Average annual salary for a Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinator is $50592 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest salary recorded was $78510. The lowest salary reported was $35234. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Median hourly wage for a Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinator is $25.16 based on statistics in the U.S. as of 2015. The highest hourly rate recorded was $39.04. The lowest hourly rate recorded was $17.52. These figures will vary on a state to state basis as these are averages across all 50 states.
Bonuses for a Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinator are based on the years of experience using statistics from the U.S. as of 2015. The average bonus recorded was $0 from people with 15+ years of experience. The average bonus recorded was $0 from people with under 1 year of experience.
These are the highest paying states for a Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinator. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
These are the highest paying cities for a Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinator. These numbers are based of the median annual salary as of 2015.
Based on our stats gathered across the U.S. 5% of Long Term Care Quality Assurance Coordinators were males while 95% were females. These numbers are based on averages across all states combined. Some individual states may have a much different ratio however.


From 3-5 May 2017, the European edition of our CIO Insight Summit brought together senior IT decision-makers and business leaders from across the continent at the wonderful Kempinski Frankfurt Hotel, to share their views on how to tackle the biggest challenges in tech today.
The summit program focussed on key themes such as: innovation and transformation through disruption, architecture and optimisation; how to run securely in an age of data, cloud and GRC; and engaging customers through new channels.
From case studies that lift the lid on operations inside best-in-class organisations, to workshops and collaborative sessions that focus on real challenges and future technology innovations, to one-to-one meetings with industry peers offering practical advice tailored to your specific needs, our summits provide everything you need to implement your key projects more effectively.


text:
Q: Intent in an adapter using global variables from activity I've been looking for an answer and I'm just turning around and around.
I'm trying to make my application work with google drive.
My problem is that I'm using an intent in an adapter called in a class and I would like to pass through the intent variables I got from another activity.
My inner class :
public class QueryFilesActivity extends BaseDemoActivity {

    private ListView mResultsListView;
    private ResultsAdapter mResultsAdapter;
    Date date = new Date();
    String stringDate = DateFormat.getDateInstance().format(date);
    String ecrire;
    String ville;
    String container;
    @Override
    protected void onCreate(Bundle b) {
        super.onCreate(b);
        setContentView(R.layout.activity_listfiles);
        mResultsListView = (ListView) findViewById(R.id.listViewResults);
        mResultsAdapter = new ResultsAdapter(this);
        mResultsListView.setAdapter(mResultsAdapter);
        Intent i = getIntent();
        ecrire = i.getStringExtra("test");
        ville = i.getStringExtra("ville");
        container = i.getStringExtra("cont");
    }

    /**
     * Clears the result buffer to avoid memory leaks as soon
     * as the activity is no longer visible by the user.
     */
    @Override
    protected void onStop() {
        super.onStop();
        mResultsAdapter.clear();
    }

    @Override
    public void onConnected(Bundle connectionHint) {
        super.onConnected(connectionHint);
        Query query = new Query.Builder()
                .addFilter(Filters.eq(SearchableField.TITLE, stringDate+"_"+ville+2))
                .build();
        Drive.DriveApi.query(getGoogleApiClient(), query)
                .setResultCallback(metadataCallback);
    }

    final private ResultCallback<MetadataBufferResult> metadataCallback = new
            ResultCallback<MetadataBufferResult>() {
                @Override
                public void onResult(MetadataBufferResult result) {
                    if (!result.getStatus().isSuccess()) {
                        showMessage("Problem while retrieving results");
                        return;
                    }
                    mResultsAdapter.clear();
                    mResultsAdapter.append(result.getMetadataBuffer());
                }
            };
}

And my adapter :
public class ResultsAdapter extends DataBufferAdapter<Metadata> {

    public ResultsAdapter(Context context) {
        super(context, android.R.layout.simple_list_item_1);
    }

    @Override
    public View getView(int position, View convertView, ViewGroup parent) {
        if (convertView == null) {
            convertView = View.inflate(getContext(),
                    android.R.layout.simple_list_item_1, null);
        }
        Metadata metadata = getItem(position);

        String resultat = metadata.getAlternateLink();
        String S1 = resultat.substring(32,60);
        TextView titleTextView =
                (TextView) convertView.findViewById(android.R.id.text1);
        titleTextView.setText(S1);
        Intent intent = new Intent(getContext(), EditContentsActivity.class);
        intent.putExtra("file", S1);

        getContext().startActivity(intent);

        return convertView;
    }

}

I would like to pass what I get in my intent in the intent of my adapter.
Any suggestion?

A: I just forgot to put my third class to record stuff in my drive.
public class EditContentsActivity extends BaseDemoActivity {
String saver;
String numero;
String file;
String ville;

private static final String TAG = "EditContentsActivity";

@Override
public void onConnected(Bundle connectionHint) {
    super.onConnected(connectionHint);

    final ResultCallback<DriveApi.DriveIdResult> idCallback = new ResultCallback<DriveApi.DriveIdResult>() {
        @Override
        public void onResult(DriveApi.DriveIdResult result) {
            if (!result.getStatus().isSuccess()) {
                showMessage("Cannot find DriveId. Are you authorized to view this file?");
                return;
            }
            DriveId driveId = result.getDriveId();
            DriveFile file = driveId.asDriveFile();
            new EditContentsAsyncTask(EditContentsActivity.this).execute(file);
        }
    };
    Intent i = getIntent();
    file = i.getStringExtra("file");
    ville = i.getStringExtra("localite");

    Drive.DriveApi.fetchDriveId(getGoogleApiClient(), file)
            .setResultCallback(idCallback);
}

public class EditContentsAsyncTask extends ApiClientAsyncTask<DriveFile, Void, Boolean> {

    public EditContentsAsyncTask(Context context) {
        super(context);
    }

    @Override
    protected Boolean doInBackgroundConnected(DriveFile... args) {
        DriveFile file = args[0];
        try {
            DriveApi.DriveContentsResult driveContentsResult = file.open(
                    getGoogleApiClient(), DriveFile.MODE_READ_WRITE, null).await();
            if (!driveContentsResult.getStatus().isSuccess()) {
                return false;
            }
            Intent i = getIntent();
            saver = i.getStringExtra("test");
            numero = i.getStringExtra("cont");
            double e1 = i.getDoubleExtra("lat", 0);
            double e2 = i.getDoubleExtra("longi", 0);

            DriveContents driveContents = driveContentsResult.getDriveContents();
            ParcelFileDescriptor parcelFileDescriptor = driveContents.getParcelFileDescriptor();
            FileInputStream fileInputStream = new FileInputStream(parcelFileDescriptor.getFileDescriptor());
            fileInputStream.read(new byte[fileInputStream.available()]);
            FileOutputStream fileOutputStream = new FileOutputStream(parcelFileDescriptor.getFileDescriptor());
            Writer writer = new OutputStreamWriter(fileOutputStream);
            writer.write("\n container "+numero+" : "+saver+"\nlatitude : "+e1+" longitude : "+e2+ville);
            writer.close();
            fileOutputStream.close();
            //OutputStream outputStream = driveContents.getOutputStream();
            //outputStream.write("Hello world".getBytes());
            com.google.android.gms.common.api.Status status =
                    driveContents.commit(getGoogleApiClient(), null).await();
            return status.getStatus().isSuccess();
        } catch (IOException e) {
            Log.e(TAG, "IOException while appending to the output stream", e);
        }
        return false;
    }

    @Override
    protected void onPostExecute(Boolean result) {
        if (!result) {
            showMessage("Error while editing contents");
            return;
        }
        showMessage("les données ont bien été enregistrées");
    }
}

}
what's happening is that my variables are null

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Hi there! My name is Kobe and I am a beautiful 3 year old Golden Retriever mix who is just the sweetest! I am great with people and do well with other dogs too. I can be a bit sensitive, so a quieter home with kids over 10 years would be my ideal. That's not to say I'm boring though! I love to play and have just the right energy for folks who like to run and hike! A home where we can explore your neighborhood in the morning and chew on our favorite treats in the evening would be perfect. I am a little guy, about 50 lbs, perfect for traveling. 🙂 Am I the pooch for you? Fill out an application at pixieproject.org so we can schedule a meet and greet. I am fixed, vaccinated and microchipped. My adoption fee is $250.


iico.me 9 out of 10 based on 592 ratings. 1,763 user reviews.
Find great deals on eBay for 1973 duster wiring diagram. Shop with confidence.
1973 Plymouth Duster Wiring Diagram At this time we will share a huge collection of images about Dodge Dart Wiring Diagram 1973 Deltagenerali Plymouth Duster.
ML13058B 1973 Dodge Dart Plymouth Duster 11" X 17" Color Wiring Diagram If you are tired of trying to decipher black and white wiring diagrams from old shop manuals, here is the solution! This full color diagram features all chassis wiring from the front lights to the dash to rear lights.
"1973 Duster Wiring Diagram Manual" This is a reprint of the wiring diagram printed by Plymouth for dealer mechanics. You can follow all of the wiring in your vehicle from bumper to bumper.


