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Report: U.S. Corporate Solar Investments Swell to 8300 Megawatts, Grow 20-Fold Over Last Decade
Analysis from national trade group shows that Walmart increases solar use by 35% in 2019 as Facebook jumps 18 places in corporate solar ranking and Apple remains on top for second year in a row
Wednesday, Oct 07 2020
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tech giants, major retailers and other corporate leaders are making significant investments in clean energy and installed over 1,280 megawatts (MW) of new commercial solar capacity in the United States in 2019, the second largest year on record according to the latest Solar Means Business report. The annual report, released today by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), tracks both on-site and off-site installations and highlights the strong appeal of cost-saving solar energy for American businesses.
"The world's most recognizable brands are walking the walk when it comes to their clean energy commitments," said Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of SEIA. "Businesses are choosing solar energy because it can significantly curb their energy costs and add predictability during these uncertain times. We expect that the corporate sector will make greater investments in solar as businesses make and follow through on clean energy commitments to address the climate crisis."
Apple and Amazon remain in first and second place when it comes to the top corporate solar users, followed by Walmart, which installed the most solar in 2019 and increased its solar use by 35%. This year was also the largest year yet for onsite commercial solar installations with 845 MW installed.
Apple, which has the most off-site solar installed through 2019, now has nearly 400 MW of solar capacity in its portfolio and has recently committed to make its supply chain and products 100% carbon neutral by 2030.
"The choice between a healthy planet and good business strategy has always been a false one, and we've proved that with a company that runs on 100% clean energy and a supply chain transitioning to do the same," said Lisa Jackson, Apple's Vice President of Environment, Policy and Social Initiatives. "Solar power has been part of our environmental journey for more than a decade, and we're grateful to the SEIA for this recognition of the strides we've made, and the strides of two of our suppliers also in the SEIA top 25. Together, we'll reach our goal of making all our products with a net zero climate impact by 2030, and hopefully, inspire others to act urgently in defense of our planet and future generations."
The report tracks over 8,350 MW of commercial solar capacity across more than 38,000 systems. Combined, the systems generate enough electricity each year to power 1.6 million homes and offset 8.9 million metric tons of CO2 annually. For perspective, each week more than 7.2 million people, or 2.2% of the U.S. population, shop at a Walmart store with a solar installation.
"Our growth in solar use reflects our ongoing and longstanding commitment to climate action, including getting to 100% renewable energy globally by 2035," said Kathleen McLaughlin, Chief Sustainability Officer, Walmart Inc. "Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and avoiding the worst effects of climate change will take sustained, collective action. It's terrific to see so many companies growing their solar use and taking steps towards a renewable future."
Corporations continue to procure off-site solar to power their operations and meet their ambitious clean energy goals. Over the next few years, an additional 5 GW of corporate off-site solar projects are slated to come online, which will more than double the total amount of off-site corporate solar.
"As a signatory to The Climate Pledge, we're committed to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement 10 years early and reaching net zero carbon across Amazon by 2040," said Chris Roe, Energy and Sustainable Operations Lead at Amazon. "As part of this commitment, we are well on our way to power Amazon operations using 100% renewable energy by 2025, with over 90 wind and solar projects across the globe."
Facebook, one of the top buyers of off-site solar is making its first appearance in the top 10 and made the biggest leap forward, jumping from 27th to 9th on the top corporate solar users list. Target, the company with the most solar capacity installed at its facilities, finished 2019 with a total of 283 MW of solar capacity. The company now has more than 500 solar projects in its portfolio.
Companies are also doubling down on their clean energy commitments. Several corporations on this list recently announced more aggressive clean energy goals, including Google, which is ranked 5th and now plans to run its data centers and corporate campuses on 100% carbon-free power by 2030. Walmart also announced that it plans to power its facilities globally with 100 % renewable energy by 2035 and is targeting zero emissions across its global operations by 2040.
Other companies on the list, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Solvay have recently announced new initiatives and investments to lower emissions and green their operations.
"We are honored to be recognized again by SEIA for our commitment to increasing solar power in our operations," said Pascal Chalvon Demersay, Solvay's Chief Sustainability & Energy Officer. "Solar power plays a key role in our Solvay One Planet initiative, which aims to reduce our emissions by 26% by 2030. We'll continue developing solar projects to help enable the energy transition, particularly in the US."
Others, like Prologis, have specific goals for rooftop solar and Switch and Walmart are beginning to use energy storage.
"This acknowledgement further cements Switch's position as a leader in sustainability, which tremendously benefits our customers, the communities where we operate and our planet," said Switch EVP of Strategy Adam Kramer. "Switch continues to lead the challenge to expand solar by recently breaking ground on critical projects like Rob Roy's Gigawatt Nevada, which will generate a Gigawatt of solar combined with battery storage, providing clean energy solutions far into the future."
"As the world's largest owner and operator of logistics real estate, Prologis is committed to minimizing our environmental impacts, and every solar panel installed helps us get closer in the transition to clean energy," said Jared Friedman, Prologis, vice president of Global Energy. "Rooftop solar is a vital component of Prologis' growing portfolio of customer-focused renewable energy solutions, and we are proud to be honored by SEIA as we work toward our goal of doubling our onsite generating capacity to 400 megawatts by 2025."
The top 25 corporate solar users includes:
3. Walmart
6. Kaiser Permanente
7. Switch
8. Prologis
10. Solvay
11. Fifth Third Bank
12. Microsoft
13. Brookfield Properties Retail
14. IKEA
15. Macys
16. Kohls
17. Costco Wholesale
18. Corning
20. Paypal
21. Home Depot
22. Hartz Mountain
23. Lockheed Martin
24. Digital Realty
25. ALDI
For key takeaways, interactive charts and the report's underlying data, visit www.SolarMeansBusiness.com.
About SEIA®:
The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 20% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is a national trade association building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org.
Jen Bristol, SEIA's Director of Communications, jbristol@seia.org (202) 556-2886
Morgan Lyons, SEIA's Senior Communications Manager, mlyons@seia.org (202) 556-2872
Solar Market Forges Ahead in Q3 as Residential Installations Recover and Utility-Scale Pipeline Grows
WASHINGTON, D.C. and HOUSTON, TX — U.S. solar companies installed 3.8 gigawatts (GW) of new solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity in Q3 2020, a 9% increase from Q2 installations as the industry experienced a recovery from the worst impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Solar Industry Outlines a Policy Agenda for the Biden Administration, 117th Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is releasing a suite of policies and executive actions that it is asking President-elect Biden and the newly elected Congress to act on during their first 100 days in office.
Wednesday, Oct 07, 2020
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tech giants, major retailers and other corporate leaders are making significant investments in clean energy and installed over 1,280 megawatts (MW) of new commercial solar capacity in the United States in 2019, the second largest year on record according to the latest Solar Means Business report.
Explore All News & Articles


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RIAA Asks for Lower Royalties
By Mark 'Rizzn' Hopkins 2008-02-05 11:57:19 UTC
Another major battle in the record label's war against it's listeners takes place Monday. Instead of the RIAA going directly to war against their 12 year old customers, they're turncoating on the CRP in their battle against the hobby and streaming Internet broadcasters with the exorbitant "mechanical royalty."
The last time the story of the Copyright Royalty Boards efforts to extract more money from music purveyors hit the news, it was under the rumors that AOL and Yahoo Radio divisions were shutting down. While the headlines may have been a bit exaggerated, the threat to Internet radio as a US-based business is real. While the hobby broadcasters can easily pick up their stations and move them offshore, and therefore outside the jurisdiction of the CRB, outfits like Yahoo and AOL don't have that option.
The crux of the debate is the amount of the royalty per song. The CRB has ordered the royalties raised to 11 cents for each song, up from a previous rate of 8 cents per song, and scheduled to reach 19 cents per in 2010.
Here's the kicker, though. Instead of maintaining an untenable position and looking for a minor to sue, the RIAA has said, according to the Hollywood Reporter today, that "the rate is out of whack with the rest of the world and historical context." Someone, somewhere, has kicked some sense into the RIAA, because they now see streaming radio as 'the golden egg' and don't want to kill the goose that laid it with unreasonable royalty payments.
A decision will be handed down on Monday before a three-judge panel at the CRB, but despite the destroyed reputation the RIAA has amongst the general public (or perhaps because of it), them speaking on behalf of Yahoo, AOL and Napster will likely carry quite a bit of weight at the hearing.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Direct and correlated responses to selection in two flocks of White Leghorn
G. S. Brah, M. L. Chaudhary, and J. S. Sandhu G. S. Brah et al. G. S. Brah, M. L. Chaudhary, and J. S. Sandhu
Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, India
Abstract. Data on 17,588 pulletes of two strains selected for egg number and egg weight along with a control line were examined over seven generations. Significant desirable realized genetic gains/generation were observed for egg number to 40 weeks (2.18 and 2.23 eggs) and egg weight (0.81 and 0.45g) in both the strains.
Significant correlated responses were also observed in age at first egg (−1.54 and −1.17 d); 20 and 40 week body weights (8.8 to 19.0). Significant desirable responses were also observed for egg mass (175 and 151g), rate of lay (1.0 and 1.37%), egg production efficiency (0.08 and 0.07) and efficiency index (1.09 and 1.03 g/d/kg) Natural selection did not seem to play any role. Inbreeding of 0.28 to 0.45% per generation did not appear to be of any significance in affecting the performance and heritabilities. The additive genetic and phenotypic variances and heritabilities remained stable over generations. Realized heritabilities varied between 0 18 and 0.29 for egg number and between 0.44 and 0.66 for egg weight and indicated the effectiveness of the criterion of selection.
How to cite: Brah, G. S., Chaudhary, M. L., and Sandhu, J. S.: Direct and correlated responses to selection in two flocks of White Leghorn, Arch. Anim. Breed., 42, 403–414, https://doi.org/10.5194/aab-42-403-1999, 1999.


