text:
Home COVID19 Wicker Joins Press Conference on Big Tech Censorship of COVID-19 Origins
Wicker Joins Press Conference on Big Tech Censorship of COVID-19 Origins
Anne Summerhays
Senator Roger Wicker joined Senator Marsha Blackburn who led Republicans in a press conference to discuss how Big Tech has censored the origins of COVID-19.
Among the six senators, Senator Roger Wicker stood alongside his colleagues to discuss how powerful tech companies have taken unprecedented steps to censor free speech.
Senator Wicker discusses how he has joined individuals like Senator Blackburn in order to correct gaps in Section 230. This law provides immunity to online platforms from civil liability based on third-party content and for the removal of content in certain circumstances.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have begun to question Section 230. While it was once a way to protect start-up tech businesses, the law can now act as a shield to some of the most powerful tech companies in the world.
Wicker gave a couple of examples in which Big Tech abused their power. He referenced Google threatening to cut off several conservative websites, Facebook suspending former President Donald Trump's account, and Twitter moving to censor any coverage that they thought might cause widespread panic.
"How does a multi-rich powerful internet platform get to make that decision," states Senator Wicker.
Last year, Big Tech platforms Facebook, Twitter and Google faced the House and Senate Judiciary Committees for hearings that addressed online bias and censorship. Many different concerns were discussed including monopolistic behaviors to silence smaller companies as well as their ability to censor information on their platforms.
Senators like Senator Wicker called for tech companies to take action and do so against their competitors in order to promote competition in the technology sector.
Senator Roger Wicker introduced the Promoting Rights and Online Speech Protections to Ensure Every Consumer is Heard (PRO-SPEECH) Act. The bill would establish baseline protections to prohibit Big Tech from engaging in unfair, deceptive, or anti-competitive practices that limit or control consumers' speech.
The bill would put safeguards in place to preserve internet freedom, promote competition, and protect consumers from these blatantly biased practices. Senator Wicker urged Congress to act to ensure the internet can be an open forum where diverse views are expressed.
"The last quarter of a century has seen an enormous growth in the internet and much of it has been positive as we know. But the result of this quarter century has been that it has allowed a handful of internet big tech platforms to grow enormously large, enormously rich, and enormously powerful to the point where they decide what is the news, what information the public is going to get and what information is going to be blocked," stated Senator Roger Wicker during the press conference. "This is a serious, grave threat to freedom and the open exchange of ideas under our constitution and I'm glad to stand with these members on this task."
Previous articleCongressman Guest Statement on Democrats' Wasteful Transportation Legislation
Next articleYP Daily Roundup 6/11/21
https://www.yallpolitics.com
Anne Summerhays is a native of Louisiana who joined Y'all Politics in 2021. She covers stories involving the Mississippi Legislature, education and business. She is a recent graduate of Millsaps College where she earned a degree in Political Science and minors in American Studies and Sociology.


Please click here to follow Emily's medical journey past, present and future.
This link is also available to the far right with other sites of interest.
Please watch these video links and see the magic of Christmas at work!
Our gratitude to It Works Global! I am so proud to be a part of such a giving company!


In our very first episode we talked about our own beginnings in music. To kick off 2017 we thought we would pick up where we left off. In Part 2 we discuss conspiracy theories, music funding, perceived success and we both continue talking about our own stories and experiences in music. We've got some great guests coming up this year so stay tuned!


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Q: How to speed up flutter clean when having 20 flavors? Our app have many flavors (around 20).
When running flutter clean, flutter run internally the following command for each flavors which took some times :
/usr/bin/arch -arm64e xcrun xcodebuild -workspace /Users/my_user/Documents/projects/flutter-app/ios/Runner.xcworkspace -scheme client_one clean
...
/usr/bin/arch -arm64e xcrun xcodebuild -workspace /Users/my_user/Documents/projects/flutter-app/ios/Runner.xcworkspace -scheme client_two clean

Flutter clean can took more than 10min.
Do you have any idea ?
My device :
MacBook Pro M1
Flutter 3.0.5 / 3.3.3

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Pitch your agribusiness
The AgFood Fund team has a multi-geographical and diverse range of experience spanning private equity, listed equity, operations, and consulting that brings a plethora of perspectives to the table. This helps us to identify mispriced opportunities and take action in a timely manner to maximise return over the three-year time horizon.
Paul Jensz
Paul has over 25 years experience in developing and financing Primary Industries in Australia and Asia. He initially spent 10 years with Rio Tinto in business and project development.
Paul moved to corporate broking with Citibank, Austock, PhillipCapital and was founding director of PAC Partners.
Paul built the leading Australian Agribusiness and Life Science franchise, which was recognized by: "AFR/Starmine Research Analyst Awards (top three ranking 1999, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2013); and, 15 years of running the leading Agribusiness Institutional Investor Conference with Australian and Global companies and 300+ attendees.
Anthony Hall
Anthony co-founded Pro Medicus Limited in 1983 and has been its Principal Architect and Developer of the core software systems. He serves as an Executive Director at Pro Medicus Ltd. He also serves as a Non-executive Director at Yumbah Aquaculture Ltd.
Anthony and business partner Jonathan Lillie rescued the Narrawong abalone farm, predecessor of Yumbah, and led the diversification to four farms and other shellfish operations.
Craig Stranger
Craig has +20 years-experience across equities research and equity capital markets. He was co-founder of PAC Partners and Managing Director since its formation.
Craig was Head of Research and Head of ECM at the feeder business to PAC Partners. He has been actively involved or has led a larger number of IPO's and capital raisings at PAC Partners, including; RTO's (Bubs, Andromeda), IPO's (Bega Cheese, Althea) and Placements.
Business Developer & Analyst
Max Andrews
Max grew up around his family run animal feed mill. He has a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in finance from Monash University.
Max has worked as a junior sell-side analyst for PAC Partners and Ord Minnett for over a year, and has several years part-time experience at K-Mart and healthcare (PermaLink Support Services). Max is a keen recreational fisherman.
© 2020 AgFood Opportunities Fund.
The information on this website is general information only and does not take into account your financial situation, objectives or needs. The general information on this website does not constitute an offer to invest in the AgFood Opportunities Fund (the Fund) and should not be used as the basis for making an investment in the Fund. Before making an investment in the Fund, you should consider important information about risks, costs and fees in the relevant disclosure document (Information Memorandum). The Trustee strongly recommends that potential investors read the Information Memorandum in its entirety and seek independent professional advice as to the financial, taxation and other implications of investing in the Fund and the information contained in the Information Memorandum. The Information Memorandum for the AgFood Opportunities Fund is available by contacting info@agfood.com.au. Any investment is subject to risk, including possible loss of income or capital invested. None of AgFood Fund Pty. Ltd., the Trustee or any of their officers, advisers, agents or associates guarantees in any way the performance of the Fund. Past performance is not an indicator of future returns. The content of this website is current at the time of publication and may be amended or revoked by AgFood Fund Pty Ltd. at any time.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Draft Tips – Know Your League
Aug-16-2021
The day of your fantasy draft will be arriving sooner than you think, and you really want to be prepared this year. Your smug co-worker took home the trophy (and the loot) last year, and has been unbearable ever since. You desperately want to turn the tables on him. To give yourself a leg up on your planning, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Picking Value
Let's say that you think James Robinson is going to have a huge year, the best among all fantasy players. And, since you're lucky enough to have the first pick in your draft, you eagerly take him, triggering head-scratching (and snickering) all over your league. However, he goes on to do exactly what you projected and scores 25 touchdowns, leading the NFL in fantasy points. You're beaming, strutting around like a fantasy genius. But should you be? Does his monster season mean you made a great pick?
Well, no. Not when you could have easily taken him two or three rounds later.
This is what is meant when the word "value" is thrown around in fantasy drafts. While you were taking Robinson, you could have taken Christian McCaffrey or Alvin Kamara and still ended up with him later. While it's easy to want to reach for your favorite player or the sleeper you think no one else wants, always question yourself before you make that pick: Will he be there the next round? That takes me to:
Know Your Fellow Fantasy Owners and Their Needs
Obviously, it's impossible to know the tendencies of your fellow owners when you join public leagues with strangers, but for the millions of us that play annually with our co-workers or friends, there's no excuse not to. An important part of fantasy drafts is to be continuously looking ahead and analyzing the tendencies and needs of the other teams. Always scan the ongoing rosters of your opponents during the draft to get an idea of their remaining needs. For example, I still need a quarterback; do the five teams that pick before it comes back around to me need one as well? If they do not, then perhaps it's a good idea to grab that receiver who had a breakout year last year. A pick like that can be made in comfort, knowing that the QB you want is almost certainly still going to be there in the next round. A method like this sounds simple, but you would be amazed how many owners don't practice it, rarely looking ahead and engaging in tunnel vision with predetermined strategies. The draft board is a living, breathing, flexible animal; study it as it plays out and allow it to determine how you draft. Too many owners approach a draft with a blueprint set in stone, such as telling themselves, "I'm going to take 2 running backs in the first 3 rounds no matter what". Depending on how the others pick, that may end up being a lousy plan. Always stay flexible in your draft strategy.
Owner draft tendencies are another thing to always keep in mind when planning or looking ahead before or during a draft. If you have been through enough drafts with the same people, you start to get an idea of the way they like to do things. You learn their favorite players, and the positions they like to fill first. Let's say it's your pick in the fifth round and you really want Aaron Rodgers, but you're not sure if he'll be there if you wait another round. You look ahead to the owners that will make picks before it gets back around to you, and realize that your co-worker, that still needs a quarterback, is picking next. You know he had him last year, and you know he also covets him. Waiting would be way too risky – make that pick! Besides, the wail of anguish that will undoubtedly come from him as a result of this maneuver is a delightful bonus.
Know Your Good and Bad NFL Offenses
A certain memory is still very clear to me. In the late 90's, one of the most consistently dominant teams in my league was in the midst of their worst season ever. Seeing that team near the bottom of the standings was pretty jarring to me, and I can remember asking him to explain it. What was the cause of such a lousy season?
"Well, it's pretty simple. I took way too many players on bad offenses."
Could it be as simple as that? In a lot of cases I think it is. Let's face it, there are a lot of very talented NFL players on bad offenses. Whether it's a RB or WR that play with a terrible QB, or a QB that is saddled with an awful offensive line or coaching staff, these poor guys have a consistent uphill battle.
In the meantime, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings move the ball at will, creating a fantasy paradise for a multitude of players at several positions. A player like Dalvin Cook can make full use of his talent, knowing that the defense can't key on him – unless they want to get fried by Justin Jefferson, that is.
Always keep the big picture in the back of your mind. Often it's better to take multiple players from the same great offense than any players from teams like the Jets, Giants, and Bears.
In-Game Substitutions Feature with YouRulz
The mind-blowing fact that you're going to be able to substitute players during live games with YouRulz adds a few new wrinkles into draft strategies. As a result of this feature, I think drafting handcuffs for your elite players becomes even more essential. If Alvin Kamara goes down in the first quarter, being able to instantly plug in Latavius Murray is a huge bonus that could be the difference between a win and a loss….and perhaps even making the playoffs or being left out in the cold.
Since players can be changed out due to performance as well as injury, your depth becomes more vital than ever. Suddenly, that backup quarterback who you only planned to play during a bye week could become a game-saver when your starter is stinking up the joint. With YourRulz, every single pick in your draft becomes more important.
by Aaron Bland
For me, fantasy football has always been more about fun and bragging rights than money. Therefore, I can't really fault owners for taking the players they like instead of players that may have better value. Who wants to cheer on their most hated rival quarterback for an entire season? There's nothing more satisfying than winning with what you believe are "your" players. It's the kind of thing that keeps us coming back for more, year after year.


