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HomePosts tagged 'Judaism'
Judaism: FAQ
January 19, 2010 January 19, 2010 Tabitha Uncategorized failed messiah, heaven and hell in Judaism, Jesus, Jewish beliefs, Jewish messianic prophecies, Jews, Judaism, messianic prophecies, salvation
Sometimes it's hard for people to get accurate information on Judaism. The increase in Christian Evangelical sites which pose as "messianic judaism" exacerbates this problem.
So this is the first in what will be a regular feature: questions about Judaism and Jews – along with clear, candid answers.
If anyone reading this has their own query, please feel welcome to submit it, and I'll post an answer on Friday, when this FAQ post will appear again.
For now, though, here are a few very common questions about the Jewish faith:
Q: What are the Jewish messianic prophecies that Jesus did not fulfill?
A: There are 23 Jewish messianic prophecies. They must all be fulfilled – and in one normal, mortal lifetime. There is no 'second coming' in Judaism!
To qualify as maschiach, a person must thus fulfill them all *before* he dies.
Here are the actual prophecies:
* The Sanhedrin will be re-established (Isaiah 1:26)
* Once he is King, leaders of other nations will look to him for guidance. (Isaiah 2:4)
* The whole world will worship the One God of Israel (Isaiah 2:17)
* He will be descended from King David (Isaiah 11:1) via King Solomon (1 Chron. 22:8-10)
* The Moshiach will be a man of this world, an observant Jew with "fear of God" (Isaiah 11:2)
*****In other words – this must all be accomplished in a human lifetime*****
* Evil and tyranny will not be able to stand before his leadership (Isaiah 11:4)
* Knowledge of God will fill the world (Isaiah 11:9)
* He will include and attract people from all cultures and nations (Isaiah 11:10)
* All Israelites will be returned to their homeland (Isaiah 11:12)
* Death will be swallowed up forever (Isaiah 25:8)
* There will be no more hunger or illness, and death will cease (Isaiah 25:8)
* All of the dead will rise again (Isaiah 26:19)
* The Jewish people will experience eternal joy and gladness (Isaiah 51:11)
* He will be a messenger of peace (Isaiah 52:7)
* Nations will end up recognizing the wrongs they did to Israel (Isaiah 52:13-53:5)
* The peoples of the world will turn to the Jews for spiritual guidance (Zechariah 8:23)
* The ruined cities of Israel will be restored (Ezekiel 16:55)
* Weapons of war will be destroyed (Ezekiel 39:9)
* The Temple will be rebuilt (Ezekiel 40) resuming many of the suspended mitzvot
* He will then perfect the entire world to serve God together (Zephaniah 3:9)
* Jews will know the Torah without Study (Jeremiah 31:33)
* He will give you all the desires of your heart (Psalms 37:4)
* He will take the barren land and make it abundant and fruitful (Isaiah 51:3, Amos 9:13-15, Ezekiel 36:29-30, Isaiah 11:6-9).
Q:How do Jews achieve salvation?
A: As there is no concept of 'original sin' in Judaism, there isn't really any concept of needing to be 'saved'. You'll never, ever hear any Jew speak of this, in fact.
Judaism teaches that we are all born with a divine spark within us, and that we are born pure and innocent. It is entirely possible for every person to draw closer to G-d, and he has provided us with ways of doing this.
For Jews, that 'way' is studying Torah and applying it to our everyday life, and in general, simply by behaving with compassion and integrity to our fellow men.
Non Jews are advised to follow the seven Noahide Laws.
Nobody is expected to be 'perfect'. Only G-d can ever achieve 'perfection'.
What we as humans must do is learn from our mistakes, sincerely repent when we have offended either G-d or any fellow human, and to make amends to anyone we have hurt. We must try our best – and our actions count more than our beliefs. Thus Judaism says that the 'righteous of all nations will have a share in the world to come'.
We don't believe in 'hell', so we don't act with honour to avoid 'punishment' in the afterlife. Rather, we try to do the right thing purely because it *is* the right thing to do
In Judaism we have a concept called 'tikkun olam' or 'repairing the world'. We try to make the world a tiny bit better through our own actions.
Julie Burchill Set To Join The Tribe…?
June 19, 2009 June 19, 2009 Tabitha Britain, Israel, Jewish, Judaism, Media, Religion Anti semitism, Conversion, Israel, Jewish, Jews, Judaism, Julie Burchill
Feisty British journalist Julie Burchill is apparently considering becoming a member of the Jewish family. A staunch Israel supporter, she has now become a Friend Of Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue.
Ms Burchill has been enjoying Shabbat services there for a month, and has also started studying Hebrew.
The writer, known for her acerbic wit, says: "I first thought about converting when I was 25 . I will be 50 next month so it's hardly a flash in the pan. At a time of rising and increasingly vicious antisemitism from both left and right, becoming Jewish especially appeals to me.
"Added to the fact that I admire Israel so much, it does seem to make sense — assuming of course that the Jews will have me!"
And she also added: 'Jews rock!'
Synagogue Chairperson Prue Baker says the congregation has welcomed Ms Burchill "…as we welcome all who share our approach to Judaism and wish to be associated with us. We are an inclusive community and have many Friends who may not be Jewish."
Another congregant confided that "Julie has told several people that she's enjoying the services. She's amusing and fun to have around but she's keeping a fairly low profile."
Whether she convert or not, Julie Burchill is a wonderful ally to have; she is a forthright and perceptive observer and it's great to know that she recognises Israel as being the only true democracy in the Middle East and a nation worthy of full support. So welcome to the tribe Julie, if you go for conversion – and if not, welcome as a good friend!
It's Like Google, But Kosher
June 18, 2009 Tabitha Internet, Israel, Jewish, Judaism, Media, Religion Google, Internet, Israel, Jewish Shabbat, Jews, Judaism, Koogle, Kosher, Kugel, Online, Orthodox Jews, Religion, sabbath, search engine
And the award for the cutest story of the week goes to the creation of Koogle – a kosher version of Google!
This search engine has been developed in Israel, for use by Orthodox Jews.
'Koogle' is a combination of 'kugel", which is a Jewish pudding, and of course Google, the search engine. The brain behind Koogle is Yossi Altman. Koogle filters out religiously objectionable material, and has gained approval from Orthodox rabbis.
"This is a kosher alternative for ultra-Orthodox Jews so that they may surf the Internet," Yossi Altman told Reuters, Jerusalem.
"The site was developed in part at the encouragement of rabbis who sought a solution to the needs of ultra-Orthodox Jews to browse the Web particularly for vital services," he added.
On the Jewish Shabbat – Friday sundown until Saturday sundown – Jews are not supposed to engage in any form of work of business activity. So if anyone tries to use Koogle during the Shabbat, it crashes automatically!
Koogle. You gotta love it!
Kugel is also pretty fab…
Jewish Fundamentalism?
June 5, 2009 June 5, 2009 Tabitha Jewish, Judaism, Religion, Theology Fundamentalism, Fundamentalist, Jews, Judaism, Theology
An interesting post appeared on the Chabad site this week; I thought some readers of this blog might enjoy it:
By Rabbi Aron Moss
Question: I was wondering if there is such a person as a Jewish fundamentalist? If so, what percent of Jews would or could be classified as Fundamentalist? And, what would their core beliefs be?
Answer: I'm not sure what your definition of fundamentalist is, but here's mine: A fundamentalist is someone who believes that theirs is the only true path, and anyone who does not follow their ways is evil.
