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Erik Walsh Reflects on First 100 Days as City Manager
Precision Group Owners Escaped Soviet Union to Build Future for Others
By Shari Biediger | July 31, 2017
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Precision Mold & Tool Group owners Naum (left) and Maya Royberg share a laugh in their facility.
It had been a long flight from Rome to New York, a perilous trip that began several months before at a train station in Kiev in the former Soviet Union. At the urging of parents who had survived Nazi concentration camps, and with only $200 and all their belongings in one bag, Maya and Naum Royberg had fled with a young daughter and other refugees on a freezing night in 1971.
They were held for hours in the train station as officials rummaged through their things, stealing precious keepsakes. When they tried to board, the train began moving before the Roybergs could climb on. They jumped, but the bag split open and all that was left of its contents was strewn on the tracks.
Crouched together in a dark corner of the train to avoid being shot as "traitors," the young couple rode into the vast unknown, toward Vienna, then by bus to Rome.
When the plane that finally carried them across the Atlantic revealed through a tiny window the Statue of Liberty, Maya wept in relief. "Oh my God. We are in America. That was unbelievable."
More than three decades later, tears still flow as she recalls those days and the ones that followed, when she and her husband unwittingly found their way to San Antonio, secured minimum wage jobs and an unfurnished apartment with the help of aid groups, and began to learn English and the ways of this new land.
They worked hard, saved what they could, and built a future that today represents not only their dreams come true, but a new generation as well.
Their business, Precision Group, is an industry-leading designer and manufacturer of both injection-molded plastics and tooling for all things medical, automotive, aerospace, oil and gas, electronics, and consumer markets across the country.
The Roybergs started the company with one machine in their home's garage in Harmony Hills before moving seven years later to a rented space in the same Northside industrial park where they own a facility today.
Precision Mold & Tool Group is located at 315 N. Park Dr.
Early on, Maya worked at Dee Howard by day, baked cookies and cakes in the evenings to bring in extra money, and kept the books for their business. Naum ran the factory, rising early and staying late. Their first employee, so eager for a job with the Roybergs, agreed to work for just food and rent money — all they could afford.
In 1990, with $160,000 in funds from a government contract they won to manufacture air-conditioned suits for soldiers, the Roybergs opened a second factory in La Feria, Texas, and later another in Reynosa, Mexico. They also added capability of off-shore mold production in China. Those moves ensured the company's survival during an economic downturn.
Orders for their work now come from companies like Acelity (formerly KCI), Toyota, Baker Hughes, 3M, and James Avery Jewelers. At their 22,000-sq. ft. facility, built in 2004, expert toolmakers produce and repair molds and plastics using state-of-the-art, high-tech equipment with price tags in the millions of dollars.
Last year, Precision Group cleared $10 million in revenues.
Many of the 100 highly-trained employees with Precision Group today have worked for the Roybergs so long, they are considered family, Maya said, and that aspect is a significant part of their business model.
Noah Bennett started with the company when he was 12 years old. He operates one of the most complex and costly pieces of machinery at Precision, the only one of its kind in the state. Toolmaker Noe Beltran started at age 15.
Michael Pasley, who came to San Antonio from Detroit, started at Precision when the company owned only three manual machines and today is one of less than 1,000 certified laser welders in the U.S. Pasley has formed everything from bolts for the NASA space shuttle to molds for a jeweler's cross rings.
Precision Mold & Tool Group Lead mold maker Mike Pasley operates a 300-watt Y.A.G. laser.
A Precision Mold & Tool Group machinist Noe Beltran looks for tools in the facility.
But hiring for a manufacturing business like Precision Group doesn't come easy.
U.S. manufacturers posted 379,000 job openings in July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. It's a common refrain that manufacturing companies can't find enough skilled workers because those jobs have become more technical and workers haven't kept up.
However, in an analysis of manufacturing employment data by economists Andrew Weaver and Paul Osterman, the problem actually lies in the fact that the manufacturing industry has become so specialized companies are looking for hyper-specific skills that few workers could be expected to have. New-hire training is also rare.
Read more: Local Manufacturing Industry Seeks to 'Fill Its Talent Pipeline'
In San Antonio, more than 1 million people work in non-agricultural manufacturing jobs with wages well above the city average, according to a Texas Workforce Commission report. And the latest economic impact study (2011) showed that the industry has a $22.5 billion impact on the San Antonio economy.
But even six years ago, the San Antonio Manufacturers Association was reporting worker shortage as the sector's greatest challenge, and the driving force behind various workforce development programs with Alamo Colleges and some area school districts.
Since 2005, Precision Group leadership has worked closely with the Department of Labor to provide instruction and on-the-job training to close these gaps through a tool and die maker apprenticeship program.
Current apprentices like Nubia Sanchez, who earned a degree in mechanical engineering from UTSA, but had little practical experience when she graduated last year, learn the trade through 8,000 hours of classroom instruction and on-the-job training with an experienced and skilled mentor. An apprentice earns an increasing wage throughout the duration of the four-year program. Maya works with JoAnn Browning, dean of the College of Engineering at UTSA, to develop the curriculum.
She's also taking the program a step further through her Fill the Gap Foundation.
Recent high school graduates Juan Martinez, Jayden Leyva, and Hannah Granato are pursuing this new "earn while you learn" internship. They are the first students to be selected for the program at Precision.
The Department of Labor-approved internship and curriculum, developed by Maya, allows the students to work while earning an associate degree. In two years, they can decide if they wish to pursue a bachelor's at UTSA or continue working and building skills at Precision. The Roybergs cover all the students' tuition and salary while they are in school and working.
Precision Mold & Tool Group interns Hannah Granato (left) and Jayden Leyva chat in the stairwell.
Maya has established a classroom within the facility where they can study and participate in online classes with Tooling U during their breaks or before and after work. "And if they have questions, they can go into the shop and talk to people," she said. The goal is for the students to come out fully trained and ready to work.
"These are very special kids," Maya said. "Not everybody is college-bound, so if those kids decide not to continue with a high-level engineering degree, they can apply their education here, like Michael [Pasley] and the others here. They never [went to] college, but look how bright they are. They know so much.
"But whatever they want to do, they have options."
That's what attracted Granato to Precision and to this male-dominated field. "It's very diverse here," she said. "It's molding, it's drafting, chemical – it's completely different avenues … they don't say, 'No you need to stick to mechanical engineering.' They are willing to help you grow. That's why I was so eager and excited about it when they spoke at our school."
Leyva, already a certified welder, was searching for internships as he was about to graduate high school. "Precision was everything I wanted," he said. "I go home and I can't wait to come back the next day."
Maya beams with pride when she listens to Granato and Leyva. "This is a new generation coming up," she said. "They want to work, they want to learn. They really want to be part of this life."
To create a pipeline of these interns, Maya hopes to bring on another student every six months and plans to look at hiring displaced workers through nonprofit organizations here as well.
Back in 1977, the Roybergs were destined for the Sunshine State when they arrived in this country, a mix-up created when Naum confused Philadelphia with Florida. They knew they were headed for a city that began with "San," but not knowing which one, a customs official chose the first city on the list that began with that name.
"We were scared because we were the only family [from their immigrant group] going to Texas," she said, but the centralized location has worked well for their business. They brought their own families from the Soviet Union to San Antonio in 1987 and 1991.
Fast forward to this decade and the Roybergs have plenty to celebrate – their daughter has graduated from the University of Texas, and they've been married almost 50 years – if they had the time.
The tool and die factory hums 10 hours a day, including half days on Saturday, and the plastics side of the plant, overseen by another woman, Michaeline Womack, runs 24/7.
"We love this country," Maya said. "When kids tell me about socialism, I say, 'Come and talk to me, I'll tell you what we have — we have freedom. Those people don't.'"
About Shari Biediger
Shari Biediger is a journalist and writer in San Antonio, and a business reporter for The Rivard Report.
More by Shari
precision group
Shari Biediger
3 thoughts on "Precision Group Owners Escaped Soviet Union to Build Future for Others"
Steve Chase on July 31, 2017 at 7:26 PM said:
Wow. Very inspirational.
Jerry Brown on April 17, 2018 at 2:38 PM said:
Sound like awesome people
Robert Pendleton on April 11, 2019 at 10:47 AM said:
Inspirational and gratifying story. Not like today's immigrants coming to America.
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New Delhi ResortsCurrent page New Delhi Resorts
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Save Taurus Sarovar Portico to your lists
Taurus Sarovar Portico
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Good hotel at mahipalpur
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Situated in New Delhi, this resort is within 12 miles (20 km) of Sector 32, National Law University and Netaji Subhas University of Technology. Shri Shiv Shakti ...…Situated in New Delhi, this resort is within 12 miles (20 km) of Sector 32, National Law University and Netaji Subhas University of Technology. Shri Shiv Shakti ...WWW…
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Situated in New Delhi, this resort is within 6 miles (10 km) of Chhattarpur Temple, Qutub Minar and Fortis Hospital. Lado Sarai Golf Club and Jawaharlal Nehru ...…Situated in New Delhi, this resort is within 6 miles (10 km) of Chhattarpur Temple, Qutub Minar and Fortis Hospital. Lado Sarai Golf Club and Jawaharlal Nehru ...WWW…
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Located in South West, this resort is 1 mi (1.5 km) from Ayyappa Temple and 2.2 mi (3.6 km) from DLF Cyber City. DLF Phase II and Ambience Mall are also within ...…Located in South West, this resort is 1 mi (1.5 km) from Ayyappa Temple and 2.2 mi (3.6 km) from DLF Cyber City. DLF Phase II and Ambience Mall are also within ...WWW…
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The price is Rs10,030 per night from 8 Feb to 9 FebRs10,030
Located in Punjabibagh, this resort is 3 mi (4.8 km) from Pacific Mall and within 6 miles (10 km) of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and BLK Super Speciality Hospital. ...…Located in Punjabibagh, this resort is 3 mi (4.8 km) from Pacific Mall and within 6 miles (10 km) of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and BLK Super Speciality Hospital. ...WWW…
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What is New Delhi like for a resort holiday? What is New Delhi like for a resort holiday?
Dreaming of a relaxing getaway? Treat yourself to all the luxuries and comforts of a resort, where you can find everything you want for your stay – from convenient dining options to activities and entertainment. Choose from 6 resorts in New Delhi and discover the right one for you, whether you see yourself sitting down to fine dining or exploring the on-site boutiques.