A New Class (Star Wars: Jedi Academy #4) 2.8 out of 5 based on 0 ratings. 4 reviews.
Much more training this book needs.
My son loved the first three books with Roan in it. He likes this one okay, but is super curios about what happens to Roan? Can't there be a Roan visits his old school and mentors younger students and give us an update about what he is doing? My son is hesitant to get invested of the Vistor Starspeeder character because he thinks the same thing will happen.


text:
package com.android.videoeditor.widgets;

import com.android.videoeditor.service.ApiService;
import com.android.videoeditor.service.MovieTransition;
import com.android.videoeditor.R;

import android.content.Context;
import android.content.res.Resources;
import android.graphics.Bitmap;
import android.graphics.Canvas;
import android.graphics.Color;
import android.graphics.Paint;
import android.graphics.Rect;
import android.util.AttributeSet;
import android.util.DisplayMetrics;
import android.util.Log;
import android.view.Display;
import android.view.GestureDetector;
import android.view.MotionEvent;
import android.view.View;
import android.view.WindowManager;
import android.widget.ImageView;

/**
 * Transition view. This class assumes transition is always put on a MediaLinearLayout and is
 * wrapped with a timeline scroll view.
 */
public class TransitionView extends ImageView {
    // Logging
    private static final String TAG = "TransitionView";

    // Instance variables
    private final GestureDetector mSimpleGestureDetector;
    private final ScrollViewListener mScrollListener;
    private final Rect mGeneratingTransitionProgressDestRect;
    private final Paint mSeparatorPaint;
    private boolean mIsScrolling;
    // Convenient handle to the parent timeline scroll view.
    private TimelineHorizontalScrollView mScrollView;
    // Convenient handle to the parent timeline linear layout.
    private MediaLinearLayout mTimeline;
    private int mScrollX;
    private int mScreenWidth;
    private String mProjectPath;
    private Bitmap[] mBitmaps;
    private ItemSimpleGestureListener mGestureListener;
    private int mGeneratingTransitionProgress;
    private boolean mIsPlaying;

    public TransitionView(Context context, AttributeSet attrs, int defStyle) {
        super(context, attrs, defStyle);

        // Setup the gesture listener
        mSimpleGestureDetector = new GestureDetector(context,
                new GestureDetector.SimpleOnGestureListener() {
                    @Override
                    public boolean onSingleTapConfirmed(MotionEvent e) {
                        if (mGestureListener != null) {
                            return mGestureListener.onSingleTapConfirmed(TransitionView.this, -1,
                                    e);
                        } else {
                            return false;
                        }
                    }

                    @Override
                    public void onLongPress(MotionEvent e) {
                        if (mGestureListener != null) {
                            mGestureListener.onLongPress(TransitionView.this, e);
                        }
                    }
                });

        mScrollListener = new ScrollViewListener() {
            @Override
            public void onScrollBegin(View view, int scrollX, int scrollY, boolean appScroll) {
                mIsScrolling = true;
            }

            @Override
            public void onScrollProgress(View view, int scrollX, int scrollY, boolean appScroll) {
                invalidate();
            }

            @Override
            public void onScrollEnd(View view, int scrollX, int scrollY, boolean appScroll) {
                mIsScrolling = false;
                mScrollX = scrollX;

                if (requestThumbnails()) {
                    invalidate();
                }
            }
        };

        final Resources resources = getResources();
        // Prepare the bitmap rectangles
        final ProgressBar progressBar = ProgressBar.getProgressBar(context);
        final int layoutHeight = (int)(resources.getDimension(R.dimen.media_layout_height) -
                resources.getDimension(R.dimen.media_layout_padding) -
                (2 * resources.getDimension(R.dimen.timelime_transition_vertical_inset)));
        mGeneratingTransitionProgressDestRect = new Rect(getPaddingLeft(),
                layoutHeight - progressBar.getHeight() - getPaddingBottom(), 0,
                layoutHeight - getPaddingBottom());

        // Initialize the progress value
        mGeneratingTransitionProgress = -1;

        // Get the screen width
        final Display display = ((WindowManager) getContext().getSystemService(
                Context.WINDOW_SERVICE)).getDefaultDisplay();
        final DisplayMetrics metrics = new DisplayMetrics();
        display.getMetrics(metrics);
        mScreenWidth = metrics.widthPixels;

        // Prepare the separator paint
        mSeparatorPaint = new Paint();
        mSeparatorPaint.setColor(Color.BLACK);
        mSeparatorPaint.setStrokeWidth(2);
    }

    public TransitionView(Context context, AttributeSet attrs) {
        this(context, attrs, 0);
    }

    public TransitionView(Context context) {
        this(context, null, 0);
    }

    @Override
    protected void onAttachedToWindow() {
        // Add the horizontal scroll view listener
        mScrollView = (TimelineHorizontalScrollView) getRootView().findViewById(
                R.id.timeline_scroller);
        mScrollView.addScrollListener(mScrollListener);
        mScrollX = mScrollView.getScrollX();

        mTimeline = (MediaLinearLayout) getRootView().findViewById(R.id.timeline_media);
    }

    @Override
    protected void onDetachedFromWindow() {
        // Remove the horizontal scroll listener
        mScrollView.removeScrollListener(mScrollListener);

        // Release the current set of bitmaps
        if (mBitmaps != null) {
            for (int i = 0; i < mBitmaps.length; i++) {
                if (mBitmaps[i] != null) {
                    mBitmaps[i].recycle();
                }
            }

            mBitmaps = null;
        }
    }

    /**
     * @param projectPath The project path
     */
    public void setProjectPath(String projectPath) {
        mProjectPath = projectPath;
    }

    /**
     * @param listener The gesture listener
     */
    public void setGestureListener(ItemSimpleGestureListener listener) {
        mGestureListener = listener;
    }

    /**
     * Resets the transition generation progress.
     */
    public void resetGeneratingTransitionProgress() {
        setGeneratingTransitionProgress(-1);
    }

    /**
     * Sets the transition generation progress.
     */
    public void setGeneratingTransitionProgress(int progress) {
        if (progress == 100) {
            // Request the preview bitmaps
            requestThumbnails();
            mGeneratingTransitionProgress = -1;
        } else {
            mGeneratingTransitionProgress = progress;
        }

        invalidate();
    }

    /**
     * @return true if generation is in progress
     */
    public boolean isGeneratingTransition() {
        return (mGeneratingTransitionProgress >= 0);
    }

    /**
     * A view enters or exits the playback mode
     *
     * @param playback true if playback is in progress
     */
    public void setPlaybackMode(boolean playback) {
        mIsPlaying = playback;
    }

    /**
     * @param bitmaps The bitmaps array
     *
     * @return true if the bitmaps were used
     */
    public boolean setBitmaps(Bitmap[] bitmaps) {
        if (mGeneratingTransitionProgress >= 0) {
            return false;
        }

        // Release the current set of bitmaps
        if (mBitmaps != null) {
            for (int i = 0; i < mBitmaps.length; i++) {
                if (mBitmaps[i] != null) {
                    mBitmaps[i].recycle();
                }
            }
        }

        mBitmaps = bitmaps;
        invalidate();

        return true;
    }

    @Override
    protected void onDraw(Canvas canvas) {
        super.onDraw(canvas);

        // If the view is too small, don't draw anything.
        if (getWidth() <= getPaddingLeft() + getPaddingRight()) {
            return;
        }

        if (mGeneratingTransitionProgress >= 0) {
            ProgressBar.getProgressBar(getContext()).draw(canvas, mGeneratingTransitionProgress,
                    mGeneratingTransitionProgressDestRect, getPaddingLeft(),
                    getWidth() - getPaddingRight());
        } else if (mBitmaps != null) {
            final int halfWidth = getWidth() / 2;
            // Draw the bitmaps
            // Draw the left side of the transition
            canvas.save();
            canvas.clipRect(getPaddingLeft(), getPaddingTop(), halfWidth,
                    getHeight() - getPaddingBottom());

            if (mBitmaps[0] != null) {
                canvas.drawBitmap(mBitmaps[0], getPaddingLeft(), getPaddingTop(), null);
            } else {
                canvas.drawColor(Color.BLACK);
            }
            canvas.restore();

            // Draw the right side of the transition
            canvas.save();
            canvas.clipRect(halfWidth, getPaddingTop(),
                    getWidth() - getPaddingRight(), getHeight() - getPaddingBottom());
            if (mBitmaps[1] != null) {
                canvas.drawBitmap(mBitmaps[1],
                        getWidth() - getPaddingRight() - mBitmaps[1].getWidth(), getPaddingTop(),
                        null);
            } else {
                canvas.drawColor(Color.BLACK);
            }
            canvas.restore();

            canvas.drawLine(halfWidth, getPaddingTop(), halfWidth,
                    getHeight() - getPaddingBottom(), mSeparatorPaint);