The fundamentalist sees only two options for the rest of humanity – join us or suffer the consequences. Other nations are there to either missionize or destroy, and any belief system that does not conform with theirs is to be eradicated.
A fundamentalist is not the same as an extremist. There are those who are passionate or even extreme about their own beliefs, whether a born-again Christian, devout Muslim, radical liberal or die-hard atheist. We can debate the pros and cons of each of these belief systems, but a strong conviction alone doesn't make you a fundamentalist.
It is when you cannot accept that there may be another road to truth, that not everyone has to fit in to your own world view – that is when you have strayed into the realm of fundamentalism.
For this reason, Judaism can never tolerate fundamentalism. Quite simply, we don't believe that Judaism is for everyone. Jewish thought is comfortable with the belief that there are many paths to G-d; Judaism is the path for Jews, and non-Jews can find Him in different ways.
They can live a moral and good life without keeping the laws or sharing the beliefs of Judaism. Anyone can join Judaism by converting, but this is not necessary – a non-Jew can be fulfilled, close to G-d, and earn a place in heaven without becoming Jewish.
I think it is this universalistic approach that has saved Judaism from the plague of fundamentalism. Don't get me wrong – there are certainly Jewish extremists, ratbags, troublemakers and whackos. But I don't know of any significant group of Jewish fundamentalists. Judaism poses a challenge to the fundamentalist: If you really love G-d so much, shouldn't you also love all His children, who are created in His image?
Rabbi Aron Moss teaches Talmud, practical Judaism and Kabbalah in Sydney, Australia.
Answering The Apologists For Islam
June 1, 2009 June 1, 2009 Tabitha Ancient Israel, Christianity, Christians, Islam, Islamic Jihad, Islamic Terrorism, Israel, Jewish, Judaism, Palestinian Terrorism, Religion, Sharia, Theology Christian bible, Christianity, Crusades, Hebrews, history, Infidels, Islam, Israelites, Jews, Jihad, Judaism, Mohammed, new testament, Quran, Raymond Ibrahim, Sharia, Tanakh, Theology, Torah
Those who seek to justify Islamic terrorism, often do so by stating that both Judaism and Christianity also have violent histories. Islam, they insist, is being 'unfairly' singled out, even though the other Abrahamic faiths are also inherently violent.
The two favourite and increasingly weary examples offered are the slaying by the Hebrews of the Canaanites (Judaism) and the bloody crimes of the Crusades (Christianity).
And this tactic by apologists for Islamic terrorism often works. It helps shore up the pervasive yet false premise that Islam is 'just like other religions'. Or, to put it another way: it is not Islam that causes Islamic terrorism, but rather human nature.
One of the best responses I've read to this apologist tactic, comes courtesy of writer and expert on radical Islam, Raymond Ibrahim. Here is what he says on the issue of whether Judaism and Christianity also promote violence in the same manner as Islam (emphasis is mine):
"Such questions reveal a great deal of confusion between history and theology, between the temporal actions of men and the immutable words of G-d. The fundamental error being that Jewish andChristian history—which is violent—is being conflated with Islamic theology—which commands violence.
Of course all religions have had their fair share of violence and intolerance towards the "other." Whether this violence is ordained by G-d or whether warlike man merely wished it thus is the all-important question.
The Israelites' violence is an interesting case in point. G-d clearly ordered the Hebrews to annihilate the Canaanites and surrounding peoples. Such violence is therefore an expression of G-d's will, for good or ill. Regardless, all the historic violence committed by the Hebrews and recorded in the Tanakh is just that—history. It happened; G-d commanded it.
But it revolved around a specific time and place and was directed against a specific people. At no time did such violence go on to become standardized or codified into Jewish law (i.e. the Halakha).
This is where Islamic violence is unique. Though similar to the violence of the Tanakh —commanded by G-d and manifested in history—certain aspects of Islamic violence have become standardized in Islamic law (i.e. the Sharia) and apply at all times. Thus while the violence found in the Koran is in fact historical, its ultimate significance is theological. Consider the following Koranic verses:
Then, when the sacred months have passed, slay the pagans wherever you find them—take them [captive], besiege them, and prepare for them each ambush. But if they repent and establish worship and pay the poor-due [i.e. submit to Islam], then leave their way free. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful (9:5).
Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger [i.e. Islamic law], nor acknowledge the religion of Truth [i.e. Islam], from the people of the book [i.e. Jews and Christians], until they pay tribute with willing submission, and feel themselves utterly subdued (9:29).
As with Tanakh verses where G-d commanded the Hebrews to attack and slay their neighbors, these Koranic verses also have a historical context. Allah (through Muhammad) first issued these commandments after the Arab tribes had finally unified under the banner of Islam and were preparing to invade their Christian and pagan neighbors.
But unlike the bellicose verses and anecdotes of the Tanakh these so-called "sword-verses" subsequently became fundamental to Islam's relationship to both the "people of the book" (i.e. Christians and Jews) and the "pagans" (i.e. Hindus, Buddhists, animists, etc).
In fact, based on the sword-verses (as well as countless other Koranic verses and oral traditions attributed to Muhammad), Islam's scholars, sheikhs, muftis, imams, and qadis throughout the ages have all reached the consensus—binding on the entire Muslim community—that Islam is to be at perpetual war with the non-Muslim world, until the former subsumes the latter. (It is widely held that the sword-verses alone have abrogated some 200 of the Koran's more tolerant verses.)
Famous Muslim scholar and "father of modern history" Ibn Khaldun articulates the dichotomy between jihad and defensive warfare thus:
In the Muslim community, the holy war [i.e. jihad] is a religious duty, because of the universalism of the Muslim mission and the obligation to convert everybody to Islam either by persuasion or by force...
The other religious groups did not have a universal mission, and the holy war was not a religious duty for them, save only for purposes of defense... They are merely required to establish their religion among their own people.
That is why the Israeilites after Moses and Joshua remained unconcerned with royal authority [e.g. a "caliphate"]. Their only concern was to establish their religion [not spread it to the nations]…
But Islam is under obligation to gain power over other nations (The Muqudimmah, vol. 1 pg. 473, emphasis added).
Even when juxtaposed to their Jewish and Christian counterparts, the Islamic sword-verses are distinctive for using language that transcends time and space, inciting believers to attack and slay non-believers today no less than yesterday.
G-d commanded the Hebrews to kill Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—all specific peoples rooted to a specific time and place. At no time did G-d give an open-ended command for the Hebrews, and by extension their descendants the Jews, to fight and kill gentiles.