For today only (September 8th), Amazon has discounted the Belkin SurgePlus 6-Outlet Wall Mount Surge Protector to $13.99.
2 powered USB ports (2.1 AMP combined).
For today only (September 8th), Amazon has discounted the Belkin SurgePlus 6-Outlet Wall Mount Surge Protector to $13.99. 2 powered USB ports (2.1 AMP combined). Wall-mountable for 6 extra AC outlets.
For today only (April 6th), Amazon offers the Belkin 12-Outlet Home/Office Surge Protector with 8 ft. Cord, Telephone and Coaxial Protection for $14.99.
For today only (April 6th), Amazon offers the Belkin 12-Outlet Home/Office Surge Protector with 8 ft. Cord, Telephone and Coaxial Protection for $14.99. 3940 joule energy rating. $300,000 Connected Equipment Warranty.
For today only (April 6th), Amazon offers the Belkin SurgePlus 3-Outlet Mini Travel Swivel Charger Surge Protector for $14.99.
2.1 AMP / 10 Watt.
For today only (April 6th), Amazon offers the Belkin SurgePlus 3-Outlet Mini Travel Swivel Charger Surge Protector for $14.99. Dual USB Ports. 2.1 AMP / 10 Watt.
For today only, Amazon is spotlighting the Belkin 7 Outlet Surge Protector with Telephone Protection and 4ft Power Cord for $10.99.
For today only, Amazon is spotlighting the Belkin 7 Outlet Surge Protector with Telephone Protection and 4ft Power Cord for $10.99. 7 Surge-protected outlets. 3-line AC protection. 4-foot power cord.


text:
#import <Foundation/Foundation.h>

@class bsCallback;
@class bsError;

@interface bsQueue : NSObject {

@private
    NSString *key_;
    bsCallback *end_;
    BOOL callbackMainThread_;
}

@property (nonatomic, readonly) NSString *key;

/**
 worker에서 run 실행을 하지 못하도록 한다. 이미 run이 구동된 상태면 run내부에서 cancel을 보고 다른 처리를 할 수 있도록 해야한다.
 */
@property (atomic) BOOL cancel;

/**
 worker에서 callback함수를 호출시 main thread상태에서 호출시킬 것인가? 기본은 YES다.
 */
@property (atomic) BOOL callbackMainThread;

+ (bsQueue *)GWithClassName:(NSString *)className key:(NSString *)key end:(bsCallback *)end;
- (id)run:(bsError **)error;
- (void)callback:(id)data error:(bsError*)error;
- (void)clear;

@end

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
BBNZ Key Dates for 2023
Key Dates for 2023
2023 is shaping up to be a huge year for basketball in New Zealand, both domestically and on the world stage. Let's check out some key dates in the basketball calendar for 2023:
Senior National Teams
On 24 Feb, the Tall Blacks take on Saudi Arabia in a World Cup Qualifier game @ Christchurch Arena. Get your tickets here.
On 27 Feb, the Tall Blacks head to Wellington's TSB Arena to face Lebanon, in their last World Cup Qualifier game before the FIBA World Cup. Get your tickets here.
From 25 Mar – 4 Apr, The 3×3 Tall Blacks and 3×3 Tall Ferns will travel to Singapore for the Asia Cup.
The Tall Blacks travel to the FIBA World Cup from 25 Aug – 10 Sep, which is co-hosted by Japan, Malaysia and the Philippines (see venues here). Schedule is currently TBC. Find out more at fiba.basketball/basketballworldcup/2023
The Sky Sport Tall Ferns travel to the FIBA Asia Cup in 2023, which serves as a Qualifier event for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Date and location currently TBC.
Age Group National Teams
U16 & U17 Regional Selection Camps in February: 11 Feb – Rangiora, 18 Feb – Wellington, 25 Feb – Tauranga, 26 Feb – Auckland
U16 & U17 National Camp Window, 10 – 17 April
From 23 Sep – 30 Sep, the U17 Junior Tall Blacks and Junior Tall Ferns will be traveling to Papua New Guinea to participate in the FIBA U17 Oceania Championships.
The U16 Men's National team will be participating in the FIBA U16 Men's Asian Championships. Dates TBC.
The U16 Women's National team will be participating in the FIBA U16 Women's Asian Championships. Dates TBC.
Domestic Leagues
Kicking off on the 6th Apr, the Sal's NBL will tip off for its 42nd The Final 6 will take place from 20th July – 23rd July. More information here.
GJ Gardner Homes Tauihi – Start date TBA. More information here.
Rapid League – Start date TBA
Representative Tournaments
From 2 Jun – 5 Jun, North Canterbury will host for the second consecutive year the Aon U19 Nationals.
From 4 Jul – 7 Jul, Capital Basketball will take the reins of their first National Championship, hosting the Aon U17 Nationals in the Hutt Valley.
From 12 Jul – 15 Jul, Auckland's Pulman Arena and Auckland Basketball Services will once again play host to the Aon U15 Nationals tournament.
From 15 Sep – 17 Sep, Cowles Stadium will host the Tertiary Championships for the first time since 2019.
Information on Representative tournaments can be found here.
The tournament specific calendar can be found here.
School Tournaments
26 Aug – 29 Aug – Junior Secondary School Premierships
30 Aug – 1 Sep – Cup Non-Qualifier Tournaments
30 Aug – 2 Sep – 'A' North & South Island Premierships
30 Aug – 2 Sep – 'AA' Zone Premierships
25 Sep – 30 Sep – Secondary Schools National Championships
Information for all School tournaments can be found here.
3×3 – Domestic
Kickstarting again from 28 Jan, the NZ Pro 3×3 Quest will continue to move between Auckland an Christchurch. More information about the competition can be found here.
From 29 Mar to 1 Apr, after last year's of cancellation due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 3×3 NZ Secondary Schools Nationals for Juniors and Seniors will go ahead.
May 13 will see the top players from Tertiary institutions go head-to-head in the Tertiary 3×3 Championships. This will take place over two days at AUT North Shore in Auckland.
3×3 – Age Group National Teams
Oct, U17 3×3 Men and 3×3 Women travel away for the U17 3×3 Asia Cup. Date TBC.
Up to date tournament information can be found at Basketball New Zealand's new What's On page, which can be found here. The What's On page will contain all information required, including where to find broadcasts/live streams if available. It's the best place to find out about everything basketball.
Please note that we will update the What's On page with the newest information and may not update this article.
First Stop of NZ Pro 3x3 Quest For 2023 Wraps Up
FIBA Confirms Dates and Locations for Key Events in 2023
3x3 NZ Pro Quest Tour Resumes For 2023
BBNZ Welcomes Toko Kapea As Board Member
Coaching Staff Announced for National Junior Teams

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Hi, my name is Ed. Welcome to my Web page. I'm happy to have this chance to introduce myself to you and tell you more about my work here at Kaiser Permanente.
I grew up in Glendale, California and was inspired to become a doctor through different experiences I had getting medical care in different doctors' offices. I completed both my undergraduate studies and medical school at UC Irvine, where I graduated with my medical degree in 1988. I've been with Kaiser Permanente since 1991, beginning at the Riverside Medical Center. I moved to the Moreno Valley Medical Center when it opened in 1992, and then moved to the Wildomar Medical Offices when they opened in 1999. I've been at my current location at the Temecula Medical Offices since 2007.
As a Kaiser Permanente physician, we always place a strong emphasis on preventive care and healthy living, but I'm also here for when you're sick. I believe the physician and the member should always work together as a team, and I strive to promote that type of partnership in my medical practice. I also speak Spanish and see many Spanish-speaking members on a daily basis.
I stay healthy by going running on a daily basis. I started running in 7th grade at the urging of my father, and it has become a lifelong passion that I 'm happy to have passed on to my children. I've run seven full marathons in my life and, even though I no longer run that sort of distance, I still manage to run regularly.


Speaking to students in the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Head of Training at the Institute of Insurance of Uganda, Mr. Jonan Kisakye called upon students to take up insurance professional courses after completion of their Undergraduate degrees reiterating that the courses offered at the Institute will enable them acquire practical knowledge and skills.
"Insurance professional courses are taught by experienced people who are already in the business of insurance. If you take up these courses, it will enable you acquire practical knowledge relevant in the insurance world. Insurance is a rewarding career which every student should be involved in," said Mr. Kisakye.
Mr. Kisakye advised students to network with the right people that will help them make the right decisions in their lives and stay focused for a better future.
He highlighted that The Institute of Insurance of Uganda offers trainings in insurance at affordable prices in courses such as C.O.P Fundamentals of insurance, Certificate in Insurance (C.I.U), and Diplomas with intakes in January and August.
The workshop held on Thursday 12th October 2017 at Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences presented opportunities to students from schools of Economics and Business interested in insurance as a career. The training also targeted unemployed graduands seeking jobs in the field of insurance.
Ms. Caroline Twongirwe, an Assistant Lecturer (Accounting and Finance) stated that the College organised the interaction in order for students to understand and appreciate the insurance field. She revealed that the College was planning to include Insurance as a Course Unit under Bachelor of Commerce. She said that the College partnered with The Institute of Insurance of Uganda because they have experienced staff that will help the students to appreciate insurance.
One of the inspired participants, Ms. Atugonza Lilian, a third year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Development Economics revealed that she had acquired valuable information about the Insurance system in Uganda. Ms Atugonza said that the workshop enabled her to understand the professional courses she has to study in order to build a great career in insurance.
"The insurance workshop has motivated me into joining the insurance world. I have realized that it is a good career to take on especially the bank insurance," remarked Ms. Atugonza.
Mr. Levis Ngabirano-a third year student pursuing a Bachelors Degree in Commerce thanked the College of Business and Management Sciences for organizing the insurance workshop which he referred to as a great opportunity that has exposed students to the insurance world. He said that such workshops enable them to acquire practical knowledge.
"It is such a great opportunity to have professionals from the Institute of Insurance of Uganda sharing information about insurance with us. This has exposed us to the real world of insurance. It has also enabled us acquire practical knowledge about insurance," he remarked.
Mr. Ngabirano emphasised the need for insurance companies to undertake more publicity and community outreach programmes to inform the public about the benefits of embracing insurance first as a career and getting their properties insured.


