed us to examine the various associations in a truly observational setting without influencing prescribing practices in any way. In addition, the large sample size allowed us to conduct comparisons across individual products.
Our results provide empirical evidence that the introduction of a new class of medications into the market results in the channeling of patients at high risk for adverse effects. However, as shown by the present study, differences across individual products cannot be predicted from their order of entry into the formulary. Other factors, such as marketing strategies, play a major role as well. Neverthless, one may conclude that selective prescribing results in a positive association between risk factors and drug use, which could confound risk comparisons across products.
CDS:
chronic disease score
COX:
cyclo-oxygenase
NSAIDs:
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Simon LS, Weaver AL, Graham DY, Kivitz AJ, Lipsky PE, Hubbard RC, Isakson PC, Verburg KM, Yu SS, Zhao WW, et al: Anti-inflammatory and upper gastrointestinal effects of celecoxib in rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 1999, 282: 1921-1928. 10.1001/jama.282.20.1921.
Emery P, Zeidler H, Kvien TK, Guslandi M, Naudin R, Stead H, Verburg KM, Isakson PC, Hubbard RC, Geis GS: Celecoxib versus diclofenac in long-term management of rheumatoid arthritis: randomised double-blind comparison. Lancet. 1999, 354: 2106-2111. 10.1016/S0140-6736(99)02332-6.
Silverstein FE, Faich G, Goldstein JL, Simon LS, Pincus T, Whelton A, Makuch R, Eisen G, Agrawal NM, Stenson WF, et al: Gastrointestinal toxicity with celecoxib vs. nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis: the CLASS study: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2000, 284: 1247-1255. 10.1001/jama.284.10.1247.
Geba GP, Weaver AL, Polis AB, Dixon ME, Schnitzer TJ, Vioxx, Acetaminophen, Celecoxib Trial (VACT) Group: Efficacy of rofecoxib, celecoxib, and acetaminophen in osteoarthritis of the knee. JAMA. 2002, 287: 64-71. 10.1001/jama.287.1.64.
Day R, Morrison B, Luza A, Castaneda O, Strusberg A, Nahir M, Helgetveit KB, Kress B, Daniels B, Bolognese J, et al: Randomized trial of the efficacy and tolerability of the COX-2 inhibitor rofecoxib vs ibuprofen in patients with osteoarthritis. Arch Intern Med. 2000, 160: 1781-1787. 10.1001/archinte.160.12.1781.
Bombardier C, Laine L, Reicin A, Shapiro D, Burgos-Vargas R, Davis B, Day R, Ferraz MB, Hawkey CJ, Hochberg MC, et al: Comparison of upper gastrointestinal toxicity of rofecoxib and naproxen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. N Engl J Med. 2000, 343: 1520-1528. 10.1056/NEJM200011233432103.
Langman MJ, Jensen DM, Watson DJ, Harper SE, Zhao PL, Quan H, Bolognese JA, Simon TJ: Adverse upper gastrointestinal effects of rofecoxib compared with NSAIDs. JAMA. 1999, 282: 1929-1933. 10.1001/jama.282.20.1929.
Watson DJ, Harper SE, Zhao PL, Quan H, Bolognese JA, Simon TJ: Gastrointestinal tolerability of the selective cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor rofecoxib compared with nonselective COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors in osteoarthritis. Arch Intern Med. 2000, 160: 2998-3003. 10.1001/archinte.160.19.2998.
Health Canada: Celecoxib: one year later. Adverse Effects Newslett. 2000, 10: 2-5.
Jüni P, Rutjes AWS, Dieppe PA: Are selective COX-2 inhibitors superior to traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?. BMJ. 2002, 324: 1287-1288. 10.1136/bmj.324.7349.1287.
Skelly MM, Hawkey CJ: Potential alternatives to COX-2 inhibitors [editorial]. BMJ. 2002, 324: 1289-1290. 10.1136/bmj.324.7349.1289.
Pathak A, Boveda S, Defaye P, Mansourati J, Mallaret M, Thebault L, Galinier M, Blanc JJ, Montastruc JL: Celecoxib-associated torsade de pointes [letter]. Ann Pharmacother. 2002, 36: 1290-1291. 10.1345/aph.1A429.
Mukherjee D, Nissen SE, Topol EJ: Risk of cardiovascular events associated with selective COX-2 inhibitors. JAMA. 2001, 286: 954-959. 10.1001/jama.286.8.954.
