text:
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Forecast for South Sudan: Hope
by Linda Bloom February 22, 2011
Google Translation Français 한국어 Português Español
Victor Chol didn't vote in the special election that has set the southern part of Sudan on the road to independence. But he spent a lot of time educating Sudanese on how to use the ballot so their votes would be properly registered.
For Chol, one of the 4,000 or so "Lost Boys and Girls" of Sudan who found a new life in the United States, it was a way to give back.
He is one of the many church people who are betting that the new nation of South Sudan can make a go of it, despite the formidable challenges ahead.
Some question whether the new country's political base can hold together.A Feb. 12 Time Magazine article pointed out the disputes that exist within South Sudan. "During the previous civil war, more southerners died at each other's hands than were killed by their northern enemies, who funded and armed southern tribal rivals," writes Alan Boswell.
But the intricacies of the conflict have not deterred religious leaders across the continent who were instrumental in bringing about the 2005 peace agreement that ended decades of civil war between north and south Sudan and set up the referendum for independence.
Then – through such groups as the Sudan Ecumenical Forum, All Africa Conference of Churches and Sudan Council of Churches – they made sure the vote came off and sent 350 monitors to observe the process. The Rev. Sam Kobia, a Methodist from Kenya, was involved as a special ecumenical envoy.
"If the church had not accompanied the Sudanese, the (peace agreement) would not have been possible and the referendum would not have happened," Bishop Robert Aboagye-Mensah, a Methodist from Ghana and vice president of the All Africa Conference of Churches told the World Council of Churches Central Committee on Friday. "Now, as this new nation is built, the message of the Sudanese to the church is 'Please don't abandon us!'"
That seems unlikely to happen. African Christians have demonstrated a commitment to nurturing their Sudanese brothers and sisters and United Methodists elsewhere are making their own promises, including members of the U.S. Holston Conference, where Chol is now based.
The 32-year-old Tennessee graduate, who still has three brothers and two sisters in Sudan, is showing others what can be done to help, particularly in the area of education. His motivation is simple. "It has always been about trying to share what's been given to me by my fellow Americans," he told me when I interviewed him recently.
Like what you're reading? Support the ministry of UM News! Your support ensures the latest denominational news, dynamic stories and informative articles will continue to connect our global community. Make a tax-deductible donation at ResourceUMC.org/GiveUMCom.
Blogs and Commentary
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A Human Relations Day to remember
Three San Antonio churches of different racial/ethnic membership model "beloved community" by coming together for a special service ahead of MLK Day March.
General Church
Slave or free, disaffiliate or stay UMC?
We do not get to choose who can be in God's flock. It is for everyone whom Jesus chooses to bring in.
A birthday letter to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
In an annual letter to the civil rights icon, the Rev. Reggie Lee celebrates victories by Black candidates for both U.S. Senate and the episcopacy of The United Methodist Church as signs of King's dream coming to fruition.
Faith Sharing
Theology and Education
UMNews


text:
/* //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 * trace
 */
#define TB_TRACE_MODULE_NAME            "cache"
#define TB_TRACE_MODULE_DEBUG           (0)

/* //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 * includes
 */
#include "prefix.h"

/* //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 * types
 */

// the cache filter type
typedef struct __tb_stream_filter_cache_t
{
    // the filter base
    tb_stream_filter_impl_t          base;

}tb_stream_filter_cache_t;

/* //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 * implementation
 */
static __tb_inline__ tb_stream_filter_cache_t* tb_stream_filter_cache_cast(tb_stream_filter_impl_t* filter)
{
    // check
    tb_assert_and_check_return_val(filter && filter->type == TB_STREAM_FILTER_TYPE_CACHE, tb_null);
    return (tb_stream_filter_cache_t*)filter;
}
static tb_long_t tb_stream_filter_cache_spak(tb_stream_filter_impl_t* filter, tb_static_stream_ref_t istream, tb_static_stream_ref_t ostream, tb_long_t sync)
{
    // check
    tb_stream_filter_cache_t* cfilter = tb_stream_filter_cache_cast(filter);
    tb_assert_and_check_return_val(cfilter && istream && ostream, -1);
    tb_assert_and_check_return_val(tb_static_stream_valid(istream) && tb_static_stream_valid(ostream), -1);

    // the idata
    tb_byte_t const*    ip = tb_static_stream_pos(istream);
    tb_byte_t const*    ie = tb_static_stream_end(istream);

    // the odata
    tb_byte_t*          op = (tb_byte_t*)tb_static_stream_pos(ostream);
    tb_byte_t*          oe = (tb_byte_t*)tb_static_stream_end(ostream);
    tb_byte_t*          ob = op;

    // the need
    tb_size_t           need = tb_min(ie - ip, oe - op);

    // copy data
    if (need) tb_memcpy(op, ip, need);
    ip += need;
    op += need;

    // update stream
    tb_static_stream_goto(istream, (tb_byte_t*)ip);
    tb_static_stream_goto(ostream, (tb_byte_t*)op);

    // no data and sync end? end
    if (sync < 0 && op == ob && !tb_static_stream_left(istream)) return -1;

    // ok
    return (op - ob);
}

/* //////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
 * interfaces
 */
tb_stream_filter_ref_t tb_stream_filter_init_from_cache(tb_size_t size)
{
    // done
    tb_bool_t                   ok = tb_false;
    tb_stream_filter_cache_t*   filter = tb_null;
    do
    {
        // make filter
        filter = tb_malloc0_type(tb_stream_filter_cache_t);
        tb_assert_and_check_break(filter);

        // init filter
        if (!tb_stream_filter_impl_init((tb_stream_filter_impl_t*)filter, TB_STREAM_FILTER_TYPE_CACHE)) break;
        filter->base.spak = tb_stream_filter_cache_spak;

        // init the cache size
        if (size) tb_queue_buffer_resize(&filter->base.odata, size);

        // ok
        ok = tb_true;

    } while (0);

    // failed?
    if (!ok)
    {
        // exit filter
        tb_stream_filter_exit((tb_stream_filter_ref_t)filter);
        filter = tb_null;
    }

    // ok?
    return (tb_stream_filter_ref_t)filter;
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Birth, marriage, and death registers are important tools for genealogical research. These official documents can provide much of the information you need to construct a family tree.
Unfortunately, birth, marriage, and death registers weren't kept in the United States until the 1900s. Even at this point, records in rural areas may be spotty at best. If you are conducting research for a family tree project, start with the most recent records first, and then work your way back through each generation.
When you are searching for older records, remember that the general population had poor literacy skills in the 1800s and early 1900s. Misspellings of names were common, even in official documents. For example, "Pearce" may be spelled as "Pierce" in a birth record. RootsWeb has a Soundex Converter that can help you search for possible alternative spellings of your family's surname.
Birth certificates must be on file for 75 years, and the person must be deceased.
Marriage certificates must be on file for 50 years, and both parties must be deceased.
Records provided for genealogy research will be uncertified copies. If you need to have a certified copy of a vital record, there will likely be additional regulations to follow and fees to pay.
Vital Records has a state-by-state listing of the contact agencies to request birth, marriage, and death registers. In many cases, vital records are obtained through the State Department of Health. Some states will allow you to order online, while others have forms that you must submit by mail. To get the most accurate results, include as much information as possible with your record request.
When requesting vital records, you can expect to pay a small fee for each copy you need for your genealogical research. Fees often range between $10 and $25, depending upon the state. Processing time is most often between 30 and 60 days, although some states report processing times of up to six months.


text:
La mesquita de Qaytbey o Kwawand Asla-Bey és una mesquita a el Faium construïda sobre columnes probablement faraòniques de Kiman Faris. Fou construïda pel soldà mameluc Qaybey vers el 1490 en honor de la mare del seu successor Muhammad IV (1496-1498). L'aigua del Bahr Yusef (Canal de Josep) facilita l'ablació a un lloc estratègic a l'interior del temple. Té un gran minbar de Somàlia amb fusta tallada i incrustacions d'ivori.

Enllaços externs
 Mesquita de Qaybey a touregypt.net

Mesquites d'Egipte

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
package com.dremio.exec.store.easy.text.compliant;

import java.io.IOException;
import java.util.Collection;
import java.util.List;
import java.util.Map;

import org.apache.arrow.memory.ArrowBuf;
import org.apache.arrow.memory.OutOfMemoryException;
import org.apache.arrow.vector.ValueVector;
import org.apache.arrow.vector.types.pojo.Field;
import org.apache.arrow.vector.util.CallBack;
import org.apache.hadoop.mapred.FileSplit;
import org.apache.poi.hssf.util.CellReference;

import com.dremio.common.AutoCloseables;
import com.dremio.common.exceptions.ExecutionSetupException;
import com.dremio.common.exceptions.UserException;
import com.dremio.common.expression.SchemaPath;
import com.dremio.exec.ExecConstants;
import com.dremio.exec.exception.SchemaChangeException;
import com.dremio.exec.expr.TypeHelper;
import com.dremio.exec.record.BatchSchema;
import com.dremio.exec.store.AbstractRecordReader;
import com.dremio.io.CompressionCodecFactory;
import com.dremio.io.FSInputStream;
import com.dremio.io.file.FileSystem;
import com.dremio.io.file.FileSystemUtils;
import com.dremio.io.file.Path;
import com.dremio.options.OptionManager;
import com.dremio.sabot.exec.context.OperatorContext;
import com.dremio.sabot.op.scan.OutputMutator;
import com.google.common.collect.Iterables;
import com.google.common.collect.Maps;
import com.univocity.parsers.common.TextParsingException;

// New text reader, complies with the RFC 4180 standard for text/csv files
public class CompliantTextRecordReader extends AbstractRecordReader {
  private static final org.slf4j.Logger logger = org.slf4j.LoggerFactory.getLogger(CompliantTextRecordReader.class);

  private static final int READ_BUFFER = 1024 * 1024;
  private static final int WHITE_SPACE_BUFFER = 64 * 1024;