Did him working out and gaining muscle over summer help here? He muscles his way down to get a closer shot.
Kid's got the closer gene.
A 20 year old 6'9" or so wing with a strong fade-away arsenal is crazy.
I am so proud that I kinda called for him in that draft after I saw his highlight.
I am delighted that he went on the strength program I suggested. He needs to get stronger and stronger.
He was great but I think sometimes he is more worried about a move than just taking the shot. Of course, developing these moves tends to lead to good things down the road. But sometimes he makes shots more complicated than they have to be at times.
He does appear to make some shots more complicated than they need to be at times, but for him, I think he is doing what is comfortable. He seems to have certain moves - like the one-leg fall-away jumper, or the fake dribble side-step three - that are a little unorthodox, but where he seems to have quite a bit of success. His one on one ability is pretty incredible at his age and, with his apparent growth, will just make him more devastating.
He is quickly becoming the best player on the Cs (I know, stop biting on shot fakes on D) and we should all be extremely happy if that happens on a team full of stars.
He's been our best player in these first 3 games. Really encouraging.
He's not there yet but his development is something to behold.
Jayson has the ability to get defenders off balance with that herky-jerky rhythm he has.
His game is expanding more and more, he can take you off the dribble to the rim, he can shoot fall-away shots around the paint, or step back and shoot the three.
When the ball finds his hands I feel he can get a shot whenever he wants.
lol PP is already protecting his place. The studio crew was teasing Paul about Tatum having better handles than him when Paul defended his legacy by saying people who said he did not have tight handles or athleticism should visit youtube. LOL.
No disrepect to Pierce to say Tatum's potential is higher. It's still mostly potential for now, but on a team that had enough shots to give him, I could see Tatum putting up a very efficient 30 and 10 in a few years. We may have to "settle" for about 22 and 10, plus all-NBA closing ability. The kid will be closing out big playoff games this year.
He's right last year's excellent TS% of .583, despite taking more shot creation responsibility. See if he isn't north of 60% by next year.
I love what Tatum showed so far.
- his defense is shaky, he bites on pump fakes regularly, and gets bumped of spots. Sometimes after a score, he forgets about the other end.
- if he doesn't shoot it, his creating and decision making leave a lot to be desired. As his usage% is rising his TO% is spiking.
Not saying these aren't fixable, just that we are treating him as an All-star and he is not that - yet.


text:
Lela Graybill, Ph.D.
Lela Graybill is Associate Professor of Art History at the University of Utah, specializing in the art and visual culture of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. She received her Ph.D. in Art History from Stanford University. Her research and teaching examines historical relationships between the fine arts, popular culture, media technologies, visuality and display.
Her first book, The Visual Culture of Violence after the French Revolution (Routledge, 2016), traces four sites of spectatorship that exemplified the visual culture of violence in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, offering a new account of the significance of violent spectacle to the birth of modernity. Considerations of the execution scaffold, salon painting, print culture and the fait divers, and waxworks displays establish the centrality of spectatorial violence to experiences of selfhood in the wake of the French Revolution. Shedding critical light on previously neglected aspects of art and visual culture of the post-Revolutionary period, The Visual Culture of Violence after the French Revolution demonstrates how violent spectacle at this moment was profoundly shaped by shifting social attitudes, contemporary political practices, and rapidly accelerated technological developments. By attending to the formal and historical specificity of violent spectacle after the Revolution, Graybill affirms the historical contingency through which the visual culture of violence in the modern era has emerged.
Her current book project, Forensic Imagination: Art, Vision, and Modern Constructs of Truth, examines the critical role that circumstantial evidence played in the visual navigation of truth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Considering the stakes of evidentiary methods of "truth-making" as they circulated beyond the courtroom, in the experience and imagination of the viewing public, Graybill looks at the diverse visual practices and technologies that developed in the 19th and 20th centuries to situate spectators as witnesses, arguing for an intersection of art and forensic science that was crucial to the development of modern constructs of truth.


Anna Maria Island Solar Power Company - Florida Power Services "The Solar Power Company"
Florida Power Services "The Solar Power Company" is your top rated Anna Maria Island Solar Power Company. We install sleek, world-class solar systems for residential and commercial owners throughout Anna Maria Island and Southwest Florida. Our company is respected as the experts in solar installation in Anna Maria Island and is consistently helping homeowners and businesses save money and the environment. With 17 years of experience, our state certified team has gained a unique knowledge of solar design for all roof styles and wind loads. We provide seamless and safe installations of renewable energy systems that remain trouble free for 25-30 years. Solar Panels are what we do, and it's our passion to help Anna Maria Island residents get electricity from the sun, with the best equipment and the latest installation methods.
If you're considering Solar Power Installation in Anna Maria Island, or have any questions, then feel free to contact us today so we can advise you on what's best.
Net Metering is a huge benefit for any solar system owner, as it allows you to essentially use the utility company as free storage for your excess solar production. Any excess electricity that your solar system creates will be fed back into the grid, and saved for a later date! Through the use of a single, bi-directional meter you'll be able to see how many kWh you've fed to the grid and at the end of a calendar year if there is excess a check! By simply installing solar panels onto your property in Anna Maria Island, FL with net metering, you'll save money every month.
Why Should You Consider Solar Power Installation in Anna Maria Island, FL?
The addition of a solar energy system to a Anna Maria Island home will bring an increase in resale value. Evidence shows that a home's value increases by $20,000 for every $1,000 saved in annual electricity. Potential buyers are far more likely to be interested in a house with a pre-installed solar system, knowing the vast savings they'll make.
We can provide various types of solar power systems. Whether you want a backup plan for a grid failure or cheaper kWh – we've got you covered. We can build a high-quality power solution tailored to your property and your needs through the finest workmanship in Anna Maria Island, FL.


Join EUBA at #EUIndustryDay 2019: "Developing sustainable markets: the role of the circular bioeconomy in the EU"
Planning to be at #EUIndustryDay 2019? Join EUBA on 5 February at 16h15 for an interactive discussion on the importance of developing the circular bioeconomy in the EU.
The EU has given new direction to the European Bioeconomy Strategy. Now it's time to put action behind the words.
The European Commission's adoption of an updated Bioeconomy Strategy is a big step toward creating a truly circular, low-carbon economy in the EU – and will help ensure new growth in a future-oriented sector. Now it is time to deliver on the promise with concrete actions.
European Forest Institute event "Leading the way to a new European bioeconomy strategy"


text:
Youth Movement at 2013 U.S. Championships
IM-elect Sam Sevian, 12, is the youngest player ever to participate in the U.S. Championship.
By FM Mike Klein
For a good percentage of the field at the 2013 U.S. Championship and U.S. Women's Championship, victory would mean fame, a huge payday, and a soft-drink with dinner. That's because many competitors of both tournaments are first-time contenders, some still in their teens and precociously competing against battle-tested veterans.
Some of the younger competitors had qualification as their goal many months ago. For FM John Bryant, "that was the whole point of playing in the (2012) U.S. Open." His last round win and victory on tiebreaks over American stalwart GM Dmitry Gurevich netted Bryant an automatic invite. Calling him an FM is technically true, though hardly indicative of his strength. Considering he earned two grandmaster norms last year and said he wanted to get his third and final norm at this year's championship, Bryant is not simply happy to be competing. He will attempt to blitz through another grandmaster-laden field this year, just as he did in Vancouver, Washington, in 2012. Although he will be ranked in the bottom third of the field, he does not lack confidence. Asked what would constitute a successful event for him, Bryant said, "First place."
One player who was completely surprised at the invitation was WFM Sarah Chiang. Though she is a veteran of competing for the U.S. in World Youth Championships, and has already trained under two world champions, this will also be her first championship. "I thought playing in this year's U.S. Women's Championship was out of reach since I was ranked 19th on the women's list," Chiang said. The 15-year-old received a wild-card invite, and she offers some new blood in an event that traditionally has less turnover than the U.S. Championship. Surprisingly, she has never played any of the other nine women in a tournament.
She said she expects there to be more pressure in Saint Louis than when she competes internationally. "There are fewer players in the field, which means that each player will receive more attention than at a tournament like the World Youth," she explained. Chiang is right – her games will be broadcast in real time all over the world, and players traditionally come down to give live interviews and game analysis with the broadcast team.
Unlike Bryant, Chiang does not have a specific goal regarding wins, norms, or standing. She said the tournament will be a "learning experience" and that "I'm not trying to think of the tournament in terms of number of the number of points I get since that's only going to distract me from playing well."
Going down the age list, 14-year-old IM Kayden Troff is fresh off a gold medal at the previous World Youth Championship. Like many of the other juniors, he's been to Saint Louis before and has nothing but praise for the host Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis. "I think it is great to see the club and the way those involved are actively seeking to popularize chess," Troff said.
Troff comes from Utah, a state not usually known for producing chess prodigies. He's happy to buck the mold, which he did with a focused dedication to the game. "For me, I would say I definitely have some natural talent, but I think putting in a lot of work is probably the main reason I am where I am today." Many strong juniors have had strong chess-playing fathers to guide them (Bryant's stepfather is GM Enrico Sevillano), but Troff's dad actually got better simply to teach his son. Troff credits his father's dedication for his own success (Dan Troff does not compete much but has a provisional rating in the 1300s, while several of Kayden's brothers have achieved modest chess success as well).
As for tournament goals, Troff took a middle road as compared to Bryant and Chiang. In the group of two dozen, he thinks a good result for him would be in the low teens, just like his age. "With a very strong field I would think that placing in the top 10/15ish would be pretty great!" And whereas Chiang is deciding between a career in chess or becoming a pediatrician, Troff is not as conflicted. He already produces chess videos, is planning a chess-themed song, and seems to still be devoted to the game for quite a while. "I hope I have the best chance of becoming a chess professional. That is definitely the path I am seeking! But who knows where chess is going in the next few years. Maybe one day I will have my own chess television series and then sing my own theme song, which will make me partially all three."
But if underdogs are your thing, look no further than newly-minted IM Samuel Sevian. Not yet even a teenager, the 12-year-old wunderkind has had his rating rise in nearly every supplement since he began playing. With nearly 200 points gained in the last 18 months, Sevian is on a tear. Like Troff, he won gold at the last World Youth (Troff in the under-14, Sevian in the under-12). He was once the youngest-ever American master until his record was broken recently by a matter of days. "I won't be original here, the records are meant to be broken," he said. "Good for the breakers. As to the GM records, if I break them it will be good and if I don't I will not cry about it."
It doesn't hurt that he comes from good stock. Sevian's ancestry is Armenian, which could perhaps be the most chess-infused country in the world. Their national team has won gold at three of last four Chess Olympiads, their president flies home the grandmasters in his personal plane, and chess is mandatory in the school system.
Although he has lived all of his life in the U.S., Sevian's work ethic holds chess in similar esteem. In this sense he is not entirely different than the other youngsters. By his estimates, Sevian spends six or seven hours a day training (he also does physical conditioning too). Troff is homeschooled and puts in a similar amount of time. Chiang attends school online but still spends a few hours daily on her chess. She is thinking of taking a year off after high school to focus on chess; Bryant is currently on break from college to devote himself to the game.
There are several other first-timers at the 2013 U.S. Championships. These young guns look to be the future of American chess, and fans may one day look back on this year as the moment when one or two of them graduated from scholastic superstar to top-level American player.
Sevian's willingness to "play up" in the open and master section from an early age means he has already been battle tested against many of his other competitors. "I actually played some of the players in the lower half of the field and have more or less 50% score against them combined," he said. "Would really like to play some of the sharks in the upper half."
Of course this time he will be come into the tournament ranked 24th, last in a crowded field of grandmasters and other promising juniors. Sevian has been in this exact situation before. At the 23rd Metropolitan Chess FIDE Invitational in December, Sevian, the only untitled player, was ranked last in the ten-player field. He promptly scored an undefeated 6/9, tied for first, and became an International Master.