Lichtenstein RD, Wolfe MM: COX-2 selective NSAIDs: new and Improved?. JAMA. 2000, 284: 1297-1299. 10.1001/jama.284.10.1297.
The University of British Columbia Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics: Therapeutics initiative evidence based drug therapy. COX-2 inhibitors update: do journal publications tell the full story?. Ther Lett. 2002, 43:
Peterson LW, Cryer B: COX-1 sparing NSAID: is the enthusiasm justified?. JAMA. 1999, 282: 1961-1963. 10.1001/jama.282.20.1961.
Jones R: Efficacy and safety of COX-2 inhibitors. New data are encouraging but the risk:benefit ratio remains unclear. BMJ. 2002, 325: 607-608. 10.1136/bmj.325.7365.607.
Griffin MR, Piper JM, Daugherty JR, Snowden M, Ray WA: Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug use and increased risk for peptic ucler disease in elderly persons. Ann Intern Med. 1991, 114: 257-263.
Moride Y, Abenhaim L: The depletion of susceptibles effect in non-experimental pharmacoepidemiologic research. J Clin Epidemiol. 1994, 47: 731-737. 10.1016/0895-4356(94)90170-8.
Donabedian A: Aspects of Medical Care Administration. 1973, Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press
Von Korff M, Wagner E, Saunders K: A chronic disease score from automated pharmacy data. J Clin Epidemiol. 1992, 45: 197-203. 10.1016/0895-4356(92)90016-G.
Tamblyn R, Lavoie G, Petrella L, Monette J: The use of prescription claims databases in pharmacoepidemiological research: the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the prescription claims database in Quebec. J Clin Epidemiol. 1995, 48: 999-1009. 10.1016/0895-4356(94)00234-H.
MacDonald T, Pettitt DA, Goldstein JL, Burke TA, Zhao SZ, Morant SV: The risks of upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage in users of meloxicam, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) specific inhibitors and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [abstract]. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Safety. 2002, S12-
Solomon DH, Levin R, Avorn J: GI risk factors in patients prescribed COX-2 agents and NSAIDs [abstract]. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Safety. 2002, S149-
We are grateful to Mr Jacques Barry and all other members of the Department of Statistical Services at the Régie de l'assurance-maladie du Québec for providing us with the necessary data for this study. We also wish to thank Drs Rajaa Lagnaoui and Ghada Salamé-Miremont for their methodological contribution.
Faculty of Pharmacy, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada
Yola Moride
, Thierry Ducruet
& Sylvie Perreault
Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Community Studies, SMBD Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Canada
& Jean-François Boivin
Joint Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
Department of Pharmacology, Université Victor Segalen, Bordeaux, France
& Nicholas Moore
Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Pharmacia Corporation, Paepack, New Jersey, USA
Sean Zhao
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Correspondence to Yola Moride.
This study was funded through an unrestricted grant from Pharmacia Corporation. YM was a paid consultant for this study. JFB, TD, NM and SP declare that they have no competing interests. SZ was an employee of Pharmacia Corporation at the time the study was conducted.
YM, as principal investigator of the study, designed and coordinated the study, interpreted study results, and wrote the manuscript. TD conducted the statistical analyses. JFB participated in the design of the strategy for the sampling of the study population and helped to draft the manuscript. NM assisted in the conduct of the statistical analyses and contributed to the interpretation of the study results. SP assisted in the review of the literature and determined the relevance of the study. SZ conceived the study and participated in its design. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
administrative health care databases
COX-2 inhibitors
prescription channeling