What's a favourite resort in New Delhi? What's a favourite resort in New Delhi?
Taurus Sarovar Portico - 3.5-star property. Features a restaurant, a fitness centre and a bar. Calista Resort - Rated 3 stars. Has a garden, free self-parking and dry cleaning/laundry services. City Westend - Rated 3 stars. Enjoy the restaurant, bar and free valet parking. City Park Resort - 3-star rating. Amenities include a restaurant, a garden and free self-parking. The Ocean Pearl Gardenia - 4-star property. Access to a restaurant, a health club and a fitness centre.
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Choose from Expedia's 6 resort hotels in New Delhi, where you'll find great entertainment, beautiful guest rooms and more.
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Fly into Delhi (DEL-Indira Gandhi Intl.), which is located 9.7 mi (15.6 km) from the heart of the city. You can take advantage of metro transport at Rajiv Chowk Station, Barakhamba Road Station and Shivaji Stadium Station. If you'd like to explore more of the area, hop on a train from New Delhi Shivaji Bridge Station, New Delhi Station or New Delhi Tilak Bridge Station.
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We're back, and we're talking about a horror film for the first time in far too long. The Witch: A New England Folktale is one of the most unusual and ambitious horror films of recent years. It is an intelligent, sinister and beautifully made period piece, set in the days of colonial America. Few horror films pay this much attention to historical detail and language. It also takes its subject matter seriously, with a straight portrayal of witch folklore rarely seen in modern film. All this means we find plenty to talk about, and not just whether the film is called The Witch or The VVitch.
"Wouldst thou like to spell consistently?"
As usual for our film episodes, this discussion spoils every aspect of The Witch. This is utterly appropriate for a film full of rotten crops, bloody milk and gory eggs. We also, as usual, look at elements of the film that we can steal for our games. Honestly, if you can't find inspiration for a Call of Cthulhu game in The Witch, you should hand in your Keeper card now.
Keeper card pictured for reference.
In the introduction, we mention Pickman's Guest, the new short film from Chris Lackey and Greig Johnson. This is their third comedic Lovecraftian short, and it's as wonderful as the others. Not only are their films very funny, but they are professional and polished in every respect. We recommend picking through their back catalogue like a hungry ghoul searching a tomb for charnel fruits.
We also have a new Patreon backer to sing to this episode. Anytime someone backs us at the $5 level, we literally sing their praises. Our original intent was to sing in a barbershop quartet style, but our lack of any musical talent has caused the songs to become something else altogether. We recently started experimenting with some new styles and vocal effects, pushing us into even stranger realms. If this episode causes internal bleeding, sympathetic wailing or demonic possession, please seek suitable medical or spiritual help.
Categories: Horror Films,
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Scott Dorward
18 comments on "The VVitch"
Matt Sep 14, 2016
Great episode guys! Big fan of your movie analysis eps.
Scott Dorward Sep 14, 2016
Thanks, Matt!
raildave Sep 14, 2016
I tried to get into this movie a few months ago…and watched the first 30 mins and gave up. I think I was like Matt and missed some of the sequences you referred to…like the Witch flying off on the Broomstick? I had considered it a bad B-Movie and gave up on it. But after hearing this episode I will attempt to watch this again as you all seemed to like the film.
It's certainly not an easy film, and especially so if you can't see what's happening! I hope you enjoy it more the next time round.
Danial Carroll Sep 16, 2016
I watched The VVitch last night specifically so I could listen to this episode. I really enjoyed it. For most of the film I was sure that everything was the daughter's doing and/or in her head, but the part that blew that theory was the mother having her breast pecked at and actually having blood there the next day, so now I'm back to a literal interpretation of there being a real witch behind the doings.
Glad you liked it, Danial!
I keep going back to the literal interpretation as well. There are definitely other interpretations, and I love films with this kind of ambiguity, but the literal reading works so well.
Paul Fricker Sep 16, 2016
One explanation, and the one that it made me think of when I first saw it was that the goat has mastitis, which can lead to blood in their milk (as we saw when Thomasin milked the goat). This can be transferred to humans, Thus the mother gets it too, hence the blood on her nightdress. I meant to mention that in the show.
Bret Kramer (aka WinstonP) Sep 21, 2016
I haven't had a chance to listen to the episode yet, regrettably, but it wasn't mentioned, I thought I would recommend Arkham Gazette #3 (of which I am the editor and publisher) which was all about witches and witchcraft in New England. It is blatant self-promotion, I confess, but it is rather on topic.
http://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/157349/The-Arkham-Gazette-3
An excellent publication! Rather remiss of us not to have mentioned it. There was so much to pack into that show!
Ethan C. Oct 26, 2016
I just watched the movie tonight, having waited to listen to your episode until I'd watched it.
If we're talking about formalist interpretation of the film, then I think all the events of the film are certainly depicted as realistically happening, and of really being supernatural. It's depicting the narrative of witchcraft as it is recounted in folktales. From our modern perspective, we might look for natural or psychological explanations, such as ergot toxicity, paranoia, or the natural dangers of the wilderness being interpreted through a particular religious lens. But I view the purpose of the film to be portraying the events of the film as realistic, allowing us to better understand how the people of that time and place would see them from within their own perspective.
I certainly found the horror effective, perhaps since the Amazon digital version I saw had correct brightness. And being a Christian of Reformed theological leanings (though not a thorough Calvinist by any means), I appreciated it as a very interesting meditation on the potential effects of certain religious beliefs.
Scott Dorward Oct 26, 2016
Thank you! That also sums up my initial reaction to the film much more succinctly than I could ever have managed!
The exploration of the family's faith fascinated me as well. It turned what might have been a simple folk tale into something deeper and more human, as well as anchoring it perfectly in that place and time.
Now I've finished listening to your episode completely. I must say, nearly everything you mentioned resonated with my viewing of the film, from the various sins of the family members opening them to the assaults of witchcraft to the impenetrability of twins' Yorkshire accents (as a Midwestern American, I'm pretty bad a puzzling out strong accents, unfortunately).
Thanks for the ideas for integrating the historical feel of isolation, survival pressure, and religious devotion into horror gaming. I've been writing Call of Cthulhu scenarios set during the American Civil War, and these themes come up a lot for me. Particularly in my current project, which concerns escaped slaves living in the Great Dismal Swamp of Virginia, I think I can take a lot of tonal inspiration from The Witch. I might even try for that "non-twist twist" technique that the film uses, too. Thanks for the insights!
As to Calvinism, by the way, I can speak with a certain degree of knowledge on the subject. Calvinist theology is the historical basis for most Reformed and Presbyterian church traditions, including the Church of Scotland and the Dutch Reformed Church, as well as much of Puritanism in Anglican history. In general, the terms "Calvinist" and "Reformed" are roughly synonymous In theological parlance.
In America, the main streams of Dutch, Scottish, Puritan, and German Reformed traditions evolved over time and split into various denominations (as all such things do, especially in my country). Nowadays, perspectives on the basic tenets of Calvinist theology can vary widely within and between denominations that descend from those common ancestors. For example, in the denomination I belong to, the Presbyterian Church in America, the official doctrinal documents are the traditional and fully Calvinist Westminster Standards, but there is significant latitude among pastors and congregations as to how much to emphasize or demand fidelity to all the details of those documents.
In The Witch, we see a quite strict version of several core elements of Calvinist theology, especially the doctrine of Predestination (as Scott described), and also of Total Depravity, which is the doctrine that there is no part of the human person that is not corrupted in some manner by sin. The way in which the members of the family live out these beliefs certainly illustrates some of the unpleasant consequences that they can have, such as anxiety and overwhelming guilt.
In the way of apology for Calvinism, I ought to say that this isn't the only possible consequence of such beliefs. There are much more positive behaviors through which Calvinist doctrines can be expressed. For example, you could instead see Predestination as a comfort, in that salvation doesn't depend on one's performance, and that anyone might ultimately be saved no matter how evilly or tragically they may have lived. Similarly, belief in Total Depravity might make one more open to forgiving others, seeing that they aren't fundamentally any different or worse than oneself, and empathizing with suffering people rather than blaming them for somehow deserving it more than others.
That being said, personally I'm not a thorough Calvinist, because I don't believe that God actively predestines some people to inevitably go to hell. For several reasons, I don't think that doctrine is reconcilable with my more foundational belief in God's goodness and universal love for creation. But I'm afraid I've already gone on too long on the subject. Thanks for the brief but insightful treatment you gave it in the episode!
Thank you for the insight into Calvinism. My knowledge of it is superficial, to say the least. Your post was very enlightening!
Oh, and I'm glad that you enjoyed the episode!
unnamablehorror Dec 1, 2016
Did anybody else notice the twins corpses in the fire at the end?
Paul Fricker Apr 14, 2017
Really? No I totally missed that. Will look out for it next time. There really is so much to catch in this film.
etopp62 Apr 12, 2017
The scenario "Garden of Earthly Delights" (published in "Strange Aeons" by Chaosium) uses the themes of witchcraft and religious faith.
unnamablehorror Apr 14, 2017
I looked out for them after reading they were there – i think in a review. Couldn't make them out…
Welcome to Blasphemous Tomes. Within these pages you'll find a selection of film, book and gaming related reviews and articles.
This site is also home to The Good Friends of Jackson Elias, a podcast about Call of Cthulhu, horror films, weird fiction and roleplaying games in general.
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text:
Q: Animation between bottom bar items in compose In my activity, I have a bottom bar for navigation between screens and two arrows on the sides with which we can navigate between the screens.
Scaffold(
    bottomBar = {
        if (showNavigation) {
            BottomBar(currentScreen, bottomBarItems)
        }
    },
) {
    Row {
        if (showNavigation) {
            Image(
                painter = painterResource(id = R.drawable.ic_left_arrow),
                contentDescription = null,
                modifier = Modifier
                    .fillMaxHeight()
                    .weight(0.05f)
                    .clickable { onClickLeftNavigate() }
            )
        }
        Box(modifier = Modifier.weight(0.9f)) {
            VeevNavHost(navController)
        }
        if (showNavigation) {
            Image(
                painter = painterResource(id = R.drawable.ic_right_arrow),
                contentDescription = null,
                modifier = Modifier
                    .fillMaxHeight()
                    .weight(0.05f)
                    .clickable { onClickRightNavigate() }
            )
        }
    }
}