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Kyushu Online Media Center
Visit Kyushu
The Official Kyushu Travel Guide
About Kyushu
Seven Distinct Prefectures
Gourmet Kyushu
Island Getaways
Kyushu Hiking Adventures
Getting to Kyushu
Getting Around Kyushu
Staying in Kyushu
Travel to Goto Islands in Nagasaki - Where Luxury and Convenience Awaits
The ferry hummed along, gliding across the smooth waters off the western coast of Kyushu. I stood on the upper deck, the cool ocean air on my face, as we silently slipped between small islands of jagged rock, jutting skyward out of the calm sea. With each passing minute, the warm hues of dawn crept further over the dramatic landscape of sky, land, and sea as we drew nearer to our destination, Fukue, the largest of the Goto Islands.
How To Get To Fukue Island
The overnight ferry from Fukuoka is not the quickest way to reach Fukue Island. Still, the slower journey and incredible pre-dawn landscapes might be the best way to prepare yourself for the destination that lies ahead. The ferry has common areas for sleeping, eating, and relaxing, as well as private rooms for those who prefer them. COVID protection measures are in place, and there are two open decks where you can go outside to get fresh air and enjoy the scenery.
I arrived at the Fukue Ferry Port at 8:15 in the morning, feeling fresh and ready for a day of adventure, despite being awake since dawn enjoying the morning landscapes from the ferry. Perhaps I drew my energy from the islands themselves, born from seismic activity and volcanic eruptions long ago, creating these small portions of a fertile paradise off the coast of Nagasaki.
What To Do on Fukue Island
Indeed, one of the volcanoes that helped form Fukue should be your first stop on the island. After renting an electric car (public charging ports are available all over the island), zip over to Onidake, the largest of several dormant volcanoes on the island. It is an easy 20-minute hike to the top of the volcano from the parking lot, where you'll be treated to a panoramic view of the city center, the surrounding countryside, and endless calm blue seas. If you enjoy stargazing, save this hike until the end of the day, when you can watch the sunset from the summit before visiting the Onidake Observatory and get a closeup view of the night sky through their 60-centimeter Newtonian reflecting telescope.
The evidence of Onidake's ancient eruption is most visible on the eastern part of the island, particularly along the coastline near the Abunze Visitor Center. Here, I viewed the rugged coastline with jagged black lava rock from an observation platform, the dormant remains of two smaller volcanoes in the distance. The visitor center itself houses a modest collection of natural, historical, and cultural items of Fukue and its surrounding islands.
Where to Eat on Fukue Island
Further down the coastline, I stopped to dip my toes in the gentle surf at Kojushi Beach, a popular destination for locals during the summer holiday period but often uncrowded the rest of the year. On the ridge above the beach is Tsubaki Chaya, a restaurant specializing in local cuisine grilled at your table on a Japanese hearth called an irori. I sampled salted and grilled flying fish, beautiful green scallops, island-grown vegetables, and kankori mochi, a particular type of mochi (pounded rice) from Goto, flavored with sweet potatoes. I enjoyed this enormous meal while taking in a commanding view of the coastline through the restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows.
Glamping Accommodations at Nordisk Village
As my first day on Fukue came to an end, I pulled into my accommodations at Nordisk Village. This curious collaboration between Danish outdoor product manufacturer Nordisk and a group of Japanese entrepreneurs has resulted in a location that puts a capital 'G' in the word "glamping." Adjacent to fields of golden rice stalks and walking distance from the seashore, Nordisk Village is a collection of fully furnished luxury canvas tents and a renovated old schoolhouse that hosts a business office, common areas, a few private rooms, and a restaurant. After settling into my tent, which had two fluffy beds, a small table and chair, a small refrigerator, and even a Bluetooth speaker (and free Wi-Fi), my hosts started a campfire outside my tent for me to enjoy as dusk settled over the camp. Full bathrooms and showers are shared among the guests, though kept immaculately clean, with hand sanitizers both inside and outside the facilities.
Though I had more than my fill of camping during my childhood, Nordisk Village was an experience much closer to staying at a comfortable hotel. The Nordisk tents were spacious, and the climate control unit kept the temperature in the tent perfect all night long. Apart from the peaceful sounds of the insects chirping in the nearby rice fields and forest, it was indistinguishable from staying in a luxury hotel room. So whether you prefer camping close to nature or the comforts of a hotel, Nordisk Village suits both tastes.
Discover Local Culture, History, and Japan's Hidden Christians
Beyond the natural beauty of Fukue, visitors can come to the island to explore a lesser-known aspect of Japanese history. The Edo Period of Japan (1603-1868) is best known for Shogun, samurai, and being one of the longest eras of peace in Japanese history. However, it was also a period of intense persecution for Japanese Christians. Although the persecution had begun before the Edo era, Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu formally expelled the Portuguese Jesuits from Japan in 1612 and declared Christianity illegal. Those found to practice Christianity were imprisoned, tortured, and murdered, often along with their families or entire villages. Fearing for their own lives and those of their loved ones, many Japanese Christians chose to go into hiding, practicing their faith in secret and fleeing areas where Christianity was once prevalent.
The persecution drove many of these "Hidden Christians" to the Goto Islands, where they practiced their faith under the disguise of Buddhism and Shintoism. This continued until 1873 when the ban on Christianity in Japan was finally lifted, and the Hidden Christians were able to emerge from hiding. Many groups rejoined the Catholic Church and set about building places of worship around the islands. Fukue Island hosts many of these churches, several of which have been identified as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2018.
You can start your discovery of Japan's Hidden Christians by visiting Dozaki Church, an elegant gothic-style church near the emerald waters of Okuura Bay. Dozaki was the first Christian church commissioned on Fukue after the ban on Christianity was lifted, built in the late 1800s by French missionaries. This lovely church is no longer a place of worship but serves as a museum housing relics from Hidden Christians' history.
Art and Architecture of the Goto Islands' Christian Churches
Further west, Mizunoura Church is a white wooden church that stands picture-perfect on a hillside near the sparkling Shiraishiura Bay. On the hill above the church is a stone monument to Saint John De Goto, one of the 26 Christian martyrs of Nagasaki who was crucified after being forced on a month-long march through hostile crowds from their trial in Kyoto. The carved face of the young martyr exudes hope and peace as he gazes upwards toward the heavens.
Not far from Mizunoura Church, the Kusuhara Church is another stunning brick church with a tragic history. The Kusuhara area was settled by Christians, who hid their faith carefully throughout the Edo Period. Unfortunately, their faith was discovered a few years before the ban on Christianity was lifted, and many of the villagers were imprisoned, tortured, and exiled. The jail near the church in which Christians were held captive has been preserved as a monument.
On nearby Hisaka and Naru Islands, there are several historic churches that can be reached as day trips from Fukue. UNESCO has only recently recognized these sites, and they will certainly only continue to grow as easily-accessible destinations for inquisitive travelers. For now, they remain uncrowded. Because many of the churches are functional places of worship, you may need reservations to tour inside the buildings.
Nearing the end of the day, we parked the car down the hill from Fuchi-no-moto, a gravesite for Goto Island Christians on a ridge above the wild western shore of Fukue. The setting sun streamed through the clouds, shedding light on these ancient tombstones that stand in memory of the faithful believers on the Goto Islands. It isn't easy to stand here and not be moved by the beauty of the location and the memories of what these people endured for their faith.
Fukue is a confluence of the beauty of nature forged from a dramatic volcanic past and the beauty of faith forged from a tragic history of persecution. Its culture is built not only on surviving but thriving in an environment that once raged beyond their control. Today's Fukue was created by its people's perseverance to make it a place worth visiting, a place that can truly be called a paradise in the middle of the sea.
A Short Hike to See the Natural Beauty at Osezaki Lighthouse
The Osezaki lighthouse is an icon of Fukue Island, situated on an outcropping above the endless blue sea. View the lighthouse and a panoramic view of the dramatic scenery first from the observation point before hiking to the lighthouse to view it up close. The hike takes about an hour and is moderately strenuous; a group made up mostly of senior citizens accomplished it easily during the time I visited the lighthouse. You'll pass through a grove of wild camellia trees on the hike, providing shade from the sun on warm days.
Dine on Local Foods at Ottdontei Restaurant
For a taste of the Goto Islands as fresh as you can possibly imagine, sample the locally produced Goto udon at Oddontei, a restaurant attached to the Nakamoto Seimen noodle factory. Here they make the local style of udon, thinner than normal udon and coated with healthy camellia oil during the production process, which you can observe through the factory's large windows before devouring the finished product in the restaurant. Try Goto udon dipped in different types of sauce or as part of the famous Nagasaki champon dish.
Level Up Your Sports Activities with Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
The calm clear waters surrounding the Goto Islands are perfect for water sports, including SUP – Stand Up Paddleboarding. Take a short lesson from the friendly staff at Goto SUP and you'll be standing up and paddling on your own in no time. From there, you can take a short SUP trip out of the breakwater to nearby Kujushi Beach. The clear blue waters and warm sun are sure to help you to find some inner peace even as you get some exercise outdoors.
Accommodations that Provide the Best of Both Worlds at Kinnagoajiro
The concept behind Kinnagoajiro is one of bringing the outdoors indoors. To this end, your accommodations here have two huge sliding doors which open up to let in the bright air and sunshine during the day. The furniture is indoor-outdoor, so feel free to grab a chair and take it outside. At night, have a barbecue on the spacious grounds outside and sit around a campfire chatting with friends. When its time to sleep, close everything up tight and sleep soundly inside on a large comfortable bed.
Travel Around the Island in Convenience with Rental Electric Cars
As a people who hold great respect for their natural surroundings, Fukue has fully embraced electric cars which are much more environmentally friendly. Visitors can rent electric cars to travel to sites all over the island. With many charging stations spread around the island, it is convenient to charge up your vehicle while sightseeing or grabbing a bite to eat.
Todd Fong
Photographer, mentor, story teller. Tokyo-based, Oaktown (Oakland, California) born. My writing and photography work includes Voyapon.com, "Sheila Kimono Style" (photo book), 365 Japan, and Metropolis. My curiosity about Japan, its culture and its history is matched only by the number of places in Japan I have yet to explore.
http://www.peraperapera.net/
Ojika Island
Amami Oshima
Mishima Islands
Goto Islands
Copyright © Kyushu Tourism Organization [ Japan ] All Rights Reserved.