Magician Andre Desery is your professional choice for any event.
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I would like to thank you for an excellent performance on the occasion of our 50th Aniversary and 6th Charity Gala at the Excelsior Hotel Ernst. Your charming approach to our guests, involving each table individually, your good sense of humor, and of course your truly incredible magic convinced and impressed even the most skeptics among us. We wish you all the best and good continuation in your career.
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He ensured good entertainment and surprised with his magic tricks.
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We particularly liked the special considerations prior to the event. They ensured that, during the close-up magic, our company name could be firmly embedded in the visitor's minds by means of a magic wand.
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We booked Mr. Desery for various events and each time the performance greatly enriched the event.
We felt very well entertained. The show wasn't too much nor too little, nobody felt disturbed and we were all very enthusiastic and had fun. Many thanks.
Magical support for a product presentation as part of a symposium. Thank you very much!
We received only positive feedback from the participants! THANK YOU.


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text:
Smethwick – is a town in the Sandwell Metropolitan Borough.
One of the oldest buildings in Smethwick is The Old Church which stands on the corner or Church Road and The Uplands. This was consecrated in 1832 as a Chapel of Ease in the parish of St Peter, Harborne, Birmingham.
The Grade I listed Galton Bridge spans the New Line canal and railway. When built in 1829 by Telford, it was longest single-span bridge in the world.
Matthew Boulton and James Watt opened their Soho Foundry in the North of Smethwick. It is now the home of Avery Weigh-Tronix.
The world's oldest working engine, made by Boulton and Watt, the Smethwick Engine, originally stood near Bridge Street, Smethwick. It is now the Thinktank, the new science museum in Birmingham. Matthew Boulton House in Soho Avenue was built in Georgian neo-classical style after 1761 and is set in extensive landscaped grounds overlooking the manufacturing site.
Former Prime Minister John Major's parents married at Holy Trinity Church in Smethwick while they were on tour with a music hall variety act.
Smethwick has a long association with canals, which were the town's first major transport links from a time before decent roads and of course railways. The Birmingham Canal Navigation Old and New Main Line Canals run through the industrial areas and right past the High Street running parallel to the Stour Valley Railway Line: all three terminate in Wolverhampton.
Today Galton Valley is a nature area and of more historical interest than commercial, and used mainly for leisure rather than transporting commercial goods. A variety of mature and new housing is found within the locality.
Famous people from Smethwick include:
Liza Goddard – Actress
Jamelia – Singer
Julie Walters – Actress
Philip Lynott – lead singer with Thin Lizzy


HOLA ESTAS DESEANDO TENER UN Thermomix® Y PAPA NOEL O LOS REYES NO TE LA HAN TRAIDO'?AHORA NO ES EL MOMENTO ECONOMICAMENTE? NO TE PREOCUPES PUEDES TENERLA DESDE " YA" SIN TENER QUE DESENVOLSAR NI UN EURO....LLAMAME Y TE EXPLICO COMO,SOLO TIENES QUE PULSAR EL BOTN TE LLAMO GRATIS Y ME PONDRE EN CONTACTO LO ANTES POSIBLE.....NO TE LO PIENSES QUE SE ACABA EL TIEMPO!!!!!!!!!


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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Samuel Thomas Gann was born in Rockingham County, North Carolina in 1824. He grew up running his own farm and had acquired the trade of shoemaker along the way. As the war approached, his age and family kept him at home when many of the young men marched off to war. It was not until October 17, 1864 that Tommy was conscripted due to a lack in men, in Rockingham County, in Company F of the 45th NC Regiment.
After 3 years of war, Tommy, like many others believed the war could not last much longer, left home telling his wife Marium that "he would be home before the beans got cold." Not long after entering the army, he was sent to Petersburg. After a few months of waiting, he was finally engaged in the siege of Ft. Stedman, March 25, 1865 where he was wounded in the left hand by a minie ball. He was captured during the battle and sent to City Point and then to Washington. From Washington, he was sent to Hell on Earth, Elmira NY, where he would sit until finally being paroled on July 7, 1865.
The only remarks taken down were that "He'd like to go home to his farm in Rockingham County" and so he did with his final transfer being in Greensboro, NC. Though older when he joined, Tommy would live a very long life as a farmer and shoemaker on his Rockingham County farm, dying at the age of 90 in 1914.