            // Dim myself if some view on the timeline is selected but not me
            // by drawing a transparent black overlay.
            if (!isSelected() && mTimeline.hasItemSelected()) {
                final Paint paint = new Paint();
                paint.setColor(Color.BLACK);
                paint.setAlpha(192);
                canvas.drawPaint(paint);
            }
        } else if (mIsPlaying) { // Playing
        } else if (mIsScrolling) { // Scrolling
        } else { // Not scrolling and not playing
            requestThumbnails();
        }
    }

    @Override
    public boolean onTouchEvent(MotionEvent ev) {
        // Let the gesture detector inspect all events.
        mSimpleGestureDetector.onTouchEvent(ev);
        return super.onTouchEvent(ev);
    }

    /**
     * Request thumbnails if necessary
     *
     * @return true if the bitmaps already exist
     */
    private boolean requestThumbnails() {
        // Check if we already have the bitmaps
        if (mBitmaps != null) {
            return true;
        }

        // Do not request thumbnails during playback
        if (mIsScrolling) {
            return false;
        }

        final MovieTransition transition = (MovieTransition)getTag();
        // Check if we already requested the thumbnails
        if (ApiService.isTransitionThumbnailsPending(mProjectPath, transition.getId())) {
            return false;
        }

        final int start = getLeft() + getPaddingLeft() - mScrollX;
        final int end = getRight() - getPaddingRight() - mScrollX;

        if (start >= mScreenWidth || end < 0 || start == end) {
            if (Log.isLoggable(TAG, Log.VERBOSE)) {
                Log.v(TAG, "Transition view is off screen: " + transition.getId() +
                        ", from: " + start + " to " + end);
            }

            // Release the current set of bitmaps
            if (mBitmaps != null) {
                for (int i = 0; i < mBitmaps.length; i++) {
                    if (mBitmaps[i] != null) {
                        mBitmaps[i].recycle();
                    }
                }

                mBitmaps = null;
            }

            return false;
        }

        // Compute the thumbnail width
        final int thumbnailHeight = getHeight() - getPaddingTop() - getPaddingBottom();
        // Request the thumbnails
        ApiService.getTransitionThumbnails(getContext(), mProjectPath, transition.getId(),
                thumbnailHeight);

        return false;
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Svitlana Samuliak (; born 19 July 2003) is a Ukrainian weightlifter. She won the bronze medal in the women's 55kg event at the 2021 World Weightlifting Championships held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Career

In 2021, she competed in the women's 59 kg event at the Junior World Weightlifting Championships held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. At the 2021 European Junior & U23 Weightlifting Championships in Rovaniemi, Finland, she won the gold medal in her event.

She won the silver medal in the women's 55 kg event at the 2022 Junior World Weightlifting Championships held in Heraklion, Greece.

Achievements

References

External links

Living people
2003 births
Place of birth missing (living people)
Ukrainian female weightlifters
World Weightlifting Championships medalists
21st-century Ukrainian women

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
This Cloned Ferret Might Save Her Species
Elizabeth Ann, cloned from DNA 30 years frozen, is the newest hope for rebuilding the black-footed ferret population.
September 29, 2021 Kristin Smith
Photo: USFWS
Become an Outside+ member today and get access to everything we publish, plus free subscriptions, a Gaia GPS membership, and much more.
The black-footed ferret named Elizabeth Ann is, in a word, adorable. Full-grown, she won't be longer than 2 feet; the black "mask" across her eyes is as fuzzy as the rest of her narrow body. She's healthy, happy—and a perfect genetic clone of a ferret named Willa that died over three decades ago.
The black-footed ferret, the only ferret native to North America, is one of the continent's most endangered animals. Scientists actually believed the species was extinct until 1981, when a Wyoming ranch dog named Shep found a colony of 7 ferrets on his owner's property. A combination of habitat loss and the destruction of their main food source—prairie dogs—across the American west originally drove the population down, and continues to hamper recovery efforts today. Prairie dogs now inhabit less than 5% of their ancestral range thanks to eradication efforts, habitat fragmentation, and a new threat that arrived in the 1900s, bubonic plague. The remaining prairie dog colonies are often separated by large distances, which keeps black-footed ferret populations small and genetically fragmented.
A Black-footed ferret (the same species as Elizabeth Ann) peeks out of a prairie dog burrow. (Photo: Kahj19/iStock via Getty Images)
There is hope on the horizon for the ferrets, though. Thanks to an intensive captive breeding and reintroduction program, the 1981 population of 7 has grown to nearly 400. Wildlife officials have reintroduced the ferrets to 29 spots in the US, Canada, and Mexico with heartening success. There are still plenty of hurdles, though. The entire modern population is descended from the seven individuals found in Wyoming in 1981, which poses a serious genetic diversity problem. Low genetic diversity means less resilience to disease and environmental changes, which means less chance of successfully rebuilding the ferret population.
Enter Elizabeth Ann. Willa, whose genetic material was frozen and kept in San Diego until last year, has no living descendents; her DNA is a significant contribution to the genetic diversity of today's black-footed ferrets, with three times the genetic variations of today's entire population. If Elizabeth Ann is successfully released into the wild, her offspring will give the ferrets a significant boost. While the researchers at the network of zoos, federal agencies, and conservation groups that have spearheaded the black ferret recovery effort hail her as "another exciting step in this inspiring recovery story", more cloning attempts continue.
As for Elizabeth Ann herself? Well, she's at the National Black-Footed Ferret Conservation Center with her surrogate mother and siblings, playing, eating, and proving that there is a future for black footed ferrets.
There's No Place Like Padre Island National Seashore—and it Needs Your Help
Weak in the Knees? Here's How Hikers Can Prevent and Treat Joint Pain


text:
Student Profile: Gretchen Gould, Class of 2023
Education major brings agriculture to elementary school students
Kendall Trump, Class of 2013
Millikin University junior Gretchen Gould is working to bring agriculture back into elementary school classrooms with the help from her professors and inspiration from her internship experiences. Gretchen is an elementary education major in Millikin's School of Education and is also pursuing an endorsement in special education.
After the farm camps that Gretchen was running through an internship with her local farm bureau were canceled due to COVID-19, she found alternative methods to deliver agricultural education to students. She created videos intended to teach them about how to integrate agriculture into different subjects like science and art.
"I really had a passion for it, so I visited a bunch of local farms to talk about various ways we could implement agriculture into our educational programs," Gould said.
This past summer, she was invited to host a STEM camp for students, which allowed her to combine her passions for both teaching and agriculture.
Gretchen Gould
"The STEM camps focused on science and agriculture, specifically how agriculture influences everything in our world, down to what we eat and how we produce food," she explained, discussing how students can enjoy studying agriculture and benefit from learning about nutrition and diverse career opportunities.
After noticing that several local elementary schools had opted out from including agriculture in their classrooms, Gretchen set out to bring agriculture back in a way that was engaging and connected with students. "Ag gives students an opportunity to express their interests in all types of topics, whether it is food, animals, science or even chemical engineering," she said.
Through the hands-on opportunities available in Millikin's Professional Studies program and encouragement from her professors, such as Dr. Chris Cunnings, Gretchen was able to develop an entire unit to teach hydroponics to a third-grade class. "I love how the School of Education allows us to be creative with our own lessons and gives us the opportunity to teach things we are passionate about," Gretchen stated.
Specifically, Gretchen expressed how she will be able to apply the lessons and skills she's gained at Millikin directly to her career after graduation. "Along with the opportunity to explore our interests, Millikin gives us an opportunity to produce something that will actually be useful in our future classrooms," she said.
After graduating, Gretchen plans to continue teaching elementary agriculture education, while also hoping to work with children in special education, which is a passion she discovered through Millikin. "A lot of my professors encouraged me to pursue an endorsement in special education, which is an opportunity I never thought I would go for," Gretchen said, further describing how the positive and supportive influences of her professors have shaped her education.
"The professors really want to know you personally and they want to help you get as many opportunities as possible. The close connection between students and teachers is something that a larger university may not be able to offer," she said.
Outside of Gretchen's passion for teaching, she is also a member of Millikin University's softball team, who were the 2021 College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) regular season and tournament champions and qualifiers for the 2021 NCAA Division III Softball Tournament. She said that what she's learned about working effectively on a team will be important in her future career in education.
"Millikin is a small community with a lot of big opportunities," she said.
Class Year:
Academic Athletics Campus College of Professional Studies School of Education


It's not enough to want to keep away from sin. Actual commitment and obedience comes from actually doing it. I easily think it's just enough to want something, but at the same time, there's another part of me that wants something else (Rom 7:21-23). I'm being honest when I say "I want," but wanting is weak. Anybody can want a promotion at work, you can want a higher score, you want to overcome that drug habit. But it's not enough to want something. If you "want" it bad enough, you'll "do." What's worse is the pathetic term, "I'll try." It means nothing. Are you going to the meeting? "I'll try." yeah right. Are you coming to church this Friday? "I'll try." ok, I won't save you a seat. "I'll try" is just like saying "we'll see." nothing wrong with that, but don't make it something it's not. It's a no-effort statement. Do I have the pathetic notion that God will pat me on the back, "Well, at least you 'tried.'" No. If I tried, I wouldn't have sinned.
I never ask God if he "wants" to love me or bless me. I don't ask him to "try" to forgive me. He does what he says he'll do. It's written in his Word. I gotta just "do" it. "wants" and "trys" won't get me anywhere.


Not long ago, I attended a benefit in Dorset, Vermont. The event, a dinner and charity auction, raised proceeds for programs at The Marble House, or Manley-Lefèvre House. Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1990, the Federal-style property was built in 1815 with marble quarried from the land on which it resides. The original owner of the home, Edwin Lefèvre (1871–1943) was the author of Reminiscences of a Stock Operator, a best-selling roman à clef about Jesse Livermore, a prominent American stock trader.
Nowadays, the beautiful stone mansion is home to several artists in residence, who use the property's outlying structures as studios. I cannot think of a better use for the estate – there is something quietly inspiring about the landscape. That should come as no surprise, considering that Charles Downing Lay was the original architect behind the beautiful grounds.