  // settings to be used while parsing
  private final TextParsingSettings settings;
  // Chunk of the file to be read by this reader
  private final FileSplit split;
  // text reader implementation
  private TextReader reader;
  // input buffer
  private ArrowBuf readBuffer;
  // working buffer to handle whitespaces
  private ArrowBuf whitespaceBuffer;
  private final CompressionCodecFactory codecFactory;
  private final FileSystem dfs;

  public CompliantTextRecordReader(FileSplit split, CompressionCodecFactory codecFactory, FileSystem dfs,
      OperatorContext context, TextParsingSettings settings, List<SchemaPath> columns) {
    super(context, columns);
    this.split = split;
    this.settings = settings;
    this.codecFactory = codecFactory;
    this.dfs = dfs;
  }

  // checks to see if we are querying all columns(star) or individual columns
  @Override
  public boolean isStarQuery() {
    if (settings.isUseRepeatedVarChar()) {
      return super.isStarQuery() || Iterables.tryFind(getColumns(), path -> path.equals(RepeatedVarCharOutput.COLUMNS)).isPresent();
    }
    return super.isStarQuery();
  }

  /**
   * Performs the initial setup required for the record reader.
   * Initializes the input stream, handling of the output record batch
   * and the actual reader to be used.
   *
   * @param outputMutator Used to create the schema in the output record batch
   * @throws ExecutionSetupException
   */
  @Override
  public void setup(OutputMutator outputMutator) throws ExecutionSetupException {
    // setup Output, Input, and Reader
    try {
      final TextOutput output;

      if (isSkipQuery()) {
        if (settings.isHeaderExtractionEnabled()) {
          extractHeader();
        }
        // When no columns are projected try to make the parser do less work by turning off options that have extra cost
        settings.setIgnoreLeadingWhitespaces(false);
        settings.setIgnoreTrailingWhitespaces(false);
        output = new TextCountOutput();
      } else {
        final int sizeLimit = Math.toIntExact(this.context.getOptions().getOption(ExecConstants.LIMIT_FIELD_SIZE_BYTES));
        // setup Output using OutputMutator
        if (settings.isHeaderExtractionEnabled()) {
          //extract header and use that to setup a set of VarCharVectors
          String[] fieldNames = extractHeader();
          output = new FieldVarCharOutput(outputMutator, fieldNames, getColumns(), isStarQuery(), sizeLimit);
        } else if (settings.isAutoGenerateColumnNames()) {
          String[] fieldNames = generateColumnNames();
          output = new FieldVarCharOutput(outputMutator, fieldNames, getColumns(), isStarQuery(), sizeLimit);
        } else {
          //simply use RepeatedVarCharVector
          output = new RepeatedVarCharOutput(outputMutator, getColumns(), isStarQuery(), sizeLimit);
        }
      }

      readBuffer = this.context.getAllocator().buffer(READ_BUFFER);
      whitespaceBuffer = this.context.getAllocator().buffer(WHITE_SPACE_BUFFER);

      // setup Input using InputStream
      FSInputStream stream = FileSystemUtils.openPossiblyCompressedStream(codecFactory, dfs, Path.of(split.getPath().toUri()));
      TextInput input = new TextInput(settings, stream, readBuffer, split.getStart(), split.getStart() + split.getLength());

      // setup Reader using Input and Output
      reader = new TextReader(settings, input, output, whitespaceBuffer);
      reader.start();
    } catch (IOException e) {
      Throwable t = e.getCause();
      if (t instanceof StreamFinishedPseudoException) {
        return;
      }
      String bestEffortMessage = bestEffortMessageForUnknownException(t);
      if (bestEffortMessage != null) {
        throw new ExecutionSetupException(bestEffortMessage);
      }
      throw new ExecutionSetupException(String.format("Failure while setting up text reader for file %s", split.getPath()), e);
    } catch (SchemaChangeException e) {
      throw new ExecutionSetupException(String.format("Failure while setting up text reader for file %s", split.getPath()), e);
    } catch (IllegalArgumentException e) {
      throw UserException.dataReadError(e).addContext("File Path", split.getPath().toString()).build(logger);
    }
  }

  private String[] readFirstLineForColumnNames() throws ExecutionSetupException, SchemaChangeException, IOException {
    // setup Output using OutputMutator
    // we should use a separate output mutator to avoid reshaping query output with header data
    try (HeaderOutputMutator hOutputMutator = new HeaderOutputMutator();
         ArrowBuf readBufferInReader = this.context.getAllocator().buffer(READ_BUFFER);
         ArrowBuf whitespaceBufferInReader = this.context.getAllocator().buffer(WHITE_SPACE_BUFFER)) {
      final int sizeLimit = Math.toIntExact(this.context.getOptions().getOption(ExecConstants.LIMIT_FIELD_SIZE_BYTES));
      final RepeatedVarCharOutput hOutput = new RepeatedVarCharOutput(hOutputMutator, getColumns(), true, sizeLimit);
      this.allocate(hOutputMutator.fieldVectorMap);

      // setup Input using InputStream
      // we should read file header irrespective of split given given to this reader
      FSInputStream hStream = FileSystemUtils.openPossiblyCompressedStream(codecFactory, dfs, Path.of(split.getPath().toUri()));
      TextInput hInput = new TextInput(settings, hStream, readBufferInReader, 0, Math.min(READ_BUFFER, split.getLength()));
      // setup Reader using Input and Output
      this.reader = new TextReader(settings, hInput, hOutput, whitespaceBufferInReader);
      reader.start();

      String[] fieldNames;
      try {
        // extract first non-empty row
        do {
          boolean isAnyData = reader.parseNext();
          if (!isAnyData) {
            // end of file most likely
            throw new IOException(StreamFinishedPseudoException.INSTANCE);
          }

          // grab the field names from output
          fieldNames = hOutput.getTextOutput();
        } while (fieldNames == null);

        if (settings.isTrimHeader()) {
          for (int i = 0; i < fieldNames.length; i++) {
            fieldNames[i] = fieldNames[i].trim();
          }
        }
        return fieldNames;
      } finally {
        // cleanup and set to skip the first line next time we read input
        reader.close();
      }
    }
  }

  /**
   * This method is responsible to implement logic for extracting header from text file
   * Currently it is assumed to be first line if headerExtractionEnabled is set to true
   * TODO: enhance to support more common header patterns
   *
   * @return field name strings
   */
  private String[] extractHeader() throws SchemaChangeException, IOException, ExecutionSetupException {
    assert (settings.isHeaderExtractionEnabled());

    // don't skip header in case skipFirstLine is set true
    settings.setSkipFirstLine(false);
    final String[] fieldNames = readFirstLineForColumnNames();
    settings.setSkipFirstLine(true);
    return validateColumnNames(fieldNames);
  }

  public static String[] validateColumnNames(String[] fieldNames) {
    final Map<String, Integer> uniqueFieldNames = Maps.newHashMap();
    if (fieldNames != null) {
      for (int i = 0; i < fieldNames.length; ++i) {
        if (fieldNames[i].isEmpty()) {
          fieldNames[i] = CellReference.convertNumToColString(i);
        }
        // If we have seen this column name before, add a suffix
        final Integer count = uniqueFieldNames.get(fieldNames[i]);
        if (count != null) {
          uniqueFieldNames.put(fieldNames[i], count + 1);
          fieldNames[i] = fieldNames[i] + count;
        } else {
          uniqueFieldNames.put(fieldNames[i], 0);
        }
      }
      return fieldNames;
    }
    return null;
  }

  /**
   * Generate fields names per column in text file.
   * Read first line and count columns and return fields names like excel sheet.
   * A, B, C and so on.
   *
   * @return field name strings, null if no records found in text file.
   */
  private String[] generateColumnNames() throws SchemaChangeException, IOException, ExecutionSetupException {
    assert (settings.isAutoGenerateColumnNames());

    final boolean shouldSkipFirstLine = settings.isSkipFirstLine();
    settings.setSkipFirstLine(false);
    final String[] columns = readFirstLineForColumnNames();
    settings.setSkipFirstLine(shouldSkipFirstLine);
    if (columns != null && columns.length > 0) {
      String[] fieldNames = new String[columns.length];
      for (int i = 0; i < columns.length; ++i) {
        fieldNames[i] = CellReference.convertNumToColString(i);
      }
      return fieldNames;
    } else {
      return null;
    }
  }

  /**
   * Generates the next record batch
   *
   * @return number of records in the batch
   */
  @Override
  public int next() {
    reader.resetForNextBatch();
    int cnt = 0;

    try {
      while (cnt < numRowsPerBatch && reader.parseNext()) {
        cnt++;
      }
      reader.finishBatch();
      return cnt;
    } catch (IOException | TextParsingException e) {
      throw UserException.dataReadError(e)
        .addContext("Failure while reading file %s. Happened at or shortly before byte position %d.",
          split.getPath(), reader.getPos())
        .build(logger);
    }
  }

  /**
   * Cleanup state once we are finished processing all the records.
   * This would internally close the input stream we are reading from.
   */
  @Override
  public void close() throws Exception {
    try {
      AutoCloseables.close(reader, readBuffer, whitespaceBuffer);
    } finally {
      reader = null;
      readBuffer = null;
      whitespaceBuffer = null;
    }
  }

  @Override
  public void allocate(Map<String, ValueVector> vectorMap) throws OutOfMemoryException {
    int estimatedRecordCount;
    if ((reader != null) && (reader.getInput() != null) && (vectorMap.size() > 0)) {
      final OptionManager options = context.getOptions();
      final int listSizeEstimate = (int) options.getOption(ExecConstants.BATCH_LIST_SIZE_ESTIMATE);
      final int varFieldSizeEstimate = (int) options.getOption(ExecConstants.BATCH_VARIABLE_FIELD_SIZE_ESTIMATE);
      final int estimatedRecordSize = BatchSchema.estimateRecordSize(vectorMap, listSizeEstimate, varFieldSizeEstimate);
      if (estimatedRecordSize > 0) {
        estimatedRecordCount = (int) Math.min(reader.getInput().length / estimatedRecordSize, numRowsPerBatch);
      } else {
        estimatedRecordCount = (int) numRowsPerBatch;
      }
    } else {
      estimatedRecordCount = (int) numRowsPerBatch;
    }
    for (final ValueVector v : vectorMap.values()) {
      v.setInitialCapacity(estimatedRecordCount);
      v.allocateNew();
    }
  }