Attorney represented client at a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. During client's testimony, the judge indicated concern about client's ability to drive and otherwise take care of herself, and then specifically asked client if she had driven up to the hearing that day. Client replied "No, my sister drove me up." The hearing concluded with no findings or order being issued from the bench. After the hearing, Attorney and client walked out to the parking lot and client proceeded to get into a car to leave by herself. Attorney questioned client about what she was doing. Client responded, "I did actually drive myself here today but didn't want to admit that to the judge due to my suspended license." Does Attorney have an obligation to notify the tribunal of client's false testimony?
Yes, Attorney is now aware that client has misled the tribunal. Assuming that her comments constituted "material evidence," under M. R. Prof. Conduct 3.3 (a)(3),(b),(c) (Candor to the Tribunal), Attorney should now call upon client for her cooperation in the Attorney's immediate disclosure to the court to correct client's earlier false testimony. Attorney must also explain to client even if she directs Attorney not to so disclose, that Attorney is still required to do so as an officer of the court. Attorney should reiterate that such disclosure must occur even if she does not otherwise agree. See Comments 10 and 11 to M. R. Prof. Conduct 3.3. Attorney may wish to provide client with a copy of the Rule as part of a letter memorializing the conversation concerning Attorney's ethical obligations with this serious event. Under Rule 3.3(c), Attorney's disclosure to the court is required even when Attorney received the corrective information in a form normally protected under M. R. Prof. Conduct 1.6 (Confidentiality of Information). See also Reporter's Notes to M. R. Prof. Conduct 3.3.


text:
TYLER THE CREATOR LAYS IT ALL OUT ON FLOWER BOY
POSTED JULY 21ST, 2017 | BY TONI POSTELL
Tyler the Creator lays everything out on the table with this new first full length Flower Boy project that premiered today. Recently, the album contains lyrics that raise speculations about Tyler's sexuality. But who knows?
Anyway, we have waited 2 years since 2015's Cherry Bomb and it was definitely worth it. With the hiatus, Tyler has shown growth as an artist with this album. His 14 songs include cameos from Lil' Wayne, Pharrell Williams, Estelle, ScHoolboy Q, Corinne Bailey Rae, Jaden Smith, and Kali Uchis. Recently, he debuted new singles "911/Mr.Lonely" featuring Frank Ocean, Steve Lacy and "Who Dat Boy" feat A$AP Rocky. This is definitely a great time for him to put out this album because majority of the songs have a summertime vibe.
My favorite song is "I Aint Got Time!" The song is definitely one you would play in the car or party. The fact that is used "Groove is in the Heart" by Deee-Lite as its sample is pure genius. But who would be surprised? Tyler always was one to think outside the box with his music which is always refreshing to have instead of your Mumble Rap (no shade).
My other favorite is "911/Mr.Lonely". Automatically, I love the song because it is a Tyler/Frank duo and they always make magic with hits like "She". Now I think this is the song where you hear the speculations of Tyler's sexuality but you know what...I AM HERE FOR IT! Music is a way to express you inner thoughts and if he wants to use this platform to come out then do it!
You can stream Flower Boy now. Don't miss out!
Here is the full album via TIDAL!
Toni Postell is the Music Editor for CSUITEMUSIC.com
Follow Toni on IG @z_major3
© 2020 CSUITEMUSIC. All rights reserved.


Syntronik comprises a huge collection of 22 powerful virtual synths as audio units. It recreats the legendary sonic signature of 44 of the most sought-after classic analog synthesizers and string machines ever created, recognizable by their elegantly designed, easy-to-navigate interfaces. Thanks to IK's exclusive DRIFT™ technology, which emulates the way real analog circuits behave over time, the astounding circuit-modeled filters and the multi-sampled oscillators, Syntronik is the most authentic sounding analog virtual synthesizer to date and is the one-stop solution for musicians, discerning producers and synth aficionados demanding utmost sound quality and extreme playability both live and in the studio. Syntronik offers Multis with 4 parts. Each part has its own synth, dynamic arpeggiator and a dedicated 5-slot effect section for unprecedented sound design flexibility, allowing for highly sophisticated sonic palettes.


Medium Size Of Walk In Shower Stall Pictures Big Showers Without Doors Designs Door Seal Replacement published on decoration. which is part of the decoration collection. It's full resolution is 687x916 Pixels.