Use Your TV as a Computer by Intel Compute Stick. By reading the Headline I can guess that what are you thinking. You are asking yourself that is it really Possible ? Napoleon Bonapart said that, "Impossible is a word which is found only in the dictionary of a fool". So on the basis of this quote I will answer that Yes, it is now really possible by Compute Stick made by Intel.
By Intel Compute Stick you can easily convert your TV in a Computer. It will automatically convert any HDMI display to any fully functional computer. Actually it is a special type of Dongle. There is a 'Bulit-in-Operating System' in this Dongle to turn automatically a TV into Computer. By this Stick You can do everything,what you normally do in a computer. It has Quad-Core Intel Atom Processor with Built-in Wireless Connectivity.
Two types of operating system is Pre-Installed in this stick. One is Windows 8.1 and the other is Linux. Two GB RAM and 32 GB Storage is available in Windows 8.1 operating System. On the other hand One GB RAM and 8 GB Storage is available in Linux Operating System. In additional, you can extend memory size by using micro SD card. With the help of wireless connectivity this device can be easily connected with a TV.
Recently Consumer Electronics Show held in Las Vegas of USA. Intel Compute Stick was displayed there by famous Intel Company. The price of this product will be $149 for windows and $89 for Linux. How would you feel if you avail this unbelievable product to transform a HDMI display TV into a fully functioned Computer? Like our Facebook Fan Page facebook.com/etunescafe and Follow in Twitter. To get wonderful technology report visit our site regularly. Hope you enjoyed the post on Compute Stick by Intel.
Next Post: How Did American Sniper Become the Best? Find Out.


It's been revealed that former aide to President Trump, Omarosa Manigault-Newman, secretly recorded conversations with the president while she served in the White House.
Manigault-Newman, who appeared on the reality show "Celebrity Apprentice" is coming out with a tell-all book "Unhinged" which is about her experience in the White House and is set to be released on Aug. 14. Simon & Schuster, the publisher of "Unhinged," responded in a statement. "Without commenting on the specific contents of UNHINGED," the spokesperson said, "we are confident that Omarosa Manigault-Newman can substantiate her highly-anticipated account of life inside the Trump White House."
Leaked excerpts from the book has Manigault-Newman reflecting on an interview the president did with NBC's Lester Holt, saying "His mental decline could not be denied."


BBC exit poll projects the Conservatives being shy of a majority, implying May's gamble has failed. Need to wait for the real results of course!
I've voted... in the poll at the top of this page.
Fully intend to vote on my way home from work, but I'm not fully decided which way yet.
Election day has dawned. I would say thank goodness it'll all be over soon, but we may end up with a hung parliament again, followed by lots of arguing over who should try to form a government.
I'm surprised this thread doesn't have more covfefe, negative or otherwise.
speising wrote: I actually had the problem of panel two. Somehow i managed to dismiss the alarm app without shutting it up. The only thing i could do was reboot.
I've had this too with at least one of my previous phones. It's particularly bewildering when you're barely awake. Loving the comic as a result though!
The comic has (finally) made it on to the BBC's live page.
How about comets? I'd have thought they can be much brighter than Venus (citation needed).
Kit. wrote: Can freedom be free?
No. It costs folks like you and me.
So, there's no such thing as "free as in freedom", isn't there?
Seems to be a bit of a contradiction in these two points?
Hmmm, the "upgrade your soldiers brains / eyes / legs / etc." mechanic reminds me of Syndicate.


be able to screen and detect for the positive recombinant.
at once are the concerns that I have.
2. the huge amount of negative background (non-fluorescing cells).
that might affect the fluroscence.
single fluorescing cell (recombinant) amongst many non-fluorescing cells?
model for the current purpose?


The Neurodivergent Crafter - Using whimsical & geeky crafts to get by in a neurotypical world.
Using whimsical and geeky crafts to get by in a neurotypical world.
I have a couple of posts ready to be put up. However, I'm having computer problems, so hopefully I get them figured out soon.
Just thought I would let everyone know that yes, I still exist, and I am still doing This Thing.
This post was supposed to be a continuation of my Organizing series, but this subject came up on Twitter, and my thoughts on the subject required more typing than I am willing to do with my thumbs!
Pin this article to your favourite board!
Organizing your craft room (and yourself) on the cheap!
Introductions, Expectations, and Goals, oh my!
The Neurodivergent Crafter is Shauna Forrister, the designer & seamstress at the Whatever Works Crafts Studios. Shauna has ADHD and is a self-diagnosed Autistic. She loves all things geeky and anything that involves a needle and thread. Learn more about her here.


text:
Review: Ladies' 3s Season Review 2017/18
by ClontarfHC | Apr 16, 2018 | Ladies News
Beginning the season with a fresh 3rds team with only a handful of players having played thirds the year before, we began the season with a positive outlook and excitement of being in a higher division. Although we had a rough start to our season getting used to playing as a team and playing at a higher standard we persevered to get our first win against Botanic just in time for our Christmas break!
Our two final games of the season came back to back, which was less than ideal when facing relegation but as always the team came together with the right attitude and ready for a win!
Saturday kicked off with our final home again against Botanic. We knew it would not be as easy as our win against them before Christmas as they too were set to be relegated. With a full squad of 16 we set out for our last home win of the season which was achieved.
Sunday came around all too soon, It was a beautiful start to the day with the sun beaming as we warmed up. We were focused and unphased by the fact that North Kildare were solid in the middle of the table, that fact was irrelevant to us when all we were focused on was a win.
Facing a lot of pressure in the first half we managed to maintain arguable majority of possession only to see North Kildare make use of a short corner which put them in the lead with a score of 1-0. Despite our best efforts we were unable to equalise before North Kildare put away their second goal shortly before halftime. With a positive but firm halftime talk we gathered ourselves together and went back out with our heads held high. The second half saw Clontarf putting North Kildare's defence and midfield to work and finally our first long awaited goal came from a great run from Nikki McMullen's who gave a quick pass to Sue Lawless in the D who solidly put it away into their goal. Everyone was on edge of their seat watching as we missed multiple opportunities in the D but sadly a draw/win was not meant to be and as the final whistle blew we walked away in defeat, but not before emotionally eating our loss away with tea and sandwiches that North Kildare kindly provided.
Although there is still the chance we may be relegated, as we'll have to wait to see the result between Old Alex and Newbridge, we can walk away from this season with our heads held high knowing we gave it our best shot.
It was great to be a part of such a diverse team this season with so many school girls and some more experienced players coming together to share their knowledge of the game and treating everyone with respect regardless of age. Regardless of our division next year we plan on going into the new season with a clean sheet and a new found momentum that our last couple of games brought out in us.
Thank you to all who have helped out with the ladies 3's this season, with a special thanks to David Nugent, Robert (Bobbo) Forrest, and Sharon Sterritt.
Written By: Ruth Hoban


Reserve Bank of India's monetary policy committee on Wednesday increased the policy interest rate by a quarter percentage point to 6.25%, the first time in over four years. It signals the MPC's concern about inflation risks, particularly on account of higher input cost pressures. The decision is also in sync with what many emerging markets have done to deal with an outflow of foreign portfolio investment on the heels of monetary and fiscal policy changes in the US.
Given underlying trends in inflation and financial markets, an interest rate increase this year was inevitable. RBI's task is only going to get tougher in the months ahead. This is primarily on account of the need to support prospects for economic growth. Over the last year, not only have the disruptive influences of decisions such as demonetisation receded, investment has also begun to pick up. At this juncture, RBI must walk a tightrope to fulfil its mandated job of keeping inflation under check and ensuring that an economic recovery is not choked. Going ahead borrowers at both individual and corporate levels will have to pay a higher price. Savers, however, will benefit as nominal interest rates on deposits will head up.
India's policy makers have no control over price of crude oil and global financial volatility, two important sources of risk to economic recovery. There is one area of risk which can be controlled by governments. Both growth and stability will be adversely affected at this moment if governments opt to get fiscally reckless in an election year. Not only will it make the economy more vulnerable through the financial market channel, it will also crowd out private firms trying to raise capital for investment. Therefore, the most important message of monetary policy is that governments must refrain from fiscal populism. That approach will support growth and create jobs.
Congress is putting apples and oranges in the same basket known as loan waver.but the question is what about the fiscal deficit Mr Rahul Gandhi.


– collaborations with marketing department, e-commerce, agreements.
Started photography in Germany in 2002. Owner of the agency and our main photographer. Specialized in fashion and lifestyle commercial photography.
Our right hand. Key account and producer. She knows where to call, who to hire and where to go to produce good photoshoot.