On the other hand, though Islam's original enemies were, like Judaism's, historical (e.g. Christian Byzantines and pagan Persians), the Koran rarely singles them out by their proper names. Instead, Muslims were (and are) commanded to fight the people of the book—"until they pay tribute with willing submission and feel themselves utterly subdued" (9:29) and to "slay the pagans wherever you find them" (9:5).
The two conjunctions "until" and "wherever" demonstrate the perpetual nature of these commandments: there are still "people of the book" who have yet to be "utterly subdued" (especially in the Americas, Europe, and Israel) and "pagans" to be slain "wherever" one looks (especially Asia and sub-Saharan Africa).
Aside from the divine words of the Koran, Muhammad's pattern of behavior—his "Sunna" or "example"—is an extremely important source of legislation in Islam. Muslims are exhorted to emulate Muhammad in all walks of life: "You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern [of conduct]" (33:21).
And Muhammad's pattern of conduct vis-à-vis non-Muslims is quite explicit. Sarcastically arguing against the concept of "moderate" Islam, terrorist Osama bin Laden, who enjoys half the Arab-Islamic world's support per a recent al-Jazeera poll, portrays the prophet's Sunna thus:
"Moderation" is demonstrated by our prophet who did not remain more than three months in Medina without raiding or sending a raiding party into the lands of the infidels to beat down their strongholds and seize their possessions, their lives, and their women" (from The Al-Qaeda Reader).
In fact, based on both the Koran and Muhammad's Sunna, pillaging and plundering infidels, enslaving their children, and placing their women in concubinage is well founded (e.g. 4:24, 4:92, 8:69, 24:33, 33:50, etc.).
While law-centric and legalistic, Judaism has no such equivalent to the Sunna; the words and deeds of the patriarchs, though recorded in the Tanakh never went on to be part of Jewish law. Neither Abraham's "white-lies," nor Jacob's perfidy, nor Moses' short-fuse, nor David's adultery, nor Solomon's philandering ever went on to instruct Jews. They were merely understood to be historical actions perpetrated by fallible men who were often punished by G-d for their less than ideal behavior."
And regarding the Crusades, Raymond Ibrahim points out:
"In fact, far from suggesting anything intrinsic to Christianity, the Crusades ironically help better explain Islam. For what the Crusades demonstrated once and for all is that irrespective of religious teachings—indeed, in the case of these so-called "Christian" Crusades, despite them—man is truly predisposed to violence and intolerance. But this begs the question: If this is how Christians behaved—who are commanded to love, bless, and do good to their enemies who hate, curse, and persecute them—how much more can be expected of Muslims who, while sharing the same violent tendencies, are further commanded by the Deity to attack, kill, and plunder non-believers?"
Read more of Raymond Ibrahim's excellent articles here
"Rabbi, How Can I Be Jewish If I Don't Believe In G-d…?"
May 27, 2009 May 27, 2009 Tabitha Jewish, Judaism, Religion, Uncategorized Atheism, Jewish, Jewish Atheist, Jewish Chronicle, Jewish identity, Judaism, Rabbi
The Jewish Chronicle has introduced a fab new feature. Each week, it puts a reader's question to two Rabbis. Here is the most recent one; I think it will be of some interest to both Jews and non Jews alike, as it is on the topic of Jewish identity:
Question: I was brought up Jewish, I am a Zionist, and I am proud to feel Jewish. However, I might not believe in God, I cringe at many practices undertaken by our (and any) religion, I am not kosher and I struggle to motivate myself to go to synagogue. Am I, and how can I, be Jewish?
Response from Rabbi Naftali Brawer (United Synagogue):
"You were born and raised a Jew, you are committed to the state of Israel and the Jewish people – and you wonder if you can be defined as Jewish?!
Being Jewish is an all-or-nothing scenario. You either are or you are not. There is no such thing as varying gradations of Jewishness. The scrupulously observant Jew is no more Jewish in essence than the most non- observant Jew. Where these two Jews differ greatly is in their commitment to Judaism.
The observant Jew takes his Judaism seriously. He is steeped in its history, culture and traditions and he structures his life around its teachings. The non-observant Jew on the other hand does not live his life in accordance with Torah's teachings. This may make him an apathetic Jew but it in no way detracts from his core Jewishness.
The question you ought to be asking is not whether you are Jewish but whether or not you are living life Jewishly.
I would argue that to a large extent you are living Jewishly. One of the most important expressions of Judaism is the feeling of responsibility and connectedness to other Jews which you clearly have.
As far as your doubts about the existence of God, your phrase "I might not believe in God" betrays a deep inner struggle. This is not the language of a hardened atheist but rather of someone who is wrestling with faith and doubt; something that any intelligent person of faith will experience at some point or another.
I would however encourage you to try to learn more about the meaning behind Jewish ritual and practice. There is depth and beauty in all of God's mitzvot. Sometimes, at first glance the beauty is not apparent.
Yet by studying their meaning and embracing their practice, one comes to appreciate their power to positively transform our lives and to enable us to connect with the Creator."
Response from Rabbi Jonathan Romain (Reform)
"You have asked the wrong question. Assuming that your mother is Jewish, then you are Jewish. It is as simple as that.
The better question is: what sort of Jew are you?
This highlights the fact that there are so many different ways of being Jewish – for some it is a matter of heritage and descent; for others it is about faith and belief; for others it is to do with culture and the way we think, laugh, eat and behave.
Some Jews mix all these elements together in their lives, others select some of them, and all are right when they claim a Jewish identity.
This may sounds rather unsatisfying – so much better to have a water-tight definition of Judaism that all can recognise – but it is one of the ongoing mysteries of Judaism that it cannot be neatly packaged.
That is why we can have people who call themselves "atheist Jews" : you cannot be an atheist Christian – you have to believe – but there are many Jews who have Jewish parents, subscribe to Jewish ethics, identify with Israel, support Jewish charities, appreciate Jewish history, bring up their children likewise, but do not believe in G-d. Rabbis may not approve of them, but that does not make them non-Jewish.
Perhaps it might be ideal if you did all of the above and were a person of faith, but if that was the only sort of person allowed to be Jewish, then we would disappear very quickly and be far less colourful or creative.
It means that you are far from being an outsider, but part of a significant group within the Jewish community who value certain parts of Jewish tradition and not others.
The best way forward for you – and the many like you – is not to focus on what you do not like about the community, but get involved in the aspects that do attract you. Eat what you like, but participate in Jewish social action groups. Do not go to services, but help promote links with Israel among both Jews and non-Jews.
Have your own beliefs, but support interesting projects happening at your local shul; and if there are none, then initiate something and advertise it on the internet and elsewhere for others like you. You are far too Jewish to let all your energy and pride be wasted."