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Latitude Margaritaville 55+ Community Coming To Watersound, Florida
Master developer Minto Communities USA, global lifestyle brand Margaritaville Holdings and The St. Joe Company have combined their resources to pursue the development of a new Latitude Margaritaville active adult community in Florida's Panhandle region to be located in Bay County near Panama City Beach and the scenic 30A corridor. Land development has started for Latitude Margaritaville Watersound and will be the third of the communities to be developed. The initial phase of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is anticipated to include approximately 3,500 homes with a sales center, model homes, and resort-style amenities. The sales center and models are projected to open early 2021 with proposed pricing starting in the low $200s. Join the Paradise Club to receive the most up to date information on Latitude Margaritaville Watersound.
Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is the third Latitude Margaritaville community to be developed by Minto and Margaritaville, and the first to be developed in partnership with St. Joe. The first two Latitude Margaritaville communities are located in Daytona Beach, Florida and in Hilton Head, South Carolina.
Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is in the heart of St. Joe's Bay-Walton Sector Plan that is entitled for approximately 170,000 homes. St. Joe owns approximately 15 miles of frontage on the Intracoastal Waterway connecting West Bay with Choctawhatchee Bay, providing access to the Gulf of Mexico. Located nearby are existing shopping and entertainment centers like the Pier Park lifestyle center. St. Joe has also started planning for new marina and commercial villages adjacent to the community. The nearby Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport offers convenient non-stop service from Delta, Southwest, American and United Airlines.
The inital phase of Latitude Margaritaville Watersound is anticipated to include approximately 3,500 homes with a sales center, model homes, and resort-style amenities for those 55-and-better. Plans call for the sales center and model homes for the Latitude Margaritaville Watersound community to be located at the northwest intersection of Highway 79 and the new alignment of Highway 388 in Bay County. The sales center and models are projected to open early 2021.
Jorge Gonzalez, president and CEO of St. Joe stated, "After a period of planning and preparation, we are excited to begin development at Latitude Margaritaville Watersound. We believe that Northwest Florida is the perfect location for this Latitude Margaritaville community. This region is uniquely suited to offer the type of lifestyle residents of these communities have come to enjoy."
"We are excited about the spectacular waterfront and stunning natural elements located at Latitude Margaritaville Watersound, and intend to fully embrace and design for connectivity with the ecosystem," added Minto's Latitude Margaritaville Division President William Bullock.
Jim Wiseman, vice president of development for Margaritaville, said, "This amazing property presents a unique opportunity to deploy the four pillars of the Latitude Margaritaville lifestyle: food, fun, music and escapism in one of the country's most beautiful and desirable locations."
About Latitude Margaritaville:
Latitude Margaritaville is a new portfolio of active adult communities developed by master developer Minto Communities and global lifestyle brand Margaritaville Holdings. Offering resort-style amenities, Latitude Margaritaville is the ideal destination for those looking to live the Margaritaville lifestyle as they grow older, but not up. The communities feature a resort-style pool, fitness center, live entertainment, signature Margaritaville food and beverage concepts, arts and learning programs and more. Ranked the nation's most popular active adult community of 2018 by 55Places.com and 2019's Best 55+ Community of the Year by the National Association of Home Builders, the first Latitude Margaritaville opened in Daytona Beach, Florida. A second Latitude Margaritaville is now open in the Hilton Head, South Carolina area. Additional Latitude Margaritaville communities are planned for some of the nation's most popular destinations.
About Minto Communities:
Minto Communities USA, based in Florida since 1978, has represented integrity, financial strength and enduring value for over 40 years. Minto builds exceptional new homes and communities to meet every lifestyle, with more than 25,000 new homes built in 48 communities. Minto is dedicated to continuous improvement in design, quality and customer experience. These are just some of the elements that set Minto apart as an exceptional homebuilder and community developer and have earned the company national recognition that includes consistently high rankings from Eliant Customer Service Surveys. Minto has been recognized with multiple national awards from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) for community and home design, including Best Mixed-Use Community and Best Clubhouse for The Isles of Collier Preserve in Naples, Florida; and Best Clubhouse for the Harbour Isle Beach Club in Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida. Minto won several Southeast Building Conference 2019 Aurora Awards, including the Grand Award for Best 55+ living community for Latitude Margaritaville Hilton Head; and multiple Silver Awards for Best Single-Family Model Homes for Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach, FL and Hilton Head, SC. Minto is recognized throughout the homebuilding industry as an expert in developing active-adult communities. The NAHB named Minto as 2019's 55+ Builder of the Year and Latitude Margaritaville Daytona Beach as Best 55+ Community of the Year.
About Margaritaville:
Margaritaville is a global lifestyle brand inspired by the lyrics and lifestyle of singer, songwriter and best-selling author Jimmy Buffett, whose songs evoke a passion for tropical escape and relaxation. Margaritaville features 20 lodging locations and 24 additional projects in the pipeline with nearly half under construction, two gaming properties and over 60 food and beverage venues including signature concepts such as Margaritaville Restaurant, award-winning JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, 5 o'Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and LandShark Bar & Grill. More than 20 million travelers every year change their latitude and attitude with a visit to a Margaritaville resort, residential real estate destination, vacation club, vacation home rental or restaurant. Consumers can also escape everyday through a collection of Margaritaville lifestyle products including apparel, footwear, frozen concoction makers, home décor, a satellite radio station and more. Additionally, the brand's food, beverage and spirits lines – including Margaritaville tequilas, rums, LandShark Lager and a new bestselling cookbook – deliver authentic, tropical escapism to fans around the world. Margaritaville, a state of mind since 1977.
About St. Joe:
The St. Joe Company, together with its consolidated subsidiaries, is a real estate development, asset management and operation company. The Company owns land concentrated primarily in Northwest Florida and has significant residential and commercial land-use entitlements in hand or in process. More information about the Company can be found on its website at www.joe.com.


At A2B Outdoor Hire & Sales we rent and sell outdoor equipment such as roof boxes, bike racks, bike boxes to fit all makes and models of cars as well as other products such as tents and kayaks. In 2016 we increased our range to include marquees and inflatable spas. So if you need extra space in the car and are looking for roof box hire in Peterborough, Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas then please contact us so we can help. Our bike boxes prove popular with triathletes and cyclists throughout the area so they can take there bikes abroad and many families have hired our tents to take on their summer family holidays. If you are having a garden event then maybe out 8m long marquee may come in useful to protect from the elements!


On October 17, 2006, by Order of the Honourable Justice Cummings, an initial Order (the "Initial Order") under the CCAA was granted for Cantar Pool Products Limited/Produits de Piscines Cantar Limitée ("Cantar" or the "Company"). Pursuant to the Initial Order, A. Farber & Partners Inc. was appointed Monitor.
On November 23, 2006, a CCAA Plan (the "Plan") was filed. On January 12, 2007, the creditors approved the Plan. On January 18, 2007, the Plan was approved by the Court.
On January 30, 2007, all conditions precedent were completed and the Plan became effective. A copy of the Plan and the notice to creditors dated February 5, 2007, is attached below.
In the CCAA Plan, Cantar undertook to distribute to the creditors the proceeds of a vendor take back mortgage ("VTB Mortgage") which had a $1.6 million face value with interest to accrue. The VTB mortgage was subject to release by a group of lenders (hereinafter referred to as the "Lenders"), to permit payout of proceeds to the creditors of Cantar. The agent for the group of lenders was ABN Amro, which subsequently became Bank of America. That release was subject to the dividend to creditors not being more than 25 cents on the dollar or to Larger Claim (see definition in the Report) creditors. Based on claims admitted it is estimated at around 20 cents on the dollar would be paid to those creditors with claims admitted.
All directors resigned from Cantar following approval of the CCAA Plan. As there were no directors, the Ministry of Consumer and Commercial Affairs dissolved Cantar which caused the assets of the company to escheat to the crown.
Absent secured claims, the Province (Crown) has a right to claim on remaining proceeds or assets of a company once it is dissolved.
In this case, the Province has a potential claim on the VTB Mortgage and related proceeds vs the rights set out under the CCAA Plan, which provided for release of security from the Lenders as long as the payout was not more than 25 cents on the dollar.
Through court approval on January 25, 2012, the Monitor took control of the VTB proceeds of $2.1 million. These funds are presently held in the Monitor's trust account pending resolution of certain rights the Province of Ontario may have to such proceeds.
The Monitor and its legal counsel sought information from Polyair (Cantar's parent) and they in turn liaised with the Bank of America in order to address certain information requests of the Province in order to satisfy the Province that it would have no right to such funds, as the Lenders' security, if in place, would trump the Province's claim, if that is factually correct, after review of the information from the Lender.
As a result of these investigations, the Monitor and its legal counsel deemed it appropriate to seek direction from the Court to, among other matters, authorize distribution of proceeds to the creditors of record or the Province of Ontario. A Court hearing date has been set for February 21, 2013. The detailed Motion materials are set out below.
Secondly, to make payment and distribution to those creditors having proven claims against the Applicant in accordance with the provisions of the Plan of Arrangement of the Applicant as sanctioned by this Court.
As a result, the Monitor is proceeding to make arrangements for distribution of dividends to Large Claim Creditors which will take place once all appeal periods have expired.
The Monitor will then move to be discharged.