text:
Cybersecurity and Government Contracting: False Claims Act Considerations
By Michael Wagner, Peter B. Hutt II, Susan B. Cassidy & Andrew Guy on January 11, 2021
Posted in Cybersecurity, False Claims Act
As the recent SolarWinds Orion attack makes clear, cybersecurity will be a focus in the coming years for both governmental and non-governmental entities alike. In the federal contracting community, it has long been predicted that the government's increased cybersecurity requirements will eventually lead to a corresponding increase in False Claims Act (FCA) litigation involving cybersecurity compliance. This prediction may soon be proven true, as a December 2020 speech from Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Granston specifically identified "cybersecurity related fraud" as an "area where we could see enhanced False Claims Act activity." This post discusses recent efforts to use the FCA to enforce cybersecurity compliance — and, based on those efforts, what government contractors may expect to see in the future.
In recent years, the government and qui tam plaintiffs have begun using the FCA to pursue alleged noncompliance with cybersecurity regulations, and some of these efforts have gained traction. For instance, in May 2019, a federal district court in California declined to dismiss a case alleging that a government contractor had falsely asserted its compliance with cybersecurity standards when entering into Department of Defense contracts. And in July 2019, the Department of Justice announced that another contractor had agreed to pay more than $8 million in connection with resolving a qui tam suit alleging failure to meet federal cybersecurity standards, marking the first settlement based on FCA allegations related to cybersecurity noncompliance.
More recently, however, at least one court rejected the attempt to build an FCA case out of alleged deviations from cybersecurity regulations. In October 2020, a federal district court in the District of Columbia dismissed a qui tam suit alleging that a contractor had failed to disclose a security vulnerability in the computer systems that it sold to the United States. United States ex rel. Adams v. Dell Computer Corp., 15-cv-608 (D.D.C. Oct. 8, 2020). The court's dismissal was based on its conclusion that the whistleblower had failed to show that the noncompliance was "material." As the court noted, "the technology policies referenced . . . do not require defect-free products," and that any applicable security policy could have instead been addressed by "providing the necessary assistance to eliminate or reduce vulnerabilities as they appear."
Going forward, we expect the FCA's strict materiality requirement will continue to present a significant hurdle for plaintiffs in future cases alleging noncompliance with increasingly detailed cybersecurity regulations. As Mr. Granston's recent speech portends, however, the federal government and qui tam plaintiffs are poised to bring suits under the FCA predicated on allegations of cybersecurity noncompliance. While these allegations could take myriad forms, there are two regulatory developments in particular that may provide ammunition to enterprising whistleblowers – and pose FCA risk for unwary contractors. First, under the NIST 800-171 DoD Assessment Methodology, DoD is now requiring that contractors complete a pre-award self-assessment (formally known as a "Basic Assessment") of their compliance with the 110 security controls found in NIST 800-171. That Basic Assessment results in a numerical score that is provided to the government and a date by which the contractor represents it will be in full compliance with all NIST 800-171 controls. Following award, the DoD may decide to complete its own Medium Assessment (via a paper review) or High Assessment (via an in-person review) of a contractor's compliance with the NIST 800-171 security requirements.
This assessment process could give rise to disagreements between the contractor and the government over the extent to which the contractor is complying with the NIST 800-171 security controls. In particular, a large discrepancy between the Basic Assessment's numerical score and the Medium or High Assessment's numerical score could lead to allegations that the contractor failed to accurately represent its cybersecurity requirements, thereby raising the specter of FCA risk.
Second, defense contractors will soon be asked to obtain and provide a Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) from an accredited CMMC Third Party Assessment Organization. As part of this certification process, contractors will be expected to show their ability to meet the NIST 800-171 security requirements as well as several additional security controls. Allegations of inconsistencies between the self-assessment of compliance with 800-171 and the third party CMMC assessment, may also draw the attention of would-be qui tam plaintiffs.
However, it may prove difficult for the government or qui tam plaintiffs to establish FCA liability based on allegations of cybersecurity noncompliance. First, and as noted above, FCA liability can only be imposed where the requirement is "material," meaning that the noncompliance would have a "natural tendency to influence, or be capable of influencing" the government's decision to pay the contractor. However, federal contracts often contain cybersecurity requirements among a list of dozens — if not hundreds — of other regulatory obligations. In many cases it is unlikely that the government's decision to pay a contractor would depend on strict compliance with a particular cybersecurity control or set of controls, in which case noncompliance with that control would not be "material."
Second, FCA liability requires a showing that a noncompliance was "knowing," meaning that the contractor actually knew they were not in compliance with a requirement, acted with deliberate ignorance, or acted with reckless disregard. However, many of the cybersecurity requirements are new, and drafted broadly, allowing reasonable differences in technical interpretation. There is substantial case law establishing that a contractor cannot be held liable under the FCA for a reasonable, good-faith reading of unclear regulatory requirements.
Thus, even if the predictions about an uptick in FCA cybersecurity cases come true, there are good reasons for thinking that many such matters will face significant headwinds. Although all cases are different, the standard defenses in such matters will be fully available, including both substantive defenses like those outlined above, and procedural defenses such as the statute's Public Disclosure bar. Nonetheless, the likelihood of an increase in FCA cases underscores the importance of ensuring careful attention to cybersecurity compliance and associated representations.
Tags: CMMC, Cybersecurity, Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, cybersecurity related fraud, enhanced False Claims Act activity, False Claims Act, FCA, Qui Tam, SolarWinds, U.S. ex rel Adams
Michael Wagner
Mike Wagner helps government contractors navigate high-stakes enforcement matters and complex regulatory regimes.
Combining deep regulatory knowledge with extensive investigations experience, Mr. Wagner works closely with contractors across a range of industries to achieve the efficient resolution of regulatory enforcement actions and government…
Combining deep regulatory knowledge with extensive investigations experience, Mr. Wagner works closely with contractors across a range of industries to achieve the efficient resolution of regulatory enforcement actions and government investigations, including False Claims Act cases. He has particular expertise representing individuals and companies in suspension and debarment proceedings, and he has successfully resolved numerous such matters at both the agency and district court level. He also routinely conducts internal investigations of potential compliance issues and advises clients on voluntary and mandatory disclosures to federal agencies.
In his contract disputes and advisory work, Mr. Wagner helps government contractors resolve complex issues arising at all stages of the public procurement process. As lead counsel, he has successfully litigated disputes at the Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals, and he regularly assists contractors in preparing and pursuing contract claims. In his counseling practice, Mr. Wagner advises clients on best practices for managing a host of compliance obligations, including domestic sourcing requirements under the Buy American Act and Trade Agreements Act, safeguarding and reporting requirements under cybersecurity regulations, and pricing obligations under the GSA Schedules program. And he routinely assists contractors in navigating issues and disputes that arise during negotiations over teaming agreements and subcontracts.
Read more about Michael WagnerEmail
Susan B. Cassidy
Ms. Cassidy represents clients in the defense, intelligence, and information technologies sectors. She works with clients to navigate the complex rules and regulations that govern federal procurement and her practice includes both counseling and litigation components. Ms. Cassidy conducts internal investigations for government…
Ms. Cassidy represents clients in the defense, intelligence, and information technologies sectors. She works with clients to navigate the complex rules and regulations that govern federal procurement and her practice includes both counseling and litigation components. Ms. Cassidy conducts internal investigations for government contractors and represents her clients before the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), Inspectors General (IG), and the Department of Justice with regard to those investigations. From 2008 to 2012, Ms. Cassidy served as in-house counsel at Northrop Grumman Corporation, one of the world's largest defense contractors, supporting both defense and intelligence programs. Previously, Ms. Cassidy held an in-house position with Motorola Inc., leading a team of lawyers supporting sales of commercial communications products and services to US government defense and civilian agencies. Prior to going in-house, Ms. Cassidy was a litigation and government contracts partner in an international law firm headquartered in Washington, DC.
Read more about Susan B. CassidyEmail
Andrew Guy
Andrew Guy is an associate in the firm's Washington, DC office. He is a member of the Government Contracts practice group.
Read more about Andrew GuyEmail


… and then Blue Devil and Etrigan have the gall to fight while he's trying to soliloquize!
I'm going out of town for a few days, back to Kentucky for a seminar. Should have a new Sunday Soliloquy up, along with some thoughts on new comics.
I finally completed my Blue Devil collection, though, and spent much of my free time this past weekend reading those. I like the book more today than I did then, and I got it faithfully almost from start to finish (it ran 31 issues and an Annual) when it first came out. Alan Kupperberg took over as penciller after Paris Cullins drew the first several issues, and I remember preferring Cullins, but Kupperberg doesn't suffer by comparison as much now.
Back then, too, I was a lot less plugged-into the immediate pre- and post-Crisis DC lineup (hard to believe, I know). Today, I can appreciate more of what writers Dan Mishkin and Gary Cohn were trying to do. In large part, they succeeded at placing a new character in the context of the then-current DC Earth (Earth-1, specifically). I daresay you almost have to spend more time … evoking, for lack of a better word, the standard DC "playing field," in order to ground readers. 52 did this very well, of course, and I've said before (I think) that Countdown kinda doesn't.
Anyway, if you see Blue Devil in the back-issue bins, give it some attention. I especially liked the Annual, which saw Paris Cullins return as penciller and featured a host of familiar mystical guest-stars. Besides, BD is now part of Shadowpact (a book I don't read) and his sidekick is a Teen Titan (a book I just started getting again). Both have gone through some pretty radical changes since their happy-go-lucky '80s days, so I'll be interested in hearing what you think if you come at the old series from a different perspective.
Meanwhile, check out this BD/Amazons Attack-related post from Blog@Newsarama, and a new Grumpy Old Fan should pop on Thursday through the magic of the Internet.


text:
#ifndef __WmeSysClass_H__
#define __WmeSysClass_H__

#include "persistent.h"
#include <set>
#include <map>
#include "dctypes.h"

namespace WinterMute {
class CSysInstance;
class CBGame;
class CBPersistMgr;
class CSysClass {
public:
	CSysClass(const AnsiString &name, PERSISTBUILD build, PERSISTLOAD load, bool persistent_class);
	~CSysClass();

	int GetNumInstances();
	bool RemoveInstance(void *instance);
	CSysInstance *AddInstance(void *instance, int id, int savedId = -1);
	bool RemoveAllInstances();

	int GetInstanceID(void *pointer);
	void *IDToPointer(int savedID);

	void SetID(int id) {
		m_ID = id;
	}
	int GetID() const {
		return m_ID;
	}

	int GetSavedID() const {
		return m_SavedID;
	}

	bool IsPersistent() const {
		return m_Persistent;
	}

	AnsiString GetName() const {
		return m_Name;
	}

	void SaveTable(CBGame *Game, CBPersistMgr *PersistMgr);
	void LoadTable(CBGame *Game, CBPersistMgr *PersistMgr);

	void SaveInstances(CBGame *Game, CBPersistMgr *PersistMgr);
	void LoadInstance(void *instance, CBPersistMgr *PersistMgr);

	void InstanceCallback(SYS_INSTANCE_CALLBACK lpCallback, void *lpData);

	void ResetSavedIDs();

	void Dump(FILE *stream);

private:
	int m_NumInst;
	bool m_Persistent;
	CSysClass *m_Next;
	int m_ID;
	int m_SavedID;
	AnsiString m_Name;
	PERSISTBUILD m_Build;
	PERSISTLOAD m_Load;

	typedef std::set<CSysInstance *> Instances;
	Instances m_Instances;

	typedef std::map<void *, CSysInstance *> InstanceMap;
	InstanceMap m_InstanceMap;
};