7. Online training and classroom /online-training-and-classroom-based-learni..
8. Level 3 Food Safety Update Intermediate /courses/Intermediate_Level_Food_Safety_Upd..
Ashtree.co.uk - Ashtree Management - Online & Offline Training Courses ..
Blithfieldsafety.co.uk - Blithfield Safety Training - First Aid At Work, ..


text:
Is Liechtenstein the world's premier juristriction for blockchain regulation?
Dr iur. Dr rer. pol. Fabian Teichmann and Marie-Christin Falker
Dr. Teichmann is admitted as an attorney before all courts in Switzerland, and undertakes notarial work as a notary public in the Canton of St. Gallen. As an attorney, he primarily works in the fields of company law, commercial law and employment law, as well as administrative and criminal law. Marie-Christin Falker is a graduate research associate at Teichmann International (Schweiz) AG in Switzerland.
Although blockchain has existed for over a decade, many companies are only just beginning to understand this technology's potential scope of application and added value. Apart from powering virtual currencies, blockchain facilitates a decentralised storing of data which can help to increase efficiency and transparency in many sectors. As with any innovative technology, it has been surrounded by an aura of uncertainty. This uncertainty can be attributed to a lack of legal provisions regarding the use of its applications.
There currently is no comprehensive EU legal framework that considers all potential blockchain applications. Attempts to regulate blockchain primarily include the fifth anti-money laundering directive (AMLD5). This, however, regulates only some of its applications, namely virtual asset providers such as cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers, who offer soft or hardware for storing cryptocurrency. Moreover, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an intergovernmental regulatory body that establishes standards to combat illicit financial transactions, has amended Recommendation 15 of its 40+9 anti-money laundering and terrorist financing recommendations to include the regulation of virtual asset providers.
European and Chinese blockchain powerhouses
In recent years, China, Switzerland and Liechtenstein all have evolved into financial technology (FinTech) and blockchain hotspots. They have seen numerous domestic start-ups in the sector emerge. Chinese investors looking for blockchain opportunities may be interested in both Switzerland and Liechtenstein because both jurisdictions are welcoming of the technology and facilitate quick and easy company incorporation. It makes sense to analyse the Swiss and Liechtenstein legal frameworks that regulate the technology.
Moreover, Liechtenstein is the only jurisdiction that has implemented a comprehensive legal framework for existing and future blockchain applications. The Tokens and TT Service Provider Act (TVTG in German) was implemented in October 2019 and took effect on 1 January 2020.
We will demonstrate how the implementation of the TVTG has challenged preconceived ideas of blockchain and game-changing technologies by introducing innovative ideas and approaches to their regulation, thus becoming a trailblazer in the field.
Functioning and Applications of Blockchain
Blockchain is a decentralised public ledger able to record transactions between individuals or companies. The Harvard Business Review defines it formally as "an open, distributed ledger that can record transactions between two parties efficiently and in a verifiable and permanent way". As the name suggests, it is a chain of blocks, which store information about these peer to peer transactions. The distributed ledger can be accessed by any computer that downloads the blockchain, thereby becoming a so-called node in the chain. Blockchain is therefore highly transparent — the details of all transactions, including peers' usernames, time stamps and transferred sums are recorded for everyone to see. However, at least with regard to cryptocurrencies, it is usually not possible to connect the username to a user. The technology thus also enables anonymity.
Like any innovative technology, blockchain is constantly evolving. Several different kinds of blockchain have emerged from the original design. For instance, whereas the Bitcoin blockchain is decentralised and can be accessed all over the world, other blockchains are controlled by a central entity. The latter is true of the blockchain hosting Facebook's upcoming Libra stablecoin. All Libra nodes are controlled by the Libra Association and are inaccessible to outsiders. This also implies that companies can design their own blockchains, exclusively to run internal operations and store confidential data.
In a corporate environment, blockchain could be used to record stops in a supply chain, which would increase transparency and efficiency. All members of the supply chain would be able to trace the respective goods without delays in communication between individual stops. Another application suggested by the Liechtenstein government is tokenising assets. Tokens are entities on the blockchain that represent a value or right and can be transferred between peers. Thus, ownership rights to certain valuable assets could be translated into a token, saleable and securely transferred via blockchain.
Due to its inherent features, blockchain facilitates secure peer to peer transactions that do not require the involvement of a lawyer, financial intermediary or other trusted third party. It is nearly impossible to hack a blockchain and any changes made would be immediately visible to all users. Accordingly, blockchain transactions could soon become a cost-efficient method of selling and transferring assets, ownership rights, storing data and more. In peer-to-peer transactions, the asset in question could be stored safely in a warehouse or other secure location. But its ownership is transferred virtually, significantly reducing theft and fraud risks.
Another application of blockchain technology of particularly value during the Covid-19 pandemic is managing healthcare data. Potential uses include protecting intellectual property (by time-stamping documents an intellectual property at its moment of creation), data collection (allowing pharmaceutical companies to collect patient data in real time) and medical records management (reducing risks of unauthorised access). Opportunities in healthcare include giving patients greater control over their medical care, transparency, low costs and security. For instance, medical records can be shared securely between healthcare providers. In addition, this process will follow strict rules and be used by private pharmaceutical companies. More generally, blockchain technology could be valuable in financial services, mobility, logistics, industry, energy, media and more.
The TVTG
Liechtenstein's TVTG is the world's first comprehensive blockchain legislation. It challenges pre-existing notions of blockchain by considering aspects of its application which have not received appropriate legal attention before. Most individuals seem to mainly associate blockchain with cryptocurrency, which is reflected in regulations around the world. In particular, many legislators have regulated or even outright banned cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin without paying much attention to other potential applications of blockchain technology. In addition, data on Bitcoin use in countries like China, which have banned the cryptocurrency, illustrate that banning blockchain applications might have little effect. Peers continue to trade in cryptocurrency regardless, partially due to the blockchain's decentralised design. It cannot be controlled by a central entity or government. Nodes are scattered all over the globe and the system follows only its own rules, based on mathematical algorithms, and thus can hardly be manipulated.
The TVTG recognises this issue by regulating actors and service providers in the realm of blockchain. The main advantage of the TVTG is that it is designed to maintain its validity far into the future. In particular, it uses the term "TT systems" which stands for "transaction systems based on trustworthy technologies", rather than "blockchain". With new technologies a central issue is that any attempt to regulate them quickly become outdated as legislators fail to address technological advances in a timely manner. This creates legal grey areas. Whenever a promising innovative technology is not regulated appropriately, it becomes difficult for companies to benefit from its advantages. Any multinational corporation that intends to venture into blockchain technology will therefore likely consider Liechtenstein an attractive company location. Its law sets out clear rules and guidelines for using blockchain.
Moreover, the TVTG discusses an abundance of potential blockchain applications and answers corresponding legal questions. The Liechtenstein government introduced the term "token economy", which designates all blockchain. The roles of different actors and service providers in the token economy are defined. These include token generators, the TT key depositary, which stores access keys to tokens on behalf of their customers, the TT Verifying Authority, which ensures that during token transfers, legal regulations are observed and more.
In terms of due diligence obligations to combat organised crime, terrorist financing and money laundering, virtual currencies and payment tokens have raised several questions, especially in the FinTech industry which is pronounced in Liechtenstein. Generally, due diligence matters are regulated in the Due Diligence Act ("SPG" in German). Since 1 September 2017, exchange offices that trade virtual currencies for cash have fallen within the area of application of the SPG, if the exchanged sum exceeds 1,000 Francs.
In addition to the SPG, the TVTG defines several due diligence obligations that apply to actors in the token economy. Wherever an existing right is translated into a token, the SPG applies. The Liechtenstein government deliberately proposed due diligence measures that go beyond the scope of European and international standards. Although the FATF Recommendations and AMLD5 do not require constant supervision, TVTG measures include a registration system that mandates compliance monitoring with due diligence obligations and checks on market participants' trustworthiness.
Comparison to Swiss Legal Framework
Like Liechtenstein, Switzerland has a generally positive attitude toward blockchain technology. The Swiss Financial Market Authority (FINMA) and the federal government both recognise the economic opportunities it presents. The canton of Zug is particularly welcoming of blockchain and cryptocurrency start-ups. A report covering the Swiss legal framework for blockchain and distributed ledger technology was issued by the Swiss Federal Council in December 2018. A draft law pertaining to distributed ledger technology and blockchain (DLT Draft Law) was published on 22 March 2019 by the Swiss Federal Council.
The DLT Draft Law references three types of tokens: payment tokens ("pure cryptocurrencies", used as a means of payment of money/value transfer), asset tokens (represening assets such as equity claims or debt; analogous to derivates, equities and bonds), and utility tokens (intended to provide access to a service or application). FINMA introduced these categories within the scope of the guidelines for enquiries regarding the regulatory framework for initial coin offerings. Under Swiss law, cryptocurrencies do not qualify as legal tender and there is no state-backed Swiss cryptocurrency. However, there are no specific cryptocurrency regulations and cryptocurrency-related activities are not prohibited. Only asset tokens are treated as securities by FINMA and regulated as such. Tokens that qualify as securities may trigger Swiss securities dealer licence requirements under the Stock Exchange and Securities Trading Act. They could also be covered by trading platform regulations under the Financial Markets Infrastructure Act and prospectus requirements. Several other regulations relating to cryptocurrency asset taxation, promoting and blockchain technology testing have been introduced. As have ownership and licensing requirements, reporting requirements and more. Yet, all these regulations and criteria focus mainly on cryptocurrencies, making them much less comprehensive than the TVTG.
Liechtenstein's TVTG represents a disruptive event for the blockchain and FinTech sectors and for legal experts in Liechtenstein and abroad. In particular, the TVTG challenges pre-existing notions of blockchain and distributed ledger application, which were previously largely assumed to related solely to cryptocurrencies. Most legal frameworks, such as the AMLD5 and the 40+9 FATF Recommendations, neglect the wide array of other blockchain applications.
We can expect that Liechtenstein will continue to expand its FinTech and blockchain sectors. This will attract an abundance of foreign capital, especially from Chinese investors looking to expand into the European market. The sound legal framework for utilising blockchain technology offers a significant advantage in comparison to other jurisdictions, where companies might have to deal with legal grey areas and uncertainty. Multinational corporations can profit fully from blockchain's versatility only when there is an international standard in blockchain regulation. Especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, which has many employees working remotely, using blockchain technology to record and share data could be immensely helpful for reducing chaos and delays. Not to mention that blockchain technology is highly secure and cost efficient. Therefore, the TVTG could serve as a blueprint or inspiration for an international legal framework for blockchain regulation.
Dr. iur. Dr. rer. pol. Fabian Teichmann, LL.M. is an attorney-at-law and public notary in Switzerland. Marie-Christin Falker is a graduate research associate at Teichmann International (Schweiz) AG in Switzerland.
Image: b52_Tresa, Pixabay licence.
The Evolution of the Right to Privacy Between Europe and the United States
Online Dispute Resolution: The technology at the forefront of ADR
Arbitration as ADR in China: Applicability and actual award enforcement