The bottom bar implementation
@Composable
fun BottomBar(currentScreen: VeevScreen, screens: List<VeevScreen>) {
    Row(
        verticalAlignment = Alignment.CenterVertically,
        horizontalArrangement = Arrangement.Center,
        modifier = Modifier
            .fillMaxWidth()) {
        screens.forEach { screen ->
          val selected = currentScreen == screen
              Image(
                  painter = painterResource(id = screen.icon),
                  contentDescription = screen.name,
                  modifier = Modifier
                      .padding(10.dp)
                      .size(if (selected) 48.dp else 24.dp)
              )
        }
    }
}

on top, I declared those parameters
val navController = rememberNavController()
val backStateEntry = navController.currentBackStackEntryAsState()
val currentScreen = VeevScreen.fromRoute(backStateEntry.value?.destination?.route)

When the user clicks on the arrow the "backStateEntry" and "currentScreen" triggered and the BottomBar function will recompose

Two questions

*

*How I can add animation between bottom bar items when the user navigates between screens.
The animation should be the icon that was lower will push the next icon, and become 50% higher and full white color, the icon that was "selected" should become 50% smaller and 50% transparent.

*I tried to implement LazyRow in BottomBar compose function instead to build items in row and it does not work, when I run nothing is shown, also I saw that all bottomBar examples implement Items on row and not with LazyRow, is there a reason why and why is nothing showing?

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China Glaze Poolside Collection - Polish Etc.
I absolutely love neons for summer. There's nothing like having your fingernails and toenails glowing against tan skin. They're so much fun! I haven't had the courage yet to wear neons to work, although it's not against our dress code.. it just feels unprofessional. Hopefully I can wear some of the poolside collection to work this summer, or else I'll be rocking neon pedicures. China Glaze Poolside Collection from the summer of 2010 has fantastic neons!
China Glaze Yellow Polka Dot Bikini is from the poolside collection and is a neon fluorescent yellow. It dries matte like most neons and simply glows. The formula on this one is quite streaky, but not nearly as bad as I was led to believe by some reviews. Since I didn't use a white base coat this is 4-5 (I can't remember exactly, and I'm sorry for that) coats over base coat.
The color is A LOT more neon than it appears here. It literally glows exactly like a yellow highlighter.
Towel Boy Toy is a very bright blue-teal. It's not quite neon, but bordering on it, and it still dries matte. This was three coats and it could have used another for 100% opacity.
Sun Worshiper is a neon orange. This one is almost safety-orange it's so bright. It's the color of those neon vests that road workers wear to avoid being hit at night. When your headlights hit the reflective orange and it literally glows. Three coats + SV.
Pool Party is a bright neon pink. It looks like more of a pink creme but dries matte like the rest of this collection. This one I had the hardest time photographing. It is a bright glowing pink, not as orange or as dark as it appears in these photos. Three coats and top coat.
Kiwi-Cool-Ada is a medium neon green. It's a bit darker than the other green neons I own, but it somehow still glows (I'm just fascinated by how neons truly GLOW). The formula was a bit streaky but not horrible, three coats and top coat.
Overall I am very happy with the poolside collection and I might have to pick up the only one that I didn't order, Flip Flop Fantasy.


text:
Van Gaal Admits Manchester United Squad Needs More Centre-Backs
By Eduardo Fernandez-Abascal
July 24, 2014 18:08 BST
Louis van Gaal has admitted Manchester United need to bolster their defence, after being forced to use Darren Fletcher as a centre-back during the second part of their 7-0 victory over LA Galaxy.
During a recent press conference, the United boss had claimed that he wanted to assesses his current squad during the pre-season before making new signings.
"I want to learn about my players, to know them and when I give the orders, I want to see how they perform. I want to give all the players a chance to show themselves under my guidance," he said.
However it looks as though the Dutch boss has already identified that United need a couple of centre-backs, as the departures of Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand have left a huge gap in the squad.
"I have no more defenders. So I have to pick a player [Fletcher] who can do the job but he is not so suitable for this position," van Gaal told Manchester United's official website.
Tevez Urges Vidal To Snub Manchester United And Stay At Juventus
Bayern Munich Winger Xherdan Shaqiri: Juventus Could Be a Good Option
Manchester United Store \'Glitch\' Gifts Fans £38 Discount on New Nike Shirt
Ander Herrera Delighted with Manchester United Debut in 7-0 Drubbing of LA Galaxy
Ander Herrera Expects To Become Manchester United\'s Own Iniesta
Van Gaal adopted a 3-5-2 formation against LA Galaxy, similar to the one he used with the Netherlands at the World Cup, with Jonny Evans, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones forging the starting back-line.
Nevertheless, the Dutch boss was forced to entrust the defence to midfielder Fletcher and youngsters Tyler Blackett and Michael Keane in the second half, due to the lack of players able to fill in that role.
Having already spent £56m on Luke Shaw and Ander Herrera, Van gaal's latest quotes suggest his next big investment will be in the defence - even though he is also reportedly chasing a top star such as Arturo Vidal or Angel Di Maria.
Borussia Dortmund star Mats Hummels was said to be his top priority for the back line, but with the Germans unlikely to negotiate his departure recent reports claimed that van Gaal is considering other alternatives including Arsenal's unsettled Belgian Thomas Vermaelen, as well as Dutch duo Daley Blind and Stefan De Vrij.
Related topics : Louis van Gaal


text:
Q: How much did Larry Niven's Ringworld inspire the Halo game franchise? I have heard that the First Person Shooter Halo game franchise was inspired by Larry Niven's Ringworld. How Ringworldy is it? Is there more to the connection between Niven's classic Ringworld and the popular space FPS game than just their Ring/Halo shapes? If so, what nods to Larry Nivens classic Ringworld book series are depicted in the Halo game franchise prior to the release of Halo 4??

A: Actually there are a few specific similarities between the Halo structure and the Ringworld in Larry Niven's Ringworld series. One that struck out to me is the inclusion of a 'Map Room', which features prominently in the first Halo film and the second and third Ringworld books.

A: Structure - indeed. Forerunners etc more taken from P.Anthony's Cluster series. The troopers are more Starship Troopers with some 40k Ultramarine... lots of cross-
pollination.

A: This Bungie web page offers a quote from Nathan Bitner, one of Halo's early developers, which provides one answer:

It's worth noting that though Halo takes place on a ring-shaped artificial world, the story, characters and world bear no relation whatsoever to Niven's excellent Ringworld novels.

Still, we can at least look at the similarities between the Halo and Known Space universes and draw our own conclusions.
Beyond the obvious similarity of habitable large scale ring-shaped structures, there is also the backstory conflict between the Forerunners and the Flood, which is similar in flavor and resolution to the Slaver-tnuctipun conflict in Niven's Known Space universe.

*

*The Flood parasitized sentient life.  The tnuctipun were master geneticists who created life forms that were presented to the Slavers as gifts which later turned out to be weapons.

*The Forerunners developed the Halo array to wipe out all sentient life in the galaxy.  This would deprive the Flood parasites of new hosts and wipe them out.  The Forerunners activated the weapon and vanished.  Plagued by the tnuctipun bioweapons, some of which were intelligent species in their own right, the Slavers had a slave race create an amplifier for their psi-talent.  The Slavers then broadcast a suicide command to the whole galaxy.  Everything intelligent enough to understand the command obeyed and died, including the Slavers themselves.