  /**
   * TextRecordReader during its first phase read to extract header should pass its own
   * OutputMutator to avoid reshaping query output.
   * This class provides OutputMutator for header extraction.
   */
  private class HeaderOutputMutator implements OutputMutator, AutoCloseable {
    private final Map<String, ValueVector> fieldVectorMap = Maps.newHashMap();

    @Override
    public <T extends ValueVector> T addField(Field field, Class<T> clazz) throws SchemaChangeException {
      ValueVector v = fieldVectorMap.get(field.getName().toLowerCase());
      if (v == null || v.getClass() != clazz) {
        // Field does not exist add it to the map
        v = TypeHelper.getNewVector(field, context.getAllocator());
        if (!clazz.isAssignableFrom(v.getClass())) {
          throw new SchemaChangeException(String.format(
            "Class %s was provided, expected %s.", clazz.getSimpleName(), v.getClass().getSimpleName()));
        }
        v.allocateNew();
        fieldVectorMap.put(field.getName().toLowerCase(), v);
      }
      return clazz.cast(v);
    }

    @Override
    public ValueVector getVector(String name) {
      return fieldVectorMap.get((name != null) ? name.toLowerCase() : name);
    }

    @Override
    public Collection<ValueVector> getVectors() {
      return fieldVectorMap.values();
    }

    @Override
    public void allocate(int recordCount) {
      //do nothing for now
    }

    @Override
    public ArrowBuf getManagedBuffer() {
      return context.getManagedBuffer();
    }

    @Override
    public CallBack getCallBack() {
      return null;
    }

    @Override
    public boolean getAndResetSchemaChanged() {
      return false;
    }

    @Override
    public boolean getSchemaChanged() {
      return false;
    }

    /**
     * Since this OutputMutator is passed by TextRecordReader to get the header out
     * the mutator might not get cleaned up elsewhere. TextRecordReader will call
     * this method to clear any allocations
     */
    @Override
    public void close() {
      for (final ValueVector v : fieldVectorMap.values()) {
        v.clear();
      }
      fieldVectorMap.clear();
    }

  }

  @Override
  public boolean supportsSkipAllQuery() {
    return true;
  }

}


Big week ahead for the Augusta GreenJackets (Low A; Sally League) and their new home, SRP Park, as the team will host three important events, including Thursday night's grand opener.
Tomorrow sees the first game played at the new North Augusta ballpark, with the North Augusta High School Yellow Jackets the home team in a soft opening expected to draw at least 3,000 or so fans. Then the ballpark will host an NCAA game, with University of Georgia taking on Clemson Tuesday.
Thursday night sees the GreenJackets home opener, with the Lexington Legends in town. That event will be the culmination of years of effort in bringing both a new ballpark and associated development to North Augusta. The city committed $70 million to Riverside Village development, while attracting $150 million in additional development.
The development will include a Crowne Plaza hotel/conference center, first-floor retail with townhomes above, 280 luxury apartments, a senior living facility and an office building.
Restaurants and shops that ring the stadium will have entrances inside and outside, so they can serve people walking by as well as those attending a game. The apartments will have views into the stadium, and there will be a craft brewery next to right field.
It's designed to appeal to millennials, who prefer to live close to where they work and play, choosing to walk or cycle rather than drive. Linking the Greeneway to Riverside Village and further into downtown has been a hot topic for a couple of years and has the support of North Augusta Forward, among others.
We'll be down at SRP Park for the GreenJackets' opener Thursday.


The Kiddie Litter was developed for emergency evacuation of babies from the nursery or other locations in hospitals in a safer manner than anything available anywhere else. It is an insert that fits in the Hazmat/Hospital Sked Stretcher. It features four warm Papoose like pockets that are adjustable for the baby sizes. There is a little hood over each pocket that keeps the baby's head warm and keeps the baby in the pouch if the head end of the stretcher gets lower than the foot end. The babies are carried in line with the Kiddie Litter rather than across to allow for different size babies and to prevent neck injuries during evacuation. Made in USA.
Kiddie Litter Insert only - to attach to existing HMH Sked.
Each insert can carry up to 4 infants.


Pretend you're hitting the slopes or catching a wave—in the air. Swurfer is a standing swing designed to mimic the movement of board sports. It's curved just like a surfboard or skateboard, with adjustable handles that add stability while you get into the swing of it. Made in the USA entirely from hard rock maple wood, the boards are super durable, and can really get moving in all directions. It's just as fun to use as a traditional swing, too—just with a wider base. Founder Rob Bertschy created Swurfer for his own kids. He noticed them pretending to surf while watching him from the beach, and he created scaled-down boards so they could practice before graduating to the real thing. We recommend getting a professional to help you set up your Swurfer, to ensure you'll have enough support and clearance. Once you're up and swinging through the air, it develops balance and boosts confidence. But all kids will care about it is that it's super fun.
Hey, this is Rob, founder and creator of the Swurfer. Super stoked to be here virtually today, as I'm really in Charleston, South Carolina, where we design and manufacture all our Swingboards. Let's have some fun!
his is Harriet. I would so love to have your swing,,,oops Swurfer. Just the gentle or intense exercise I am seeking. Being 80 years old, I'm thinking I could be happy with it. I am curious about the cost. and does it come with a frame? or must it be installed on trees? Please send me info. If it's not for me either space or price , you have one wonderful product going on here .
@Harriet Thank you for the kind words. That makes my heart warm. The ideal way to install a Swurfer is on a nice, sturdy tree branch. You can also install it on a force using eye-bolts, under a deck, or even on a cable suspended between trees. It includes enough rope to hang up to 20 feet high.
What age is this appropriate for and how does is it installed?
@Marcia We recommend it for ages 6+. The installation is very easy, you don't even need a ladder. Our instructions that are included are very simple and you should be able to install and be Swurfing in a matter of minutes.
@Rob Is there fear of going back and hitting the tree?
My question is weight rating for individuals and since kids will be kids when you are not looking, I am sure they will test it! The board rating and the rope weight rating ??
@Lisa We rate the swing for 250lbs. The rope has a combined tensile strength of 10,500lbs.
The description says the Swurfer should be installed by a professional. Who would that be?
How high off the ground should this be hung? Does it need to hang down a certain distance from a branch to be able to swing too?
@Allison Its always a good idea to have a certified arborist check out your branch to make sure its sturdy and healthy enough to support a swing. They will usually install the swing for you as well. Depending on whether you intend to sit on the swing and use it like a regular swing or not, you can install 12"-24" off the ground. It's best performance is when hanging from something at least 8 feet high.
Could this be hung on a regular swing set frame? Or something similar that was cemented into the ground. I'm 65 and it looks so fun.
@Patricia You can definitely turn your swingset into a swurfset! If your swingset already has a glider, this is the best way to attach so that you will be swurfing away from the swingset ends. Swurf's Up!
Pretend you're hitting the slopes or catching a wave—in the air. Swurfer is a standing swing designed to mimic the movement of board sports. It's curved just like a surfboard or skateboard, with adjustable handles that add stability while you get into the swing of it.
Made in the USA entirely from hard rock maple wood, the boards are super durable, and can really get moving in all directions. It's just as fun to use as a traditional swing, too—just with a wider base.
Founder Rob Bertschy created Swurfer for his own kids. He noticed them pretending to surf while watching him from the beach, and he created scaled-down boards so they could practice before graduating to the real thing.
We recommend getting a professional to help you set up your Swurfer, to ensure you'll have enough support and clearance.


The Necks' pianist Chris Abrahams releases his tenth solo album and his fifth solo piano album, Climb.
Drawing from a deep reservoir of hundreds of hours of recorded works, the end result is a stunning album of meticulously curated pieces that stretch over a decade of solo piano work from one of Australia's most highly regarded pianists.
"Climb is an important work for me," says Abrahams "Over many years I have recorded my solo piano pieces with the intention of releasing a collection as a cohesive album. It's a different way of working from going in to a studio to record a whole album in one go. It has allowed for the progression of time to be reflected in the work." Characterised by Abrahams' free-flowing modal legato and psychedelic, cascading phrasing, Climb unfolds through its seven tracks with a gorgeous fluidity that is both ambient and emotional.