text:
Lindsay Fox·
Best Mechanical Mods Under $100
Mechanical vape mods are to-the-point, high-power vaping devices, and although they've been falling out of favor with vapers thanks to the rising popularity of high power VV/VW devices, they still have many staunch supporters.
Authentic mech mods are works of art, and they're often priced accordingly: with it often costing well over $100 to pick one up.
But what about if you want the hard-hitting performance of a mechanical mod without breaking the bank? What are the best mech mods for under $100?
Best Mech Mods Under $100
We've surveyed vapers to find out the community's views on what the best cheap mechanical mods are – with our poll attracting over 3,000 votes – and we've used the results to put together a definitive list.
9 – The Ragnarok Full Copper by VLS
The Ragnarok Full Copper mod by VLS just qualifies as one of the best cheap mech mods under $100, and boasts a beefy build from 99.99% pure red copper. The device includes PEEK insulators, a spring-loaded firing button, a pure copper telescopic top pin and a copper bottom firing pin. It's 24 mm in diameter, which will lead to a less-than perfect fit with most atomizers, but overall the design is sleek and understated, with a single VLS Ragnorak logo on the switch and nothing else. The device also has a near-zero voltage drop, offering fantastic performance for just $99.99. You can also pick up the stainless steel version for $78.99.
8 – Dogecorn by Congrevape and Vape Overload
The Dogecorn vape mod is an almost unbeatably affordable 18650 mechanical, priced at just $41. It's a 21.7 mm diameter mod with naval brass construction and plated in sterling silver or 24k gold, as well as being available in colored finishes. The mod features a floating 510 connection, has a round square post on the bottom for a smooth firing action, and the option of replacing the spring-operated button with a neodymium magnet. It looks pretty cool too, with "Dogecorn" written down the center of the tube in Roman-style lettering and the "doge" meme logo towards the bottom.
Everything is beautifully put together, and even though it doesn't do anything particularly special, for the price, it's a very well-made mech mod that's pretty difficult to top, and well-deserving of its spot on this list.
7 – Magneto II by Smoktech
The Magneto II from Smoktech makes this list as one of the cheapest mechanical mods on the market, priced at just $44.99. The device is a telescopic mechanical, compatible with both 18350 and 18650 size batteries, with a diameter of just over 22 mm and stainless steel construction.
The mod features a magnetic switch – which can be locked with the aid of the locking ring – brass contacts, an adjustable center pin (so it's compatible with most 510-threaded atomizers) and floating pins on both the positive and negative connections so the device works with both flat and button-top batteries. It also has three vent holes to protect you in the unlikely event that you have an issue with your battery. The device is available in gold, black, blue, red and stainless.
6 – Phantom by WOTOFO
The Phantom mod by WOTOFO (known for the Freakshow, Troll and Sapor RDAs) is priced at just $44.99 and is designed as the ideal entry-level 18650 mechanical vape mod. The device features a choice of two top caps – for hybrid (direct atomizer-to-battery) or standard connections – rhodium-plated copper contacts for improved conductivity, two 24k gold-plated springs so you can adjust your throw to your liking and an adjustable delrin ring on the button. The appearance is minimalist, with the Phantom of the Opera design on the button being the only thing on the mod, leaving you to appreciate the finish without logos cluttering up the aesthetics.
5 – Sleeve Mod by Limitless Mods
The aluminum version of the Sleeve Mod by Limitless Mods costs just $67.95, and it's solid performance on our poll lands it a spot as one of the most popular mechanical mods under $100. The device is made from 7071 aluminum, has a direct atomizer-to-battery hybrid connection and has a one-piece contact button (to minimize voltage drop by using fewer components).
It also features a four-point rail system to keep your button from slipping off, improve conductivity on the negative point (as well as maintaining consistency) and to ensure there's proper grounding so you don't get a hot button. There's also an adjustable delrin section on the bottom connection so you can adjust it to suit your battery. The device also features changeable sleeves – hence the name – so you can change up the design of your device to suit your preferences.
4 – Tesla Two Box Mod
The Tesla Two is an unregulated box mod, and makes this list of the best mech mods under $100 thanks to its huge, in-built battery with a 400 mAh capacity and a huge maximum continuous current output of 40 A, translating to 100 W with a 0.18 ohm coil. It's aluminum-bodied and features a spring-loaded, copper-plated silver firing pin to ensure great connectivity with pretty much any 510 atomizer on the market. The device has a solid, impressive appearance – with four color options but nothing on the body other than a circular, metallic firing button the edge – and costs just $39.85.
3 – Hit iThin by Anatolian Mods
The Hit iThin by Anatolian is one of the top mech vape mods under $100, costing just $55 direct from the mod-maker. When you purchase the mod, you can choose between brass, copper and stainless steel construction for the top cap, tube, the switch housing and the button itself, and you can also get a brushed or polished finish on the tube and 18350, 18500 and 18650 sizes. The mod has a standard connection – not a hybrid – but still only has a voltage drop of around 0.06 V, hitting hard enough for most vapers, and the firing button is recessed (so there's no locking ring needed). The mod has one small engraving on its body towards the bottom, and an Anatolian Mods Hit iThin logo on the button.
2 – Tugboat Mod by Flawless
The creators of the popular Tugboat RDA have produced it's mech mod counterpart, the Tugboat Mod. Ranking in the top 20 in our poll and costing just $99.99, the Tugboat mod has earned its second-place spot in this list, although it pushes the cost about as far as it can go.
The device is a 22 mm diameter, 18650-only mod made from lightweight 6061 T6 aluminum, with a hybrid connection the improve conductivity. The Tugboat Mech Mod also features copper contacts and delrin insulators, to improve conductivity and heat resistance. The mod also has a flush-fitting magnetic button, to give a sturdy but smooth throw that doesn't degrade over time. It's available in a choice of four finishes (baby blue, black, gun metal grey and white) and features the classic Tugboat logo engraved on the tube, along with a crest design on the firing button.
1 – Fuhattan by AmeraClone
The Fuhattan is a clone of the Manhattan, but costs considerably less – currently priced at just $24.99 – and is the best mechanical mod under $100 based on our poll of vapers.