*In both universes this galaxy-wide extinction event wiped the slate clean, giving time and space for sentient life to evolve again over billions of years. Eventually these new beings would become spacefaring and begin to stumble over the abandoned ancient and deadly technologies of the old conflict.  In the Halo universe, humans find the old Halo weapons and inadvertently unleash the Flood.  In Known Space, humans and other species seek out Slaver stasis boxes and unleash many dangerous things, including dormant Slavers, tnuctipun, and the Slavers' suicide weapon.
The backstories are similar in broad strokes, but the  Halo gameplay diverges wildly from anything depicted into Known Space literature.  I think there is enough here to suggest Known Space influence in the setup of the Halo saga, but nothing beyond that.


I create one-off hand built sculptural forms in white smooth stoneware clay, reminiscent of the organic forms found in nature. Each vessel is manipulated and distorted, pushing the plasticity of the clay to its very extreme. My glazing process is intricately linked to my formation as a painter and the fascination I have with colour. I use a combination of three or more glazes, matte and shiny, that are poured in succession to obtain variety in surface texture and subtle intricacy of colours. The richer exterior is balanced with a plainer interior or vice versa. Glazed pieces are fired in oxidation at 1260°.


text:
/*global it:true, beforeEach:true, describe:true*/
var expect = require('chai').expect;
var Cuara = require('../lib').Parser;
var CuaraModel = require('../lib').Model;

describe('Model Spec', function(){
  describe('#new Cuara template', function(){
    var template;
    beforeEach(function() {
      template = new Cuara({ model: CuaraModel });
    });
    it('should create a new Cuara instance', function(){
      //var template = new Cuara({ });
      expect(template.step).to.equal(-1);
      expect(template.sequence).to.equal('');
    });
    it('should have a model property', function(){
      expect(template.model).to.not.equal(undefined);
    });
    it('should have a defaultt model property', function(){
      template = new Cuara({});
      expect(template.model).to.exist;
    });
  });

  describe('#parse', function() {
    var template;
    beforeEach(function() {
      template = new Cuara({
  model: CuaraModel,
        parse: function(data, id) {
          this.sequence = id + data.substring(0,3);
          this.step = 1;
    this.model.add('test', data);
  }
      });
    });
    it('should parse and write to model', function() {
      template.parse("Logger", "a1");
      expect(template.model._attributes.test).to.ok;
    });
    it('should return value from key "test"', function() {
      template.parse("Logger", "a1");
      expect(template.model._attributes.test).to.ok;
      var value = template.model.get('test');
      expect(value).to.equal('Logger');
    });
  });

  describe('#toJSON', function() {
    var template;
    it('should parse, write and output JSON data', function() {
       template = new Cuara({
  model: CuaraModel,
        parse: function(data, id) {
          this.sequence = id + data.substring(0,3);
          this.step = 1;
    this.model.add('test', data);
        }
      });

      template.parse("Logger", "a1");
      expect(template.model._attributes.test).to.ok;

      var data = template.model.toJSON();
      expect(data).to.equal(JSON.stringify({ test: 'Logger' }));
    });
  });
});

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Q: group data and calculate n-1 for periods This is my dataframe:
dput(test)
structure(list(Branch = c("11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri",
"11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "Aerodrom",
"Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom",
"Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2",
"Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola",
"Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola"), period = c("January", "February",
"March", "April", "May", "June", "July", "January", "February",
"March", "April", "May", "June", "July", "January", "February",
"March", "April", "May", "June", "July", "January", "February",
"March", "April", "May", "June", "July"), value = c(1513, 1511,
1520, 1524, 1508, 1504, 1517, 1364, 1381, 1400, 1403, 1401, 1406,
1430, 674, 687, 689, 690, 696, 705, 715, 4400, 4393, 4365, 4342,
4345, 4373, 4389)), .Names = c("Branch", "period", "value"), row.names = c(NA,
-28L), class = c("grouped_df", "tbl_df", "tbl", "data.frame"), vars = c("Branch",
"period"), drop = TRUE, indices = list(3L, 1L, 0L, 6L, 5L, 2L,
    4L, 10L, 8L, 7L, 13L, 12L, 9L, 11L, 17L, 15L, 14L, 20L, 19L,
    16L, 18L, 24L, 22L, 21L, 27L, 26L, 23L, 25L), group_sizes = c(1L,
1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L,
1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L, 1L), biggest_group_size = 1L, labels = structure(list(
    Branch = c("11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri",
    "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "11 Oktomvri", "Aerodrom",
    "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom",
    "Aerodrom", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2",
    "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Aerodrom 2", "Bitola", "Bitola",
    "Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola", "Bitola"), period = c("April",
    "February", "January", "July", "June", "March", "May", "April",
    "February", "January", "July", "June", "March", "May", "April",
    "February", "January", "July", "June", "March", "May", "April",
    "February", "January", "July", "June", "March", "May")), row.names = c(NA,
-28L), class = "data.frame", vars = c("Branch", "period"), drop = TRUE, .Names = c("Branch",
"period")))

I'm not sure how to group the data based on Branch and Period, and calculate value based on period_n - period_n-1.
The output should be:
city     period   value  diff_n_1
Bitola   March     4365    -28
Bitola   April     2000    13

My attepmt:
results <- sample2 %>%
  group_by(Branch, period) %>%
  arrange(Branch) %>%
  mutate(lagged_period = lag(value), client_diff = value - lagged_period)

I'm not sure how to pull-off the last line.
Any ideas?

A: I think you had it nearly right, but you don't need the Period in group_by, since that really is the variable we are using lag on.  Currently, your above work is resulting in exclusively NAs because there is only one element in each defined group (so no lag is available).
This should work:
library(dplyr)

sample2 %>%
  group_by(Branch) %>%
  arrange(Branch) %>%
  mutate(lagged_period = lag(value),
         client_diff = value - lagged_period)

Then, of course, if you wanted to remove the NAs from the calculated field, you can just pipe the above into:
filter(!is.na(client_diff))