text:
Symphodus roissali (), conosciuto comunemente come tordo verde, è un pesce osseo marino appartenente alla famiglia Labridae.

Habitat e distribuzione
Diffuso nell'Oceano Atlantico orientale, dal golfo di Guascogna fino a Gibilterra, nel Mar Mediterraneo e nel Mar Nero.

Vive a profondità molto basse su fondali rocciosi ricchi di vegetazione e nelle praterie di posidonia.

Descrizione
Ha aspetto simile agli altri Symphodus, la sua sagoma è alta e il muso piuttosto corto. La colorazione di fondo è beige chiaro o marrone, gli esemplari di prateria spesso hanno colore verde vivo. La livrea è il carattere più importante per la determinazione di questa specie anche se, come in quasi tutti i Symphodus, questa è molto variabile tra individuo e individuo, tra maschio e femmina e tra esemplari in riproduzione e non. Probabilmente è il labride con la livrea più variabile del Mediterraneo. I caratteri sempre (o quasi) presenti sono una linea scura tra l'occhio e il muso e alcune linee simili oblique sulla gola, cinque macchie scure sul dorso che sconfinano nella pinna dorsale a cui spesso seguono altre macchie simili in verticale a formare 5 fasce verticali indistinte (carattere altamente variabile) e una macchietta scura nella parte centrale del peduncolo caudale, che può talvolta mancare. Ci sono tre livree principali:
 la livrea a bande scure, comune negli individui che vivono tra le posidonie, presenta tre fasce scure continue orizzontali la più alta delle quali decorre immediatamente sotto alla pinna dorsale
 la livrea maschile, in cui le linee sulla gola prendono un colore azzurro vivace o verde, l'occhio è bordato di rosso e due macchie nere evidenti sono presenti nella parte posteriore della pinna dorsale. In questa livrea spesso il colore di fondo è rosso mattone e spesso è piuttosto variegata più che avere fasce ben definite
 la livrea femminile riproduttiva in cui il colore di fondo è marrone chiaro o verdastro cosparso di macchiette scure in maggior numero nella regione ventrale.

Misura fino a 17 cm di lunghezza.

Biologia
Può vivere fino a 8 anni. È molto territoriale.

Riproduzione
In primavera il maschio costruisce con alghe e sabbia un nido emisferico piuttosto grande. Dopo la deposizione il maschio sorveglia il nido e lo ossigena con movimenti della pinna caudale.

Alimentazione
È carnivoro. Si nutre principalmente di molluschi (bivalvi, gasteropodi), di gamberi, ricci di mare e idroidi.

Pesca
Si cattura soprattutto con tramagli e nasse nonché con le lenze. Le carni non sono particolarmente apprezzate e servono solo per preparare la zuppa di pesce.

Conservazione
La specie non è minacciata, ha popolazioni abbondanti e ben distribuite.

Note

Bibliografia

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

Labridae
Taxa classificati da Antoine Risso

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Pipeline camp rezoning: village raises concerns
November 16, 2019 The Goat Environment, News and Views
Trans Mountain is applying for a 3-year temporary use permit to use a part of the Valemount Community Forest lands as a work camp and a public consultation meeting will allow public input Tuesday, November 26 at 6 pm at the Valemount Community Hall.
An overview of the camp Trans Mountain hopes to establish in Cedarside outside Valemount. The camp will hold up to 900 workers. Village council has some concerns about the impact on the community.
A copy of the proposed permit and other relevant background material are available for review by the public at the Regional District office from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., between November 12 and November 26, 2019, but it is also conveniently available online as apart of the Village of Valemount's November 12 agenda package (you can find that here: tinyurl.com/transmountaintup (on page 103).
The camp will consist of temporary ATCO trailers containing dorms, kitchens, and rec rooms, and will hold 600 people with the 'capability to expand to 900 people.'
Because the site is zoned for industrial use Trans Mountain must apply for a temporary use permit.
The white triangle in the foreground, part of the Valemount Industrial Park, is the subject of a Temporary Use Permit.
In a November 1st letter to the Regional District, the Village of Valemount expressed a number of concerns with regards to the camp in an extensive letter.
Concerns range from highway access onto Whiskey Fill Road and whether it will receive any upgrades (like line painting), they also expressed concerns around increased traffic at rail crossings and load restrictions during the spring.
The village also asked Trans Mountain to limit idling of vehicles because of the community's air quality issues.
Other concerns included demands on local services, like police, health care services, bylaw, the fire department and social services.
"The Village is concerned there are not sufficient resources to meet this demand and would like to see the applicant take steps to ensure that the community will not experience a reduction in these services because [of] the applicant," said Chief Administrative Officer Wayne Robinson.
The Village letter says that while they can provide potable water, they can't handle that amount of sewage and it will have to be trucked out of the area.
The Village raised a number of other concerns, but its final point was on affordable housing.
"Affordable and available housing is a significant concern for the community. Already people are raising rental rates in anticipation of the applicant's employees and contractors who can afford higher rents and choose not to live in camp," read council's letter.
"We are concerned people may be forced to relocate. This will hurt local businesses that will not be able to attract employees and disrupt the community when they are required to leave. It is our hope that the applicant can adequately address our concerns for the mutual benefit of the workers in the camp and our community."
The area in question is on the east side of Whiskey Fill Road, the eastern boundary of the Valemount Industrial Park. Trans Mountain had originally considered a location in town, across Highway 5 from the Best Western Hotel, but the company said creating good access to and from the highway would have been a major project and cost prohibitive.
Trans Mountain worker camp approved
Trans Mountain reveals new camp location
Trans Mountain pipe arriving; worker camp permit lapses
Village seeks feedback on Kinder Morgan worker camp
Residents voice concerns to Village about worker camp
Remembering them
Man with Valemount rapsheet on the run


Author of Mindfulness & Grief, thanatologist, and past Entrepreneur of the Year for Frederick County, Maryland, Heather Stang inspires her audience to optimize their personal and work life with mindfulness, yoga and self-reflection.
This video includes a sample from "Self-Compassion as Self-Care for Grief," a keynote speech by Heather Stang offered to bereaved families at the Gilchrist Hospice in Baltimore, MD. Also includes testimonials from clients.