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Chewy to fetch $1B in IPO
Chewy Facebook page
Ben Unglesbee @Ben_Unglesbee
UPDATE: June, 14, 2019: Chewy priced its initial public offering at $22 a share, or more than $1 billion for the company, according to a company press release. The figure tops previous expectations of the online pet retailer acquired by PetSmart just two years ago.
UPDATE: June 3, 2019: Chewy, Inc. on Monday announced the roadshow for its initial public offering, priced at an expected $17-$19 per share and approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker "CHWY". Chewy intends to use the net proceeds from the offering of 5.6 million shares of its Class A common stock for working capital and other general corporate purposes, according to its press release. The pet goods e-retailer will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of 36 million shares of Chewy's Class A common stock to be offered by a subsidiary of owner PetSmart, Inc.
Chewy, Inc. on Monday announced the filing of Form S-1 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, indicating plans for an initial public offering of its Class A common stock, under the ticker symbol "CHWY." The number of shares to be offered and their price range have not been determined, according to a company press release. The effort could raise $100 million, according to the S-1 filing.
PetSmart, which bought the online pet retailer in 2017 for $3.35 billion, will retain control of the company through ownership of what will be Class B common stock. Each Class B share is entitled to 10 votes while Class A common stock is entitled to one, according to the filing. While the registration statement has been filed with the SEC it is not yet effective, the company also said.
That factors in the filing as a potential risk to Chewy. "PetSmart controls the direction of our business and PetSmart's concentrated ownership of our common stock will prevent you and other stockholders from influencing significant decisions," the filing reads.
Chewy hasn't managed to eke out a profit yet, but the e-retailer has been among the few that have managed to give Amazon a run for its money even in a space where the e-commerce giant has been assertive, with private label pet food and items of its own.
"Chewy is hot as a pistol at the moment. I'm not sure why it's not profitable yet, and am surprised that PetSmart is spinning it right off, but I think now would be a great time," Paula Rosenblum, co-founder and managing partner at RSR Research, told Retail Dive in an email. "I don't think it's too soon. The company is very dominant."
The e-commerce pet retailer last year fetched $3.5 billion in sales, up from $2.1 billion in 2017, but its $267.9 million net loss last year represented only a slight recovery from 2017's $337.1 million loss, according to the S-1 filing. But it is demonstrating strength in a category where established brands are difficult to push out and is helping boost online sales of pet food and other products more generally, according to research from analytical intelligence and consumer insights solutions firm 1010data.
Chewy is even outpacing Amazon's Wag private label: In August, Wag generated $345,000 in sales, while Chewy's American Journey label reached $940,000, 1010data found. "Although though pet owners seem hesitant to try new brands those that did chose American Journey," according to a 1010data report emailed to Retail Dive in October, which also found that nearly a third of American Journey dry dog food sales in August occurred after shoppers compared brands.
"I think the big takeaway so far in this is that they've been one of the few exceptions as a merchant that has been able to take on Amazon and come out ahead," Matt Pace, 1010data senior director of client insights and account management, told Retail Dive in an interview on Monday. "Our most recent data is that, across cat and dog food, Chewy has 55% market share. Going into private label is sure to improve profits — your own brand means you reap all the profits from that. If I were an investor I would see that as a positive sign. I would presume that when pet owners find a product that their dog enjoys and is moderately priced, they just want to stick with it."
That may be why Chewy appears to be doing well in a bumpy area of e-commerce, subscriptions, Pace also said. But Amazon's announcement that it's speeding up its free Prime two-day shipping to just one day could be a challenge for Chewy. "Chewy's got a bit of wind at its sail. Amazon hasn't had as much success — they're generally selling an undifferentiated product that you can get anywhere. ... But one-day shipping — how does Chewy compete with that?"
Follow Ben Unglesbee on Twitter
Filed Under: E-commerce Corporate News
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Q: Python, print all floats to 2 decimal places in output I need to output 4 different floats to two decimal places.
This is what I have:
print '%.2f' % var1,'kg =','%.2f' % var2,'lb =','%.2f' % var3,'gal =','%.2f' % var4,'l'