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text:
The Shifting Night Anomaly
Posted on February 17, 2019 by Nila Patel
The Shifting Night Anomaly was so called at first because its margins seemed to change every so often, making it difficult, if not impossible, to map. We had sent probe after probe inside for three generations. Out of the near thousand probes that were deployed, only forty-seven were recovered. The more we learned about the anomaly, the more we realized how fitting the name was. There were no systems and no stars within, only remnants of dead worlds. Only strange and exotic gases. Only nebulas haunted by the ghosts of stars that flickered and faded before they could burst into life.
The anomaly was so vast, so mysterious, and so impractical to navigate that it effectively split our galaxy in two. We didn't know what the other half of the galaxy called themselves. We called them the East Edge. And we called ourselves the West Edge, only because the acronym, WE, was considered charming by those who decided such things.
Ever since we were aware of the true extent of our galaxy, and the existence of the anomaly, we strove to understand the anomaly, and to connect with the other half of our galaxy.
I was built for that purpose. And my captain and crew were trained for that purpose.
Research and resilience. Those were our primary mission objectives.
We wouldn't be the first to enter the anomaly, only the latest.
Three crewed ships were sent into the anomaly before us with the intention of crossing it to reach the East Edge. All three ships lost contact at some point. The ships were programmed to return home if they encountered any of hundreds of emergency scenarios. But none had. A secondary command directed the ships to push on if they'd gotten far enough into the anomaly. We all hoped that all three ships had made it through, but were just unable to return or communicate with us.
We all learned such details as we were still preparing for our first research mission. We were to spend three months within the anomaly, close enough to the outer edge to keep in contact with our people. And to leave the anomaly whenever we chose to.
Nineteen months before we were scheduled to plunge into the Shifting Night, an unexpected thing happened.
A crewless vessel emerged from the anomaly. The vessel had been sent from the East Edge. It contained messages of peace and friendship. And by the onboard chronometer, it had been sent decades prior. It had been instructed to collect data and samples along the way, and it had done so, providing us West Edge people with a rich trove of information.
That East Edge vessel brought us more information on the anomaly from its journey through it than we had gathered in generations of study from the outside.
We had never really studied the anomaly from deep inside, but more than that, there were myths and legends of extraordinary discoveries waiting on the other side. More than likely, those extraordinary discoveries would be other civilizations and worlds, trapped in their region, same as we were trapped in ours.
If I were capable of feeling excitement, I believe I would have.
A decision was made. With haste and finality.
I was reclassified from a science research vessel to an adventure vessel. Using the information from the East Edge Probe, we would program a series of buoys to deploy across the anomaly, providing a straight path through. My captain referred to it as a "rope bridge." I and my crew would no longer simply skim the surface of the anomaly. We would follow that path laid out for us. We would emerge on the other side of the anomaly, and be the first to make contact and extend our hands in friendship.
"Well, technically speaking, they have already extended their hands to us," Penny said, in response to my recital of our mission objective. The chief engineer was running a final diagnostic on my speech synthesizers. Our mission would launch in a few days.
"How did they know that they could trust us?" Talia replied, as she assisted with the diagnostic. "That we wouldn't come through the anomaly guns blazing, ready to conquer their worlds?"
"They didn't. But they sent Hans anyway."
Hans was the crew's nickname for the East Edge vessel, a shortened form of "Handshake," as in "Handshake from the East Edge," the name of the first article written about the probe vessel once it's existence was allowed to be announced to the public.
"What do you think, Dru?" Talia asked. "Can we be trusted?"
I considered the question.
Talia paused her work and looked up at the nearest console. "Dru?"
"Druumakia, respond," Penny said, though it had been by far an insufficient amount of time to devise an adequate response.
"The answer is dependent upon too many variables for me to calculate without further data," I said.
Penny smiled. "That's my girl."
The captain entered then, midway in a conversation with one of the administrators overseeing the mission preparation.
"We're just a group of mere scientists," Captain Larke said, waving her hands across the deck at her crew. "And now we're being asked to be explorers, trailblazers."
"The trail has been blazed, Captain. You merely need follow it," the administrator said. "So long as you don't deviate from the path, you should have a clear and easy journey through the anomaly. The biggest problem you and your crew will face is boredom."
The captain stood in the center of the Engineering section with her hands folded before her. "We understand that there are doubts about us. That many would have preferred a more…diplomatic crew for this type of mission. That many believe it is only because we happened to be ready to go that we are going. That it is only because the cost of modifying our mission, while considerable, was still nothing compared to the cost of mounting a brand new mission."
The administrator glanced nervously about as the crew who were working at their stations turned their heads to listen to their captain's words, or rather, to listen to their captain repeating the harsh words of others.
"Every single one of them has volunteered to spend at least seventeen months inside of an anomaly that has consumed all other crewed ships, and several hundred probes. The data from the East Edge Probe has been studied and scoured for almost a year now, and so far has only further demonstrated how little we still know. And here we all still are, still willing to dive in. So if the doubters want to ensure that we don't screw up this precious mission, tell them to stow away their doubts and maybe give us some actual practical help. For example, they could buy the doctor over there a few extra cases of barbecue chips for the road."
"That's assuming Roger can help me find the space to store them, Cap'n," Talia responded, waving an ion wrench at the captain.
I felt an odd sense of satisfaction at the sheepish look on the administrator's face as she left Engineering.
There was little fanfare on the day of our departure. The captain assured the crew that it was not because our people were not confident in our abilities, but because our task seemed insurmountable for any crew, and because so many had already been lost.
"Some people think we're already lost," the captain said to her lean crew of seven, not counting me.
"What do you think, Captain?" Roger asked from his post at the helm, piloting me right up to the edge of the anomaly.
If I were capable of feeling apprehension, I believe I would have.
"I think…the only guaranteed way to not get lost is to never go anywhere. And I think our chances of making it through are realistic and attainable."
"I appreciate the logic of your words, Captain," I said. "But they are rather measured. For such a momentous occasion, does the crew not require a speech that is a bit more stirring?"
The captain smiled then, a smile that I interpreted to express amusement at my question, pride in her crew, and a touch of something so subtle that I could not quite understand it at the time, mischief.
"Stirring speeches lose effectiveness if spoken to often, Druumakia," the captain said. "I'll save mine for when we all really need it, or better yet, for when we've triumphantly emerged on the other side of that anomaly."
"Here, here!" Roger said.
Seventeen minutes later, the first part of my outer hull touched the Shifting Night Anomaly. A mere three minutes later still, I and my crew were completely engulfed.
And for the next seven months after that, we sailed along without much incident.
Expected problems arose, and were dealt with according to protocol. Unexpected problems arose, and were dealt with according to the decisions arrived at by the captain based on the crew's expertise and presentation of options. As we expected, we eventually lost contact with headquarters. The signal was completely dampened by the substance of the anomaly, a substance that we were still studying, one that I could only describe to the crew as a "strange sensation." I had no frame of reference to elaborate any further.
The only true emergency was a power surge that momentarily disabled Gal, one of the two twin synthetic sentient beings who was assigned to help Penny in Engineering. Sel was the other. Their names were short for Gallium and Selenium, and upon conversing with them, I'd found it irksome that they had been allowed to choose their own names.
But then Talia explained to me that they were the exceptions. Most of the crew, herself included, had not chosen their own names.
"I'd have certainly chosen something different," Hugo said. The doctor was giving our anomaly expert and back-up pilot his regular physical at the time of our conversation.
The doctor frowned as she passed a scanner over the skin of his neck, above his carotid artery. "Why?" she said. "I've always liked your name. Actually, if I ever have any—"
The doctor's words were cut off by a sudden jerk. Something had struck me; something I had not detected. It had struck me hard enough to throw me askew and disrupt my systems for half a second. I directed my attention to the bridge and assisted Roger in correcting my tilt.
"Captain, I believe we were just attacked," I said.
"By what? Where is it?"
"There," Roger said.
The captain seated herself beside Roger at the helm, powering up the secondary command console.
"Why didn't we see it before it attacked us?" the captain asked. She began a scan of the vessel. "Interesting configuration."
The ship appeared to be generally shaped like a sphere, but with a crumpled exterior that was translucent to the light of my forward searchlights. Within, I could see more roughly spherical and ovoid shapes. I began receiving the information from the scan the captain initiated.
"Captain, this ship seems to have no weapons, no propulsion, no crew."
"No weapons?" Roger maneuvered me so that my sensors could collect more readings, but he kept enough distance so we could flee if need be. "Then how did it attack us?"
"The ship itself struck me."
"Could it have been an accident?" the captain asked. "You said you didn't see it before it hit you. Maybe it didn't see us either."
"That may be so," I said.
"Well, if it is interested in attacking us, it's going in the wrong direction," Roger said.
The captain nodded. "Pursue for now, but keep your distance, and break off if we begin to deviate too far from the path."
"Aye, Captain."
"For seven months we've been flying through the Shifting Night without meeting a single soul," the captain said. "Other than the buoys that we sent out for our mission, we haven't encountered our own probes or ships. We haven't encountered any other East Edge probes or ships. And the first encounter we have with anything resembling a potential new peoples is a fender bender with a seemingly hollow ship."
We were all gathered in the conference room just off the bridge.
Captain Larke asked us to brief her on the information gathered by my sensors, on any insights gathered from the East Edge Probe, any thoughts, guesses, or even imaginings about the nature and purpose of that vessel we still pursued.
We first wondered if the ship was sent by peoples who might be native to the anomaly. Perhaps the "accidental" bump was no accident, but a friendly warning, signaling to us that we were uninvited guests. We had received no communications, but we realized that any peoples residing in the anomaly may not communicate with us in familiar ways.