A medieval gem in the middle of modern Bristol, St John's was one of five churches built into the old city walls as a combination of spiritual refuge and defensive structure. It was intended as a place for travellers to say prayers before setting off on a journey - a reminder that travel in the medieval period could be a perilous exercise.
The other four churches have long gone, but St John's still stands and incorporates the city's North Gate into the lower courses of its west tower. The central gate through the wall is flanked by a pair of smaller pedestrian gates added in 1828.
There was a church on this site as early as AD 1100, but that 12th-century church was rebuilt in the late 14th century, at a time when the city of Bristol was one of the wealthiest trading centres in England.
It was founded by a successful local merchant named Walter Frampton, three times Mayor of Bristol. The ornately decorated monument to Frampton, who died in 1388, stands within the church he built. His effigy is shown supported by angels, his hands held in prayer, while along the base of the tomb runs a series of heraldic shields.
The inscription in Latin translates as 'Here lies Walter Frampton, founder of this church who died in the year 1388'. Across from the Frampton tomb is a memorial brass to Thomas Rowley (d. 1478) and his wife (d. 1470).
A wealth of other monuments, including many from Bristol's 14th-century mercantile heyday, are in the chancel and the underground crypt that lies beneath it. The crypt is an atmospheric space, with a vaulted ceiling decorated by carved bosses. Look for the alabaster table tomb of a wealthy merchant and his wife, with figures of the couple's ten children at the base of the tomb.
Much of the interior furnishings are 17th and 18th century, though the pulpit is a beautifully carved piece of 15th-century craftsmanship. The nave pews are made of oak carved in 1621. The west gallery was erected in the late 17th century and relocated further west when an organ was installed in 1883. On the east face of the gallery are 7 painted panels of saints. The font dates to 1624.
One amusing historical touch is provided by a fountain to the north of the church. This is fed from a medieval conduit pipe used as a water supply by the Carmelite friary on this site in the 14th century. In the past, politicians seeking to curry favour with the electorate were known to make the fountain run with wine instead of water.
St John's is no longer in use for regular worship and is cared for by the Churches Conservation Trust. As of this writing, it is open daily by volunteers but it is a good idea to check the Trust website for current opening details before planning a visit.


At the Grammy Nominations Concert in L.A.
At the KIIS FM's Jingle Ball in L.A.
At the 2012 MusiCares Tribute in L.A.
Since Perry's performance at the 54th Grammy awards, many have speculated that the lyrics were about her ex-husband Russell Brand. However, "Part of Me" first surfaced in 2010, two months after Perry and Brand got married in India.
While she has not yet spoken publicly about the couple's split, she released a statement regarding the rumors about the chart-topping hit and set the record straight with MTV News.
Perry does acknowledge the eerie resemblance the song has to her personal life.


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CSB Community Kitchen
Volunteer Roles and Expectations
Community Kitchen Student Team
Home / Experience & Professional Development / Students / Experience-Based Programs / CSB Community Kitchen / Our Programs
Congregate Dining
Community Kitchen's congregate dining program integrates high-quality, nutritious meals into programming of community partners. Community Kitchen volunteers plan a delicious meal, aiming for balanced nutritional content with a protein, vegetable, and carbohydrate/starch. A pre-warmed, buffet-style meal is provided for participants, program staff, and Community Kitchen volunteers. Community Kitchen volunteers heat, transport, and serve the food. Our volunteers also share in the meal and conversation with our meal recipients.
Congregate Dining for the 2017-2018 school year partnered with a number of organizations throughout the St. Joseph and Stearns County community. Our Congregate Dining Partners include:
Hands Across the World — Bel Clare Estates: A gathering space for children from the Bel Clare Estates mobile home community in Waite Park and the surrounding area, where they can play sports, do crafts, work on homework, and get to know other kids.
Promise Neighborhood: a bi-weekly after school program for girls that focuses on developing skills in math, and incorporates fun activities and learning experiences for the girls.
Girls on a Rise to Success (G.O.A.T.S.): A bi-weekly after school enrichment program for young women that focuses on building character and leadership skills. The program takes place at the C.O.P. House in St. Cloud.
Hands Across the World—COP House: An afternoon program that encourages dialogue between English language learners and native speakers, as well as fun activities for young people. The program promotes the idea of community-oriented policing by establishing a home base for officers in areas with a high volume of police calls. The officers stationed at the COP House are invited to share the meal and get to know the people at the site. Ultimately, the program hopes to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the community.
Dream Center of Saint Cloud: an organization dedicated to helping men, eighteen years and older, face their problems, find wholeness, and successfully integrate back into society.
Volunteer with Congregate Dining
Joe Town Table
St. Joseph's Monthly Community Meal
Joe Town Table is a free monthly meal served by members of the community in partnership with the Central Minnesota Catholic Worker, Saint Joseph area churches, community members and CSB/SJU students. The meal is held the fourth Sunday of each month at the American Legion Post 328 in St. Joseph. All are welcome!


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Program Mission and Objectives
The physics major program at Johns Hopkins University is built around giving its students a grasp of the physical principles underlying our universe and equipping them with the tools so that they can understand physical phenomena in terms of those principles. However, learning to "think like a physicist" also means assimilating a quantitative, critical intellectual style, firmly grounded in empiricism, that can be applied to problems far outside the conventional domain of our discipline; indeed, this is one of the reasons that over time physics has spawned new scientific fields such as biophysics or operations research, and continues to provide the underlying conceptual scheme for large parts of engineering.
The breadth of potential applications for "physics thinking" also explains why the physics major at JHU is not one program, but two, and we offer two degree options, a B.S. and a B.A. The former is designed for students who want to be professionals in physics or allied subjects, whether they go directly into the workforce or immediately embark on a graduate program; the latter is for those who want to learn deeply about physics, but also have the time in their undergraduate careers to study more widely in other fields, in order to prepare for careers less exclusively focused on physical sciences.
Although the detailed course requirements for the two programs are somewhat different, they share the same broad objectives. All our students should graduate with a solid understanding of the basic laws of physics. More generally, we also wish for all of them to emerge trained to think critically and quantitatively. At least some serious laboratory experience is essential for students to develop a sense of what real experiments are like and to recognize the fundamental grounding of abstract physical concepts in concrete empirical data. In addition, we hope that their Hopkins physics education will have led them to develop a genuine enthusiasm for learning about the natural world. So equipped, they will be prepared for success in many potential future careers, whether as physical scientists or in a variety of other professions.
Finally, we note that because science is a dynamic enterprise, the preparation most appropriate for its students gradually changes over time. This means that even our basic goals gradually evolve.
The general objectives listed above can be restated in terms of more specific accomplishments:
Mastery of core subject material: The most fundamental of the basic laws of physics are the central concepts of classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. We list in the following paragraphs the specific topics we consider most essential to a physics undergraduate education, grouping them by subfield. This set comprises both key facts about the physical world and widely useful techniques for analyzing physical systems.
Classical mechanics: Both the fact that energy, momentum, and angular momentum are conserved and how to employ that knowledge to solve problems; how all small-amplitude oscillatory motion can be characterized in terms of harmonic oscillators, both isolated and coupled; how to analyze generic wave motions and relate the dynamics of specific waves to that analysis; the use of Lagrangians and Hamiltonians; how to calculate orbits in a potential; the properties of two-body scattering; the nature of rigid body rotation; and the principles of special relativity.
Electromagnetism: What it means to define a field and how charged particles respond to electric and magnetic fields; how to solve for static electric and magnetic fields given boundary conditions; how electric charges and currents act as sources for electric and magnetic fields; how changing electric and magnetic fields influence each other; the significance of Maxwell's Equations; the basics of electromagnetic waves, and how they propagate; how electromagnetic waves are radiated.
Quantum mechanics: The meaning of quantum eigenstates and eigenvalues; operator and wave-function descriptions of quantum states; the significance of non-commuting operators, their relationship to uncertainty principles and wave-particle duality; the physical interpretation of wave functions and how they may be calculated from the Schrodinger equation; the basic properties of quantized angular momentum, including the existence of spin; how quantum mechanics determines the structure of atoms; the character of quantized harmonic oscillators; and how to analyze scattering events in quantum mechanical terms.
Critical thinking: In the context of physics, the ability to think critically and quantitatively means that one is able not just to solve set problems, but also to transform puzzling phenomena into well-formulated questions. Solving quantitative problems is accomplished in several steps: deciding which basic principles apply, translating them into equations, and only lastly mathematical manipulation. Skill in this process is best developed by practice. Learning problem-formulation is subtler because it is never as straightforward. It involves developing a sense of "physical intuition," how to connect logical relationships to quantitative dependences, and, in the case of experimental problems, how to mirror those quantitative dependences in measurable physical systems, and how to construct quantitatively meaningful summaries of the resulting measurements. First-hand experience doing genuine cutting-edge research is the only way we know for students to build the mental "muscles" required. Because most scientific work is experimental, laboratory experience is essential for all our students, even those intending to specialize in theoretical work once they become professional scientists.
Enthusiasm for learning: Developing an appreciation for the pleasure of self-directed individual intellectual investigation as well as for the gains in understanding that can be accomplished by cooperative efforts with others. Here, too, independent research plays a central role. On the one hand, it can provide opportunities for students to feel the excitement and satisfaction of learning a topic on their own, without the guidance of a class syllabus. On the other hand, it can also provide them with real-life examples of how teams of people with complementary expertise can achieve results impossible to any one of them.
Preparation to pursue career objectives: Our program has two tracks. One prepares students for either an entry-level job or graduate study leading toward a PhD in physics, astronomy, or related fields; the other gives students a solid grounding in physics, but is geared more toward other kinds of careers or enrollment in professional schools such as law or medicine. Depending on which track a student follows, we expect them to have the background necessary for the associated next steps. With their wide range of skills, physics degree recipients pursue a variety of exciting careers. For an in-depth look into the latest sociological trends in the field, see the materials assembled by the American Institute of Physics.
Also in Undergraduate


You no doubt arrived at this website to see what we have to offer. Well, whether landlord or tenant, we are certain to engage your interests to the full – and promptly. Professional and experienced advisors at Piccadilly Property Management operate a comprehensive, efficient lettings and management service, with due care taken to identify properties that meet with your enduring satisfaction.
Piccadilly Property Management is committed to its clients. Our advisors will guide you all the way through with consideration and patience, whether before, during or after. No question will go unanswered; no doubt will be left to linger. We regard that as an essential part of the trust you place in us.