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SWM SuperDual 2017 Review
Alun Davies 11th September 2017
AdventureLatestMotorcycle Reviews0 Comments 0
Author: Alun Davies
Adventure Bike Rider were invited to the launch of the new SWM Superdual in Italy. Alun Davies posts up a full review
If you've ever read any of my reviews then you'll know I'm partial to swooning over anything that happened in the 1970s. There are a number of reasons for this, most obvious being it was the decade I came of motorcycle age. But let's not forget it was also the decade that gave us the zenith of hairstyles (the mullet), the apex of fashion (tank tops), and the rock gods of the century (Brotherhood of Man).
Some accuse me of looking back through rose tinted specs, whilst others point out that I lived next to a field with a healthy crop of liberty cap mushrooms. Either way, there's no denying that the 70s were the decade to be a motorcyclist which brings me nicely to the start of the SWM Superdual story.
SWM was founded in Milan during 1971 and, in case you're wondering, that's pre-Brotherhood of Man days. The company made a name for itself during the magic decade by knocking out trials and enduro machines before going into administration in 1984 in the same month that Stevie Wonder topped out with 'I Just called to say I love you'.
The rumour mill at the time claimed that these two events were linked, and history has subsequently confirmed it was the day where both 1970 style motorcycles and music came to an end. Sad times indeed.
Anyway, lets skip to 2014 when former Cagiva, Aprillia and Husqvarna engineer, Ampelio Macchi, concluded a deal with the family owners of the SWM trademark and Chinese motorcycle company Shineray. Macchi had put together a business proposition to re-launch the brand in a BMW built factory in Verese, the spiritual home of Italian motorcycling, and all parties had agreed.
The BMW plant was constructed when the German company acquired Husqvarna in 2007 and decided to continue production in Italy. However, when Husky was sold by BM to KTM in January 2013 the Austrians swiftly moved the brand and production to its headquarters in Mattighofen. This left a redundant, purpose-made factory and a local skilled workforce on hand for the re-birth of SWM. The last piece of the jigsaw was acquiring the pre-BMW Husky technology in the form of the steel chassis, swingarm and engine from the TE610.
So, we have a brand, a state of the art factory, a skilled workforce, tried and tested technology and the backing of Chinese dosh. All that's required now is a receptive audience and with that in mind I found myself at the SWM Superdual press day in Varese.
Expecting to be handed a SuperDual for a day of riding, what was odd about the SWM event was that there was there was somewhere in the region of 80 journalists, and just eight SWM SuperDuals. What followed was a brutal contest with the last eight standing able to claim their steeds. What really happened, was we all had, roughly, 15 minutes to ride the machine. Just about enough time for me to tell you the horn worked ok.
The press event was more to do with the company emphasising that whilst there may be a Chinese company involved in the business, the production and assembly was European and in particular Italian. We were left in little doubt that they were doing all they could to distance the SuperDual from any perceived alignment with Chinese quality issues whilst at the same time being hosted in what was obviously a very modern hi-tech European facility.
I arrived back from Italy having spent more time drinking cappuccinos than riding a SuperDual, and will be posting up a review of northern Italian coffee shortly. Fortunately, HQB, the importers of SWM in the UK, were more than happy to provide a bike for testing on home turf and a SuperDual duly arrived at the ABR offices.
I have to say, that by bringing out a big, single cylinder adventure bike, SWM appears to be swimming against the tide. With the established players betting their development cash in other areas, the big, single market is looking a little sparse, with only the Husqvarna 701 being an alternative. Other than that, and having spent time on both bikes, the nearest to the SuperDual would be the discontinued Yamaha 660R which you'd now have to pick up on the second hand market.
As it happens I currently have a Husky 701 on long term test so a comparison is easy to make and there is a vast difference between the two bikes. The 701 is far more powerful, refined and up to date, plus it's in a different league off-road and, in my opinion, the components and construction are far superior. On the other hand, the SuperDual is less expensive, more practical for longer journeys, can take a pillion, comes as a complete adventure package (pannier racks, crash bars etc.), plus it's less intimidating than the very tall and exceptionally frisky 701.
So, the SuperDual, what's it all about, Alfie? On first impressions, I couldn't help thinking that the SWM looked more like a supermoto dressed as an adventure bike rather than, er, an adventure bike. It's a fine line and no criticism intended, indeed, I reckon the SuperDual is a good-looking bike.
>>> Five reasons you should check out this bike
On closer inspection, there were a few details which I felt could be improved. First off, the plastics are flimsy when compared to other new bikes and, on the test bike provided, they did not fit snug or line up as you'd expect. They were also not securely attached with the side and front cowl panels too loose for my liking.
Moving around the bike a couple of other things took my interest. The first being the welcome fitment of a centre stand, however the stand is also the most cumbersome I've ever come across in my years of riding, and is almost impossible to operate without using both feet in a complicated jig. I kid you not, I found it so awkward to use that I asked for a second and third opinion to rule out my own ineptitude, but three out of three riders had the same head scratching moment when trying to raise the bike on the centre stand.
The last point to mention is the area around the ignition barrel. It is a mess, with the cable and wire routing obstructing key entry to the point where it becomes a gloves off operation. In the great scheme of things these are small issues, niggles, but they could, and should, be better.
Swinging a leg over the SWM, at 6ft 2in I could comfortably get both feet flat on the ground to the point that I was surprised to find the seat height is 890mm. This has a lot to do with the slim profile of the bike and the lowering of the suspension when under weight. What is good news for shorter riders, is that my 5ft 7in colleague also had no problems and could comfortably touch the ground.
The bike also feels small and light, and is so easy to manoeuvre when compared to the more popular giant adventure bikes. The SWM is definitely going to appeal to riders who find the height and weight of the current crop of adventure motorcycles intimidating and unappealing.
Sitting astride the bike I found the seat a little on the small and short side and it tends to slide you forward. The bars also felt too close. But then I'm above average height and weight (16st) and in my opinion shorter, slimmer riders will find it spot on. One other observation I need to point out for taller., long legged riders is that the V shaped petrol tank will force your knees outwards, not quite to the point of discomfort, but it's certainly noticeable over time.
I'll skip describing the dash as it's due to be changed on the new Euro 4 models arriving in September 2017. Hopefully the new dash will include a petrol gauge and a more prominent rev counter.
Starting up the SuperDual is an exercise in old school nostalgia as it involves pulling in a decompression lever on the left handlebar. Once fired up it pays to just sit there for a moment bathing in the wonderful sound of the big single piping through the dual exhausts. If you're into throaty singles, you'll not be disappointed with the SWM this is one cool sounding bike, man.
There appears to be a problem with finding neutral on the SuperDual, as the bikes I rode in Italy and in the UK would happily skip from second to first or vice versa, with the neutral light indicating that the bike was in neutral but in reality it was still in gear. You get used to it but it's another niggle that needs sorting.
The switch gear is all where you'd like it though it does look and feel a little on the cheap side and the frying pan style mirrors remind me of those found on the Suzuki V-Strom, and although a little on the small side they offer great visibility.
Pulling away, I immediately felt a little cramped on the SuperDual, almost as if I were riding a supermoto, rather than a wide-open adventure bike. As stated above, smaller riders will appreciate this stance, though I reckon taller riders will probably start looking for tweaks.
Riding out of Stratford upon Avon on the sweeping A roads heading south, the SWM SuperDual started to shine. At the first coffee stop at Broadway Tower I wrote the following note: "The engine and gearing is bloody lovely – they really do have a strong unit here and for a big single I didn't really notice any vibes. The power was spot on for lively A roads and fast overtakes were a breeze."
The above really is the strong point of the SWM Superdual, the engine is a peach and other than the 'neutral' issue described above so is the gearbox. Changes are very smooth and the gears exceptionally well-spaced for road riding. What I also liked, was that the engine, given a sharp turn of the wrist, also possesses enough poke to raise the front wheel with nothing other to do.
Moving on from Broadway all the early niggles were forgotten and the SWM SuperDual was winning me over as I turned off the tarmac and onto a green lane. Standing on the pegs I could have done with bar raisers, but the thin waist of the bike is ideal for gripping between knees.
Off-road the SWM felt light, nimble, highly responsive to rider input, and easy to manouver on slower, trickier ground. For an adventure rider, this bike is about as unintimidating as it gets in off-road conditions. The power comes in smoothly, the suspension, whilst not top notch, is up to the job, and I'd put money on the novice and inexperienced rider going further down trails and enjoying the experience more than they would on larger, heavier adventure bikes.
Following a bop around more twisty A roads and green lanes in the Cotswolds, I joined the M40 at Oxford to check out how the SWM Superdual would perform at motorway speeds. First off, this bike feels comfy between 70mph and 80mph but the rider doesn't. The screen creates more buffeting than it's worth and, whilst I'd not been troubled by vibrations at lower speeds, there's a noticeable buzzing through pegs, bars and seat at maximum legal speeds. But then, it's a big single, that's what they do.
If you really wanted to be a hero I reckon the SuperDual would just about nudge 100mph on the autobhan but you'd be knackered and battered in minutes. For stress free long-distance comfort, you're going to need to travel at around 60mph.
SWM Superdual – Conclusion
I've little doubt that there is a market for a big single, dual purpose, adventure motorcycle. In fact, I own one myself, a Yamaha 660Z Ténéré.
The SWM Superdual is not the bike I'd choose for comfortable long-distance road touring – there are far more suitable adventure bikes with similar capacity for that, the Suzuki V-Strom 650 being a prime example. It's also not a bike I'd buy if carrying a pillion was a major concern.
Where the SWM SuperDual scores high is that it is a genuine dual-purpose adventure bike that is small enough and light enough and therefore manageable enough to appeal to those who feel intimidated by larger, heavier adventure motorcycles.
It's also one of the few that fall into the category of being comfortable to ride for long distances, and then capable enough to take on the more gnarly terrain when you end up in Morocco, the Alps or the Pyrenees. In other words, it's a genuine dual purpose machine for the average rider. And if that's what you're looking for then you'll not be bothered by the niggles I've described above and be delighted by the performance.
SWM Superdual – Verdict
As a commuter
The SWM is light, nimble and responsive and in my opinion, would make a great around town commuter. You'd need to fit heated grips for all year-round comfort.
As a weekend tourer
This bike comes fitted with panniers and is ready made for heading off on a Friday afternoon for a long weekend of sightseeing. Taller riders or those looking for a fast-paced road tourer for motorway sections would probably disagree.
As an off-roader
If you're a novice or intimidated by taking a large adventure bike off-road then check out the SuperDual. It's a genuine dual-purpose bike and small and light enough not to scare the bejesus out of you.
As a continental road tourer.
Not the first bike that springs to mind for continental touring. The lack of an effective screen and the vibes that kick in at 70mph make this bike a slow tourer. But then if you're not in any rush, this bike would be a great asset on mountain trails in the Alps and Pyrenees.
As a RTW overlander
We're going to need more time to evaluate the reliability of the SuperDual before a final recommendation, but the engine and gearbox are well proven and it's an easy bike to work on. Has the potential to become a classic RTW'er.
As a pillion carrier
If the main idea of your next long trip is to end a relationship this is probably the bike for you. Look elsewhere if a happy pillion is a regular objective.
SWM Superdual – Specs at a glance
Engine: 600cc single 4 valves
Power: 54bhp@7500rpm
Torque: 39ftlb@7000rpm
Frame: Tubular steel double cradle
Suspension: 43mm Fast Ace front forks rebound adjustable. Fully adjustable single rear Sachs shock.
Brakes: Front; Single 300mm disc twin piston calliper: Rear single 220mm disc single piston calliper
Wheels: Front; 19" spoked: Rear; 17" spoked.
Seat Hight: 890mm
Fuel Capacity: 18 litres
Weight: Kerb weight 169kg
Service intervals: 5000kms
SWM Superdual – What you get for your £7,599
The SWM SuperDual comes with; crash bars, pannier racks, panniers, pump guard, spot lights.
More information from the manufacturers
ReviewSuperDualswm
Alun Davies
Publisher Alun Davies launched Adventure Travel magazine over 23 years ago so that he could climb mountains and call it work. Following a motorcycle accident in 2010 Alun found himself with some enforced free time during which he launched ABR magazine - another of his passions.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Derek Acorah
TV Spirit Medium
New Theatre, Tue February 26th 2008 & Tue March 3rd 2009
Gabrielle Brown February 27, 2008
"For those who believe, no proof is necessary; for those who don't, no proof is possible." These are the words of Sam, Derek Acorah's sprit guide (I Googled this phrase and they are also the words of a few other psychics, mediums and stain-removal manufacturers), which are plastered across the banner that forms the backdrop to the stage on which Acorah communicates with the spirit world and, rather sweetly, the animal kingdom. The words perplex me – are all sceptics to remain sceptics and all believers to be easily manipulated into believing anything they're told?
On the stage also were a couple of rotating disco lights which launched into action whenever a deep semi-American voiceover introduced Acorah to the audience. Strange, I think, that it was thought necessary to embellish an act where a man speaks with dead people (and dogs); is it not fantastic enough in itself? I also found it bizarre to be sitting in a theatre watching a man communicate with spirits while people around me were eating wine gums and drinking pop.
Derek Acorah is a well-known and well-loved psychic. He appears frequently on television programmes, the most famous being Most Haunted where Acorah is wheeled out on various ghost hunts to identify who from the spirit world has come through to our atmosphere. He does this with the help of Sam, who, as I understand, lived on Earth over 2000 years ago in Ethiopia. I developed an unhealthy addiction to Most Haunted last year. At one point Most Haunted was television most nights of the week, and in addition to becoming too scared to go to the bathroom alone, I became enchanted by Acorah, not so much for his physic powers but more for his charm: he's a very engaging character. Wolf whistles were launched at him as he returned to the stage after the interval in a dapper cream suit and a la mode footwear.
I wondered whether Acorah's ability to use positive suggestion and charm was perhaps where his real power lies. Is it possible that he could use encouragement to make people believe that he's communicating with their loved ones, rather than proof? He punctuates almost every sentence with 'please', 'thank you' and 'if I may', and everyone's his 'love' or his 'darling'. However, as I too have learned in life, charm can only get you so far. Throughout the evening Acorah made some observations and connections that were just too specific to be flukes. A true sceptic could suggest that there were plants in the audience, but the reactions, including tears, laughter and subtle nods of recognition, were evidently genuine.
I would love to believe that there is life after death, but despite Acorah's best efforts I'm still not completely convinced; I don't know what's holding me back exactly. I found the evening fun, at times emotional but mostly it was Acorah's ability to entertain and engage people that genuinely fascinated me. He's a real people person, which is why it's perhaps odd that he spends such a large part of his existence hanging out with spirits. All in all, a strange but pleasant evening.
© Daily Information 2019. Printed from https://www.dailyinfo.co.uk/feature/2772/derek-acorah