} // end of namespace WinterMute

#endif


The other day I was having to do some work around the house and what I happen to be working on was just out of my reach. I looked around and saw a kitchen chair that I could stand on. I am not a huge guy, but a weigh in at about 210. I guess that isn't exactly light either. But I thought a chair should hold my weight. I sit on one all the time, I should be able to stand on one! I grabbed the chair, positioned it and got up on top. Sure enough it held my weight. But I didn't know for sure if I should trust it or not.
That simple illustration seems so true about spiritual life as well. If trust a chair to stand on, why do I so often loose my trust in God that he will take care of my every need. The God of the universe says to "trust him with all my heart and not to lean on my own understanding." Too often I look at a situation with my own understanding, not really understanding the situation as much as I think; I have an understanding of my own solution to the problem or situation. I lean on my own understanding of what I need to do to fix it, work it or handle it…and I lack trust in the God of the universe who not only knows and understands my situation but has a plan in it. How do I not trust the God who has created all the universe and upholds it with his hand? How do I not trust the one who loved me so much that he was willing to give his very life for my salvation. If I trust Christ with my salvation, should I not fully trust him to see me through the difficult and the stress-filled times of my life.
The last part of the verse, I guess, is the real challenge for me. Submit to Him and he will make my paths straight. Submitting to Jesus with every aspect of my like is the place that I, and so many of us struggle with. Submitting is letting go of the control, letting go of my own planned scenario, letting go of the way I want it to work out, and letting go of my desires. That is the walk of a true disciple. I struggle with that.
There are some things in my life right now I have had a different vision of and a different version of what it is today. I have had my own understanding and because my understanding and my grasp of reality differ, I struggle with it and it causes me to waiver in my faith. I need to be reminded that I first of all need to submit to Christ every aspect of my life and he will work it out in the end for His glory and for my good. The path will be straight…straight according to his will for my life.


text:
Interview With First-Time Marathoner Sara Hall
A chat with Sara Hall before her USA Cross-Country race this weekend.
February 6, 2015 Caitlyn Pilkington
Photo: Victah Sailer -PhotoRun.net
With two national championships right around the corner, we caught up with elite runner Sara Hall who will be competing in this weekend's USATF cross-country championships in Boulder, Colo.—her final race before her 26.2-mile debut at the LA Marathon next month. Hall won the 2012 cross-country event and placed fourth at the USATF half-marathon championships last month in Houston. Together with husband and Olympic marathoner Ryan Hall, the 31-year-old runner will tackle the LA Marathon, host to the USATF Marathon Championships as well as the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials Marathon, on March 15 with hopes of clocking her fastest miles in the last 10K.
Women's Running: First, good luck this weekend in Boulder at the cross-country championships and then LA next month for your first marathon! How has training been going between those two races and coming off of the half-marathon championships a few weeks ago?
Sara Hall: It's going really well! I'm really thankful after being in the sport for awhile, and there's points where it's going smoother than others and sometimes you don't understand why. I'm just really enjoying the time, and things are really clicking, and I'm recovering really well and absorbing the training, so that's kind of the season I've been in. You think of training for a marathon as this grueling grind of feeling horrible all the time—but it hasn't been like that at all! I'm just excited to feel like it's just been a natural fit for me. And for cross country, I was realizing that my focus has really been the marathon, but a lot of what I was doing was preparing me really well for cross country simultaneously. Just getting really strong. If you're racing at altitude, it just benefits you be getting you really strong. I was just up in Ethiopia at 9,000 feet, so really high altitude and training on grass quite a bit. So I'm hoping coming down to Boulder [for the XC championships] will feel quite a bit easier.
WR: How did your trip to Ethiopia go?
SH: [Ryan and I] were there for three weeks. It went really well—it's kind of becoming our home away from home where we can get away and focus on training. But also it's a place where we can have a fun adventure too. We've been doing this for awhile, so it's just a change of pace where we can start to get to know the culture and people there, so it's something really fun to re-invigorate our training. We are heading back in two weeks for the last part of our LA Marathon prep.
WR: What are some of the ways you remain healthy while training for a larger goal race but also doing smaller races along the way, especially things like cross country that is often on more rugged surfaces?
SH: For me it's helped to have a couple of races—I had the half-marathon championships [last month] and this will be my last race before the marathon. I like having a couple of races leading up to the big one, just because it gives me a little break from the training. I feel like you can get a little bit buried if you just train and never back off at all from the mileage. I've been putting in 110 miles per week, but it hasn't really just nailed me like I thought it would. I've stayed on top of it and my recovery as much as I can. I think that's allowed me to feel like I still have spring in my step.
WR: What does a normal recovery day look like for you?
SH: I definitely try to space out the workouts based on what I need. This buildup I was actually able to fit in one every other day. But then there's one [run] every week that I'm trying to hit really well—usually a long tempo or long long run. Usually I would put in two recovery days in front of it if I could. But I really kind of go by feel. If I feel like I need another easy day, then I'll take it just to really maximize the hard workout. There's some that believe in running more than 110 miles, but I kind of prioritize quality over quantity. But fortunately, I haven't had any really bad periods. One thing I've always done is just eating right after my workouts within 30 minutes to make sure I'm getting in some protein. For me that's in the form of muscle milk powder and their amino powder that I can take with me during my workouts, and that really maximizes recovery. I also use this product called Glutathione, which has really helped my immune system. I used to have really bad allergies, but it's really helped my overall energy as well as minimizing that used to knock me back.
WR: What has been the most surprising thing to you about marathon training?
SH: I was surprised at how much more fuel I needed. I thought I've always done a lot of mileage, so I wouldn't notice a big difference, but I definitely have. My metabolism has just gone through the roof. I can now relate with Ryan [my husband] about getting hangry—it's like "Get out of my way—I need food!" So that's been something I've heard people say, but I didn't expect it to be a big change. But the other thing that's been a pleasant surprise is I didn't know how I would respond to these long 16-mile tempo efforts. Coming off of track training, everything is pretty short. You kind of have this short attention span but are still really focused. So I didn't know if having a longer attention span would come naturally to me. But it actually has—I think just because I've been feeling good, it makes those runs go by really quickly. I think I've learned to give myself more grace and the benefit of the doubt.
WR: How has your husband Ryan's experience with the marathon helped you in your own training?
SH: I've been really thankful because Ryan has kind of coached me through everything. My coach is Steve Magness, but Ryan is the one that's been around day to day and fields my questions. He's really tried to help me with the mentality of the marathon and how that's different than shorter distances. I like to get off the line, ya know, and he says, "No, you need to build into it as you go." Kind of learning the rhythm of it. Also, with track training, you're always maximizing the fastest route you can—run with the wind, downhill. You kind of always prioritize that. But with the marathon, you need to get used to suffering. He will have me going net uphill in my workouts or going the harder way just to get used to grinding. So it's great to have him to learn from, and he's really excited about my future in the sport. He gives me a lot of confidence just from his faith in me.
WR: What is your main goal on race day?
SH: The main goal is to just finish strong and have a good last six miles. I have some other things in mind, but I've seen people's debuts all over the map. I feel I've prepared the best that I can, and that's really all you can do at that point. I really want to focus on busting through that 20-mile mark and have my fastest miles at the end.
WR: And what's the first thing you're going to do after the marathon?
SH: That's a good question! Ryan found this donut place in LA where it's gourmet donuts. Donut Snob, which sounds perfect! I think just meeting up with my parents and my friends and enjoying a few dozen donuts together.
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Game of Thrones Whiskey is Coming
Nancy Hall Published: October 3, 2018
Neilson Barnard/Getty Images
We're still months from the premiere of the final season of Game of Thrones, but when it gets here everyone's drinking game will be kicked up a notch.
That's because White Walker Whiskey is now a thing.
Game of Thrones has spawned beers and wines, and now Johnny Walker is making White Walker Whiskey is honor of the epic TV series.
I mean who other than Johnny Walker could make a White Walker Whiskey? And it's just one in a collection of new single malt scotches from liquor giant Diageo.
In addition to the new whiskey, Diageo is unveiling eight new single malt whiskies inspired by the houses of Westeros and the Night's Watch.
By the time the next season premieres you can support your favorite house with your favorite drink in hand.
From House Targaryen to House Lannister and of course House Stark, there will soon be a single malt for that.
Get All the Info on Every GoT Whiskey
The bottles will run you anywhere from $29.99 to $64.99 and should be available this November.
White Walker Whiskey is available now however and costs $36 per bottle. The bottles are super cool too. When put in the freezer the white and blue ink starts to glow, just like a white walker's eyes do.
And with an epic battle with the white walkers sure to happen in this final season of GoT, it'll be the drink to have on hand for Sunday nights.
Filed Under: game of thrones, hbo, Houses, Johnny Walker, liquor, Nancy Hall, scotch, single malt, themed, Westeros, Whiskey, white walker
Categories: Entertainment, Pop Culture