Which is very unclean, and looks bad. Is there a way to make any float in that out put '%.2f'?
Note: Using Python 2.6.

A: Well I would atleast clean it up as follows:
print "%.2f kg = %.2f lb = %.2f gal = %.2f l" % (var1, var2, var3, var4)

A: If you are looking for readability, I believe that this is that code:
print '%(kg).2f kg = %(lb).2f lb = %(gal).2f gal = %(l).2f l' % {
    'kg': var1,
    'lb': var2,
    'gal': var3,
    'l': var4,
}

A: I have just discovered the round function - it is in Python 2.7, not sure about 2.6. It takes a float and the number of dps as arguments, so round(22.55555, 2) gives the result 22.56.

A: use f-strings:
>>> a = 10.1234
>>> f'{a:.2f}'
'10.12'

or in your case:
print(f'{var1:.2f}, kg = {var1:.2f}, lb = {var2:.2f}, gal = {var3:.2f}, {var4:2f} l'

A: Format String Syntax.
https://docs.python.org/3/library/string.html#formatstrings
from math import pi
var1, var2, var3, var4 = pi, pi*2, pi*3, pi*4
'{:0.2f}, kg={:0.2f}, lb={:0.2f}, gal={:0.2f}'.format(var1, var2, var3, var4)

The output would be:
'3.14, kg=6.28, lb=9.42, gal=12.57'

A: If what you want is to have the print operation automatically change floats to only show 2 decimal places, consider writing a function to replace 'print'.  For instance:
def fp(*args):  # fp means 'floating print'
    tmps = []
    for arg in args:
        if type(arg) is float: arg = round(arg, 2)  # transform only floats
        tmps.append(str(arg))
    print(" ".join(tmps)

Use fp() in place of print ...
fp("PI is", 3.14159) ... instead of ... print "PI is", 3.14159

A: If you just want to convert the values to nice looking strings do the following:
twodecimals = ["%.2f" % v for v in vars]

Alternatively, you could also print out the units like you have in your question:
vars = [0, 1, 2, 3] # just some example values
units = ['kg', 'lb', 'gal', 'l']
delimiter = ', ' # or however you want the values separated

print delimiter.join(["%.2f %s" % (v,u) for v,u in zip(vars, units)])
Out[189]: '0.00 kg, 1.00 lb, 2.00 gal, 3.00 l'

The second way allows you to easily change the delimiter (tab, spaces, newlines, whatever) to suit your needs easily; the delimiter could also be a function argument instead of being hard-coded.
Edit: To use your 'name = value' syntax simply change the element-wise operation within the list comprehension:
print delimiter.join(["%s = %.2f" % (u,v) for v,u in zip(vars, units)])
Out[190]: 'kg = 0.00, lb = 1.00, gal = 2.00, l = 3.00'

A: Not directly in the way you want to write that, no. One of the design tenets of Python is "Explicit is better than implicit" (see import this). This means that it's better to describe what you want rather than having the output format depend on some global formatting setting or something.  You could of course format your code differently to make it look nicer:
print         '%.2f' % var1, \
      'kg =' ,'%.2f' % var2, \
      'lb =' ,'%.2f' % var3, \
      'gal =','%.2f' % var4, \
      'l'

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On 5 April 2015, the Law «On Facilitation of Business (Deregulation)» came into force. This Law made a number of amendments to the legal acts of Ukraine with the purpose of deregulation of terms and conditions of doing business.
The amendments are intended to bring the Ukrainian legislation in the certain areas in line with the EU legislation, thus raising the expectations on improvement of Ukraine's position in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business ranking.
The Law has shortened terms for provision of administrative services during the state registration of legal entities and private entrepreneurs. It provides the possibility to submit documents either to the local officials or to the executive officers of the administrative services centres. The number of such administrative services centres is reported to be increased.
The mandatory publication of notification of the state registration, termination, change of name, location of the legal entity in a specialized printed media was cancelled. Instead, such notifications shall be published on the official website of the State Registration Service of Ukraine.
Changes affected also the agricultural area. The mechanisms for improvement of legal regulation of the leased land and stimulation of a rational use of agricultural land were envisaged by the Law. Thus, the amendments were made to the Law of Ukraine «On Land Lease» dated 06 October 1998 in relation to the transfer of the lease object and the form of rent.
As of now, the lease object under the agreement on lease of land is deemed to be transferred to the lessee from the moment of the state registration of the lease rights. Previously, the lease object transfer was made under the transfer and acceptance certificate under the terms and conditions specified in the lease agreement.
The minimum term of lease of the agricultural land plots for commercial agricultural production, farming or personal farming cannot be less than 7 years. Previously, the terms were agreed in the land lease agreements and could be lower.
The clear criteria in relation to the form of rent were specified. From now the rent can be paid only in a cash form. However, under the mutual agreement of the parties, the rent can be paid in a natural form, which shall be of a cash equivalent of products at the market price at the time of rent payment. The exceptions to the above are the lands in state or communal ownership where the rent shall be paid only in cash.
The Law terminated the requirement of mandatory state registration of commercial concession (franchising) agreements.
The prohibition of seizure of electronic information systems (or parts thereof) and mobile communication system terminals was imposed. Temporary seizure of electronic information systems and mobile communication system terminals is now only allowed if it is directly specified in the court ruling. The law enforcement authorities are now only allowed to copy information stored in the electronic information systems (or parts thereof).
A number of changes were made in the area of enforcement proceedings in relation to the procedure of collection of the enforcement duty and costs of the enforcement proceedings.
In addition, the procedure of refurbishment and redevelopment of residential premises was simplified; the requirement for obtaining the relevant permit for refurbishment and redevelopment was cancelled. The Law specifies the list of works which can be carried out without the authorizing documents. After completion of such works, no commissioning of the object is required.


Who might benefit from ketamine infusion therapy?
– IT IS NOT a panacea or cure-all: while ketamine may help to alleviate your symptoms, it does not change how you might respond to difficult situations, people, or environments. Ketamine may make difficult decisions easier when it clears the "brain fog," it may help certain people avoid addictive substances, and it could even make healthier choices more commonplace.
-IT IS NOT a replacement for therapy: because of your genetics, your family of origin environment, life-altering circumstances, or any history of trauma, you may have developed certain filters/ways of thinking/poor coping skills/unhealthy habits that don't necessarily go away overnight. "No problem can be solved from the same level of consciousness that created it." –Albert Einstein. Having an outside "third party" opinion to see your behavioral patterns more objectively is always a plus, especially when you are going through stressful times.
-IT IS NOT a replacement for your psychiatric medications. While undergoing infusions, it is SO VERY IMPORTANT to continue taking your current medications without changing them. It helps us to know that the ketamine is working and it's not just a side effect of you getting onto, or off of other meds. Over time, you may be able to work with your psychiatrist or provider to wean down/off of certain meds, or even change to a medication regimen that has a lower side effect profile, but it's really important to discuss that with your provider.
For whom would ketamine treatment be less beneficial?
-Anyone taking benzodiazepines (Klonopin/clonazepam, Valium/diazepam, Ativan/lorazepam, Xanax/alprazolam) who could not do without them during the days of treatment.
-Anyone taking prescription or recreational opioid/painkillers/narcotic analgesics/marijuana/alcohol on a daily basis who could not do without them during the days of treatment.
-Anyone who is currently taking carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampicin.
-Anyone who is taking over 200mg of Lamictal/lamotrigine daily.
-Anyone over the age of 65 with severe cardiovascular compromise (congestive heart failure, recent heart attack or stroke, blood pressure that cannot be controlled with medicine, or end-stage renal disease).
-Anyone who has the disease porphyria.
-Anyone who has diseases that increase intraocular or intracranial pressure (certain tumors, glaucoma, pseudotumor cerebrii).
-Anyone who suffers from active psychosis (including but not limited to: delusions, hallucinations, schizophrenia, major depression with psychotic features, bipolar mania/depression with psychosis) for whom their antipsychotic medication is not working.
-Anyone who is currently pregnant or nursing.
-Anyone who has had an anaphylactic reaction or malignant hyperthermic reaction to ketamine or other anesthetic-type drugs.
Call Neuragain at (513) 802-9944, or contact us.
Disclaimer: the knowledge contained within this document is for educational purposes only and should not replace the advice from your own personal medical professional.