The device takes a single 18650 battery, housed inside a copper tube and wrapped in a carbon fiber sleeve. It has a threaded 510 connection with sliding pin in the top cap and copper contacts throughout. The device uses a magnetic firing switch to protect against accidental firing when it's stood up and to ensure a consistent throw over time, unlike springs that often need to be replaced after extensive use. The switch also has venting holes in case you have battery problems, and you also get two spare copper pins for the atomizer, as well as an extra copper bottom pin.
The mod also looks pretty cool with the carbon fiber sleeve, thanks to the copper top and bottom and the "FU" logo cut out of the sleeve so the copper provides its color. The Fuhattan may be a clone, but its performance won't disappoint.
Mech Mods: Editor's Picks
There are plenty of options for mechanical mods in the list above, but it goes without saying that this only scratches the surface of the vast array of eligible devices on the market. So we've put together an additional list, based on our own staff's picks. The list isn't as objective as the main top 10 above, but if you're looking for more options, these are some devices to consider.
10 – Invader Mini by Tesla
The Invader Mini from Tesla is a mechanical box mod, with a fairly non-descript appearance and aluminum construction. The mod takes two 18650 batteries, and boasts some safety features you don't usually get with mechanical devices, such as short circuit (for resistances under 0.1 ohm) and reverse battery protection, making it a pretty good option for any vapers unsure about the safety aspects of mechanical ecig mods. The mod is available for just $49.95.
9 – Excalibur Mod by Cigreen
The Excalibur Mod is a mechanical 18650 tube mod with a copper construction and a pretty cool design, featuring a sword logo with "Excalibur" written down the blade and available in three finishes. The device has a magnetic switch, a small voltage drop (thanks to the hybrid 510 connection), a pin-free top cap and a lockable fire button. Everything is very easy to use, and at just $44.99, it's a pretty tempting option for vapers on a budget.
8 – The Infected by USA Made Mods
The Infected is an 18650 tube mod made from 304 stainless steel and brass, with a recessed firing button (to prevent accidental firing when you stand it up) and a magnetic switch. The mod has 99 percent pure tellurium copper contacts, which minimizes voltage drop and ensures a consistent connection when you hit the fire button. The mod has a big vent hole in the body, and both the top and bottom cap can be removed to access the battery. The device costs just $89.95.
7 – Seeker Mod by EHPro
EHPro may have a reputation for producing clones, but the Seeker Mod is an authentic creation of theirs, a 26650-size mechanical tube vapor mod. The device is built from copper, with a stainless steel locking ring and silver contact pins, and uses a simple spring for the firing button. The device might not be the highest-end device on the market, but it performs well and offers the substantial battery life of a 26650 mod. For just $59.99 it's an excellent deal that it's hard to pass up.
6 – Antique Dragon by Tesla
This device mainly makes the list thanks to its awesome design, featuring a mosaic pattern stretching across much of the body that's broken up by a fire-breathing dragon design. The mod is an 18650 tube device, with a recessed button that uses a magnetic switch, a reverse-threaded locking ring, copper contacts to aid conductivity and an adjustable positive contact to eliminate battery rattle. It costs just $32.95 too, making it one of the cheapest options on this list.
5 – Full Copper CLT Mod by Infinite
The CLT mod comes from the same company who made the RDA of the same name, and the full copper version boasts a sleek, beautiful design – with barely-visible lines separating the tubes – and a recessed, engraved firing button. Tubes are available for 18650 and 18350 battery sizes, and the mod has a 22 mm diameter for a flush fit to most atomizers on the market and features copper contacts throughout. It looks best paired with the CLT RDA, but it works well with most atomizers. Although it's currently out of stock, VaporDNA has it listed for $49.99.
4 – Hell Hound Box Mod by Wulf Mods
The Hell Hound is another unregulated box mod, with a straightforward but effective design and all copper connections for minimal voltage drop. The mod takes two 18650 batteries, which run in series for a substantial power output, and are accessed through a magnetic panel at the back of the device. The device doesn't have much else to offer in terms of features, but with a sturdy design and a high-quality copper fire button, it's an extremely dependable mechanical vape mod, and you can pick up for just $99.95.
3 – Ragnorak Full Copper by VLS
This device was also featured on the main list, but it's definitely among our picks, with a beautiful design, super-low voltage drop and a smooth firing pin. It's slightly large 24 mm diameter means it might not fit flush with many of your atomizers, but the high-quality construction (everything is made in the USA), top-end materials and excellent performance of the device make it well-worth the $99.99 price-tag.
2 – Sleeve Mod by Limitless
This is another of our picks that was also featured on the main list, and although our favorite is the copper version (which costs over $100), the aluminum edition is a fantastic option for vapers on a budget. With excellent conductivity, replaceable sleeves so you can tailor the look to your preferences, and a direct battery-to-atomizer hybrid connection, it's a high-end mech with a very affordable price tag of just $67.95.
1 – CAM Mod by Kryptonite Vapor
The CAM Mod – the Cheap Ass 'Merican Mod – is our pick for the best mech mod under $100: a 22 mm diameter 18650 tube mod, with quality construction and plenty of colors to choose from. The mod is made from stainless steel, copper and brass, and has a recessed firing button, a hybrid-style connection and spare O-rings to ensure a snug fit with the various atomizers on the market. It might be among the more expensive options on this list – available for $98.99 – but for the top-quality build and excellent performance, it's well-worth spending the extra money.
Conclusion – Authentic Devices for Under $100, as Well as Clones
The most striking thing about the run-down of some of the best mechanical mods under $100 is that there is only one clone in the line-up, and even that is one that's taken on its own identity. The very best-rated mechanical mods in our poll may have been more expensive than $100, but with plenty of clones of them available anyway, it's refreshing to see such a selection of high-quality mech mods that won't break the bank. If you know what to look for, you can definitely have a solid mechanical mod vaping experience without spending too much.
Also check out: Best box mods and vape mods and best vaporizer pens of the year!