Discussion in 'New Members Forum' started by Sharis, Jul 12, 2013.
Hello, I've been vaping for almost a month now and am in the process of trying to find an ADV or 2. I'm not big on artificial flavors, what I'd really like is a nice, true vanilla bean but creamy. Highbrow Vapor's Vanilla bean is good but not creamy, Johnson's Creek's Vanda is creamy but lacking the real vanilla bean flavor I love. Can anyone suggest one? I'd like to not break the bank trying every vanilla flavor out there lol. Been considering BWB's vanilla bean but wasn't sure it was creamy at all or Highbrow's Vanilla Bean decadence. Help! Lol.
Why don't you take some of the Highbrow's and some of the Johnson's Creek and mix them together? Voila! Creamy vanilla!
Try Vanilla Love by altcig.com It's what in my Kanger t3 right now.
I've heard great things about Grant's Vanilla Custard. Good luck finding them in stock though I miss it every time.
I'm dripping it right now in an RDA, but it's good no matter the method.
I like to mix my Marlboro Light Flavor by Supreme Nicotine with Juicy Vapor Vanilla or Vanilla Custard. The Juicy Vapor Vanilla and Vanilla Custard have really good flavor and a great vape. If your a real vanilla fan you might like them on straight and not mixed. I use it as my adv in my evod.
Have you tried Virgin Vapors Organic Naked Vanilla it's pricey but it's pure vanilla ?
Heather's Heavenly Vanilla Dream is probably my favorite vanilla. I like Virgin Vapor's Naked Vanilla, but it's lighter and not creamy to me. HHV's is fuller, not as sweet as a vanilla bean ice cream flavor, just richer and more true vanilla to me, like a good cream soda.
Altcig is my go to for vanilla favors. Their vanilla love is good and creamy, and so is their vanilla bean ice cream.
Latest update: Vapor Room's Vanilla Custard - still steeping, just not a lot of flavor. Tried Nicoticket's Custard's Last Stand and I think I've found the one (for me anyway). It's rich, it keeps getting better, it doesn't clog cartos or my T3 or mini fate nova, and it has real vanilla bean flavor. It's more a custard than a regular vanilla but it's fantastic! Thanks for the suggestions, I will definitely be trying them!
Fwiw I really like volcano's vanilla bean. Yes it's a lab juice, yes it's on the expensive side, and no I'm not really a big fan of most of their stuff (tried a few from them and this is the only one I like). But I really like this juice, no joke.
...Tried Nicoticket's Custard's Last Stand and I think I've found the one (for me anyway). It's rich, it keeps getting better, it doesn't clog cartos or my T3 or mini fate nova, and it has real vanilla bean flavor. It's more a custard than a regular vanilla but it's fantastic!
Custard's Last Stand is my #1 favorite vape right now. I've put about 20 ml of it through a carto tank and the carto is still going strong, so it's definitely not a clogger. I also have their Creme Brulee on the way to give it a try, as some people say it's even better than CLS (but for me it's hard to imagine anything being better than CLS!).
Now you`ve gone and done it! I just had to leave this site to go order Custard`s Last Stand, and the Creme Brulee! I`ve been chasing a good Vanilla, too, and you`ve made these two juices sound delicious!
I hate to "review" flavors since taste is so subjective, but I did my own little Vanilla Custard comparison.
I am a repeat customer of Nicoticket...I have 6 50 mil bottles of creme brulee on my kitchen counter...raspberry infused creme brulee and the regular creme brulee...one of those bottles is mostly empty but I kept my first to see what steeping would do to the flavor the longer I had it. I have 3 50 mil bottles of Custard's Last Stand and one on the way. It took me a year to find this vendor/juice. I had ordered from The Standard(Cell Block 4) and countless others. I make sure to keep ordering so that I have a constant supply and don't get caught without it. It has become an obsession to me I will admit. I love the natural vanilla bean extraction that is used instead of flavoring...I love the creamy texture and full mouth feel that each vape delivers. If I took a picture of all the juices I have from Nicoticket, you'd swear I had an addiction/problem lol. I don't get tired of it either...I vape it all day long and all night long til I go to bed. This juice is clean and doesn't gunk up my bcc clearos or tanks...I can use the same clearo all week long with no problems and so far its never gunked up a coil on me...I usually just clean the clearo after a week for general maintence purposes. The only down side to this juice is that there is a waiting time of about 5-7 days until your order gets mixed and another day or two before it gets mailed. Totally worth the wait in my opinion. For me, I know there will be a wait so I plan ahead and order long before I run out.
That sounds like a juice hoard to be envious of!
Just got some Vanilla bean ice cream from my local BM its wonderful right out the bottle and made fresh today in front of me. It's a 50/50 blend at 18 mg. loving it. They do mail orders for 5 bux. It's GP Vapor.com out of Nh.
You can always do a little reading and use your coffee pot to make your own vanilla bean extract and add it to whatever juice you want to and have it taste exactly how you want.


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Celebrities, Recent Sales, Upper East Side
Hit producer Shonda Rhimes closes on $11.75M Upper East Side penthouse
Posted On Fri, December 7, 2018 By Alexandra Alexa In Celebrities, Recent Sales, Upper East Side
Shonda Rhimes — the showrunner behind TV hits like "Scandal," "How to Get Away With Murder," and "Grey's Anatomy" — just picked up a penthouse at 765 Park Avenue for $11.75 million, The Real Deal reports. The Lenox Hill unit first appeared on the market in March for $14.75 million before being dropped to $12.5 million in June. This is Rhimes' second real estate move in the past few months. In October she listed one of her several Los Angeles properties, a Hancock Park mansion, for just under $10 million.
The building was built in 1927 by Sicilian architect Rosario Candela, who is known for designing luxury apartment buildings along Fifth and Park Avenues, many of the buildings that define the character of the Upper East Side. Candela is credited with developing the now iconic New York residential form: the terraced setback with a "crown jewel" penthouse.
And this freshly renovated penthouse boasts a sprawling wrap-around terrace, soaring ceilings, and restored original architectural elements. The corner living room has large windows with eastern and southern exposures, a wood-burning fireplace, and access to the planted terrace.
A formal dining room has been transformed into a library that has its own wood-burning fireplace and a loggia leading out to a furnished living and dining area on the terrace. A new state-of-the-art kitchen, features custom lacquered cabinetry, an eat-in island, a wet bar, two dishwashers, and access to a separate laundry room.
Leading into the master bedroom is a private hall/powder room with a marble floor that was inspired by Versailles. The master bedroom with ensuite bath has access to the Eastern terrace, which boasts wonderful city views. A second, generously sized bedroom also comes with an ensuite bath.
Rhimes was No. 74 on Forbes' list of the most powerful women in the world this year. She recently scored a major deal with Netflix to produce eight shows for the platform, including one on Anna Delvey, the young socialite who made headlines this year for her attempts to scam her way into various real estate deals.
[Listing: 765 Park Avenue, by Mary L. Fitzgibbons for Brown Harris Stevens]
[Via The Real Deal]
Steven Mnuchin lists swank Park Avenue co-op for $33M
Upper East Side townhouse once home to Michael Jackson and Marc Chagall sells for $32M
For $29M, an Upper East Side townhouse designed by the historic architects of NYC's elite
Listing photos courtesy of Brown Harris Stevens
Tags : 765 Park Avenue, Shonda Rhimes
Neighborhoods : Upper East Side