This post has been sponsored by Nielsen-Massey. All opinions expressed are my own.
Warm spices and flaky pie dough make these Apple Hand Pies a seasonal must for the holidays!
While we're on the subject of 'individual enjoyment,' you may be surprised to learn that it wasn't until a few years ago that I had ever enjoyed an 'individual pizza.' I was in city to cover the release of a new book from Martha Stewart, and after the event I needed to unwind a little and so I popped into this 'hole in the wall' eatery, and I don't why but I ordered the their individual pizza. What arrived wasn't that far off from a 'standard' pizza, perhaps lacking a few inches in total diameter but otherwise pretty standard. "Well, they're calling it individual, and I'm going to treat it like an individual pizza," and the whole thing vanished rather quickly – a decision I was soon to regret, but nevertheless enjoyed.
Why am I talking about this? For the simple reason that there's a certain sort of 'devious' enjoyment to having something 'all to yourself.' Imagine, for example, a chilly fall morning, and you've got your coffee and…pie, you want pie. Yes, you want a combination of cinnamon, sugar, and baked apples congealed within a sweetened crust crystallized with a glaze of sugar, but you don't want the hassle of slicing or sharing, sharing? Sharing, what's that? I'll tell you right now what that is, it is something you don't want to do when it comes to pie. No, you want the aforementioned apple-y goodness entirely unto yourself, and with today's recipe that's precisely what it will be.
Naturally, however, today's pies are bite-sized, individual indulgences. Just large enough to be substantial, but just small enough to dunk in that aforementioned coffee. Pile them up on a plate, and they're a supremely 'autumn looking' centerpiece with all of the flavors of the season, with just enough sweetness to be a 'dessert,' and just enough 'warmth' from the cinnamon and brown sugar flavors to keep you coming back for more.
To start things off, we being by prepping the crust, which is a combination of flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Process that in a food processor until the mixture becomes crumb-like, add the cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough 'pulls' together. Once that has been achieved, chill the resulting dough until it is ready to use.
Up next is the filling. To start things off, we begin by peeling and dicing three apples. You're going to want to dice the apples a fair being smaller than you are accustomed to with standard apple pie, think chunks or cubes rather than slices. Then, in a bowl, combine the apples with fresh lemon zest, sugar, cinnamon, coarsely chopped walnuts, your choice of cranberries or raisins, and vanilla. For today's recipe, as in all the recipes that I prepare that call for extract, I'm using Nielsen-Massey Mexican Pure Vanilla Extract, made from premium, hand-selected beans cultivated in Mexico, the original birthplace of the vanilla plant. Nielsen Massey is simply the gold standard in extracts in terms of purity, flavor, and reliability in quality. The Mexican vanilla flavor has a deep, creamy, spicy-sweet character, similar to clove or nutmeg which is why it pairs perfectly with today's recipe.
Once that's done, roll out the dough from before to about a quarter of an inch in thickness, and then simply cut out the desired size for your pies as shown below. For convenience, I simply used an upside jar to portion it out. Then portion out the apple mixture into the center of the dough slices, and cover the mixture with another slice of dough, and press the edges closed with a fork. Then brush the top of each resulting piece with an egg wash, sprinkle with sugar, and just like that you've got your individual apple pies.
Combine the flour, sugar, salt and butter in a food processor and process until the mixture becomes crumb-like. Add the cold water one tbs. at a time until the dough pulls together. Chill until ready to use.
Combine all of the ingredients for the filling in a bowl and toss.
Roll out the dough to ¼ inch thickness and using a desired size jar cut out the dough.
Using a tsp. place, the apple mixture in the center of half of the dough cut-outs. Use the remaining half of the dough cut-outs to fit on top of the dough with the filling and press into place along the edges with a fork.
Brush the top of each hand pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake 20 – 25 minutes or until lightly golden.
Aside from vanilla extract, Nielsen-Massey also offers a range of flavors, the ones I use most being their lemon extract and almond extract – though I've also had occasion to sample their chocolate extract, which is simply superb. For more information on Nielsen-Massey, or to order, check out their website!
Those look so good! They are the perfect thing for fall. They have the flavor, they have the look, and they have all the seasonal feels.
I am pretty sure by the looks of these handpies they are addicting and I would be able to eat at least a dozen what I love is that flaky pastry crust and fall delicious apple filling!
Look wonderful, I love all with apples, always are delicious!!
These apple pies look yummy and they are healthy too. It is really worth a try.
Thank you for sharing this as I really do love this sweet treat that I will def try soon as well.
I hate sharing! If I ask you once and you say no, I'm not asking a second time lol. OAN I'm not a fan of apples but this looks so good and I would have this dessert with no one around so I can indulge in peace.
They look so inviting and you made it seem really simple to make too.
Wow, seeing those photos makes my mouth watering. It looks so delicious and looks so easy to prepare. I will try to make this and I am sure my kids would love this.
Love that they are individually portioned this is great for portion control. Perfect for the fall season.
These hand pies look so good. Perfect for apple season, and they would make a great dessert for next weekend...it will be Thanksgiving in Canada.
I love desserts from apples. And this recipe really impresses me! Looks incredibly tasty. It's a great idea to taste it with a cup of tea.
This looks delicious! I loved your photos too! What a great fall dessert.
I love making apple hand pies this time of the year. SO simple and easy. And perfect for the season. Great to give as seasonal treats too.
I am a sucker for apple pie anything...and pie crust....and all things mini! These are a win all around - yum!
These apple hand pies look terrific, and I bet they smelled great too. I'd love to try one right now with a tall glass of cold milk.
These little pies just speaks fall. I am going to make these for thanksgiving and the next dinner party. They look soo good and cute!
I kooove apple pies especially with coffe. This recipe is delicious and easy to do.
These hand pies look fabulous! They are so perfect for a snack, for brunch or for a lunch box!
These seriously look so good! I love that you've added cranberries, walnuts, and orange to this. What a wonderful hand pie recipe - I would gobble several up in one sitting!
Those Apple Hand Pies are adorable!! What a great dessert for the Fall season. They would be great at an afternoon coffee or tea. Or how about serving as a dessert at book club? And I do use that vanilla -- I believe the quality is excellent.
These are really cute apple hand pie, I like the spice you used. I need to get start baking apple as fall is beginning. I like the idea of sprinkle the turbinado sugar on the top.
Gorgeous photos! I'm craving these already and can't wait to try them!
These look absolutely marvelous, and I think they fit the fall season perfectly. I can't wait to try them for myself.


Recommand any good book for volume rendering.
Recommand any good book in computer graphics to me..
I'm searching for resources of volume rendering.
2. MPEG Loader for LW??
6. Display Lists, Vertex arrays. or both?
12. could you recommand Good site of graphic design???


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Plan B: A Singing Rapper Catches His Second Wind
By NPR Staff
Published April 22, 2011 at 1:26 PM MDT
Rapper and singer Ben Drew, a.k.a. Plan B, adopts a more soulful sound on his second album, The Defamation of Strickland Banks.
Ben Drew, also known as Plan B, has been called the Eminem of East London. The Guardian described his 2006 debut release as "a bleak, visceral, obscenity-strewn British urban album."
His music received great reviews from music critics, but didn't do so well with the public. After a few years, Plan B is back with a new album called The Defamation of Strickland Banks — and this time, he's swapped his hooded sweatshirt for a suit and added a whole lot of soul to his sound. But who is Strickland Banks?
"A fictional character that I created in order to make a hip-hop album that included soul music," Drew tells Weekend Edition host Scott Simon. "It kind of just grew and grew, and ended up becoming a soul album that had a small element of hip-hop.
"I kind of approached it like a film director would approach a film," Drew adds. "I like to call what I do 'film for the blind.' It's a film from start to finish, and every song is a scene in that film."
"Stay Too Long," however, is a bit more autobiographical than that description would indicate. Drew says it's about being recognized and chatted up in U.K. bars after his first album came out, which would sometimes lead to a scuffle if he felt he was being insulted.
"You can go out, and you can drink, and you can have a good time, but there's a point in the night when you really should know when to stop and leave," Drew says. "That song was just about that — not knowing when to stop, not knowing when to leave."
Drew says his introduction to music came from a curious place. He remembers his father, who abandoned the family when Drew was young, as a self-styled missionary: "the kind of Christian that would stand in the middle of a shopping precinct with a Bible in his hand and tell everybody they were going to hell." But he was also a musician who had played in the 1970s punk band The Warm Jets.
"After he disappeared, my mom always used to tell me about the side of him that she wanted to remember, which was the musician," Drew says. "She used to make me remember the dad that I'd never met. That actually kind of drove me on to be a musician; I felt like it was in my blood."
On his transition from mostly rapping to mostly soul singing, Drew says he'll embrace whatever kind of music catches his interest at the time.
"This right now is just me having a flirtation with soul music, I guess," he says. "Soul music is my future ex-wife. Right now, we're having the time of our lives — but, you know, I'll get bored, and I'll go somewhere else."
See stories by NPR Staff


The New York Islanders announced today that Jesse Joensuu has agreed to terms on a one-year deal.
The Finnish forward played last season in the Swedish Elite League with HV71 Jonkoping. In 50 games, Joensuu scored 29 points (13 goals and 16 assists).
Prior to last season in Europe, Joensuu spent four seasons playing in North America within the Islanders organization. With the Islanders, the 6'4", 207-pound winger accumulated eight goals and five assists in 60 career games. With the Islanders American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Joensuu scored a total of 42 goals and 69 assists for 111 points in 177 games.