It's that time of year again, time for the 17th Avenue Spring Show! Drop in on our many artists and craftspeople in their native habitat at 17th Avenue Studios. Much to look at, see and absorb. I will be in my studio, #55 in building 4.


Mad Science of Las Vegas: Giving Back!
We would like to kick this year off with a story about giving back. We are always incredibly proud and touched when one of our franchisees takes it upon themselves to better the lives of those less fortunate. As such, we would like to shine the spotlight on Mad Science of Las Vegas for their worthy efforts.
Every year they provide their employees with the opportunity to give back to the local community. The company provides each member of the staff with about $20 worth of essentials that they get to personally pick and package in bags that they have decorated themselves. The owners, Lani and Sherrie Sussman, then encourage their employees to go out and find a member of the community who is in need of such a present and gift them the package. The Sussman's hope to demonstrate to their staff the power of giving back, as well as, that a lot of good can be done with what might be perceived to be a small amount of money.
In addition, the Sussman's have also started a giving tradition on the anniversary that they took over the company. Every employee is provided with a $10 Donors Choose gift card; with this they can go online and donate to any classroom in need around the country.
We applaud you Mad Science of Las Vegas and would like to give you a virtual pat on the back!
For more information on upcoming Mad Science events in the Las Vegas area, follow them on Facebook and Twitter.