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IRL add three additional match official to elite panel
By Asia Pacific Rugby LeagueJanuary 13, 2021No Comments
International Rugby League (IRL) has appointed a further three referees to its newly formed elite match officials panel. English referees, Robert Hicks, Chris Kendall and Liam Moore had their nominations from the Rugby Football League (RFL) accepted and will take their places in the squad for 2021.
All three officials are part of the RFL Full Time Referees squad, who referee regularly in the Betfred Super League competition and all the officials have been involved in officiating the international game. They have all officiated in World Cup tournaments with Hicks and Kendall making their World Cup refereeing debuts in 2017. Both these referees have experience of refereeing the top internationals while Moore made his World Cup officiating debut in 2017 as a Touch Judge. 2020 has seen Moore rise through the refereeing ranks to take charge of the 2020 Coral Challenge Cup Final and feature in the Betfred Super League play offs for the first time.
IRL's Match Officials Manager, Stuart Cummings said,
"The inclusion of the RFL's nominated referees for the elite international squad further strengthens the depth and experience available ahead of high-profile year for International Rugby League. The referees will benefit from the experiences of other referees in the squad as well as providing valuable input themselves so that the squad develops and is ready for the start of the Rugby League World Cup in October."
Robert Hicks said of his appointment, "I am obviously delighted to have been selected for the inaugural elite panel and grateful to those that have nominated me. It is a great reward for the countless hours put in throughout the last few seasons. International rugby league is the pinnacle and to be selected for this panel in World Cup year is exceptionally exciting.
Chris Kendall commented, "To referee at International level is the pinnacle of any match official's career so I am honoured to be appointed to the elite squad. With the 2021 World Cup just around the corner, the prospect of refereeing a home World Cup is really exciting, especially given the challenging times we are all currently facing".
Liam Moore was delighted by his appointment saying, "It is an honour to be appointed to the elite international referees squad. The international game is the pinnacle, and it is a privilege to be a member of this squad. I am excited by the growth of the International game and looking forward to working with the other officials."
The Elite International Match Officials Panel will be made up of 8 referees with no one country being able to have more than three referees on the panel. The remaining referee will be selected to the panel once nominations have been received from the other countries.
The Elite International Match Officials Panel currently is:
Grant Atkins (Australia)
Robert Hicks (England)
Chris Kendall (England)
Ashley Klein (Australia)
Liam Moore (England)
Henry Perenara (New Zealand)
Gerard Sutton (Australia)
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Newest review for Stage Raw – "Wombat Man: The Cereal Murders" at the Eclectic – Los Angeles theater review
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In Branden Jacobs-Jenkins' domestic drama Appropriate, three siblings squabble over an inheritance, piling on the recriminations. It's well-trodden terrain for many playwrights and screenwriters; smoldering dysfunction...
Theater review (San Antonio): Green Day's 'American Idiot' at the Woodlawn Theatre
Green Day's American Idiot at the Woodlawn Theatre, San Antonio. When American Idiot opened on Broadway in 2010, it brought to the venerable St. James Theatre a radical new style of musical. With very...
Exit Review – "uCarmen" – Los Angeles theater video review
Hello dear #LAThtr fans! Pauline Adamek from ArtsBeatLA.com presents Exit Reviews, a series of 'vlogs' or video reviews. Here's the newest Exit Review for the play uCarmen, which opened last night, October 2, 2015 and...
"The Sound of Music" – at the Ahmanson Theatre – Los Angeles musical theater review
Heavenly harmonies, a singing nun and a passel of adorable children — family entertainment doesn't get more wholesome than The Sound of Music, which opened this week at the Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center in...


Yesterday my esteemed colleague Peter Hall shared a trailer for the bonkers Syfy movie Independence Daysaster, which surprisingly isn't a knockoff of Independence Day, but one that sort of mashes up War of the Worlds and Battleship. It's silly and random and the title is wonderful, but in my humble opinion it doesn't even come close to the amount of awesome packed into this movie poster for another Syfy movie, Sharknado.
And yup, I'll totally throw down all my street cred (do I have street cred?) on this tremendous movie poster that teases a film about a tornado of sharks. A tornado of sharks, people! Not only does that sound like the craziest event in the history of natural disasters, but according to this poster the people who will attempt to save us from this tornado of sharks are none other than American Pie's Tara Reid, Beverly Hills 90210 alum Ian Ziering, and the dad from Home Alone, John Heard.
All of that information, complete with an image of sharks swirling inside a tornado, is amazing and you're already DVR-ing the hell out of this thing -- but what really puts the exclamation mark on this poster (literally) is its tagline: "Enough said!"
Because why do you have to say anything else? You don't. This says it all. By the time our eyes reluctantly maneuver toward the poster's tagline, we're in total agreement with it. In fact, it was probably already on our minds. In an age full of horribly Photoshopped posters that crowd a small space with floating celebrity heads and random floating quotes like "Brilliant!" and "Mesmerizing!", this poster for Sharknado seriously rises above the rest.
Sure, Sharknado is in no way a movie for everyone, but you'd be hard-pressed to find another movie poster this year that sells its product with as much enthusiasm as this one. Sharknado arrives on the Syfy network on July 11. Be prepared.


text:
Q: bash syntax error in OSX The following bash script, written and tested on Linux, does not even start on OS X when called.
#!/bin/bash
#
#   Some comments
#
#
function usage {
    echo ""
    echo "Usage: thisscript <SOURCE_DIRECTORY> <TARGET_DIRECTORY>"
    echo ""
    echo "<SOURCE_DIRECTORY>    the directory where the this "
    echo "              directory resides (default is /usr/dis)"
    echo ""
    echo "<TARGET_DIRECTORY>    the destination directory"
    echo ""
}

function notDarwin {
    mv -f $CUR_DIR/* $NEW_DIR/
    ln -sf "$NEW_DIR/ee/sc/scrp" "/usr/bin/scrp"
    ln -sf "$NEW_DIR/ee/etc/conffile.conf" "/etc/conffile.conf"
    exit 0
}

function isDarwin {
    mv -f $CUR_DIR/* $NEW_DIR/
    ln -sf "$NEW_DIR/ee/sc/scrp" "/usr/local/bin/scrp"
    cp "$NEW_DIR/ee/etc/conffile.conf" "/etc/conffile.conf"
    exit 0
}

#
#   =============================================
#   ================== MAIN =====================
#   =============================================
#

CUR_DIR=${1%/}
NEW_DIR=${2%/}

if [ ! -d "$CUR_DIR" ]; then
    echo ""
    echo "blah blah"
    usage
    exit 1
fi

if [ ! -d "$NEW_DIR" ]; then
    echo ""
    echo "The target directory supplied does not exist. Creating target directory $NEW_DIR"
    mkdir "$NEW_DIR"
    if [ $? -ne 0 ]; then
        echo "Could not create target directory. Exiting..."
        exit 1
    else
        echo "Directory $NEW_DIR created"
    fi
    echo ""
fi

UNAME=$(uname)
if [ $UNAME == "Darwin" ]; then
    isDarwin
else
    notDarwin
fi

It throws the following syntax error when run as sudo bash script.sh "arg1" "arg2" on macOS with bash 3.2
'script.sh: line 7: syntax error near unexpected token `{
'script.sh: line 7: `function usage {

I am rather new to OS X, maybe there is a gotcha I am missing. The script ran fine on Linux...
Thanks

A: Linux and modern OS X expect lines to end with LF (line feed) characters. If your lines end with CR + LF, then you will run into problems.

Some other general pointers:
The function syntax is non-standard. You should use the standard syntax, supported by all POSIX-compliant shells:
Change:
function usage {

to:
usage() {

and I suspect that all will be well.
As an aside, you should quote all of your parameter expansions (you've missed a couple). It's also considered good practice to use lowercase variable names, as uppercase ones are used by the shell and you run the risk of clashing with them.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Kik CEO Says Firm Spent $5+ Million on Negotiations With US SEC: Report
Kik CEO Ted Livingston reportedly said that the company spent over $5 million on negotiations with the U.S. SEC.
Ted Livingston, the CEO of Canadian-based messaging startup Kik, told cryptocurrency news outlet Coindesk that the company spent over $5 million on ongoing negotiations with the United States Securities Exchange Commission (SEC). The news was revealed in a report published on May 16.
As Cointelegraph reported at the end of January, the SEC stated that it believes that Kik's "Token Distribution Event" two years ago violated securities laws when the company raised $97 million during the sale. Following the SEC's recommendation of an enforcement action in November 2018, Kik was served with a "Wells Notice," a letter to the company that needs to be responded to within 30 days.
Per the report, Livingston told the publication on Thursday at the Token Summit in New York that the company spent over $5 million on its negotiations with the regulator. He also reportedly added:
"We've spent a lot of time on this, we've spent the last 18 months traveling to Washington."
In January, the firm also warned U.S. regulators that it would fight a proposed enforcement action against it.
Last week, Amy Starr, chief of the office of capital markets trends at the SEC, expressed the regulator's willingness to interact with local crypto and blockchain-related businesses. Starr argued that U.S. securities laws are "written to be dynamic."
#Cryptocurrencies
#Messaging App
#Kik
Stablecoins race ahead: Fiat-backed crypto booming amid uncertainty
Bitcoin mining's future is green, and Russia has the best chance
US SEC Chairman Jay Clayton Confirms ETH Is Not a Security
Kik Launches $5 Million Crypto Funding Campaign for Lawsuit Against US SEC


Do you know Mister Leatherman Disco? He's from Mixcloud…A must know!! Mixcloud, hun. What I do is, I eat sorbet when I listen to this and that really works for me. Raspberry, today. mmmm. yeah. Thanks, Leatherman.
This entry was posted in music and tagged DISCO, disco triste, gay disco, italo disco, Jubilee Disco by Billy Beyond. Bookmark the permalink.