text:
On Memorial Day, Haysville native has unique assignment as member of elite Navy Honor Guard
By Dusty Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach
Airman Bryce Shipe
As the nation pauses to remember those who have died in service to America, a 2016 Campus High School and Haysville, Kansas native has special responsibilities on Memorial Day, serving with the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington D.C.
Airman Bryce Shipe, is participating as part of the Navy drill team for the Armed Forces Full Honor Wreath Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. He is a member of the seven-person Navy Ceremonial Guard firing party that renders the 21 Gun Salute, the signature honor of military funerals, during every Navy Funeral at Arlington National Cemetery.
"I look forward to having the opportunity to honor our fallen heroes who have served this great nation," said Shipe.
Established in 1931, the United States Navy Ceremonial Guard is the official Ceremonial Unit of the U.S. Navy and is based at Naval District Washington Anacostia Annex in Washington, D.C.
According to Navy officials, the Ceremonial Guard's primary mission is to represent the Navy in Presidential, Joint Armed Forces, Navy and public ceremonies in the Nation's Capital under the scrutiny of the highest-ranking officials of the United States and foreign nations, including royalty.
Sailors of the Ceremonial Guard are hand selected while they are attending boot camp at Recruit Training Command in Great Lakes, Illinois. Strict military order and discipline, combined with teamwork, allow the Ceremonial Guard to fulfill their responsibilities with pride and determination. They are experts in the art of close order drill, coordination, and timing.
The Ceremonial Guard is comprised of the drill team, color guard, casket bearers, and firing party.
Casket bearers carry the Navy's past to their resting ground. Whether it is in Arlington National Cemetery, or another veteran's cemetery.
The firing party renders the 21 Gun Salute, the signature honor of military funerals, during every Navy Funeral at Arlington National Cemetery.
"The Sailors here are true ambassadors of the U.S. Navy," said Rear Admiral Charles Rock, Commandant, Naval District Washington. "They are part of a legacy that promote the mission, protect the standards, perfect the image and preserve the heritage. This elite team are "guardians of the colors," displaying and escorting our nation flag with an impeccable exhibition of skill and determination."
Shipe and other sailors know they are part of a legacy honoring service and sacrifice of men and women on this historic occasion.
Serving in the Navy, Shipe is learning about being a more responsible leader, sailor and person through handling numerous responsibilities.
"The Navy has helped me become more open and outgoing and I am able to accept more responsibility," said Shipe.
His father and mother, Raymond and Carla Shipe, both reside in Wichita, Kansas.
Tags: Arlington National Cemetery, armed services, Bryce Shipe, Carla Shipe, casket bearers, Haysville, Honor Guard, Kansas, Memorial Day, military, Navy, Navy Ceremonial Guard, Navy Funeral, Raymond Shipe, sailor, Wichita
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This sixth edition of BIGSASworks! brings together papers on diverse empirical and theoretical perspectives on religion and space from disciplines including religious studies, anthropology, islamic studies, theology, political science and literature. The articles give insight into the myriad ways by which religion impinges on secular spaces, on how religion shapes the making and perception of spaces and on how space is important in understanding the religious. The discussions in each article suggest that there are developments in Africa that need more scholarly attention and a closer investigation.


M.O.L.L.E. (Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment System) Backpack Set. This is basic setup which includes main pack setup and sleeping bag carrier compartment, two sustainment pouches. Additional MOLLE II gear can be attached.
Main pack mess see thru Map compartment on top inside flap.
Includes one Sleeping Bag Compression Carrier Bag 10 x 10 x 15.
Received my Pack today. Great shape and has what is supposed to be with it (sustenance packs). Price is very good. Wife saw it today and thought we should have two so I have ordered the second one now.


What to do with your leftover Chinese food.
You know what I love/ hate about Chinese delivery food?
I love that its about the easiest food on the planet to get delivered to your home at practically any time. In my opinion, it is an "I'm feeling lazy on a Sunday night/ I've been in bed all day thanks to an aggressive New Years Eve celebration" type of food. Agree? I also love that it is delicious.
I hate that it comes in mass portion sizes therefore leading to food comas induced by overeating and/or leftovers for the next day that are no where near as tasty. It is not a food that gets better as it sits. Instead, it scoffs at your from the back of the fridge reminding you of your time of weekend weakness as you eat kale and brussels sprouts throughout the healthy days of the week. I guess I could throw away the leftovers- but who wants to waste food? Not me!
You probably ate all the good veggies out of last nights meal- so chop up whatever extra veggies you have in the fridge. I steamed some broccoli, chopped up a handful of cherry tomatoes, and shredded some carrots. Dice up your shrimp [ or chicken or beef etc].
Heat up 1 tablespoon of oil and saute your beautiful vegetables until everything is slightly soft over high heat.
Whisk two eggs in a bowl and pour over vegetables- cook the eggs until they are almost fully set.
Add your half carton of day+ old brown [ or white] rice. Saute with the eggs and vegetables until heated through. I like to make everything a little crispy like they do at the steakhouses.
I added the dice up shrimp last as I wanted to just heat it up rather than cook it any longer.
This makes two additional big servings and the options are really endless. Get creative!


Hello girls, today I wanted to share with you apps that I often use for perfecting my selfie.
Virtual makeup artist for you. I was the insider last time before they close their influencers feeds (I actually things it wasn't necessary for them to use influencer in the first place). I like to makes my lip shade more visible or even adding dramatic lashes, especially when my brow almost gone because I scratched it accidentally. You can adjust the makeup sticker by using opacity option which dragging to the left and right.
This is the app IMO better than facetune, it's provide liquify option and also you can slim your body shape with this one. Either you want to increase your height or widen your hips. This apps can do all of that instantly.
the apps provide cute filter that you can use and also slim your face shape or even smooth your skin instantly. If you are someone who love to have bigger eyes lens but don't want to buy it because waste of money then this apps will do it for you.
This is all the apps that I use and recommend you to try on. All the apps are available on App store and Play store. Some of the option need to be purchased to use but overall all is free.
Have fun taking your selfie.
Have you tried any of above app yet?