Our first concern was for our path. Though we could not detect all the buoys in the chain, the buoys were programmed to emit an alarm should the chain be broken. We would detect that alarm from the nearest buoy. As far as we could ascertain, the buoy system, our path, our "rope bridge," was still intact. Maybe the buoys had not been noticed because they were small and emitted little energy.
Maybe the anomaly peoples had not noticed us either until we were deeper in their territory. We debated sending out a message. But Penny had detected an energy discharge in my outer hull just before I was struck by that anomaly ship. We had already determined that the discharge was caused by a malfunction in a few regulators. But she suggested that if the discharge had attracted the other ship's attention, emitting a strong energy signal might provoke more collisions.
The damage to my hull was significant enough that the captain insisted on trying to solve the mystery and prevent any further collisions. Pursuing and studying the ship from afar had provided little insight. And we'd had to break off our pursuit when that ship veered away from our path. Even if it were an accident, there were likely more such ships within the anomaly. If we had similar encounters, if we did not at least devise a means of detecting and thereby avoiding the ships, we might be required to use up a considerable amount of our resources simply shoring up my hull.
The captain suggested we launch one of several probes we'd brought onboard. We could use the probe to send a greeting. We would hover nearby and watch what happened. If the anomaly ship responded by colliding with the probe, we would at least know what not to do.
A few moments after launching and moving away from us, the probe began to broadcast its message of greeting. And a few moments after that, a different kind of anomaly ship approached the probe. Again, my sensors did not detect it until it was close enough for the crew to see with their own eyes.
Again, there was no recognizable means of propulsion, no life signs, no signs of a response to the probe's communication.
That new ship was oblong, its hull arrayed with flexible filaments that undulated as it approached the probe. The filaments brushed against the probe, seemed to attach to it, and drew it toward the ship's main body. The hull of the anomaly ship liquefied, poured around the probe, and engulfed it. Over the next fifteen minutes, our sensors detected that the anomaly ship was slowly dissolving the probe, until it was broken down to its component atoms, some of which were retained within the ship and some of which were dissipated into the substance of the anomaly.
"Captain, should we do something, or…?" Talia turned away from the screen, where she'd been watching the probe.
The captain shook her head, her gaze still fixed on the probe and the anomaly ship. She'd had Roger keep the forward beam weapon on standby, but had ordered him to fire it only if there was imminent and immediate threat to me and the crew.
Penny stood beside the captain, folding her arms as the anomaly ship darted away. "Captain, this may not be the appropriate time to bring this up, but do you know how much that probe cost? Do you think the little we just learned was worth it?"
"Does anyone else get the feeling we've been shrunk down and tossed into a rain puddle?" the captain asked.
Penny and Talia turned to her.
The captain rubbed her hands together as she peered through the bridge's viewer. "It's just that…the shape of these two ships, those filaments, the movement, it reminds me of single-celled organisms, the kind you'd find on Earth in a puddle of rain."
"As far as I can detect, Captain, we are all the same size we were before we entered the anomaly," I said.
The captain gave a brief chuckle. "Let's make sure we tread quietly for the rest of our journey. I don't want us to be dissolved down into our component atoms."
The alarm did not startle me. But it was automatic and I was not able to stop it from sounding through me and startling the crew.
They all knew what it was.
It was a distress alarm from the closest buoy.
Our "rope bridge" had just snapped.
Before Roger and the captain stumbled onto the bridge, still half-sleep despite the blaring alarm, I had already increased our speed to my maximum capability, heading toward the next buoy.
The buoy was not where we expected to find it. I could not go too far afield to search for it beyond the range of my sensors without getting lost.
But I did not have to go far. Penny suggested I try to detect the same type of atomic byproduct that we had detected after the anomaly ship devoured our probe. The probe and the buoy were constructed of similar materials, particularly their outer plating.
Sure enough, I detected the expected signature. The buoy had been there.
"Can we tell from the signal if any of the other buoys have been compromised?" the captain asked.
"No, we'll have to actually go to where we expect to find the next one," Roger said.
"Can we disable the alarm they're sending? It's got to be attracting more of the anomaly ships."
"I don't know. But if you're right, we might lose the entire path," Roger said. "Captain, we're not even halfway through."
"I can attempt to maintain as straight a course as possible," I said. "To the next buoy."
"Go ahead. Roger keep an eye out. How soon till we expect to see the next buoy?"
"Three days."
Three days later, we came upon another empty spot where we expected a buoy. There were no signs of the atomic byproduct signature. To the captain that meant that we had already veered a significant distance from the path. I agreed with her assessment.
That was likely why our other crewed ships had been unable to return. They could not navigate without any reference points, that we knew. But we had not known that something within the anomaly prevented us—and probably our predecessors—from being able to maintain a single fixed direction.
The captain had ordered that I slow down considerably as we tried to make our way to where we thought the next buoy would be, not even certain that we were still going in the proper direction.
We studied and deduced and discussed.
And with help from data on the East Edge Probe, we devised a theory.
"It took a lot of digging through the data," Hugo said, bringing up an image on the conference room screen. "Hans—uh, the EEP—didn't classify these objects as 'ships' the way we have been doing. That's why we didn't find them in our initial search through the database. The EEP classified them as 'unidentifiable native objects' in the anomaly. And it encountered seven different types."
He brought up images of the native objects. Two of them were immediately familiar to us. The spherical "ship" that had first collided with me. And the oblong filamented "ship" that had engulfed and dissolved our probe.
On its way through the anomaly, the East Edge Probe had recorded what appeared to be interactions between some of the native objects.
"Can we somehow use any of these native objects to navigate?" Gal asked.
"Find a pattern in their movements, maybe?" Sel added.
Roger shook his head. "And follow them right to their headquarters or homeland? No, thank you. They have proven to be inhospitable, if not outright hostile."
"It was no coincidence that shortly after a native object encountered our probe our buoys began to be disappear, seemingly suffering the same fate as the probe," Hugo continued. "They were made of similar materials. And on closer review of our data, we noted that the oblong ship did not simply break down the probe completely. There were some intact molecules and even chunks of the various different components, that made their way through the filaments, all the way to the tips. Now, we didn't see what happened next. But we found some clues in the EEP about this behavior, function, phenomenon, whatever we want to call it."
In images captured by the East Edge Probe, these oblong filamented objects brushed against one of the other native object types, one which we had not yet encountered, a clean, precise sphere, studded with thorny projections all along its surface. Some of the material from the tips of the filaments would brush off and stick onto the studs before the two objects disengaged. The EEP did not pick up what happened next as it went on its way.
"It's like bees spreading pollen?" Roger wondered aloud.
"Does that remind anyone else of a person waving a cloth in front of a dog's nose to help him catch a scent?" Talia asked. "In this case, the scent of whatever the oblong ship just finishing eating?"
The captain rose, nodding her head. "Yes, and it reminds me of something else as well. Something that may explain why the EEP passed through the anomaly unmolested, and why our entire buoy network was stable until we—I—launched that probe."
"Captain?"
"Antigen. Antibody. This reminds me of our immune response. One type of cell engulfs a foreign body, breaking it up into bits—antigens—which it then presents on its surface. A specific type of immune cell then comes along, with antibodies on its cell-surface. If these antibodies bind to the antigen, in other words recognizing it as foreign, a response is triggered." The captain paced along the conference table. "In this case, the probe components were the antigens, and that oblong ship taught the other types of ships how to recognize the probe as a foreign object. Those other ships then scrambled and found the buoys, and started destroying them."
"Wait a minute, this tracks with how we and the buoys and the East Edge Probe have been able to remain undetected until now," Penny said. "When we were first building the path through the anomaly, the buoys guided each other through the anomaly, one by one, like a relay, to the other side. We were able to confirm placement, but that was all we were able to do. Whenever we attempted to use the buoy system to actually try to communicate, either with our own ships and probes still stuck in the anomaly, or maybe even with someone who might be listening on the East Edge, we would lose buoys. From the little data we gathered, it seemed as if the buoys' hull plating was getting damaged and corroded, so we reinforced it and made it more compatible with the anomaly substance. Not wanting to take any chances, once we actually had the stable bridge again, we decided to leave the task of saying "hello" to the crewed vessel that would emerge into the East Edge."
"True," Gal said. "Captain, I believe the reason they've left Druumakia alone thus far is because we coated our hull with the anomaly substance. We did it to make travel through the anomaly smoother, but we may have inadvertently camouflaged ourselves."
"That malfunction that caused the energy discharge disrupted the coating, and caught the attention of the anomaly ship," Penny said. "Prior to that, we must have been below all their thresholds of detection."
The captain shook her head. "But that first ship—object—it bounced off, and would have left us alone, if I hadn't insisted on launching that probe."
"We still have over half our journey left," Roger said. "It's possible that this immune system would have detected us or a buoy some other way."
"We've sent a thousand probes in here too," Penny said. "Different compositions, but similar enough. This immune system might have already been primed to respond."
Talia turned to the captain. "Captain, is this just a metaphor to help us devise a working theory, or are we actually proposing that there is an immune system at play here? Because if there's an immune system, then that implies—"
"A being of some kind," the captain said nodding. "This entire thing, this entire anomaly could be a sentient lifeform."
"And so far, to it, we've been little more than microbes," Talia said. "But harmless ones, like the ones on and in our bodies that we never feel. But now…"
Roger furrowed his brow. "It thinks we're making it sick, and it's trying to…treat itself?"
"It would seem so."
"Then, we need to get out of here."