text:
Texas Rangers prospect Ryan Garcia joins Spokane Indians after successful season at UCLA
July 05, 2019 at 5:00 pm | Dave Nichols
It's unusual that the "Friday night starter" for one of the nation's top college teams, a traditional powerhouse – and conference pitcher of the year, to boot – would be available in the in the second round of the MLB Draft.
Yet, when the Texas Rangers were on the clock with the 50th overall pick in this year's draft, that's the exact scenario that played out.
The Rangers happily selected right-handed starter Ryan Garcia out of UCLA with the pick and haven't looked back.
Maybe his size (6 feet, 180 pounds) depressed his draft rankings a bit.
Maybe the forearm strain that caused him to miss the team's first 12 games scared some teams off.
It could be their loss.
"It was super exciting to get drafted where I was," Garcia said.
After he signed his contract – including a $1.47 million bonus – Garcia made one appearance for the Rangers' Arizona Rookie League team, then the parent club assigned him to the Spokane Indians earlier this week.
Garcia made his debut on Saturday against Hillsboro, throwing two impressive innings.
His arsenal is everything a scout could want.
Garcia throws four pitches – all for strikes: a mid-90s, four-seam fastball; a 12-to-6 curveball; a changeup with arm-side run that looks a lot like his fastball out of his hand; and a slider, which is a little hard and sharp. It's a quiet delivery with a quick arm.
"I take pride in being able to throw the ball a little harder," Garcia said, "but I think it all comes down to location and pitch sequencing, for sure."
He can blow it by hitters when needed, but he also thinks his way through things.
"I prefer to let the hitter get himself out on my pitch," he said. "So I'm not necessarily giving him a cookie right off the bat, or even late in the zone. I'm still making my pitches letting him get out."
Garcia, a political science major who likes to watch Animal Planet and the Discovery Channel when he's relaxing, says it's "a mind game out there."
"You read what the hitters are doing on certain pitches, and even in the on-deck circle, you take a peek over to see who's hitting."
His résumé shows he can get it done.
Garcia went 10-1 with a 1.44 ERA in 84 innings with 12 starts his junior year – the lone blemish coming in the Bruins' last game of the season, a loss to eventual national runners-up Michigan in the Super Regionals.
He struck out 117 and walked 26, which is impressive enough, but Garcia allowed just 16 extra-base hits (five homers, 11 doubles) over the span. The performance earned him Pac-12 pitcher of the year honors.
"I don't like to allow walks," Garcia said, admitting he didn't know the stat about the extra-base hits. "People don't like to give up hits, but it's gonna happen."
"I think the thing that stands out the most, is just how he was able to get a high amount of swings and misses in the college season with fastballs," Indians manager Kenny Hook said.
"So that tells me a couple things," Hook continued. "It's like, one, kind of the attitude about him coming right at guys and two, is the fastball has a lot of life."
Hook also liked the idea that Garcia's college coaches trusted him with the start against Michigan in the Super Regionals.
"It's huge," Hook said. "Anytime you're playing in postseason baseball, whether it be at the college level, and in his case major college, being the No. 1 team in college baseball for most of the year, and a prestigious program like UCLA – that's a huge benefit for our staff or our team.
"When you add that type of experience, and just knowledge and kind of understanding of what it means to play in those impact games in the postseason, I think we could all benefit from having a guy like that around."
"That gave me confidence," Garcia said of the experience. "That my coach trusted me in a big game like that."
He said he grew as a pitcher after his early-season injury scare.
"That's kind of how it was in the beginning of the season. I was told I was going to be the Friday starter, obviously went down with like a two-week injury. But came back and coach still trusted me with the ball. So there's trust all along. I felt it."
Because Garcia pitched a lot of innings this college season and postseason – plus the injury – the Rangers are going to be cautious with him and limit the number of innings he pitches the rest of the summer.
"Our pitching department is smart about lining up a pretty precise program for those guys who have come off a full college season," Hook said. "And with him being in the postseason, we definitely consider that in his workload here. So that's all mapped out and done by our pitching coordinator and communicated through our pitching coaches and the manager."
The organization wants Garcia to get experience in pro ball but keep him healthy at the same time.
"We're going to be careful not overusing him," Hook admitted. "We want him to get the feeling of starting games, but at the same time, it's probably going to be a little shorter outings, just because we want to limit the total innings over the course of a 12-month span."
Even though Garcia is excited to get going with his pro career, he knows the Rangers have his best interests in mind.
"The priority right now is just to be healthy, stay healthy," Garcia conceded. "There's really no need to rush anything right now. This is just getting my feet in the water. And then, you know, going from there."
The past few years, the Rangers spent many of their top draft picks on high school players and would send them to extended spring training and the Arizona Rookie League for seasoning, then the following summer assign them to Spokane.
This year, the Indians have assigned nine college players – including the second, third and fifth-round picks – to the Indians. A few more may be on the way.
But Garcia wasn't originally aware he'd been drafted at all – he was pitching in UCLA's regional game against Loyola Marymount.
"I found out after our game was over," he said. "My parents were able to tell me, I think it was two hours after the game."
Garcia was appreciative he could share the news with his teammates.
"I think I'd take that over, you know, a phone call at home," he said. "I think playing a game and finding out after is a little more special.
"Everybody was so happy for me."
He wasn't the only player from UCLA taken that early. Michael Toglia went No. 23 overall to Colorado, Chase Strumpf was selected at No. 64 by the Chicago Cubs and Ryan Kreidler went at No. 112 to Detroit.
"There's some confidence in the guys that we had, I think 13 guys (total) drafted this year, and credit to those guys," Garcia said. "We worked hard in the fall to get where we ended up. It was fun."
Garcia said the loss to Michigan was "bittersweet."
"I think winning the Pac-12 is definitely a milestone for us," he said. "We hadn't done that in my three years there until this past year. So that was a big accomplishment.
"But you know, getting to Super Regionals, our first time doing that in three years. I guess you can see the silver lining. But credit to Michigan, they played well."
Read More Sports
Idaho State football to net nearly $1 million from money games; Ryan Looney gets 5-year contract
July 16, 2019 at 5:00 am | The Idaho State football team is set to bring in nearly $1 million from its nonconference schedule this season. The Bengals' "money games" Sept. 14 at Utah ($550,000) and Nov. 16 at BYU ($475,000...
Minor League Report: Monday's Northwest League and Texas Rangers affiliate results
July 15, 2019 at 5:00 pm | Northwest League Spokane 5, Everett 4: Jonah McReynolds hit a solo home run in the eighth inning to break a tie game and the Spokane Indians edged the Everett AquaSox 5-4 at Avista Stadium. T...
Idaho State football picked to finish 7th in Big Sky Conference preseason polls (copy)
July 15, 2019 at 8:13 am | The Idaho State football team was picked to finish seventh in the Big Sky Conference standings by the league's coaches and media. The Big Sky's preseason polls were released Monday. ISU received ...
Sports Log
July 15, 2019 at 6:00 pm | On this day ... JULY 14, 1912 — Jim Thorpe won the decathlon at the Stockholm Olympics and, in the closing ceremony, Sweden's King Gustav proclaimed Thorpe the world's greatest athlete. Today...


text:
Watch the full trailer for sci-fi thriller 'The Tomorrow War' on Amazon Prime
By Scott Snowden
last updated 2 July 2021
It launches on Amazon Prime July 2.
Amazon Prime (opens in new tab) has dropped the full trailer for its new, original sci-fi action-thriller, "The Tomorrow War" that premieres globally on July 2.
In the trailer (opens in new tab), we're in the summer of 2022 — just 12 months from now — during the thrilling Qatar World Cup final, watching a tense game as Brazil are playing (what looks like) Argentina and it's 3-all, with about 90 seconds or so left. When suddenly, in front of the 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium, a time portal opens on the pitch. With the whole world watching, a team of soldiers from the future emerges from a cloud of sparks and smoke and announce to everyone on Earth that in just 30 years from now, mankind is facing utter annihilation.
"We are fighting a war, 30 years in the future," the leader of these soldiers explains to the puzzled population of our planet. "Our enemy is not human. We need you to fight," she says. "In 11 month's time, all human beings in the future will be wiped from the face of the Earth, unless you help us."
Want to try Amazon Prime? Sign up for a free 30-day trial here. (opens in new tab)
Subscribe to Amazon Prime for $12.99 a month (opens in new tab)
In the year 2051, the fate of the Earth depends on soldiers and civilians from 30 years back in time in "The Tomorrow War" on Amazon Prime. (Image credit: Amazon Studios)
The only hope for survival is for soldiers and civilians from the present to be transported to the future and join the fight. Among those recruited is a high school teacher and family man Dan Forester (Chris Pratt). Determined to save the world for his young daughter, Dan teams up with a brilliant scientist (the curiously named Romeo Command) and his estranged father, Slade, in a desperate quest to rewrite the fate of the planet.
Thankfully though, Pratt's character was formally Army special-forces-something-or-other before becoming a ninth-grade educator at the T. Woodrow Wilson high school. So, you know, there's that.
Weirdly though, other people who are also recruited don't seem to have any military background, which begs the question, why aren't the Navy SEALs, the Special Air Service or the National Gendarmerie Intervention Group gathered and transported forward in time? Let's hope there's a believable reason.
Joining Pratt is Yvonne Strahovski, who has appeared in "The Handmaiden's Tale," "Dexter" and "The Predator" among others and JK Simmons, who has certainly seen a thing or two, appearing in both the DC and the Marvel universe, "La La Land" and the vastly underrated "Counterpart."
Surely Lt. Hart (Jasmine Mathews) knows the outcome of the game? She could make a fortune. (Image credit: Amazon Studios)
There's a montage of action — much more than we saw in the teaser and it appears that Dan has to wear some kind of permanently attached device covering his entire left forearm in order to be able to time jump. Plus, we get a bit more of a look, albeit only a brief one, at the actual aliens that are wrecking havoc in the year 2051. They appear to be a cross between a mimic from "Edge of Tomorrow (opens in new tab)" and possibly a xenomorph from "Aliens," so standard extraterrestrial exterminators then.
In other sci-fi/Amazon-related news, it's been almost impossible to escape hearing that Jeff Bezos has bought out MGM studios, for $8.75 billion. (That's actually more than Disney paid for both Marvel and Lucasfilm.)
Not only does that now give Amazon big-screen franchises like James Bond and Rocky, but more importantly — to us anyway — is that it also includes epic, undervalued sci-fi properties like "Stargate," "Robocop" and "Buckaroo Banzai." Bezos saved "The Expanse" already, will he be willing to invest in quality reboots of these too?
Today's best Amazon Prime deals
Amazon Prime Video - Free Trial
at Amazon Prime (opens in new tab)
Amazon Prime - Monthly
at Amazon (opens in new tab)
Amazon Prime - Yearly
Follow Scott Snowden on Twitter. Follow us on Twitter @Spacedotcom and on Facebook.
Scott Snowden
When Scott's application to the NASA astronaut training program was turned down, he was naturally upset ... as any 6-year-old boy would be. He chose instead to write as much as he possibly could about science, technology and space exploration. He graduated from The University of Coventry and received his training on Fleet Street in London. He still hopes to be the first journalist in space. You can follow Scott on Twitter @LorumIpsum.