text:
Innovators drive additional value in health insurance
Sydney, 11 September, 2018 – Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund is working with Australian start-up companies to develop innovative and affordable options that suit the needs of Australian families.
The launch of HCF's My Family hospital and extras cover package signals an important change in the way health insurance is evolving to suit modern lifestyles and needs rather than as a safety net for 'just in case'.
HCF has added a new home-grown innovation to its latest My Family package. Edwina Sharrock, founder of the start-up Birth Beat and HCF Catalyst program participant, worked with HCF following her participation in the fund's mentoring program to give all My Family members reduced rate access to her online antenatal program.
Birth Beat provides parents with the option of taking childbirth education classes outside the hospital setting in the comfort of their homes. It is one example of how HCF is supporting emerging entrepreneurs to deliver better services and value to HCF members.
Edwina, who recently found success on the TV program Shark Tank, says HCF has helped more Australians access Birth Beat by offering it to their members.
"We launched Birth Beat in 2017 and it's incredible to see that HCF has worked so closely with me in a short period of time to make this online program available to its members as part of the new package. I truly believe that antenatal services need to be elevated beyond the traditional hospital setting so everyone can access it at a time that suits them – regardless if you live in remote communities or work long hours in the city," said Edwina.
Lorraine Thomas, General Manager – Strategy, Product and Innovation at HCF, believes Australians are looking for more choice when it comes to high quality health cover and at a more affordable price.
"We want to make it easier for our members to access innovative health services so they get more out of their health cover. Private health funds need to recognise that Australians want more than a safety net just in case something happens. Private cover has the potential to fill gaps in health service and provide ongoing health and wellbeing benefits to its members," said Lorraine.
"Our aim is to partner with innovative service providers to deliver what our members are asking for."
HCF's My Family cover packages offer high quality, affordable options for Australia's growing families. With no excess for accidents, no excess for kids, pregnancy cover and the added flexibility to use your individual extras limits across a range of services. My Family offers protection for the whole family.
In addition to access to Birth Beat, My Family members receive support from trained volunteer breastfeeding counsellors from the Australian Breastfeeding Association.
For more information about HCF's My Family packages visit www.hcf.com.au
Issued on behalf of HCF by Palin Communications. Media enquiries to:
Karina Durham
E: karina@palin.com.au
Rachel McWhinnie
E: rachel@palin.com.au
HCF, Australia's largest not-for-profit health fund protecting people since 1932, covers around 1.5 million members with health and life insurance, community care, travel and pet insurance. On average over the last five years, HCF has paid out more cents in every dollar in premiums to members as benefits than the industry average. With over 35,000 specialists participating in its Medical Gap Cover Scheme and approximately 10,000 providers participating in its 100% back More for You programs, HCF gives members access to quality healthcare with no gaps or minimal costs compared to non-participating providers. To empower members to put their health first, HCF also offers a range of health and lifestyle services including its My Health Guardian health management program, mobile Victor Chang Heart Health Checks and My Global Specialist second opinion service. HCF's national network of retail outlets and Australian-based call centres have earned multi-award winning status. HCF members also have access to low cost, high quality services at HCF Dental Centres. Having contributed $50 million to support the health services research funded by the HCF Research Foundation, HCF is devoted to investing in the future of Australia's health. To learn more about HCF go to hcf.com.au/about-us


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Gaga's song that features R. Kelly, Do What You Want is one of the songs from the artist's upcoming album ARTPOP which is set to be released in November this year.
I actually thought that Gaga is going to release a new song in the Applause way, because this one Do What You Want sounds a little bit like what Christina Aguilera sings. I mean just try listening to Aguilera's Your Body and tell me there are no similarities.
I don't know what's going on with this girl, but I think that I liked the old Gaga.


Is everyone gone? I miss you all - miss vent too.
Woohoo! I am in da club!!
yep. heading into glacier natl park tomorrow morning on six day backpack trip. have javelin and spear ready for grizzlies. i think a few surety of death gambits, i can survive anything. will post photos in a coupla weeks.
Throne T2c every Fri @ 7pm server time. Also additional runs (subject to players) during week - watch the calendar!
Throne (T2c) - Every Fri @ 7pm and Sat @ 4pm Server Time.


text:
IVIC scientists are unaware of the bill that …
The Association of Researchers of the Venezuelan Institute of Scientific Research fell like a bucket of cold water the repeal of the Law that governed the institute and the approval in the first discussion of the IVIC Reform Law, which will dismantle the institute as it is known and will create a new one called the Venezuelan Institute of Science and Technology (IVECIT).
The initiative was presented by Deputy Guido Ochoa, from the United Socialist Party of Venezuela, who during his presentation stated: "It is not science to be delighted in, but science at the service of the people, at the service of liberation, at the service of the sovereignty of our country. Those are the fundamental elements of the transformation of the institute ".
With the reform they propose to change the name of the IVIC to the Venezuelan Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation —Ivecit— and propose changes in the organization chart of the institution by eliminating the Assembly of Researchers.
After an extraordinary meeting, the IVIC investigators declared that they were completely unaware of the reform approved by the National Assembly in the first discussion last Tuesday, November 18.
In a statement issued at the end of the meeting, they state that "the approved decision is incomprehensible, alarming and detrimental to the development of Venezuela" and they emphasize that they do not believe that the exit of science from the laboratories "so that the people and the communities permanently build technological elements for the transformation of the country ", as the reform indicates, be the way to solve the problems that Venezuela afflicts.
"No one doubts the interest of artisanal technology, nor that the state promotes it. However, it is illusory to think about the great problems that the country faces in the 21st century, full of physics, electronics, computer science, chemistry, etc., they have artisanal solutions ", the researchers say in the same document.
For them it is incomprehensible that it is necessary to "destroy a leading scientific institution in the country, to promote artisanal technology."
via IVIC scientists are unaware of the bill to dismantle the institute | The reason.
Tags:Bill, IVIC, Scientists, unaware
High-end laptop for gamers with a second pa …
Learn computer security from home: free courses …
High Density No. 781 [+Video]