What Does It Mean to Pray for Peace in Syria?
Today I am joining Pope Francis in his call for a worldwide day of prayer and fasting for peace in Syria, which means forgoing my daily breakfast of a protein bar with my coffee and turning my craving for chips and salsa at 1:30 in the afternoon into prayers instead.
But what does it actually mean to pray for peace in Syria? When we join in this call to #prayforpeace, what is the substance of those prayers?
1. Prayer for the rebels. The rebels are a large, multi-faceted group of militants attempting to topple the current Syrian government and going about it through a variety of violent means. There is no one leader of this group. There is no unified front or strategy. The rebels are comprised of Syrian civilians, former members of the Syrian army, and even members of extreme jihadist groups from outside Syria who have a stake in the outcome of this civil war.
When I pray for the rebels today, I am praying for them to lay down their weapons. I am praying for the God who moves all hearts toward grace to prompt a turn in their hearts toward mercy. I am praying for a willingness in their hearts to come to the table of dialogue. I am praying for them to be given a chance to answer the question, "What will it take to end the violence?"
2. Prayer for the regime. The "regime" is shorthand for the existing Syrian government, led by dictator Bashar Assad. The civil war that has been taking place in Syria for two and a half years officially began when the Syrian government unleashed force against its civilians — including children — in April 2011 in response to protest demonstrations against the regime. Though the civil war in Syria has been happening for that long, it was catapulted to greater international consciousness on August 21, when news of a chemical weapons attack against Syrian civilians emerged. Right now, Assad is believed to be the one who unleashed this chemical weapons attack against civilians, leading to the death of 1,429 people, although the regime is pointing to it being the work of rebel forces.
When I pray for the regime today, I pray for Assad's heart to be turned toward compassion for his people. I pray for a willingness in his heart to hear their cries. I pray for his hand to be stayed from further violence against them. And I pray for a willingness in his heart to dialogue. I pray for him to be given the chance to answer the question, "What will it take to end the violence?"
3. Prayer for the international response. The international community is divided on how to respond to the situation in Syria. The questions at the heart of it are, "At what point ought the international community intervene in the Syrian conflict?" and "To what degree should that involvement be?" Right now, President Obama is agitating — both at home and abroad — for a limited strike against Syria as a specific response to the chemical weapons attack, arguing that the international community has long held to certain standards of acceptable and unacceptable behavior and that chemical weapons use crosses a line all have agreed not to cross.
When I pray for the international response, I pray for all means of dialogue and diplomacy to be exhausted before any military action is taken. I pray for those continued diplomatic efforts to make effective inroads in the conflict. I pray for leaders in the international community to be given the chance to sit down at the table of mediation with the Syrian regime and its rebels to ask the question, "What will it take to end the violence?" and to effectively mediate peace.
What does it mean for you to pray for peace in Syria?


Kyrgyzstan's political uncertainties have intensified in a duel between rival parliaments, and the man appointed as law-enforcement coordinator by one parliament has declared the other legislature to be the legitimate one.
Although police, backed by civilian volunteers, solidified control of the capital after several nights of looting and gunfire following the president's ouster, the dispute between parliaments raised troubling questions for the impoverished country's 5 million people.
The Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, of which Kyrgyzstan is a member, is sending legal experts to try to unravel the parliament conflict.
"We think the need for them is urgent," said envoy Alojz Peterle, who assessed the dispute as "very, very sensitive".
Since President Askar Akayev was ousted by demonstrators who stormed his offices on Thursday, there has been little indication that his backers aim for a comeback.
About 150 people blocked a highway on Sunday in support of Akayev, who has fled to Russia, but eventually they dispersed peacefully.
A key former opposition leader now in charge of coordinating law enforcement warned the ousted president's supporters not to try to seize power.
"I think they have the brains and wisdom not to take this step," Felix Kulov said late on Sunday.
But Kyrgyzstan's leaders must strictly follow the constitution and law, he said, or give Akayev "an opportunity to try, through international organisations, to return again [to power]".
Protests began in early March after the first round of parliamentary elections that the opposition said were manipulated by Akayev's government to give him a compliant legislature. After the second round, anger swelled and protesters stormed the presidential administration building.
The Supreme Court reinstated the country's previous parliament by revoking the mandates of the new lawmakers.
The restored old legislature chose opposition leader Kurmanbek Bakiyev as acting president and prime minister.
But the newly elected parliament, which had convened just two days before Akayev fled, also claimed legitimacy.
The Central Elections Commission backed that claim on Saturday, and a day later came surprise backing from Kulov, who is widely esteemed by the opposition after spending the last four years in prison on charges seen as politically motivated.
"The new parliament is legitimate, and the old parliament's term has expired," said Kulov, who was freed on Thursday by jubilant protesters after the storming of the presidential quarters.
Kulov threatened to "take measures to arrest" anyone in the old parliament who refused to step down.
Acting Prosecutor-General Azimbek Beknazarov challenged Kulov, asking: "These are the people who freed you - will you arrest them?"
Kulov responded: "I am tired; I apologise for that."
The new parliament held a brief session on Sunday in a grand, wood-panelled auditorium, while some legislators from the competing body watched the proceedings on televisions in the parliamentary press room. Some legislators are members of both parliaments.
In a sign that the new parliament may be gaining legitimacy, Beknazarov, who is closely allied with Bakiyev, conceded that the new parliament was recognised officially, and lawmaker Omurbek Tekebayev said Bakiyev had sent a representative to the session.
Bakiyev could not immediately be reached.
"The new parliament is legitimate, and the old parliament's term has expired"
His spokeswoman said she would take up her position officially only on Monday so could not comment. But lawmaker Alevtina Pronenko, who is a member of Bakiyev's acting cabinet, criticised the newly elected parliament's decision to claim legitimacy, warning: "I think that the people will not stand for this."
In an apparent bid to safeguard Bakiyev's position as acting leader, the acting prosecutor-general said decisions taken earlier by the old parliament were still considered valid.
However, Bakiyev's position could be considered weak because he was named only the "acting" leader, which might not hold up to a challenge by the new legislators.
Presidential elections are scheduled for 26 June, and Bakiyev has said he plans to run. Kulov is also considered by many to be a likely candidate.
On the streets of the capital, the mass disorder that followed Akayev's ouster subsided, with police and volunteers with red armbands claiming success after a relatively quiet night in their fight against the looting that left Bishkek's main street a line of boarded up and shuttered stores.
Though there was no more mass disorder, there were still reports of theft at smaller stores and offices and an increase in car thefts, an Interior Ministry spokesman said.
Three people were killed in the capital overnight, he added. The circumstances of the deaths were under investigation, but at least one of the victims appeared to have been a "pillager," he said.
In a single Bishkek district, five cars were stolen, an unprecedented number, police said. Interior Ministry officers suspect the cars were stolen by looters eager to take their booty home.
About 80km outside Bishkek, some 700 protesters supporting Akayev gathered on Sunday in Akayev's hometown, and about 150 of them blocked a main road to the capital before peacefully dispersing.
The protesters said they do not accept Bakiyev as leader.
Akayev, 60, had led Kyrgyzstan since 1990, before it gained independence in the Soviet collapse. He was long considered the most democratic leader in the five former Soviet Central Asian nations but was accused of increasingly cracking down on dissent in recent years.
Kyrgyzstan is host to US and Russian military bases and has aimed to cultivate good relations with both countries.
Bakiyev spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday and said Russia had promised aid such as seed and fertiliser for the spring planting season.


If there is one word to describe Santa Rosa Beach FL, it is balance. It is rare to find a family friendly beach town with top quality shops and restaurants that is still in tune with the nature around it. You will find people in this town truly appreciate the beauty that surrounds them-from watching sunsets on the beach, to going on runs on the bike path, life just seems simpler in Santa Rosa Beach. With the zip code 32459 stretching over a large area, Santa Rosa Beach covers from the Gulf of Mexico on Highway 30A up to the Choctawhatchee Bay north of Highway 98. Depending on their location, homes sell from $110,000 to $13,000,000, with the higher end tending to be Bay or Gulf front homes.
Many of the famous beach communities on 30A, such as Blue Mountain Beach, Dune Allen Beach, Watercolor, and Seaside are technically sub-communities of Santa Rosa Beach. This adds a unique charm, setting it apart from a stereotypical beach town because of its diverse architecture within these communities. "Travel + Leisure" must have agreed, because they named Santa Rosa Beach one of their top five favorite towns in America in 2014. Because of the ultra clear water and stunning white sand beaches, a house, condo, townhome, or mansion purchased here can make a great investment property. With busy season from March to September, many second homeowners decide to rent their home out as a short-term rental to not only cover their mortgage, but make money, as well. Some of the most sought-after neighborhoods in this area are Gulf Dunes, Stallworth Preserve, Seaside, and Watercolor. However, if you are looking for a more budget friendly option, the subdivisions of Escada, Mack Bayou, or Chat Holly are great, family-oriented communities that will not break the bank.
When it comes to activities in Santa Rosa Beach, the possibilities are endless. With both the beach and the bay so close together, there is always something to do. Whether you enjoy paddle boarding, fishing, kayaking, or just lounging in the sun, there are activities for every age and interest. If sun and sand is not your style, there are weekly farmers markets on 30A, wine walkabouts monthly in Gulf Place and daily events such as live music or movies in the Seaside grass for the kids. Topsail Hill Preserve State Park is also a wonderful escape to nature with their walking trails, outdoor recreation, and beach access. Whatever your interests, acquired tastes, or preferences, Santa Rosa Beach is sure to satisfy with its quaint charm and appeal that has been captivating people for over 100 years. Call Emerald Coast Realty if you are interested in a home in Santa Rosa Beach FL; we would love to help make your dream a reality.
Beachwood Villas Condo Ph 2 Bldg.


text:
Q: Is it possible to draw an information flow between two states In sparx Architect, it is possible to model between two states in a state machine diagram, as shown in the diagram.

Is the schema legal ? What is its meaning ?

A: Information flow is defined on p. 667:

InformationFlows describe circulation of information through a system in a general manner. They do not specify the
  nature of the information, mechanisms by which it is conveyed, sequences of exchange, or any control conditions.

Information flow is a way to model data/information flow but without details or "implementation constraints".
The source and the target are NameElement, see p. 670:
informationSource : NamedElement [1..*]
informationTarget : NamedElement [1..*]

NamedElement is one of the root classes of the meta-model.
It means that an information flow may be modeled between almost all UML classes.
After what could the schema mean?
An InformationFlow is not a transition. State3 is never reached and has no transition: it is not involved in the state machine. If State3 will be removed the state machine stays the same.
Even if the schema is correct, the meaning of information flows in a such context is not defined by the norm. States must be reached by Transitions.
If data have to be transferred from one state to another, a solution could be to create a subclass of Event, add properties to this subclass, and model that as instance of this subclass to trigger the transition.