Editor's Note: Charlé LaMonica, Director, World View, a public service program at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, equips K-12 and community college educators with global knowledge, best practices, and resources to engage students in our interconnected and diverse world. Here, she examines how global skills prepare students to be global citizens ready to study and work in our interconnected world.
"My students need to understand the connection between what they are learning in the classroom and reality. I have seen that students are able to gain a better understanding of anything when they can understand WHY they are learning it. Once students understand why they are learning material they have an appreciation for the knowledge you are passing on to them." -Evonne Royston, Warren County Public Schools, North Carolina.
Recently I had an opportunity to follow up with Evonne, 8th grade science teacher from Warren County Public Schools in North Carolina. An engaging teacher with a sharp intellect and infectious curiosity, Evonne inspires a love of learning in her students. Recently Evonne was one of several educators selected to participate in the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) World View's Global Study Visit to the Dominican Republic in partnership with the Global Youth Leadership Institute.
This experience was a deep dive into the legacy of the past in today's Dominican Republic and Evonne was ready to record her experiences. School visits in urban and rural settings were accompanied by a tour of historic plantations and the Jarabacoa Women's Cooperative: Sonido del Yaque, located in the small mountainous town of Jarabacoa. Evonne, like the other participants, was focused on how this experience would translate to her students in the classroom. How could this global experience impact her teaching and learning to prepare her students for their role as global citizens? How could this experience translate into teaching the relevance of a global education to prepare her students for the future of work?
As the cohort traveled, Asia Society's global competence framework was kept front and center. As educators know, competencies are valued in schools and in the marketplace as future employers seek a diverse and well-prepared workforce. Global competencies are essential for students to be prepared as global citizens for the work place. Here is how Evonne, looking at these competencies through her science teacher lens from rural North Carolina, made connections for her students after her trip to the Dominican Republic.
When Evonne traveled on this study visit, she identified experiences that were similar or shared by educators in both Warren County, North Carolina, and the Dominican Republic. She recognized that "perseverance" was a key factor to success in both locations. She stated, "In the Dominican Republic and Warren County, I made the connection that both have dedicated teachers who are doing the best they can with what they have in their schools: overpopulated classrooms, students who have personal and family issues, etc. The Dominican Republic and Warren County both deal with some of the same issues, but regardless of those stumbling blocks, 'perseverance' is non-negotiable."
Educators have a unique perspective on problems and solutions. This is what employers need in today's marketplace and what societies need in global citizenry. Many educators today teach in diverse classrooms and design classroom projects that instill the value of group work. Understanding diverse perspectives is essential as students develop as global citizens. Tim Humphrey, Vice President and Chief Data Officer, IBM RTP in North Carolina, has stated, "The personal responsibility educators hold in relationships with students shapes our society." Businesses value a diverse workforce as they meet the rapid rate of change in our global society and our students must be prepared to work with people from different backgrounds. Evonne noted from her global experience in the Dominican Republic that "teachers can look at many of the same issues they are challenged with every single day but from a different angle, and thus build a more flexible, creative student body."
Evonne was especially impressed by the visit to the Jarabacoa Women's Cooperative witnessing the creative way the Cooperative collaborates with partners around the world. The Cooperative was created by Doña Esperanza, a woman who dared to seek a better life for her community. In the early 2000s watching tourist groups visit her area, Esperanza had a natural understanding for business and created the Sonido del Yaque project which now has cabins for tourists, a hydroelectric facility, biodigestors and a small farm that cultivates their own agricultural goods. With support from USAID and international investors, the Sonido del Yaque has dramatically changed lives in the community. As the UNC World View study visit group learned about Esperanza's story of the Cooperative, the value of global teaching and learning about the world was made real.
Evonne carried her experiences of visiting the Jarabacoa Women's Cooperative back to her students, sharing details that allowed her to illustrate how people can communicate their wants and needs in a way that leads to gaining resources—and using them creatively. "While in the Dominican Republic, I was able to understand and witness the appreciation of gaining knowledge (from other partners) when the director of the Jarabacoa Women's Cooperative informed us that colleges and corporations have helped them put together efficient energy systems; the community understood why they needed to learn how to monitor, troubleshoot, and repair the system; and they appreciated gaining that knowledge and passing it on."
Evonne "took action" when she returned to her science classroom and shared her experiences with her students. She shared what she learned and showed examples of ways students in the Dominican Republic were "taking action" while learning about science. "Being able to show my students the work that has been done by Dominican Republic students who are so young (irrigation of the strawberries, engineering projects, farming) is proof that there is more my students can use the field of science to make a difference."
What can we as educators do for our students as we prepare them for their future? As Evonne did—model for students the Global Competence Framework. Show students how important it is not only for students but also for teachers to investigate the world, recognize perspectives of others, communicate ideas effectively and "take action" to make the world a better place in the classroom, home or world community! So what now? Attend an online seminar, apply for a U.S. Department of State Fulbright, read a book about a different part of the world, or visit a local international community—just to name a few.
"Young students are like bloodhounds when it comes to sniffing out what is real and what is not," said Evonne. Teachers making connections between countries and cultures makes it REAL for students. "I believe students respond better when they know I am coming from a genuine place." The future of work is filled with global connections. Global educators make global connections real for students. And global lessons, learned by teachers, will multiply in the students they serve!
Connect with World View and the Center for Global Education on Twitter.


text:
My Little Small
She tries every night to reach the moon, dreaming of friendship. But one morning, a sun spark comes flying into her cave What wondrous things she has to say about the vibrancy of life under the sun. Their time together is limited, but the Spark is curious and the Creature realizes she has some stories of her own to share.
Author: Linda Bondestam
Publisher: Enchanted Lion Books
Audience: Ages 4-8
Kirkus Reviews 02/15/2018
Ulf Stark was a much-loved, award-winning Swedish poet, author and screenwriter. He wrote around 100 books for children and young adults, and which have been translated into more than 20 languages.
Linda Bondestam, born in 1977, lives in Helsinki and works as an illustrator. She is a graduate of Kingston University, London. She has illustrated more than 25 books that have been translated into 10 languages. Linda has been nominated twice for the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, the highest award in children's literature.
Annie Prime is a literary translator of French, Swedish, Russian and Spanish. Since receiving her MA in translation from University College London, she has translated five books.


This Application Programming Interface License Agreement (the "Agreement") is made by and between you ("Licensee") and FAME. ("FAME"). Upon clicking on the "accept" button (the "Effective Date"), you agree to be and will be bound by the terms of this Agreement as a condition of your license. If you do not agree to the terms of this Agreement, you may not use the API.
The API is protected by the United States Copyright Revision Act of 1976 and any revisions or amendments thereto, international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties. The API is licensed to you, and its use is subject to the terms of this Agreement.
1.1 "Application Programming Interfaces" or "API" means FAME technology, which may include object code, software libraries, software tools, sample source code, published specifications and Documentation. API shall include any future, updated or otherwise modified version(s) thereof furnished by FAME (in its sole discretion) to Licensee.
1.2 "Confidential Information" shall mean all information that is disclosed by FAME to Licensee, including without limitation, hardware and software designs; algorithms, routines and/or other subject matter embodied in or used by any portion of the API; product specifications and documentation; trade secrets; and other confidential or proprietary information. Confidential Information shall not include information which: (i) information already known by Licensee and which was acquired in a lawful manner other than subject to any obligation of confidentiality; (ii) information which is now or hereafter becomes a part of the public domain through no wrongful act or omission of Licensee or those acting in concert with the receiving party; (iii) information lawfully received without obligation of confidentiality, from a third party who is free to disclose it; (iv) information which Licensee can show by written evidence predating disclosure thereof by FAME had been independently developed entirely without reference to information received from FAME; or (v) is disclosed pursuant to any judicial or governmental order, provided that, to the extent permitted by law, Licensee gives FAME sufficient prior notice to contest such order.
1.3 "Documentation" includes, but is not limited to, programmer guides, CDs, manuals, flow charts, principles of operation and information appropriate or necessary for use in connection with the API.
1.4 "Third Party Software" has the meaning given in Paragraph 4.3.
2.1 Grant. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, FAME hereby grants Licensee a limited, nonexclusive, non-transferable, royalty-free license to use the API and the Documentation solely for the purpose of the exchange of data between Licensee and FAME's software products.
3. Certain Limitations on Scope of Rights.
3.1 Time and Substantive Scope. The license granted in Section 2 above is limited in time and substantive scope to its express terms. No additional or different rights are intended to be granted nor are the rights expressly granted to be extended or expanded by implication, by operation of the law, by construction of this Agreement or otherwise.
3.2 No Rights to Other Subject Matter. With the sole and exclusive exception of those rights in the API granted in Section 2 above, and without limiting the generality of Paragraph 3.1 above, nothing in this Agreement shall be construed to grant Licensee any other rights in or to any products, services or software or other subject matter owned, developed, licensed or otherwise held by FAME or its licensors. FAME reserves all rights not otherwise expressly granted in this Agreement.
4. Other Rights and Limitations.
4.1 Copies. Licensee may copy the API only as necessary to exercise its rights hereunder.
4.2 No Modification or Reverse Engineering. Licensee shall not have any right to make or to authorize the making of any modifications, additions to, deletions from, or other changes of any kind to any portion of the API or Documentation. Licensee may not attempt to create, re-create, reverse engineer, decompile, reverse compile, disassemble, or create derivative works from the API, in whole or in part.
4.3 Third Party Software. Licensee acknowledges that effective utilization of the API may require the use of a development tool, compiler or other software and technology of third parties ("Third Party Software"). Licensee is solely responsible for procuring such Third Party Software and technology and the necessary licenses for the use thereof. FAME makes no representation or warranty concerning Third Party Software and shall have no obligation or liability with respect to Third Party Software.
4.4 No Right to Sublicense. All rights not expressly granted are reserved by FAME and, except as expressly set forth herein, no right is granted by FAME under this Agreement directly, by implication, estoppel or otherwise, to allow Licensee to grant a sublicense to any other party.
5.1 Ownership. Licensee hereby acknowledges FAME's exclusive ownership of any and all right, title, and interest in and to the API, Documentation and all associated intellectual property rights including, without limitation, all patent, copyright, trade secret, trademark and other intellectual property rights in and to the API.
5.2 Modifications and Enhancements. FAME shall own all right, title and interest (including all associated intellectual property rights) in and to the API, including all customizations, enhancements, modifications, improvements, derivations, revisions, translations (including compilation or recapitulation by computer), abridgements condensations, expansions, or any other form in which the API may be recast, transformed or adapted, and that, if prepared without authorization would constitute copyright infringement, whether authored by FAME or Licensee. Licensee hereby irrevocably transfers, conveys and assigns to FAME all of its right, title and interest therein.
6.1 No Support. FAME will not provide any support for the API under this Agreement, and nothing herein shall be construed to require FAME to provide support services or updates, upgrades, bug fixes or modifications to the API.
7.1 Non-Disclosure. Licensee shall not disclose, and shall take reasonable steps to prevent third parties from obtaining access to or using, the Confidential Information (or any portion thereof) of FAME without its prior written permission (except for such disclosure, access, or use which is required to perform its obligations or exercise its rights granted under this Agreement). Licensee shall insure that any employees, or any third parties who receive access to the Confidential Information of FAME, are advised of the confidential and proprietary nature thereof and agree in writing to abide by the obligations of confidentiality and restrictive use to at least the same extent as set forth herein. Without limiting the foregoing, Licensee agrees to employ with regard to the Confidential Information procedures no less restrictive than the strictest procedures used by it to protect its own confidential and proprietary information, but not less than reasonable care. Upon expiration or termination of this Agreement for any reason, Licensee shall immediately discontinue use of the Confidential Information of FAME and destroy or return to it all copies thereof in such party's possession or control.
8.1 General Disclaimer. THE API IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY WHATSOEVER. FAME DOES NOT MAKE, AND THE LICENSEE HEREBY EXPRESSLY WAIVES, ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, EITHER IN FACT OR BY OPERATION OF LAW, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE WARRANTIES, TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, SATISFACTORY QUALITY, CORRESPONDENCE WITH DESCRIPTION, AND NON-INFRINGEMENT, ALL OF WHICH ARE EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMED. FAME SHALL HAVE NO LIABILITIES OR OBLIGATIONS FOR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE DELIVERY, USE OR PERFORMANCE OF THE API. FAME DOES NOT WARRANT THAT THE API AND DOCUMENTATION ARE SUITABLE FOR LICENSEE'S USE, THAT THE API AND DOCUMENTATION ARE WITHOUT DEFECTS OR ERRORS, THAT OPERATION WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED, OR THAT DEFECTS WILL BE CORRECTED. FAME MAKES NO WARRANTY REGARDING THE RESULTS OF THE USE OF THE API.
9.1 Use at Own Risk. Licensee's use of the API is at Licensee's sole risk, and Licensee shall be solely responsible for any damage to its computer system or loss of data that results from the download or use of the API. 9.1 Limitation of Liability. IN NO EVENT SHALL FAME BE LIABLE TO LICENSEE OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY FOR ANY EXEMPLARY, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR INDIRECT DAMAGES, OR FOR ANY LOST PROFITS, REVENUES, OR BUSINESS, HOWEVER CAUSED, ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, AND WHETHER OR NOT LICENSEE HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. THESE LIMITATIONS SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING ANY FAILURE OF ESSENTIAL PURPOSE OF ANY LIMITED REMEDY.
11.1 Automatic Termination. This Agreement will terminate automatically if Licensee fails to comply with any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and Licensee will be liable to FAME for damages or losses caused by such noncompliance. The waiver by FAME of a specific breach or default shall not constitute the waiver of any subsequent breach or default.
11.2 Termination with Notice. FAME and Licensee shall each have the right to terminate the Agreement, upon thirty (30) days written notice.
11.3 Obligations Upon Termination. At the time of termination of this Agreement, Licensee will immediately cease using the API and destroy all adaptations or copies of the API and Documentation, or return them to FAME.
11.4 Survival. The rights of FAME and Licensee's obligations contained in this Agreement survive any expiration or termination of this Agreement.
12.1 Assignment. This Agreement, and the rights and obligations hereunder, may not be assigned, in whole or in part by Licensee, except to a successor to the whole of its business, without the prior written consent of FAME. In the case of any permitted assignments or transfer this Agreement shall be binding upon, and inure to the benefit of, the successors and assigns of the Licensee. This Agreement shall terminate immediately upon occurrence of any prohibited assignment.
12.2 Waiver. The waiver by FAME of a breach or a default of any provision of this Agreement shall not be construed as a waiver of any succeeding breach of the same or any other provision, nor shall any delay or omission on the part of FAME to exercise or avail itself of any right operate as a waiver of any right by such party.
12.3 Severability. If a court of competent jurisdiction holds any provision hereof invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision shall not affect the validity or operation of any other provision and shall be deemed to be severed from this Agreement, and the invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision shall be replaced by a valid, legal, or enforceable provision that comes closest to the intent of the parties.
12.4 Headings. These are included solely for convenience of reference, are not to be considered a part of this Agreement, are not intended to be full or accurate descriptions of the contents thereof and in no way define, limit, expand or describe any of the terms and conditions and/or the scope or intent of this Agreement.
12.5 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Florida, without regard to choice of law provisions.
12.6 Legal Fees. If FAME initiates legal action to collect any sums due FAME pursuant to this Agreement, it shall be entitled to recover its reasonable attorneys' fees, costs, and expenses associated with any such action.
12.7 Venue. Licensee acknowledges that it is subject to personal jurisdiction in any court located in the State of Florida for any claims arising out of or relating to this Agreement, and exclusive venue over such claims shall lie in the appropriate state or federal court in Broward County, Florida.
12.8 Jury Trial. The parties agree to waive trial by jury for any action related to this Agreement.
12.9 Entire Agreement; Amendment. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between FAME and Licensee concerning the API, and supersedes all prior representations and/or agreements, whether written and/or with respect to the same subject matter. No waiver, consent or modification of terms of this Agreement shall bind either party unless in writing and signed by both parties, and then such waiver, consent or modification shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose given.


The remake of a classic Famicom game is a great way to experience this Fire Emblem for the first time in English.
The Fire Emblem series has always been a beacon of familiarity and quality when it comes to tactical and strategy-based role-playing games. Its popularity only grew in scope when the excellent Fire Emblem Awakening and equally fantastic Fire Emblem Fates released to eager fans. The latest game, Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia, is actually a remake of a Japan-only sequel to the original Famicom Fire Emblem, Fire Emblem Gaiden. Shadows of Valentia is a polished and feature-rich installment for the Nintendo 3DS that's jam-packed with both new and familiar elements to please newcomers and veterans alike.
Shadows of Valentia picks up right in the middle of a bond being formed between the two main characters of the game: two childhood friends named Alm and Celica. It's their dream to stay with each other forever, especially beyond their village Ram smack dab in the middle of the Valentia content. Their plans to stay together are soon torn asunder as they're finally forced to separate and end up growing up in two different places. The game advances time so you see them about a decade later as both are taking control of two very different sides: Alm with the Zofians and Celica searching for a goddess.
It's a vastly different narrative than you may be used to with previous Fire Emblem games, especially since this is a different approach to narrative than most of the titles have had in the past. You'll switch between both Alm and Celica's points of view, and as you progress you'll be able to explore villages and examine the areas you visit for additional information and items while you look around. It adds an interesting new element that hasn't always been present in previous Fire Emblem games, giving you added context for the areas that don't often speak for themselves enough in combat. It also tends to give the game a much-needed JRPG traditionalist injection.
While storytelling is great on its own merits, Shadows of Valentia wouldn't be half the game it is without its strategy RPG trappings, which lend the game a feel similar to all the rest of the Fire Emblem games, with a few alterations. You'll see your units and enemies top down until you get yourself into a skirmish, which will happen right on the map. One unfamiliar, new option is the ability to predict what kind of outcomes your attacks and actions will have before you execute them. It gives you more room to play around with different strategies to see what works and what doesn't.
Everything else is largely the same: kill all enemies to succeed, use melee, ranged weapons, magic and other abilities to fell all the foes around you, and move on. There is an interesting new addition called Mila's Turnwheel, however, which allows you to turn back time. If something doesn't work out for you or you find that one of your party members dies, you can go back one of three times per dungeon and try it all again. It's a good safety net for when things get dire, and one that you'll find yourself using often.
Speaking of dungeons, these are some of the greatest draws of Shadows of Valentia, where you get to explore catacombs with full control of your chosen character and attack enemies as they come into view. It's a lot different from regular strategic combat, and it offers a whole smorgasbord of new elements to try out for fans who may only have ever been interested in the normal turn-based affairs. While the battles that take place in dungeons are nowhere near as deep or as satisfying as the ones you'll break out into on the main map, they're great for a break in the cycle here and there.
Of course, with all this different content, there were bound to be changes made that Fire Emblem fans may be shaken by. There is no Weapons Triangle system, mostly because back when the original game first made its debut, that mechanic wasn't even a part of Fire Emblem just yet. There are also no relationship options or ways to marry off characters or see them have children. Your combatants can and will grow together and grow closer, however, and seeing the special conversations that happen as a result is still a rewarding experience.
Weapons won't break either, and you don't even need Tomes to teach those who wield magic their special skills. Classes are a completely different affair, and they feel a lot more streamlined than the wide variety in the other Fire Emblem titles. You can still have your Pegasus Knights and Saints, but by the same token there aren't any Kitsunes or Maids. You aren't missing much with this alteration, but some players may find that building their armies seems a little less colorful without these options.
Shadows of Valentia looks just as fantastic as its contemporaries, still featuring character portraits and 3D models as well as the adorable, pixelized character art used when depicting units. Smooth animation and lovingly crafted still shots make for an engaging story that comes to life with eye-popping choreography and smooth graphical presentation. The voice acting is top of the line as well, with tight localization and great lines that really nail the characters' personalities. Support Conversations really shine, and it's appreciated that such great vocal talent was selected to punctuate the in-game action.
Those looking for more Fire Emblem goodness on the Nintendo 3DS can't go wrong with Shadows of Valentia. It's got all the hallmarks of excellence its predecessors have included, with familiar characters, dialogue, combat options, and strategy. With amiibo support and a great premise as well as JRPG-esque exploration, it's clearly one of the best ways Nintendo could have gone about releasing a classic for the first time in English and augmenting it just right. If you're a Fire Emblem fan you'd do well to pick up a copy, stat.


Updated site and content coming soon.
I've studied with Michelle a handful of times and am forever grateful for all that she has shared with me. My painting has drastically improved since I met Michelle – she's truly a wonderful person, artist, and teacher. Visit The Art of Michelle Dunaway to see her work.
This is a painting of artist John Smith, a Putney Painter and a wonderful artist.