The Tri-State Music Festival, now in its 14th year, brings advanced high school band musicians from throughout the region to the Mercyhurst University campus to rehearse for three days with Mercyhurst's music faculty and guest clinicians. On Friday, Feb. 8, at 8 p.m. in the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center, Mercyhurst University musicians present their annual Prism Concert in conjunction with the festival. The Mercyhurst Jazz Ensemble will perform some of its "greatest hits," while the Wind Ensemble will feature student conductors and Alfred Reed's arrangement of "Greensleeves." Several instrumental soloists will also be featured. The Prism Concert, directed by Dr. Scott Meier, is free and open to the public. The festival culminates with a performance by the Honor Band on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 2 p.m. in the Mary D'Angelo Performing Arts Center. This concert is also free and open to the public. For information, call 814-824-2394.


WEast Gamers wants to give that old podcast do-hicky another try. Lets see how it all goes. powered by ODEO Download MP3 File Brace yourselves for a blasting start!… you've been warned.
Kotaku, The otaku's Game blog!
Game Studies Colloquium | A Map To Reetesh on Snatcher doesn't just run with blades.
WEastFellows © 2019. All Rights Reserved.


As most Bangkokians will tell you today, January 15th, 2019, there is little or no reduction in air pollution in many areas of the Thai capital. That means Thai officials are now faced with dealing with PM2.5 particles of up to double the safe rate in some areas of the city.
According to the Bangkok Post this morning, the Thai safety limit is 50 microgrammes of pollution particles in the air per cubic meter (µg/m³).
(And do check out the Bangkok Post article, as it has an interesting graphic all about these PM2.5 particles, where they come from, why they are so dangerous and what the government's short-term solutions have been so far).
Yet, at 6pm last night, levels ranged between 70 and 100 µg/m³, according to readings taken by 10 air quality stations in Bangkok.
That is up to double the safe rate in some areas of the city, and something that is of huge concern to the Thai Pollution Control Department (PCD).
In response, Surasee Kittimonton, the head of the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department, has said water spraying that has begun today will continue through at least Friday. This will be done via Army BT-67 planes flying high up over the Bangkok metropolitan area.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration is also increasing clean up of the city, with special emphasis placed on construction sites, particularly around the BTS sky train construction areas. Bangkokians are also banned from burning anything while this public health crisis is ongoing.
All of this in an effort to prevent more dust particles escaping into the air, and creating even more of a public health concern.
But, while this is most definitely an unhealthy situation for much of Bangkok, and in particular for those people that work outside, there is one positive thing coming from it.
The fact that Thai government officials now seem to be realizing even more than before that finishing the BTS sky train construction to new areas of the city is vital.
And that, once it is complete, they should then be doing everything in their power to encourage as many people as possible to use the new train lines, and to leave their pollution-causing cars at home.


text:
State-funded domestic violence charity sought to evict woman just before Christmas
A state-funded domestic violence charity was permitted to evict a woman from one of its properties just before Christmas last year.
Sonas claims to be Ireland's "largest provider of frontline support services to women and children experiencing domestic abuse". The charity last year received € 2,194,604 in state and local funding, the majority of which came from Tusla.
Headed by CEO Todd Prevost, a former law enforcement officer in the US state of Vermont, Sonas runs a crisis refuge, outreach services and prevention campaigns in aid of survivors of domestic abuse.
It also provides accommodation to domestic abuse survivors in certain circumstances. Among the properties it manages are residential complexes in Killester, Dublin 5, Ringsend, Dublin 4 and Corduff, north county Dublin. Tenants housed in some of these complexes pay rent to the charity.
These developments are built on local authority land and funded by grants provided under the government's Capital Assistance Scheme.
In December 2021, Sonas took a case against one of its tenants at the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). The tenant, who lived in one of the charity's Killester properties, responded by claiming that Sonas had breached its landlord obligations to her.
Sonas had served the tenant a termination order in late June 2021 and looked for the RTB to enforce an eviction.
The RTB ruled in Sonas's favour and ordered the tenant to vacate the property within two weeks. Because the ruling was made 8 December, the tenant would be required to leave the property by 22 December.
The RTB further ruled that the tenant pay Sonas €989.50 in rent arrears within six months.
Tenants in Sonas's properties are required to meet certain criteria. They need to be eligible for social housing within the Dublin local authorities and they need to be considered at low-to-medium risk of "substance use/mental health-associated" issues. They also required to fulfil certain criteria related to criminal offences.
Sonas declined to comment.
G. Thompson