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50th Anniversary Gala Highlights
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Vice President, Government Reform, Reason Foundation
Leonard Gilroy is vice president of government reform at Reason Foundation, a nonprofit think tank advancing free minds and free markets. He also serves as senior managing director of the Pension Integrity Project at Reason Foundation, which assists policymakers and other stakeholders in designing, analyzing and implementing public sector pension reforms.
The project aims to promote solvent, sustainable retirement systems that provide retirement security for government workers while reducing taxpayer and pension system exposure to financial risk and reducing long-term costs for employers/taxpayers and employees. The project team provides education, reform policy options, and actuarial analysis for policymakers and stakeholders to help them design reform proposals that are practical and viable.
The Pension Integrity Project has provided technical assistance to several successful pension reform efforts in recent years in Michigan, Colorado, Arizona, South Carolina and other states aimed at tackling persistent pension solvency challenges.
In his role as vice president, Gilroy also leads Reason's government reform efforts, with over 18 years of experience researching fiscal management, government operations, infrastructure public-private partnerships, government contracting, and urban policy topics. He and regularly consults with federal, state and local officials on ways to improve government performance and efficiency.
Gilroy has a diversified background in policy research and implementation, with particular emphases on competition, government efficiency, transparency, accountability, and government performance. Gilroy has testified before Congress on several occasions and has worked closely with state and local elected officials across the country in efforts to design and implement market-based policy approaches, improve government performance, enhance accountability in government programs, and reduce government spending.
Gilroy's articles have been featured in such leading publications as The Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, New York Post, The Weekly Standard, Washington Times, Houston Chronicle, Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Arizona Republic, San Francisco Examiner, San Diego Union-Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, Sacramento Bee and The Salt Lake Tribune. He has also appeared on CNN, Fox News Channel, Fox Business, CNBC, National Public Radio and other media outlets.
Prior to joining Reason, Gilroy was a senior planner at a Louisiana-based urban planning consulting firm. He also worked as a research assistant at the Virginia Center for Coal and Energy Research at Virginia Tech. Gilroy earned a B.A. and M.A. in Urban and Regional Planning from Virginia Tech.
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PAYGO Is the Most Costly Way to Fund a Public Retirement System and Would Be Bad for New Mexico
Pensions are meant to be prefunded so that current taxpayers and current public employees share the costs of those workers' benefits.
By Leonard Gilroy, Truong Bui and Steven Gassenberger
California's Pension Systems Need To Continue Lowering Return Expectations and Reducing Risk
CalPERS achieved an investment return of 6.7 percent during the latest fiscal year, and similarly, CalSTRS saw a 6.8 percent net return, both short of the 7 percent benchmark established by their managing boards.
By Leonard Gilroy and Zachary Christensen
Credit Rating Upgrade Doesn't Clear Arizona of its Pension Problems
The state has $27 billion in unfunded pension liabilities today in its four major pension plans.
By Steven Gassenberger and Leonard Gilroy
New Mexico Needs Pension Reforms, Shared Sacrifice to Pay for Promised Retirement Benefits
The changes should provide $700 million in immediate savings and are projected to eliminate over $6 billion in unfunded liabilities.
By Andrew Abbott, Leonard Gilroy and Anil Niraula
Public Pension Plan Designs Are the Problem, Not Pensions Themselves
If you build a pension system with risk management in mind, you can avoid the common pitfalls that have led to the over $1 trillion in U.S. public pension debt.
By Leonard Gilroy and Steven Gassenberger
Analysis of the New Mexico PERA Pension Solvency Task Force's Preliminary Recommendations
The changes are significant and positive steps for PERA, but leave some systemic challenges—namely actuarial methods and assumptions—unaddressed.
By Anil Niraula, Andrew Abbott and Leonard Gilroy
Continuing Reform: Challenges Persist With the Florida Retirement System (FRS)
The retirement benefits ultimately received by members of both plans within FRS will come at an ever-increasing cost to taxpayers and other public services if needed technical adjustments to both plans go neglected.
By Raheem Williams, Steven Gassenberger and Leonard Gilroy
Teachers' Retirement System of Louisiana (TRSL) Pension Solvency Analysis
Investment returns failing to meet unrealistic expectations has been the largest contributor to the unfunded liability growth, adding $4.2 billion to the unfunded liability since 2000.
By Leonard Gilroy, Anil Niraula, Zachary Christensen and Steven Gassenberger
Arizona Pension Bonuses Are Troubling. But Risky Investments Are The Real Crime
The bonuses raise important questions about what should really be ringing alarm bells.
By Leonard Gilroy
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The Latrobe City Council in Gippsland has a policy to cut down all non-native fruit trees on roadsides and poison the stumps. A number of apple trees and plum trees have already been destroyed in Yinnar South. Chris Dash, Council's Supervisor Arborist said that Council aims to create native indigenous vegetation corridors. However, there are no plans to revegetate the areas left bare by removing the trees, which leaves them open to infestation by noxious weeds such as blackberries. There is also no provision to be made for native birds such as king parrots which rely on the non-native fruit as an important food source, due to loss of original habitat.
Latrobe City Council is the guardian of a valuable national gene pool, of which all Gippsland residents ought to be proud. Victoria is the pome and stone fruit basket of Australia for good reason – because it is one of the few states in this vast, arid continent where the climate is favourable. Gippsland in particular, with its wild roadside trees, is a treasure trove of diverse fruit DNA.
Furthermore, we live in an age of increased bushfire risk. Broad-leafed trees such as apple, plum and pear are actually listed by the CFA as fire retardant trees as opposed to natives. Eucalyptus and tea tree, for example, with their volatile oils (which according to law must be labelled 'hazardous' and 'highly inflammable' after extraction) are literally fire magnets. As a blaze approaches, the oils evaporate from the leaves and infuse the heated air. These oils actually ignite in mid-air and thus jump across roads and fire breaks. It is in eucalyptus's interest as a species to attract fire, because this promotes their germination and destroys competing vegetation. Malus and prunus, by contrast, are much harder to burn due to their high moisture content and lack of volatile oils. Trees like these have been demonstrated to slow the progress of fire across a landscape.
Compared with weeds such as gorse and blackberry, malus and prunus present a very low risk. They are found on roadsides and rarely if ever in bushland. This is because they require the rainwater run-off provided by sealed road surfaces. They are unlikely to survive in other Australian conditions.


Enjoy modern decor mixed with creature comforts. Our lifestyle King package provides our guests with the ultimate in comfort and freedom. Featuring a luxury shower, comfortable bedding, flat screen TV, in-room safe and free wifi internet. This room is perfect for a couples getaway, or a luxurious single traveler looking for a little pampering. Designed to 'uplift the spirit', Hotel CURRENT strives to provide a personalized, memorable experience for our guests every time.


If you are a Christmas lover, enjoy overplayed holiday music, devouring candy and cookies, and an epic after party, then grab your friends and family and register for the 2017 Santa Hustle® Milwaukee 5k & Kids' Run! The Santa Hustle® swag is bound to make your jingle tingle even brighter with a Santa Hat, Santa Beard, Santa Shirt, Finisher Medal, and NEW! Candy Cane Socks! Experience the magic of the Santa Hustle®.