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Entrance Hymns For Catholic Funeral Mass
"I was a stranger and you welcomed me" – Matthew 25:35 To coincide with Refugee Week, the London Catholic Worker will be holding a vigil outside the Home Office.
The mass was led by. down on the narrow entrance to the building, close to 250 citizens, including the nuns, gathered around in the airy room to "celebrate her legacy". Several clicked photos and.
Holy Week (Latin: Hebdomas Sancta or Hebdomas Maior, "Greater Week") in Christianity is the week just before Easter. In the west, it is also the last week of Lent, and includes Palm Sunday, Holy Wednesday (Spy Wednesday), Maundy Thursday (Holy Thursday), Good Friday (Holy Friday), and Holy Saturday.
Former President Mwai Kibaki and his family at Lee Funeral Home to collect the late Lucy Kibaki. led by President Uhuru Kenyatta yesterday during a requiem mass at Consolata Shrine Catholic Church.
Prayers, Novenas & Hymns: Deceased / Faithful Departed. Baptized Infants (Deceased) O almighty and most merciful God, who vouchsafest to all children baptized, departing this world, eternal life, without any merit of theirs, as we believe thou hast done this day to the soul of this child: grant us, we beseech thee, O Lord, by the intercession of the blessed Mary, ever a virgin, and of all thy.
A History of the U.S. Military Cemetery. Hamm, Luxembourg. Written by. Col. R. Warren Davis. Superintendent; 1946 – 1969. The little village of Hamm, in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, lying between Germany, France and Belgium, took its hallowed place in American history on December 29, 1944, as the forces of the enemy made their last major bid for victory on the Western front and were.
before travelling to the Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery in Chai Wan. An intimate mass, hosted by vicar-general Dominic Chan Chi-ming, was held for loved ones at a chapel, where the group prayed, sang.
The Funeral Pall is a reminder of our Baptism into the Christian Community and now of our Baptism into our new life with Christ. We encourage family members to take part in placing the pall on the coffin at the beginning of the Funeral Mass and assist in its removal as.
Grey's Anatomy Losing My Religion Music Currently she is the executive producer for Grey's Anatomy. She's won numerous awards for acting and choreography. Her latest project is a multimedia production of dance, video, music and visual. Breaking News, Latest News and Current News from FOXNews.com. Breaking news and video. Latest Current News: U.S., World, Entertainment, Health, Business, Technology. Sources Of African
Spurning the ornate marble mausoleum where the remains of his predecessor bishops lie, Cardinal Timothy Manning, who headed the Roman Catholic Archdiocese. came from Ireland for the funeral. The.
The service begins with the hymn, "Where You There When They Crucified My Lord. Joseph of Arimathea had Christ's body placed in his own tomb with a large stone covering the entrance and soldiers.
Definitions of words related to churches and Christianity. Ecclesiastical Terms. Christianity is an institution of extraordinary duration and complexity (not to mention insularity) and, over the past 2000 years, has developed its own extensive vocabulary that is largely incomprehensible to laypersons.
First: 2 Chronicles 36 – The priests and people were unfaithful to God, but still God kept sending messengers to them. Eventually they burned down the palaces of Jerusalem, and looted it. The people went into exile in Babylon until the Lord's mercy called King Cyrus of Persia to build a house at Jerusalem and to take the faithful ones with him.
Welcome to Good Shepherd's home on the Internet. We thank you for making a "virtual visit", here on our Website. We are situated in the northwest corner of Genesee County in a small town called Montrose.
When asked about Anyone Who Had a Heart playing during the funeral. Catholic requiem mass presided over by the Right Reverend Thomas Williams, Auxiliary Bishop of Liverpool, psalms and biblical.
GUIDELINES FOR FUNERAL MUSIC Diocese of San Diego "We are indeed buried with Christ through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory
A Requiem or Requiem Mass, also known as Mass for the dead (Latin: Missa pro defunctis) or Mass of the dead (Latin: Missa defunctorum), is a Mass in the Catholic Church offered for the repose of the soul or souls of one or more deceased persons, using a particular form of the Roman Missal.It is usually, but not necessarily, celebrated in the context of a funeral.
Once a month, as I drive from Plymouth to serve the Divine Liturgy – the Mass – in Torquay. In this light, consider Tavener's 1993 Hymn to Athene, which was popularised at Princess Diana's funeral.
More than 250 people, including former classmates, relatives and friends, attended the funeral mass for Neve Lafferty at St Joseph's Catholic Church in her home. which began with the hymn I Watch.
Sources Of African Traditional Religion African Traditional Religion: A Definition (1973), Omosade Awolalu in Yoruba Belief and Sacrificial Rites and John Mbiti in The Concept of God in Africa (1970) are a few examples of postcolonial scholars of religion who have resisted and denounced colonial idea that Africans do not know God. Dec 05, 2009 · Religious traditions of Africa Most
Some 2,000 mourners packed a Catholic church to honor. into the church as a choir sang hymns. "She would want to say to us today, 'Enjoy life,"' said Bishop Gerald Kicanas, who presided over the.
17.05: David Cameron is to miss the service due to father's funeral. 16.55: Jonathan Wynne-Jones again. Police were operating airport-style security at the entrance to the Catholic higher education.
We had Mass in the Basilica of the Annunciation in honor of the girl. In Magdala, we lunched in a fine restaurant then went out onto the sea in excursion boats, drifting in hymns and emotions of.
Father Edward Danylo Evanko was. I'm not a Roman Catholic, you know that? What are the differences? In a sense, it doesn't matter, and, in a sense, it matters very much. Well, it does.
"The St. Michael Hymnal is a trustworthy hymnal to enhance the solemnity and sacredness of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. I have promoted the St. Michael Hymnal in the Diocese of Lincoln and many parishes have begun using this hymnal with success.
Jun 25, 2010 · Posted June 25, 2010 by admin. SCROLL DOWN FOR EARLIER NEWSLETTERS. The latest Newsletter can be found on the front page. Please click here to complete the Mega Youth Poll ( For people aged between 13-19 years old). Please click here to complete the Mega Youth Poll ( For people aged between 13-19 years old). LENT 2017
Marguerite Bourgeoys Catholic Church. Bible used during mass. It's salvageable, but only if removed soon from the damp building, he says. Patches of water remain on the tile floor underneath the.
Borgia Faith And Fear Season 2 Download Second Act (2018) subtitles. Download subtitles in English from the source. Episode 2: Edward II – The Greatest Traitor "The first thing that struck me once I'd got over the fact I wasn't being asked to play Shakespeare's Richard II, was how funny Mike Walker's script was. Dr Valentina Borgia, a specialist in paleolithic hunting
A three-minute drive from that house, shooting began around 1 p.m., first in the main entrance, where a large. trying to stay strong for them. Amid hymns sang in Dene by the standing-room only.
After losing her brother to AIDS, in 1989, she wrote her opera Plague Mass, which points the finger at a hypocritical clergy who preach caring for the weakest while viewing AIDS as the wages of sin.
A selection of inspirational movies about the environment will be featured at the Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival, which will be Oct. 21 at Liberty Hall, 644 Mass. This is the. please use.
Francis traveled to Cuba's fourth-largest city, Holguin, and celebrated a Mass where Cuban rhythms mixed with church hymns under a scorching. of the 35th president's funeral. The parish dates back.
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Random rolls of film from past few months. All shot on Leica camera and Kodak film. I love shooting film because it slows me down and forces me to think more about the shot. Very refreshing in the middle of the wedding season.
My friends got engaged so we drove from Portland to Mt. Hood to watch the sunset and take some photos. I didn't bring my cameras, just my Leica M2 and I shot few random frames on Kodak Portra 400 film. Oregon did not disappoint.


It was a succes : Mainton 2016 in Bahrain from Dec. 12 till 15 !
Tanajib from Al-Khobar Saudi Arabia - Lubretec's representative for Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Bahrain - welcomed a vast number of visitors on the stand at Mainton 2016 last week. At the inauguration evening on the 11 th we had even the misiter of Oil , H. E. Shaikh Mohamed bin Khalifa Al Khalifa on visit.
On the Tanajib stand Lubretec showed and demonstrated the new LUSTOR : Lubrication Storage System. Vistors from Saudi Aramco, Sasref, Sabic, Satorp, Bapco and many other companies showed interest in installing the LUSTOR system in their plant. We are looking forward to this !
MaintCon is a premier conference in the Gulf Region organized and conducted by the maintenance and reliability professionals of the GSMR supported by BSE designed for all maintenance and reliability professionals working in the GCC. The conference included exhibits from service providers and vendors from around the globe as well as those in our region, adding value through diversity and exposure to recent developments in our profession.
Dubai, April 2016, Maintrel Reliability Conference.
During this well attented conference in the heart of the Middle East - Dubai, Lubretec presented a paper on Lubrication Reliability.
This conference was attended by plant and maintenance managers, reliability engineers and key responsables for maintenance and reliability management. Among them, people from Aramco, Borouge, Yasref, Maaden to name a few. Lubretec received special congratulations from the conference chairman because of the way Lubrication Reliability and the impact of Lubrication on relaibility was presented in the paper.
At the Maintrel exhibiton Lubretec had a stand next to two other Belgian companies : I-Care en Equa Belgium. The new LUSTOR LUBRICATION STORAGE SYSTEM was launched at this occasion and was well received by the visitors from all over the Middle-East.
March 2016 , the Bearing Reliability Conference and Expo will be organized in Dusseldorf Germany.This is a specialized conference on Bearing Reliability in all its aspects, including Bearing Lubrication. We invite all our Middle East Customers and Partners to participate and visist the Expo where Lubretec will have stand. There are special discounts for group participation and support for groups coming from the Middle East.


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Q: Hudi Failed to delete for commit time for certain records I have a COW Table and able to insert and update the records using Glue ETL with out any issues. How ever when i try to delete the records for some records i am getting the following error:
  An error occurred while calling o115.pyWriteDynamicFrame.
  : org.apache.hudi.exception.HoodieUpsertException: Failed to delete for commit time 20220408160018 at org.apache.hudi.table.action.commit.SparkDeleteHelper.execute(SparkDeleteHelper.java:119)at org.apache.hudi.table.action.commit.SparkDeleteCommitActionExecutor.execute(SparkDeleteCommitActionExecutor.java:46)

Not sure why it is throwing this error while trying to delete some records but not for others.
Here is the Hudi write configs i am using
hudiWriteConfig = {
    'className' : 'org.apache.hudi',
    'hoodie.table.name': hudi_table_name,
    'hoodie.datasource.write.operation': 'delete',
    'hoodie.datasource.write.table.type': 'COPY_ON_WRITE',
    'hoodie.datasource.write.precombine.field': 'date',
    'hoodie.datasource.write.recordkey.field': 'name',
    'hoodie.datasource.write.partitionpath.field': 'name:SIMPLE,year:SIMPLE,month:SIMPLE,day:SIMPLE',
    'hoodie.datasource.write.keygenerator.class': 'org.apache.hudi.keygen.CustomKeyGenerator',
    'hoodie.deltastreamer.keygen.timebased.timestamp.type': 'MIXED',
    'hoodie.deltastreamer.keygen.timebased.input.dateformat': 'yyyy-mm-dd',
    'hoodie.deltastreamer.keygen.timebased.output.dateformat':'yyyy/MM/dd'
}


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Glasheen () is a suburb in south central Cork city in Ireland. The area earned its name from the stream that flows through it, under the Glasheen Road. Glasheen means small stream in Irish. The local schools include Glasheen B.N.S and Glasheen G.N.S.

People
The former Taoiseach Jack Lynch is buried in St. Finbarrs cemetery on the Glasheen Road. Eddie Hobbs, the TV presenter on "Show me the Money" was born and reared in Glasheen, as was RTÉ presenter Bill O'Herlihy.

Glasheen BNS past pupils include sportsmen Jimmy Barry-Murphy (dual Cork hurling and football star), Michael Bradley (coach to the Connacht Rugby Team), and Neal Horgan (former player with Cork City Football Club).