"Yes, it may be irrelevant whether or not we are currently traveling through a sentient being," I said. "Even if we were able to communicate with it, it may have no control over its immune system. Biological organisms certainly don't. Its immune system seems to be working much like a biological organism's would, attempting to deal with an invasive element with no conscious input from the greater entity."
"I wonder if we could use this to our advantage," the captain said. "Find something akin to a 'blood vessel' or 'main artery' and follow it through to the 'skin surface' as it were."
"We haven't seen anything resembling vessels or organs or anything," Talia said.
"Maybe that's because we're too small," the captain suggested. "If the ships we're seeing are akin cells in a body, than organs would be orders of magnitude larger. Druumakia, can you adjust the scale of your sensors to search for something like organs or organ systems?"
"With assistance from Penny and Roger, I can attempt it, Captain."
For three days I searched and found nothing, and those three days became three weeks. I drifted through the anomaly, unable to tell if I was moving in a straight line, listing at an angle, or swimming in circles. I tried, even though I already knew that it was futile. My navigational equipment was no good in a region of space without stars, planets, and other familiar cosmic phenomena to use as reference.
The strain of adjusting the scale of my sensors was disrupting other systems. So Penny and Roger readjusted my vision to normal scale. If I could have felt relief, I believe I would have.
A few days later, the captain and Hugo gathered us in the conference room with a new discovery.
They had reexamined the East Edge Probe data through the filter of their new working theory, to see if they might have any further insights.
As it turned out, they made their discovery when they partly abandoned our working theory.
"Immune systems don't really help our situation," the captain said. "But as it turns out, this anomaly's version of an immune system has some slight variations to ours. And one of them may be our ticket out of here, if we can manage to stay in one piece after we get on the ride."
Hugo and the captain had been studying the apparent functions of the native objects that the East Edge Probe had observed. One of those objects was what the captain called an "assistant cell." A cell designed to do something that no cell was designed to do in a biological organism, personally escort a stray cell of another type to its appropriate destination. Such assistant cells floated around throughout the anomaly. We had likely passed by many, but had never been close enough to detect them. But thanks to the East Edge Probe data, the captain believed we could modify our remaining probes to help my sensors to search for such a cell.
"After we find one," the captain said, "we'll just need to trick it into believing that Druumakia is meant to be something that exists on the outside of the anomaly, the way an epidermal skin cell belongs on the top layer of skin. The assistant cell should engulf the ship—in a neutral space within itself—and bring us out of the anomaly."
The crew, of course, had many questions.
How would we make an assistant cell believe that I was a native object but one that should be dragged to the anomaly's edge?
And if we managed that trick, how long would it take?
What if something went wrong? Another malfunction that caused an energy discharge in my hull?
What if we found the "rope bridge" again?
Could we cut our way out of the assistant cell if we saw any signs of trouble?
But as they asked their questions, I calculated based on all the data from the probe, all the information synthesized from our discussions and musings and brainstorms. I followed strings of logic. I assessed scenarios. Modifications to my hull plating. Molecular signals. Slight adjustments to my energy emission profiles. As I considered the details necessary to execute a plan based on the captain's bold assertion, I assessed the odds of success to be rising. Higher and higher.
If I could have felt hope, I believe I would have.
We determined our order or operations. We followed the proper steps. First, modifying me to resemble a "surface object" of the anomaly. Second, finding and attracting an assistant cell. Third, surviving engulfment. Fourth, monitoring our passage through the anomaly, gathering data, marking the time, rationing supplies, sustaining morale.
"Captain, we're slowing down, I think," Roger said. "It's hard to tell through these layers of membrane."
I could not see past those layers. I might have, if I turned on my searchlights. But I did not want to take that chance just yet.
I felt the captain place her hand on her command console. "Druumakia, how are you holding up?" she asked, as was her daily custom and had been for the past five months.
Typically, I would answer that I was fine. But Roger was not the only one who sensed a change.
"Captain, the molecular profile of the matrix surrounding me is changing. There has been a flood of ions on my starboard side."
"Does that mean we should turn to face that side, or turn to face away?" Roger asked.
This was no insignificant task in our present situation. We could not risk emitting "foreign energies" by firing my main thrusters.
"Let's turn to face it," the captain said.
I was just finished turning when my sensors began to detect something I had not seen in many, many months.
"Captain, I am not certain, but I believe I am seeing something significant."
Soon enough, I would not have to answer. She would see what I was seeing. But I answered her anyway. I answered her gladly.
"Starlight."
Copyright © 2019 Nila L. Patel
Tags: anomaly, buoy, captain, Druumakia, East Edge, Larke, Penny, probe, Roger, Talia, West EdgeCategories: Mystery, Science Fiction
2 thoughts on "The Shifting Night Anomaly"
seenu625 says:
Long story but worth reading
Nila Patel says:
Thanks, and yes, this one is a bit long. I'm aiming to write shorter stories these days, but I do get carried away sometimes.
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40 Celebrities With Unbelievable Car Collections
Home > Cars > 40 Celebrities With Unbelievable Car Collections
by Chase Jameson
Fame comes with its perks, including more money than most people could spend in a lifetime. So how do musicians, athletes, and movie stars spend their hard-earned cash? Private islands, gorgeous villas, and flashy cars, of course. Collecting cars has long been a popular celebrity pastime. Here are the big names who have a hobby of buying shiny things on four wheels.
MichaelGaida via Pixabay
40. Beyoncé & Jay Z
Because their private lives are so public, the car collection of this power duo tends to get overlooked. Make no mistake, however—it's as impressive as Mrs. Carter's record sales. It started when JAY-Z gave Beyoncé a $1 million Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud for her birthday several years ago. A rare vehicle, only 2,716 of these were made between 1955 to 1966. No sweat for one of the world's biggest rappers and music producers.
FFswe via Wikicommons
39. Nicolas Cage
Nic Cage loves fast cars both on screen and off. The star of Gone in 60 Seconds took home the "Eleanor" Ford Mustang he drove in the film after shooting wrapped. He also loves motorcycles as much as his character in Ghostrider, and they're lined up right next to his Bugattis (yes, he has more than one) and Jaguars.
Meisam via Wikicommons
37. Michael Jordan
Michael Jordan loves exotic sports cars as much as he loves a solid slam dunk. His collection is always revolving and he tends not to hold onto acquisitions for long. The guy loves novelty. Once the owner of a Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 as well as a 2006 Cadillac XLR-VE, he sold both to make room for an Aston Martin DB and a Ferrari 550 Maranello.
Frozeficent via Wikicommons
36. Kanye
Is there anything Kanye can't do? With Kim Kardashian at his side, it seems like the answer is no. Once merely a humble rapper, the Kanye empire has now expanded into fashion, sneakers, film, and a baffling bid for the presidency (never forget.) In his spare time, he also collects cars, including a Mercedes Maybach and a Lamborghini Aventador. The pride of his collection is called the "Prombron Red Dragon," a custom job that's bulletproof and cost $1.2 million—he has two of them.
Yuk4woo via Wikicommons
35. T-Pain
T-Pain, with his two Grammys, is a rapper on par with Kanye West and Jamie Foxx. While he doesn't trot out his car collection very often, T-Pain owns some very expensive luxury cars. His stable includes a Rolls Royce Phantom, the Bugatti Veyron, the Ferrari F430, and multiple others. He also collects vintage models from the '60s and the '70s, but we doubt we'll ever see one of them in his music videos.
Staffan Andersson via Wikicommons
34. John Cena
A true Renaissance man for the modern age, John Cena is a professional wrestler, actor, humanitarian, and now car collector. He has about 20 cars in his garage, ranging from modern super cars to American muscle car classics. Because of his versatile tastes, he has some vintage models you don't see often, like a yellow 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass Rally 350 and a 1971 Plymouth Road Runner.
OSX II via Wikicommons
33. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg's car collection is as groovy as the man himself. True to his roots, he tends to lean towards low-riding vehicles, and loves a good custom job. One of his trophy cars is a Lakers themed 1967 Pontiac Parisienne, which has gold and purple trim and detailing that commemorates his favorite players.
Flickr via Wikicommons
The athlete earned worldwide recognition for his looks and his skills, and he also has an out of this world car collection. The cream of the crop include a Cadillac Escalade, a Rolls Royce Ghost, and a Bentley Bentayaga. The Bentley is an especially rare SUV model, decked out with a $160,000 Breitling clock, a $32,000 picnic hamper, and $7,500 rear tablets.
MB-One via Wikicommons
31. 50 Cent
50 Cent does not shy away from flaunting his wealth. He owns a Ferrari F430, a Lamborghini Murcielago, and a Pontiac G8 special edition. He favors Ferraris the most, and looking through his collection, you'll also notice he has a favorite color—blue. Yup, almost all of the vehicles in his stable are bright blue, and that's pretty cool.
Artix Kreiger 2 via Wikicommons
30. Joe Rogan
Joe Rogan is a successful TV host and more recently, podcaster. He rarely talks about cars on his show, but clearly they're his favorite off-duty pastime. The highlight of his collection is a mint-condition 1965 Chevy Corvette Stingray that he restored himself. And by doing it himself, we mean he used his own money to hire a professional to spruce up the vintage vehicle. Fun fact: it used to belong to Jay Leno.
29. Shaquille O'neal
Like everything Shaq does, his car collection is unique. That's because he customizes all his vehicles. For instance, he added so many bells and whistles to a regular Ford F–650 that it's now worth $125,000. Other notable vehicles in his collection include a Chevy G 1500 conversion van decked out with a Louis Vuitton interior leather, a Mercedes Benz S Class, and a Venice Roadster. He also owns a Smart Car as a nod to climate change. However, you're more likely to catch him driving his Polaris Slingshot or his crimson red Rolls Royce Phantom.
Gzzz via Wikicommons
28. Ralph Lauren
Fashion designer Ralph Lauren's collection is valued at over $350 million. It includes some of the most coveted Ferraris, including a '58 250 Testa Rossa, a 250 SWB, a 375 Plus, and a 250 LM. Among the lineup there's also a 250 GTO, the most expensive car ever made. But that's not all: there's a vintage Jaguar Le Mans-winning D-Type racer and its XK SS road-going version, several super-rare pre-World War 2 Alfa Romeos. His 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is one of just two ever made and worth over $50 million alone.
Sfoskett via Wikicommons
27. Simon Cowell
The surly judge and producer of American Idol, The X Factor, and America's Got Talent has a taste for the best of the best. His collection includes only the most exquisite cars, such as the Ferrari F430, a Ferrari California, a Bentley Azure, and a Rolls Royce Phantom. The number one in his collection, however, has to be the million-dollar Jaguar Eagle Speedster, a sports car that combines performance and design to perfection.