Developed in collaboration with artist/archivist Charlie Macquarie.
In conjunction with the Internet Archive Liat Berdugo and Charlie Macquarie present the first ever Military Powerpoint Karaoke: a night of "Powerpoint Karaoke" using presentations in the Military Industrial Powerpoint Complex collection at archive.org that were thoughtfully extracted during the Internet Archive's most recent end-of-term web crawl. The event will take place on Tuesday, March 6th at 7:30pm at the Internet Archive's headquarters in San Francisco.
Also known as "Battle Decks," Powerpoint Karaoke is an improvisational and art event where audience members give a presentation using a set of Powerpoint slides that they've never seen before. There are three rules: 1) The presenter cannot see the slides before presenting; 2) The presenter delivers each slide in succession without skipping slides or going back; and 3) The presentation ends when all slides are presented, or after 5 minutes (whichever comes first). We're thrilled to have Rick Prelinger, creator of Lost Landscapes and Prelinger Archive, and Avery Trufelman of 99% Invisible, joining us to deliver headlining Powerpoint decks. The rest of the presentations will be delivered by you -- the audience members who sign up.
This event will use, as its source material, a curated collection of the Internet Archive's Military Industrial Powerpoint Complex, a special project for the Internet Archive's 20th Anniversary in which IA staff extracted all the Powerpoint files openly available from the government's ".mil" web domain. This collection contains over 57,000 Powerpoint decks, each charged with material that ranges from the violent to the banal, featuring attack modes, leadership styles, harness types, and modes for requesting vacation days from the US Military. As a whole, this collection forms a unique snapshot into our government's Military Industrial Complex.


My wife and I came upon this rich scene on a corner along the Amalfi Coast Highway in the city of Positano. This Italian photo was made in the early afternoon before we stopped for a tasty alfresco lunch drenched in sunlight.
We never got to see what was beyond the courtyard door in this scene, though the vertical version reveals the opulence behind this simple green door.


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soundboard governance
working to achieve sound board governance
about soundboard
about doug chia
recent engagements
recent speaking appearances
upcoming speaking appearances
virtual shareholder meetings
harvard forum posts
ssrn author page
goodreads bookshelf
vsm working group report
Doug Chia
Notes from the JPMorgan Chase 2020 (Virtual) Annual Meeting
I attended this morning's JPMorgan Chase & Co. Annual Meeting of Shareholders. It was the first time JPMorgan held its annual meeting by remote participation only. The company had already decided to make the move before the Proxy Statement (filed on April 6) was printed. The Notice at the front of the Proxy Statement told shareholders:
In light of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, outbreak, for the safety of all of our people, including our shareholders, and taking into account recent federal, state and local guidance that has been issued, we have determined that the 2020 Annual Meeting will be held in a virtual meeting format only, via the Internet, with no physical in-person meeting.
Good Annual Meeting Instructions in Q&A Format
The company also included very good disclosures on how shareholders would "be able to attend, vote, examine the stockholders list, and submit questions (both before, and for a portion of, the meeting) from any location via the Internet." These disclosures were presented in Q&A format, which a lot of retail investors like. For companies that favor the Q&A format for proxy disclosures, the "Information about the shareholder meeting" section beginning on page 106 of JPMorgan's 2020 Proxy Statement is a nice model.
The Proceedings
I was able to enter the meeting site with the 16-digit control number from my VIF. The landing page was typical of what I've seen with a prominent "Vote Here!" button and the annual meeting materials posted. I was able to vote very easily and submit a question in the question box (more on that later).
The meeting started promptly at 10:00 a.m. EDT with five minutes of housekeeping announcements from the Secretary followed by a 15-minute introduction and business presentation by Chairman/CEO Jamie Dimon. Dimon reported that he is in good health. You'll recall that he underwent emergency heart surgery at the beginning of March, and the board asked Co-Presidents/Chief Operating Officers Gordon Smith and Daniel Pinto to lead the company for a period of time while Dimon recuperated.
The quality of the audio was mixed. Dimon was harder to hear than the others who spoke. This may have been due to the audio equipment on his end, as well as the fact that Dimon speaks at New York City speed. It was clear that he was reading directly from a script, so maybe they could have recorded it (and slowed it down) ahead of time like some companies do with the opening remarks for their quarterly earnings calls. It's something for companies to consider, even though I've heard that some investors frown at this.
Discussion on the items of business began at 10:20. The Secretary presented the director nominations, ratification of auditor appointment, and say on pay, and then went through the six shareholder proposals.
Shareholder Proposals
Each proponent was allotted three minutes to present, but none of them needed the full three. A few noteworthy points:
John Chevedden was on the line and presented two of the proposals. Chevedden has long been a controversial figure in the corporate governance community, in part because he often represents and acts as agent for multiple shareholder proponents at the same company. I won't get into that here since there's a lot of history, with zealous supporters and detractors alike, and it gets very technical. But, I will point out that he spoke at length against retired Exxon Mobil Chairman/CEO Lee Raymond serving as the Lead Independent Director of JPMorgan's board. The company disclosed on April 30 that its Corporate Governance & Nominating Committee "undertook a formal process to appoint a new Lead Independent Director" and planned to announce that appointment "by the end of summer 2020," and it was reported that this was in response to shareholder pressure, so it felt like there was a disconnect in Chevedden's statement. Chevedden didn't mention this new development, and the company didn't point that out after he was done with his statement. Just thought that was interesting.
One of the proponents, Arjuna Capital, submitted a pre-recorded statement, which the company played in lieu of having the proponent or a representative on the line to present the proposal at the meeting in real-time.
After the proponents presented their proposals, two other speakers, Boston Trust Walden and Whistle Stop Capital, were given time to make additional supporting statements on some of the proposals. (I believe they were co-filers, or consultants to the co-filers, of one or more of the proposals.) This appeared to have been arranged with the company ahead of time.
Q&A on Items of Business and Preliminary Voting Results
There was a Q&A session for questions related to the items of business submitted before and at the meeting that lasted for eight minutes, during which the head of Investor Relations read the questions and Dimon and the Secretary answered them. The polls were then closed, and the preliminary voting results were announced (apologies if my numbers are off +/- a point):
Director Nominees: All received at least 84.6% support.
Say On Pay: 92.2% support
Ratification of Auditor Appointment: 95.9% support
Shareholder Proposals:
Independent Board Chairman: 41.9% support
Report on Oil and Gas Company and Project Financing Related to the Arctic and the Canadian Oil Sands: 15.2% support
Climate Change Risk Reporting: 49.6% support
Amend Shareholder Written Consent Provisions: 11.0% support
Charitable Contributions Disclosure: 2.6% support
Report on Global Median Gender/Racial Pay Equity: 9.9% support
The formal part of the meeting was then adjourned.
The general Q&A started at 11:00 and lasted about 10 minutes. There was a whole variety of questions read by the head of IR and answered by him, Dimon, and the Secretary. The head of IR combined a few of the questions that were substantially similar. Once he and the Secretary determined that there were no more questions submitted in advance or during the meeting to answer, the entire event concluded at 11:11 a.m.
However... I had actually submitted a question via the question box at the beginning of the webcast asking whether all of the director nominees were in attendance (remotely) at today's meeting. I was kind of puzzled that they didn't read and answer it. Did it fall through the cracks? It was clear from the webcast that they were making every effort to scrape the barrel and find all of the questions that came in. I lobbed an email into the Secretary's office right after, and they got back to me quickly to let me know that they thought the answer to my question was implied in the opening remarks related to the election of directors and therefore was not necessary to repeat. You'll recall that I had a similar hiccup at another annual meeting. I recommend companies err on the side of reading and answering questions that come in, even if you think the answers to some of them were already talked about earlier, if only to preclude annoying shareholders like me from pestering you afterwards. :-)
Disney Wars II: The Shareholder Menace
How to Build the Perfect Virtual Annual Meeting
The Shareholder Poet
© 2022 Soundboard Governance LLC, Princeton, NJ
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Deaf Culture: Exploring Deaf Communities in the United States
Deaf Culture: Exploring Deaf Communities in the United States https://cnlse.es/es/recursos/biblioteca/deaf-culture-exploring-deaf-communities-united-states https://cnlse.es/@@site-logo/logo.png
Autor/a: LEIGH, Irene W.; ANDREWS, Jean F.; HARRIS, Raychelle
Editorial: Plural Publishing, 2016
Código: 978-1597567916
How does Deaf culture fit into education, psychology, cultural studies, technology and the arts? Deaf Culture: Exploring Deaf Communities in the United States addresses this through both theoretical and practical information. With the recognition of American Sign Language (ASL) as a bona fide language, the perception of Deaf people has evolved into the recognition of a vibrant Deaf culture centered around the use of signed languages and the communities of Deaf people. This text also describes how rapid advances in technology, including the Internet as well as new visual and auditory technologies, have not only created opportunities for Deaf people to influence how technology can be used, but additionally has become a powerful force in influencing the behavior of Deaf individuals within diverse national and international societies. This has created opportunities for incorporating diversity and international perspectives into Deaf culture. Within each chapter are multiple vignettes, examples, pictures, and stories to enhance content interest for readers and facilitate instructor teaching. Theories are introduced and explained in a practical and reader-friendly manner to ensure understanding, and clear examples are provided to illustrate concepts.