See also
 List of towns and villages in Ireland

References

Geography of Cork (city)
Towns and villages in County Cork


on the surface, is a rebellion against the "terminally unimaginative" asystemity — cheap, cheating, "organic" (derisively), unworthy of a mind; systemity's quest for "honest intelligence" and complete top-down understanding (no heuristics, no emergence) may be a typical reaction ("always on the rise but never winning") or "new conservatism" (curiously inverted: old conservatism idealized organismal complexity, scolded mechanistic civilization) but also a reminder of things it'd be unwise to forget. ■ "World has betrayed what made it what it is": we're past being able to reproduce much of our ancestors' technology — a lot of the systemic tool stacks, neglected, have decayed beyond repair. Even the best systemic contraptions look amazingly crude and simplistic to us (ironically so, as systemity claims to be "synonymous to complexity on its meaningful side"); whatever unevolved ware remains in use is seen as more limited and unreliable than it is — or, worse, as a contagion to avoid (a single systemic tool you compile triggers others to service it). ■ Systemity wants to anchor to a solid foundation with unbreakably inferable, verifiable, understandable chains — but foundations drift, and links that are strong today are doubted to dust tomorrow: rigidity spells doom. One answer to this is head-on eschatology: admittedly we can't connect all the systemic dots yet but that's because we still know too little, our understandings a mess of crude shortcuts; in some sudden future clarity, dots will connect themselves into a framework so transcendingly rigid as to reveal a true paradoxal freedom.


With the repeat occurrence of smog in China, many parents call for installation of air purifiers in classrooms. Some parents even offered to pay for the purifiers. However it is refused by school authorities. It has caused hot debate over whether air purifiers should enter schools.
Experts say air purifiers on the market are mostly designed for homes or offices. It still needs evaluation to know if it is useful in classrooms. Education authorities in Shanghai said they will coordinate with relating departments and work for a feasible plan.
Meanwhile, reports said a test has been held in a school in Beijing. After using the air purifier, the level of PM 2.5 in the classroom decreased, but with dozens of students in the enclosed room, the dense of CO2 has passed the healthy standards.


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Home/ India/Ludhiana court blast: Intelligence agencies had issued 3 alerts of terror attacks in Punjab
Ludhiana court blast: Intelligence agencies had issued 3 alerts of terror attacks in Punjab
Intelligence agencies had issued at least three alerts this year about the possibility of Pakistan's ISI and pro-Khalistan terror outfits carrying out multiple terror attacks in Punjab. The latest alert was issued on Thursday.
Intelligence agencies had received inputs and issued three alerts this year about the possibility of Pakistan's ISI and pro-Khalistan terror outfits carrying out multiple terror attacks on sensitive buildings and crowded areas in Punjab. The latest alert was issued on Thursday when the Ludhiana District Court blast occurred.
The explosion claimed the life of one person, while five others were injured. The deceased is yet to be identified.
The alerts were issued on July 9, December 7 and December 23 — on the day of the blast. The alerts also mentioned that IED could be used in the attacks. Pakistan-backed Babbar Khalsa is suspected to be behind the Ludhiana court blast, according to sources.
According to the police, the explosion took place in a washroom on the second floor of the District and Sessions Court complex in Ludhiana around 12:22 pm.
The forensic team and the Bomb Detection & Disposal Squad, after preliminary analysis, have ascertained, that a "fairly good quantity of high-grade explosives had been used" in the Ludhiana court blast on Thursday. "High-grade explosives are usually PETN or RDX," a source said.
by indiatoday
Karnataka Assembly debates contentious anti-conversion bill; law minister says previous Siddaramaiah govt initiated proposal
Trouble in Uttarakhand Congress: Harish Rawat, top state leaders to meet party high command in Delhi today


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Home Perspectives United States' secret intervention aims to prevent an Islamic solution to Somali...
United States' secret intervention aims to prevent an Islamic solution to Somali problems
M A Shaikh
Somalis have one language, one religion (Islam), and constitute a single ethnic group, and should not have found great –" let alone insurmountable –" difficulties in being united and living in peace together. Yet their country is in ruins, split into Somaliland, a former British protectorate in the north, and Somalia, a former Italian colony, in the south. Somaliland, which seceded after General Siad Barre was toppled in 1991, is in relative peace despite not being recognised by a single other government, while Somalia is ravaged by continuing civil war. The real problem is that Somalis in all regions are dominated by clan-divisions that are exploited to destroy the advantages of their religious and ethnic solidarity by those seeking political, business and other benefits. These include foreign powers, such as the US, which is determined to undermine the adoption of a political solution based on Islam, which is needed to generate the unity that can take the entire region out of its current turmoil.
There is little doubt that both Somalia and Somaliland need external assistance, not only to restore peace, security and the "failed state", but also to cope with the economic breakdown and poverty that are destroying the lives of many Somalis. The devastating drought now affecting the whole Horn of Africa has made friendly intervention all the more urgent. But although the "failed" Somali state was a member of the Arab League, the Organisation of Islamic Conference and the African Union, the members of those entities are not exactly eager to come to its rescue. In fact, some of them, such as Yemen, Djibouti and Ethiopia, are supporting the current US military intervention in Somalia, on the side of warlords fighting Islamic groups.
The US government initially tried to keep its military intervention secret, but was forced to admit it, trying to justify it by claiming that it was preventing al-Qa'ida from establishing a foothold in Somalia. A senior US-government official quoted in western newspapers on May 18, for instance, explained that "the president is not going to allow Somalia to become a safe haven for terrorists." Referring to al-Qa'ida in particular he added: "Currently there is great instability in Somalia. The US is concerned that in this environment al-Qa'ida may use Somalia as a base for terrorist activities around the globe. Around the world the US will work with regional and international partners to prevent countries from becoming terrorist safe havens." However, the US officials and spokesmen are determined not to name the group of warlords they are backing.
But it is obvious that the group of warlords and powerful businessmen Washington is funding and arming to fight the Islamic-oriented group, known as the Islamic Courts, is the self-styled Alliance fo the Restoration of Peace and Counter-terrorism (RPC), which is fighting for control of the capital, Mogadishu. In fact it is the Shari'ah Courts that provides the only limited health services and schooling in the capital. As its name indicates, the group runs Shari'ah courts that also provide the only judicial service available in the South. The group is accused of Islamic extremism because the courts apply the Shari'ah, even though there is no secular legislation in force in the entire country. The real extremists and terrorists, however, are the RPC and its American backers, who have brought more strife and bloodshed to Somalia.
In the confrontation between the two sides in mid-May alone at least 130 people were killed and 300 injured: an indication of the scale of the mayhem the US military intervention is bound to bring in its wake unless it is stopped. It is not strange that this intervention has been seen to have "striking parallels" with the invasion of Afghanistan, as, for instance, an editorial in the British Daily Telegraph on May 19 has done.
Under the heading "Afghanistan in the Horn", the editorial said: "There are striking parallels between Afghanistan before the Taliban seized power and the present state of Somalia. In each instance, Islamist forces promised to bring order to a chaotic situation and Washington decided to intervene after a long period of neglect. After September 2001 the US invaded Afghanistan to remove a government that was allegedly providing a haven for Usama bin Laden and the al-Qa'ida network. Today, it is believed to be financing arms supplies through Yemen and Ethiopia to a secular alliance in Somalia that is fighting Islamic militias for control of the capital, Mogadishu."
Another notable comparison between the two is the failure of the interventions to bring the peace and tranquillity the Americas claim are their intention. As in Afghanistan, the intervention is very unpopular in Somalia. In Mogadishu, for instance, large crowds have demonstrated against it, denouncing the US government as anti-Islamic and the warlords whom it is funding as traitors. "We do not want to be ruled by warlords taking money from Americans," they shouted. The interim government, headed by Abdullahi Yusuf, which is based in Kenya (where it was formed) and in the town of Baidoa in the south, is also against the intervention, calling on Washington to withdraw its military backing for the RCP and to negotiate with it. In fact, western analysts agree that Washington should back the interim administration and withdraw its support for the warlords, with some arguing that what Somalia needs is "development support" rather than a partisan infusion of more arms.
Western analysts are also unanimous in their belief that Washington's current intervention will fail, as its disastrous intervention in Somalia did in 1993. It was president Clinton who ordered troops into the country then, but was forced to withdraw them after the shooting down of two Black Hawk helicopters and the deaths of 18 American soldiers. Interestingly, some of the warlords now backed by Bush were the targets of that assault.
But, for the current US intervention to be halted, the interim government needs to curb its enthusiasm for secularism. With Somalia so divided, the most reliable policy to restore peace and tranquillity is to give the Islamic solution a chance.
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To celebrate this, the producers are holding a special prize draw: any patron purchasing a ticket on 10 April at any venue on the forthcoming tour will be entered into a draw to win a luxury VIP experience to enjoy alongside their trip, including a hotel stay, dinner, interval drinks and a meet and greet with the cast.
Since opening in September 2011, the first ever UK tour has taken an unprecedented £40,000,000 at theatres across the country, wowing audiences and playing to standing ovations and 5 star reviews. It has also smashed box office records in Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dublin, Leeds and has just finished its run at the Regent's Theatre in Stoke-On-Trent, where it was the most successful show at the venue ever.
The tour will visit Canterbury, Woking and Manchester in 2013 and then a new tour will launch at the Bristol Hippodrome in March 2014, before setting pulses racing in Sheffield, Newcastle, Southampton, Dublin, Belfast, Glasgow, Milton Keynes and Oxford, with further dates to be announced in September.
Written by Eleanor Bergstein, script writer of the phenomenally successful 1987 film, the production features all the much-loved characters and original dialogue from the iconic film with exciting extra scenes added in.
The tantalising dance sequences and brand new choreography come alive on stage, set to all the hits from the unforgettable soundtrack, including Do You Love Me?, Hungry Eyes and the Academy Award Winning (I've Had) The Time of My Life, plus many additional songs, making the show a truly extraordinary live experience.
Over six million people worldwide have now seen this sensational production, with the London show alone having been seen by over one million audience members. Having opened in London in 2006, Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story On Stage was sold out six months in advance. The show played for five triumphant years at the Aldwych Theatre, breaking all box office records with advance ticket sales of over £15 million, which made it the fastest ever selling West End show.