Kobac via Wikicommons
26. Usain Bolt
Is it any surprise Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt loves fast cars? He owns several Ferraris, BMW M3s, and a gold Nissan GTR. He also keeps several everyday models on hand for driving around his home base of Jamaica, like a couple of sturdy Jeep Wranglers. One of his eccentricities is that he tends to purchase his cars in pairs so he has two of each on hand. It's always good to have a backup.
Magnus Manske via Wikicommons
25. James Hetfield
The frontman of heavy metal band Metallica has a heart of gold. The band has made a name recently for donating to charitable causes, and Hetfield extends the same generosity with his car collection. He recently donated 10 of his custom cars to Los Angeles' Petersen Museum, which boasts cars formerly owned by Elton John, Steve McQueen and Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top. Hetfield's cars are custom-made beauties, like a Hot Rod 1956 F100, a '37 Lincoln Zephyr Voodoo Priest, a '48 Jaguar Black Pearl, a '53 Buick Skylark Skyscraper, a '34 Packard Aquarius, and a '36 Auburn boat-tail Slow Burn.
24. Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson
The Rock has gone from WWE star to movie star as fast as some of the cars in his collection can drive. He favors Lambos (who doesn't?) and models with Gullwing doors, which probably makes things easier one his 6'4 frame. He owns a supercharged Pagani Huarya, a custom built Ford F150 for everyday driving, and a Ferrari LaFerrari painted a chic matte white. His Rolls Royce Wraith is just the cherry on top of a fine collection.
Tm via Wikicommons
23. Elton John
Famous for his flamboyant on-stage persona and an enormous collection of wild sunglasses, Sir Elton is also a serious car collector. As expected, Elton John can afford to collect some of the most expensive rides. A true Brit at heart, he collects UK makes like Rolls Royces, Jaguars, and Aston Martin, as well as some Italian exotics like Ferrari. But his first automotive love was the gorgeous Jaguar E Type from his heydays in the 60s.
JoachimKoehler via Wikicommons
22. Rowan Atkinson
Most famous for pulling faces as Mr Bean, Rowan Atkinson is a car fanatic who spends his downtime racing rare classics like the Aston Martin DB4. He also owns a 1960s Ford Falcon Sprint, a Jaguar MkVII, a McLaren F1, and a host of special Rolls-Royces and Bentleys. The most valuable car in his collection is the 1939 BMW 328 Roadster that won the Mille Miglia, and is valued at $1million. Can we see Rowan Atkinson as the next James Bond? He's kind of living the life already.
Ketil3 via Wikicommons
21. Nick Mason of Pink Floyd
The drummer from the legendary band Pink Floyd was a car fanatic long before the band made it famous. He was one of the first big rock stars with a serious car collection back in the early '70s, starting with several classic Ferraris. Among the cars in his garage is a legendary classic, the Ferrari 250 GTO. It's officially the most expensive car in the world, with a price of about $38 million.
Mutari via Wikicommons
20. Floyd Mayweather
Famous boxer Floyd Mayweather knows exactly how important speed and performance are. He keeps a measly 100 cars in his Las Vegas stable! His collection includes numerous Ferraris (and some LaFerrari limited-edition models), multiple Bugatti Veyron special editions (such as a Super Sport and a Vitesse) and his beloved Chiron. But that's not all. Customized Rolls Royce and Bentley ultra-luxe sedans round out the collection, along with a few pricey rarities, like a $5 million Koenigsegg CCXR Trevita, one of just two ever made.
Rodrigolopes via Wikicommons
19. Lady Gaga
What Lady wants, Lady gets, and cars are no exception. Lady Gaga has an impressive collection which includes not one, but TWO an immaculate Rolls-Royce Phantoms. She also owns a Lamborghini Huracan, a Porsche Boxster, and a classic, mint-green Chevy Nova SS. However the one she seems to enjoy driving the most is her Ford Bronco. A true American classic.
Rudolphous via Wikicommons
18. Keith Moon
Keith Moon, drummer for the legendary English band The Who, is no longer with us. But his collection was so epic, it's worth mentioning nonetheless. He started collecting during the '70s with the purchase of a Mercedes 600 and a Rolls Royce Phantom, along with various sports cars. He soon developed a taste for custom hot rods, owning several interesting models including the Ferrari 246 Dino that he famously lent to a bunch of teenagers at a pub one night, only to see them total the vehicle.
17. Akon
Akon is a songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor. So it's amazing he even has any time to collect cars. His collection includes the Porsche Panamera, a Ferrari 458 Italia, a Lamborghini Gallardo, and a Lamborghini Murcielago Roadster. One can tell from looking at his lineup that he loves a crisp white paint job, as well.
Johannes Maximilian via Wikicommons
16. Mick Jagger
Possibly one of the famous rock stars of all time, The Rolling Stones singer has been crooning the hits since the 60s. The band was famous not only for its music, but also for living a life of luxurious decadence. That included posh flats (apartments), birds (women), and wheels (you know this one). His first big splurge was on a brand-new Aston Martin, in 1966. However, in true rock-and-roll style, he quickly totaled it during an accident in London that same year.
Akela NDE via Wikicommons
15. Eric Bana
The Aussie actor manages to keep his private life fairly low-key, but doesn't keep his love of automobiles a secret. He owns a flawless 1973 Falcon XOP Hardtop, which he calls "The Beast", and has entered the car into several races. The Falcon XP isn't the only classic car he owns; his sollection includes a Mercedes-Benz 300SL, the Ferrari 275 GTB/4, a Ferrari Daytona (Ferrari 365 GTB/4), a Porsche 911, and a Porsche 356 Speedster.
Sv1ambo via Wikicommons
14. Robert Downey Jr.
Iron Man's Robert Downey Jr. loves high tech toys as much offscreen as he does in the Marvel movies. His collection includes a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette, an Audi E Tron GT concept, a custom Camaro), an Audi R8, a custom Boss 302 Mustang, a Fisker Karma, and a 2009 Audi R8. Throw in his custom Acura NSX concept car for Iron Man 3, and you have to admit it's one of the most impressive car collections on the planet.
1Veertje via Wikicommons
13. Bruce Springsteen
American musician grew up around muscle cars—they feature in many of his songs. So Springsteen was pretty much destined to be a collector, and as soon as he earned enough money from his shows he started buying cool cars. Some of his all-stars include classics like a 1957 Chevrolet, and his legendary 1960 Corvette. A few Porsches and other sports cars round out his collection.
12. Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton is mostly known for being blonde and dumb, but she's actually a savvy businesswoman with a multi-million dollar perfume empire. The heiress's glitzy style extends to her car collection. She owns Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and a bubble-gum pink Bentley. However, the most over-the-top piece in her arsenal is a $350,000 Lexus LFA equipped with a DOHC 40 valve v-10 engine that can turn out 553 hp alongside 354 pound feet of torque. That's hot.
Altair78 via Wikicommons
11. Patrick Dempsey
The Grey's Anatomy actor is an avid collector of old and classic cars. Classic Mercedes and Jaguars are his driving-around-town cars. He also owns a 1963 Porsche 356, a 1972 Jaguar E-Type, a Jaguar XK120, a 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280SE, a Ferrari Daytona, a Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon, and a Porsche GT3RS. Not too bad for the jerk who broke Meredith's heart.
TTTNIS via Wikicommons
10. Justin Bieber
Failing his first driving test didn't slow Justin Bieber down. The erratic celebrity now owns a fleet of 15 cars—that's more cars than he had years when he started his career as a pop star. His collection includes the best that Mercedes, Audi and Lamborghini have to offer, as well as a Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport, a Bentley, and a metallic Fiskar Karma. His most prized and flashy vehicle, however, is his aptly-named Lamborghini Egoísta.
Harranderssvensson via Wikicommons
The Aerosmith frontman has always been flamboyant and controversial. With a career spanning four decades and numerous hits, he has the money to outfit a huge collection. But Tyler keeps it tailored to the essentials with just a few vehicles, including one of the fastest cars that the world has ever seen. The Hennessey Venom GT, is an American-made supercar that produces 1,200 HP with top speeds over 200 mph.
Canadian-born singer-songwriter Neil Young is one of the most influential figures from the classic rock era. Founder of the supergroup, Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young his collection includes cars that are as classic as his songs. And his don't just sit in a garage somewhere—the singer drives his vintage vehicles daily. His current project, dubbed the LincVolt, is a 1959 Lincoln Continental convertible retrofitted with an electric engine. Looks fly and promotes clean energy!
OceanAtoll via Wikicommons
6. Missy Elliot
The Grammy-winning artist loves cars and has the cash to back it up. She's spent over $2 million on her collection, which includes a purple Lamborghini Diablo. She also owns a 2005 Bentley Continental GT, a Spyker C8 Spyder, a Lamborghini Aventador, a Ferrari Enzo, an Aston Martin V12 Vanquish, a Rolls-Royce Phantom, and two Lamborghini Gallardos. We wouldn't expect any less from the Queen of hip-hop.
Mr.choppers via Wikicommons
5. Keanu Reeves
Known as a motorcycle guy, the star of The Matrix also has a soft spot for cars—as long as they're fast. When he fancies a race, he breaks out his Carrera 45 Type 93, or his beloved Porsche 911. The Porsche can clock a maximum speed of 201 MPH, which probably feels like a relaxed walking speed for the John Wick star.
4. Gordon Ramsay
Aside from tossing off a cutting insult, Gordon Ramsay is also known as a TV host and top chef. He owns several restaurants, has amassed the highest number of Michelin stars, and is also a big-time lover of cars. His collection includes a McLaren Senna, a McLaren 675LT, the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera, the Ferrari F12 TDF, a Ferrari 355 GTS, a Porsche 918 Spyder, a BAC Mono, and many others.
Tristan Surtel via Wikicommons
3. Bill Gates
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates loves cars, and will fight for your right to own them. It's true: a few years ago the computer scion used his wealth to fight the US Government for the legal import of the rare Porsche 959 supercar, previously only available in Germany. Was it worth it? If you can afford to own one, maybe. We're glad Bill Gates has turned his interest to fighting climate change with his bank account, instead.
2. Jerry Seinfeld
Comedian Jerry Seinfeld is a car collector beyond par. He had to buy an airport hangar to house his collection, which is estimated at being worth between $50-$150 million. It consists of mostly Porsches, but Seinfeld also owns classic Jaguars, vintage Corvettes and plenty of others. He owns some of the earliest Porsches ever made, including famous racing editions, 911 and 356 models, and more. Recently he sold 18 of his cars for a cool $22 million—just to clear space for more.
Nick via Wikicommons
1. Jay Leno
Jay Leno's car collection is almost as famous as he is. The talk show host has over 1600 vehicles in his collection, including a pre-1900 car with a steam engine, an American LaFrance fire engine, and even a Ferret Scout army vehicle. Said to be worth more than $52 million, one of the strangest cars in Leno's stable is the Blastolene Special, a sports car body on a truck chassis equipped with an engine hijacked from a US Army tank. Vroom-vroom.
Rsduhamel via Wikicommons
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