The European Helicopter Association (EHA) has signed a joint industry declaration to support the digitalisation of European aviation.
The declaration will see European civil aviation groups look to maximise the potential of digitalisation by investing in the future of the Single European Sky ATM research project (SESAR).
Seven associations from the European civil aviation sector have signed the declaration so far: Airlines for Europe, CANSO, Airports Council International, EBAA, ASD Europe, IATA, and the EHA.
The key European aviation stakeholders all act in service of the EU's Single European Sky and Aviation Strategy (SESAR). The groups will co-invest in the sucessor to the SESAR 2020 programme in support of a "single, safe and secure Digital European Sky, that will allow Europe to maintain global leadership in this digital future".


USED WITH FULL PERMISSION- Q & A with a reporter with Masoud Banisadr (author of Masoud: Memoirs of an Iranian Rebel, SAQI Books, 2004). I have had the pleasure of spending several hours with Masoud. In my professional opinion, the extreme influence (brainwashing) used by this destructive cult to recruit, indoctrinate and maintain control over their members ranks extremely high.
Thanks so much for speaking with me. I think e-mail will work best, so I�ve put my questions below. Just as background, I�m writing about the potential role that the People�s Mujahedin could have in the current situation in Iran � specifically if supporting the MEK either publically or covertly could be beneficial to the U.S. and Israel, or if it could have an effect � either positive or negative � on Iran�s nuclear program.
- Is it in the United States� interest to de-list the MEK as a terrorist organization?
- If you don�t mind me asking, why did you leave the MEK and what are your views toward the organization now?
In my view MEK since 1985 has changed into a destructive cult, why and how? I have explained it in an article that you can find it in below address. In short, I believe all violent or terrorist groups to survive have no choice but to change into a destructive cult. When in 1981 MEK�s strategy and all its tactics changed into a blind terrorism; to survive, she had no choice but gradually to change into a cult.
To follow these two principles cults internally use different methods of mind manipulation If you like to know more you can read my article on this subject in: www.banisadr.info/Inform.htm and externally they have theorized deceiving of others as part of their doctrine (in a way, I believe all destructive cults, ideologically are hypocrite); in simple word they openly and genuinely believe in �end justifies means�. Or in another word as Chameleon, they can change color in mater of few hours or even minutes due to circumstances or their immediate or long term interests.
After Iranian revolution, late seventies and early eighties MEK could change from a guerrilla (or terrorist organization according to different people�s definition) into a popular political group attracting thousands of young people. But after moving back to terrorism, ignoring and violating people�s ethics, beliefs and principles, especially working with Iraq�s president, Saddam Hussein after the incursion of Iraq into Iran, they lost all their support inside Iran and as matter of fact in public view they changed into a traitor organization. Although they have about 3400 members in Iraq and another few thousands supporters in Europe and America, talking with any other Iranian (pro or against Iranian government, inside or outside of Iran) you can find out that, they are very much hated among Iranian and this is why no other opposition group (inside or outside or Iran) is ready to work with them.
Average age of MEK members is about 45, and since they were disarmed by Americans in 2003, I can say majority of their members are too old and untrained for any real and effective military activities. Saying this, doesn�t mean that they cannot change back into a terrorist, able to kill few more soft targets, such as Iranian scientists.
First; MEK is a destructive cult, to be a cult means, they always pursue their own specific interest. They might be useful in one occasion or another, but as a whole as they are not loyal toward any norms, ethics, principles or mutual agreement (except those two values of all destructive cults, mentioned above) like Al Qaeda, they cannot be trusted. Therefore strategically I believe it is not in the interest of anybody or any country to trust, not only the MEK but any destructive cults and should take note that any cooperation with them might soon change into their own nightmares as cooperation of the United States with Al Qaeda in Afghanistan during Soviet�s occupation, ended with the 9/11.
I genuinely think and feel, if the United States accepts the era of Shah has gone forever and recognizes Iran as it is; not only strategically they can live in peace with each other but also they might even change into a close allies (Well if you ask me why, then I have to write an essay, explaining culture of Iranian that is totally different from its western Arab neighbors or its civilization and its social and scientific progress which is different from its eastern and northern neighbors �) . However, even if the United States against its own interest and just for sake of tactical interest of Israel decides to work against present regime in Iran, it is against its own interest to capitalize on a group that, is a destructive cult, is like a balloon that looks big from without (because of sophistication of its propaganda tools) but empty from within; hated among Iranian and has no chance of gaining any support among them (Inside or outside of the country. Please don�t be deceived by MEK�s propaganda tricks including moving their two to three thousands members and supporters from one country to another or use of other nationalities in their gatherings for show of support among Iranian. Iran�s population is about 75 Million and there are more than two million Iranian who live in the United States and perhaps another million who live in Europe).
For Israel, again if you are talking about strategic interest of Israelis, I feel and think their long term interest is in reaching to some kind of agreement with Palestinians and live with them in peace, coexistence and cooperation. In this case I think even present regime of Iran, not only is not an obstacle, but even can help both sides to reach to long lasting peace and friendship (As Jews have lived in Iran for thousands of years in peace and harmony with their Zoroastrian, Muslim and Christian neighbors). But if you are talking about government of Israel and especially its present extreme right wing government, although in the past they have used MEK for example for announcing Israel�s findings about Nathans enrichment site (where no other Iranian opposition group agreed to do this job) and they might have used them for assassination of Iranian scientists, still I think trusting a cult is not a good idea. Capitalizing on people who are under mind control of a destructive cult; all of them live in a psychological isolation and more than half of them have to live both in psychological and physical isolation from the wider society to remain loyal to the group and its leader, is very bad idea even for present government of Israel. I am sure they can find younger and more loyal mercenaries to do their dirty job rather than cooperating with MEK.
It is more than thirty years that they are trying to harm Iran, and have not done much except terrorizing and killing few thousands soft targets and manipulating and deceiving few reporters and members of parliaments of Western countries. If during Sadam Hussein, when they were much younger, more united, and could benefit from unlimited resources of Iraq, including money, arms, and training, still couldn�t do much against Iran, or sabotaging any activity of Iran; it is very difficult to imagine they can do anything effective now.
I wish all countries including the United States had a law against destructive cults; then there was no needs to have a law against terrorist groups as all terrorist organizations, to survive eventually have to change into a destructive cult. Please don�t forget that all destructive cults cannot be trusted for what they claim they are, and all of them can violate all civilized norms and ethics to survive.
But as for now no country except perhaps France has such a law, de listing MEK in my view is a very bad idea. It will damage US claims of being against terrorists, or supportive of democratic groups (at least among Iranian); gives legitimacy to a destructive cult that violates all rights of its members; and damages long term relation between Americans and Iranian people. I feel it even might damage US�s prestige among Iranian, as bad as 1953 CIA�s coup d�état in Iran.
How?! I cannot see it. When we are talking about Israel�s military strike, we are only are talking about its Air strike and in this case they don�t need any people in the country as they have all the satellite plan of Iranian nuclear sites. Israel knows very well that with one, two or few even successful air strike against Iran, she cannot destroy nuclear activities of Iran; therefore I feel their aim would be to force Iran into a reaction which eventually will force the United States into war against Iran. In this case neither MEK, nor any other opposition groups are useful for either the US or Israel as Iraqis opposition groups were useless when the real war started against Sadam Hussein. For sure in this scenario all Iranian, including Iranian oppositions (inside and outside of Iran) will support present Iranian government.
If you ask those who leave destructive cults, you might receive different answers. They might claim, suddenly they realized how bad they are; how manipulating they are; how much they deceive ordinary people for soliciting money or else; � in case of MEK, I have met those who claim; they suddenly realized that the organization is a traitor toward Iranian people, collaborating with Iranian enemies; or left them when they collaborated with Sadam Hussein, in suppressing and killing Iraqi Kurds, � But my sincere and honest answer is: I left them as I couldn�t change myself anymore and give them the reminder of my own personality, identity and individuality.
Between 1978, when, we (I and my ex wife) became MEK�s supporter till 1996 when I escaped, through use of different techniques of mind manipulation I was forced to give them whatever they asked me; first any capital or material things we had; then any love, attachments or relation we had with our country, our family and friends in Iran; then when they asked all members to divorce their spouses, I lost love of my life, my dear wife and could not see my children for almost six years; I lost part of my health, and many times were on the edge of dying for them. Then in final stage of their system of mind manipulation, they asked us to divorce ourselves, our identity and personality; I tried and lost big part of it, but couldn�t do more so I escaped. I honestly cannot understand or accept claims of others who say they realized this or that so they left, as I think those who are under mind manipulation of a destructive cult, have no chance of seeing or realizing what they are doing or saying, to reject it. Only when they escape, by chance or due to inability to give what cults wants them to do more; and only after years of hard work they might be able to realize what has happened to them and what have they done for the cult.


text:
The following lists events that happened in 2012 in Iceland.

Incumbents
President – Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson
Prime Minister – Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir

Politics

30 June:  2012 Icelandic presidential election, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson won a recond fifth-term as President of Iceland

2010s in Iceland
Iceland
Iceland
Years of the 21st century in Iceland


A set of 2D game platformer including ground tiles, parallax background, collectable objects and game decorations. Suitable for side scrolling games.
Tiny Australian Soldier Character Sprite.
A set of character sprite for 2d side scrolling and top down view games. Buy Royalty Free Game Art.


Stock status is current as of 4/24/2019 10:08 PMET.
Best Power offers unmatched reliability in configurable power protection for computers and telecommunications equipment. FERRUPS has unprecedented ability to work with all types of input sources and loads. Plus, its Active Voltage Regulation converts power from almost any AC source into computer-grade power. FERRUPS provides regulated output voltage without drawing power from the batteries for input voltages as low as 38-percent below nominal (based on size of load). This keeps the batteries fully charged for unexpected blackouts. FERRUPS stops harmful harmonic currents generated by widely used switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) from entering a building's wiring, where they could disrupt computer operations.
FERRUPS can meet the demands of today's computer loads, including power-factor corrected, switch-mode, and linear power supplies. FERRUPS initiates automatic startup and performs scheduled tests on the logic board, battery, inverter, and other critical systems.