Training for this occupational program or those in a similar family of programs can be located at the following public postsecondary institutions in the State of Kansas. Please check with a program advisor at the postsecondary institution for more information on the particular focus of each program listed. Programs nearest the local area appear first. Click on the program to find more information.


is hardfork progress done ? , and when exchange wallet open back deposit ..
What happens to the value if the NCB reaches the maximum supply of 184,470,000,000 BCN?
Hello! Did you mean to type BCN instead of NCB? We anticipate the value to rise because at the point the maximum supply is met there will no longer be any new Bytecoin created. The ecosystem will thrive based on the dynamic fees and following the principles of supply in demand, when the supply becomes more limited the price will rise by default when there is demand.
I will read it ,thank you so much .
BCN is currently under maintenance or experiencing wallet issues. Deposits and withdrawals will remain disabled as we work to find, test, and audit a solution. Thank you for your patience in the meantime.
if im understand correctly all the exchanges have already done this, that is, if there are problems, it is better to drop it on the purse of the exchange before it is completed? or there is no difference and the tokens will not be lost even without an update?
The only reason sammrheza guy didnt file a lawsuit against DECENT community is that he was tripping out on forbidden substances leading to his fault to memorize the date when he should have attended the court. Why on earth would someone go this hard on DECENT community given that all people are quite docile and nice if not provoked to defend their coin against random plaintiffs.
when exchange poloniex wallet open back deposit ??
why waiting for any exchange for BCN to other Crypto Conversion you can use gambling site that will give you immediate BCN to other altcoin conversion .
On of the site is in my signature . Enjoy!
Guess they need to update to current software first.
We are working with Poloniex on this to get it solved as soon as possible. If your deposit is pending with their system we would advise you to contact them so they can help you get your BCN returned to you.
Thanks for letting us know about this! We will check them out!
Bytecoin will be integrated into Satowallet in their new Android, IOS, and PC App upgrade!


The City of Branson has tough waters to navigate needing to prove contradictory testimony in parallel legal venues as to knowledge and ownership relating to a large portion of the Branson Landing.
2. Attorney Client privilege is waived and sanctions will apply if correspondence between attorneys is not dispatched during discovery. Coverdell's claim was notorius, easily obtainable through the public record.
2. Any contract between the City and Coverdell would require a recorded vote following current law.
3. Attorneys are not legally able to initiate enforceable contracts without a recorded vote. Documents issued in Federal Court remain privileged and cannot be submitted to state courts.
Alderman hatched a litigation strategy with Empire District Electric counsel prior to 2004 when the City of Branson sought to acknowledge the Hoke deed and staked it's claim on a small strip of land encompassing half a peninsula.adjacent to North Beach Park.
If you have the facts, use the facts. If you have the law, use the law. If you have neither it's best to hire a Chief Supreme Court Justice. The maneuver is enough to seduce the blindfold off of lady justice.
Branson's hire of Chief Justice John Holstein was a "Hell Mary Pass" placing the city back into a lawsuit they already lost. The reek of special privilege and an unusual imbalance of tolerance forced Coverdell's team to hire a former Chief Supreme Court Justice of his own. For the slightest infractions Coverdell's staff has been sanctioned, while Branson seems able to commit the same acts with impunity.
As a result of the imbalance two of the most recognized, talented and charismatic attorneys are preparing to argue the Branson Landing Title Dispute before the Missouri Supreme Court.
Former Chief Justices Chip Robertson and John Holstein are on opposing sides for the property which may be valued in excess of $100 million.
Empire District Electric is notorious for its recent litigation practices on the Lake Taneycomo waterfront.. The implication of its quiet title suit on the Branson Landing's Northern ⅓ potentially gains the Southern Missouri utility company stronger claim to billions in real estate assets along the waterfront. The utility company is attempting to parlay flooding rights, which serve much like mineral rights, to stronger title.
Branson's public statement following jury trial was that they'd fight the case to the Supreme Court.. Branson wasn't expecting a win nor planned to follow the Southern District Appellate recommendations. Lack of Supreme Court review never seemed a question. Holstein was hired to escalate the case and until last month he was unmatchedm.
Initially rejected by the Missouri Southern Court of Appeals, former Supreme Court Justice John Holstein represented Branson.
To the Southern District Appellate Holstein testified Branson doesn't own any of the property in question, but had judicial standing as a lease holder from Empire and third parties they contracted with as a result of their lease from Empire. Branson's move allowed several banks , many transactions downstream to stake their claim.
With Holstein, the City of Branson won the right to de-escalate the case back to the trial court on behalf of "third parties".
Holstein argued to the Southern District Court of Appeals that the city wasn't aware of Coverdell's scope of claim. Speculation over Branson's awareness is refuted by the City of Branson's through documents posted in the federal court records Branson Vs. Chicago Title.
As Branson initiated parallel litigation, evidence contradicting Holstein's verbal claims surfaced. Ironically Coverdell's best claims are documented by the City of Branson itself. The correspondence published elaborate Branson Attorney negotiations and admission of error by Branson City Counsel in early Branson Landing property purchases.
Holstein's use of evidence sent a hidden message to the Southern District legal triumvirate - that a Branson loss would fiscally devastate Branson.
During last months proceedings at the Taney County courtroom , honorable Judge McBeth who usually appears the kind, gentle grandparent, - still fascinated with the unique aspects of law . A drastic transition to anger during the last Taney County court session was out of character.
McBeth's face grew bright red as he scolded Coverdell's lead counselor with an allogory of the desert beaver. According to McBeth, the desert beaver is an animal with slaps the dust to create a smokescreen for escape.
****Authors Note: With respect to the honorable Judge McBeth; I have spent much of my life exploring the deserts of the Western United States and have never seen a desert beaver. After hearing of this obscure animal myth/legend Research left me wanting as there is no such animal taxonomized. The beaver is an aquatic loving mammal and evades deserts at all cost.
The judges usually collected demeanor shifted to a sharp scolding as he foreshadowed events to come. "I'm not having attorneys deposed ", shot McBeth. Deposition of attorneys is key to Coverdell as documents recently released by the City of Branson reveal appellate arguments were proveably unrepresentative of fact. As new parties enter the case an incestous pool of attorneys switch sides billing banks, municipalities and utility companies.
City Documents released in the federal case provide a window to negotiations critical to Coverdell's claims. Documents published by the City of Branson in federal court essentially prove Coverdell's case. Unfortunately for Coverdell, the documents were drafted by attorneys and are being shielded from review. . The documents move from proving ascertains contrary to those verbally issued to the Missouri Southern District appellate court.
Two former Chief Missouri Supreme Court Justices will battle this week over an ownership dispute on Branson's largest commercial development. The lawsuit originates from Empire District Electric's challenge encompassing a grid of land atop a third of the Branson Landing - controversial among Missourian's. for it's classification as a Super TIF (Tax Increment Financed).
A surprise appellate win granted the City of Branson, a chance to intervene. A quiet title suit brought by Empire District Electric question land ownership relating to a third of the tax funded lake front project on the shore of Lake Taneycomo.
The lawsuit was derived from backroom negotiations between the City of Branson and Empire District Electric as the City of Branson partnered with HCW to create the $450 million lakefront outdoor mall. The feature is a revenue generating engine funding the Branson Hilton Convention Center.
Much of the Branson Landing's partnership agreement sits on Empire District Electric property rented to Branson through a 99 year lease.
If the contest is over reaping billable hours and increasing clients to bill , Lynn Rogers scores top dog. Rogers first represented the city of Branson where he handled negotiations between Peter Rea and Coverdell, then skipped to First America Title, Bank of America and has recently landed with Jim Walton managed Arvest Bank.
According to legend and Taney County trial courtroom lore, the peninsula had a dual meaning the phallic shape and the owner were both known acknowledged in the double entendre "Peter's Point". During the 1970's Peter Rae was known to patrol Peter's Point preaching, Bible in hand, to youngsters who found the wooded area an ideal makeout spot.
Rea is best known for his role as Taney County Circuit Judge enacting unorthodox practices before he was derobbed..
Correspondence published by the City of Branson in their federal lawsuit against Chicago Title notes Springfield Attorney Lynn Rodgers mediated negotiations between the City of Branson and Peter Rea. Branson City Officials proposed terms of a land purchase which apparently broke down. Rodgers language begins with notable errors in Branson's land purchases and settlement transitioning to harsher language - even going so far as to cite sexual misconduct as an element of him being disbarred.
After a Taney County jury verdict granted Branson Paper - et Coverdell sole ownership of the property Branson City Officials hired former Missouri Chief Justice John Holstein and used press resources to publicize the land dispute would be heading to the Supreme Court. The issue was taken by the Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals who initially rejected Branson's right to press the case due to their voluntary withdrawal. The conditions of Branson qualifying for an appeal are seen by the legal community as precedent setting exceptions incited by special privilege honoring the status of Holstein as opposed to sound application of legal cannon.
The appellate overruled the Taney County jury verdict permitting third parties from entering the case. These third parties are subject to Empire's claim granted to the City of Branson and then contracted from the City of Branson and the HCW Development. The Southern District Appellate opened the door for several banks to enter the proceedings.
Instead of completing negotiations, Branson City Leaders placed a plat map over the property in litigation and proceeded to seek public funding - investment solicitation alleged the property was insured and not currently in litigation.. Under normal circumstances the banks would push for prosecution, an unprofitable move at this point because of the deep investment and risk of losing money - whether fraud was committed or not.
The last proceedings involved legal action on behalf of Coverdell who claimed the dispute with Branson Paper resulted in an agreement in 2004 when the land was bifurcated and the City of Branson's written correspondence reverting their initial claim they they owned the entire grid and settling with Coverdell for half of the peninsula - half the shaft on Peter's point.
Coverdell cites correspondence on the public record where he is threatened by the overseeing judge who states, "If you have an agreement you need to sign this now Mr. Coverdell. ". Coverdell notes the enforceability confirmed by the judges statement.
Judge McBeth's demeanor was lightened by Chip Robertson who earned chuckles from the 17 attorneys which crowded the courtroom last month as appeals appear imminent. McBeth noted that Cocherham's request for Summary Judgement for the original trial findings would result in his being overturned - something he hoped to avoid.
Branson Officials continue to raise the legal tab and are likely to earn a minor victory on May 29th porous enough to demand further judicial review..


text:
Overview
============

*Walidation* is a **lightweight**, **flexible**, and **markup agnostic** form validator plugin for jQuery. It was designed to fit a lot of different strategies when dealing with form validations. This is achieved by not defining how form and field state changes should be handled.
Besides that, *Walidation* provides handlers_ to `Bootstrap 3`_, `Semantic UI`_, and Foundation_ that you can use without further customization.

.. _Bootstrap 3: #
.. _Semantic Ui: #
.. _Foundation: #
.. _handlers: #

.. _`MIT License`: https://github.com/waldson/walidation/blob/master/LICENSE

Requirements
------------

*Walidation* requires only *jQuery* (version 1.7+).

Installation
------------

#. Add *jQuery* and *Walidation* scripts to your page::

	<script type="text/javascript" src="path/to/jquery.js"></script>
	<script type="text/javascript" src="path/to/walidation.js"></script>

And you're done.

Optionally, if you want to translate default messages or use a hander, you should include them::

	<script type="text/javascript" src="path/to/walidation/messages/lang.js"></script>
	<script type="text/javascript" src="path/to/walidation/handlers/handler.js"></script>

Getting Started
---------------

Call the plugin via javascript:

.. code-block:: js

	$('form').walidation();

Configuration
+++++++++++++

Constraints are set using either javascript configuration or `data attributes`_. HTML5's ``required`` and ``pattern`` attributes are also processed. The default data prefix is ``wal``, but you can change this to anything (valid) you want:

.. code-block:: js

	$('form').walidation({
	  rules: {
	    fieldname: {
	      validatorname: {
                option: "value"
              }
	    }
	  }
	});

The configuration above can be achieved using data attributes::

	<input name="fieldname" data-wal-validatorname="true" data-wal-validatorname-option="value" />

For a list of available validators, see  :doc:`validators`.

.. _data attributes: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Learn/HTML/Howto/Use_data_attributes

Contribute
----------

- Issue Tracker: `github.com/waldson/walidation/issues`_
- Source Code: `github.com/waldson/walidation`_

.. _github.com/waldson/walidation/issues: https://github.com/waldson/walidation/issues
.. _github.com/waldson/walidation: https://github.com/waldson/walidation

License
-------

*Walidation* is distributed under the `MIT License`_.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Janus Films
Why Stalker Is the Film We Need Now
A new restoration of Andrei Tarkovksy's 1979 classic functions as a contemporary parable of environmental politics.
By Josephine Livingstone
Art loves a landscape. The past is full of landscape painting, and pastoral poetry, and stories about magical trees and enchanted roses, and the rolling hills of folklore. But to say that a work of art is about landscape does not mean that it merely depicts trees or grass. A landscape is a spectacle, perceived and interpreted by the human eye. A landscape is a space with a frame around it, planted like a garden full of meaning.
Andrei Tarkovksy's Stalker (1979) is a landscape movie. It has just been restored, and a more brightly colored, brilliant version of itself is showing in New York. In July, the restoration will join the Criterion collection on Blu-Ray, gussied up with a Geoff Dyer interview and various other tidbits.
Stalker is technically an adaption of the 1971 novel Roadside Picnic by Boris and Arkady Strugatsky. But that book is fairly orthodox science fiction about aliens, not the highly ambiguous dreamscape that Tarkovsky ended up filming. The movie's initial reception was not warm. Upon hearing from officials at the USSR's State Committee for Cinematography that the movie was too slow, too grinding, Tarkovsky responded that, rather, it needed "to be slower and duller at the start so that the viewers who walked into the wrong theater have time to leave before the main action starts."
New York always whispers about Tarkovsky, since he is a hero to the kind of film nerd who gravitates toward lonely dystopias full of rats. But with the pitch of Tarkovsky conversation at a high, and the administration's climate policy pitching at a historic low, the time has come to give Stalker its due as the great apocalyptic opus for the climate change era.
The first few scenes of Stalker are urban ones, shot in sepia. A man referred to only as the Stalker meets two men, named the Writer and the Professor, in a monochrome world. He promises to guide them into a place called the Zone, which the government has sealed off.
New York always whispers about Tarkovsky, since he is a hero to the kind of film nerd who gravitates toward lonely dystopias full of rats.
The group takes a speeder out of town, which is one of those railway cars you propel by pumping a handle. The Zone is in color, and neither its precise characteristics nor the reasons for its existence are clear. It contains ruins, a dog, flowing water, many trees. There are dangers involved in crossing the Zone's terrain. A traveller must never take the same route twice. The Stalker tests the safety of the route by throwing little metal nuts knotted with rags ahead of the group before they move. He is the only one who can sense his way through the unnamed violence of the landscape, the only one who can take them to the Room.
For the gang seeks a chamber within the ruin that will grant the deepest desires of its visitors. But just as that desire has made each visitor suffer, true fulfillment will do the same. The Stalker refers to another guide from the past named Porcupine, whose conscious desires were trumped by unconscious ones: The Room gave him all that he did not know that he wished for, and destroyed his life. The Professor and the Writer seek the Room for very different reasons, and the Stalker's own connection to the Room is unclear. Inside, birds appear from nowhere.
Stalker's greatness lies in the journey. Tarkovsky makes a drama out of walking through a field that appears to contain no threats as we usually conceive of them. There is just grass and a hum of terror in the air. We hear breezes but do not see the branches moving. The rivers and fires and drips that we can see do not match up to the soundtrack (we cannot hear the huge waterfall until it is right in the middle of the screen).
Andrei TarkovskyWikimedia Commons
Space is political, in the real world. People fight over territory at every level: Neighbors bicker over the property line, while borders define the shape of every nation and pin their identity to the map. The Zone of Stalker takes place right on the line that divides here from there. It is overgrown the same way that the Demilitarized Zone is overgrown, that strip of land between North and South Korea that is like a geographic scar. It is abandoned the way that the area around Chernobyl is abandoned. The science fiction author Bruce Sterling calls spaces like these "involuntary parks."
Sterling's vision is tied both to politics and to sea levels rising due to climate change. He imagines spaces that look like national parks, "those government-owned areas nervously guarded by well-indoctrinated forest rangers in formal charge of Our Natural Heritage." But the new system of involuntary parks will not be "natural," at least not in the way that we understand that concept. He sees drowned cities, seeping saltwater, kudzu and bamboo and violent animals.
These visions underscore the urgency of Tarkovsky's Zone. President Donald Trump has wrenched the United States out of the Paris Climate Agreement, and in other ways has brought us that much closer to catastrophic climate change. We should look around us and see a Zone coming into being, the spread of those toxic, forbidden regions now guarded by nation-states.
The clock ticks. Tarkovsky's Zone of liminal danger threatens to inherit the earth. Art about landscape will never be what it used to be, because our frame has changed. What better time to acquaint ourselves with Tarkosvky's vision, brighter and clearer than ever?
Josephine Livingstone is the culture staff writer at The New Republic.
@Jo_Livingstone
Culture, Andrei Tarkovsky, Stalker, Donald Trump, Climate Change, Film


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TOKYO — Elevated levels of cesium still detected in fish off the Fukushima coast of Japan suggest that radioactive particles from last year's nuclear disaster have accumulated on the seafloor and could contaminate sea life for decades, according to new research.
The findings published in Friday's issue of the journal Science highlight the challenges facing Japan as it seeks to protect its food supply and rebuild the local fisheries industry.
More than 18 months after the nuclear disaster, Japan still has bans on the sale of 36 species of fish caught off Fukushima, rendering the bulk of its fishing boats idle and denying the region one of its mainstay industries.
Still, some local fishermen are trying to return to work. Since July, a handful of them have resumed small-scale commercial fishing for species, like octopus, that have cleared government radiation tests. Radiation readings in waters off Fukushima and beyond have returned to near-normal levels.
But about 40 percent of fish caught off Fukushima and tested by the government still have too much cesium to be safe to eat under regulatory limits set by the Japanese government last year, said the article's author, Ken O. Buesseler, a leading marine chemistry expert at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, who analyzed test results from the 12 months following the March 2011 disaster.
Tagged with East Japan Earthquake + Fukushima, fish, food, health, Ken O. Buesseler, Koichi Tahara, TEPCO, the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution.