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The Pull List: 24 January 2018, Part 1
Now that the initial shock has worn off, Doomsday Clock is seeming to be a much less impressive comic book. Basing a storyline around Ozymandias escaping the Watchmen universe to the DC Universe had a lot of merit, and the first two issues appeared to show a very promising and surprisingly respectful use of Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' characters (asides from the elephant in the room, of course, of using them at all). Now inspired reworking feels like schtick, with the return from the grave of a character that desperately needed to stay dead, and some fairly obvious and rote echoes of the original Watchmen's structure and narrative in this new spin-off.
Gary Frank's artwork is admittedly great, as are Brad Anderson's colours. Stylistically it feels like a fairly impressive act of mimicry, echoing the look and tone of the original book remarkably well. In the end, however, it is just feeling like a mercenary copy. How many months will it take before Doomsday Clock is almost entirely forgotten; a weird footnote in comic book history to sit alongside DC's earlier and unnecessary Before Watchmen miniseries? (3/5)
Doomsday Clock #3. DC Comics. Written by Geoff Johns. Art by Gary Frank. Colours by Brad Anderson.
Under the cut: reviews of Action Comics, Batgirl, Detective Comics, and Gears of War.
Labels: Batman, comics, DC Comics, IDW, Pull List, reviews, Star Wars, Superman, USA
Clara has her showdown with Zeke's criminal father, while Boo and Copperhead's temporary police force race to find her. It's a grand climax to the most personal story arc of Copperhead so far, and one that provides great and dramatic results for readers.
It has been great to see this series right itself after a slightly rocky changeover of artist. For whatever reason, the change coincided with a somewhat uneven storyline. At its conclusion, that storyline has improved immeasurably - particularly thanks to its focus on series protagonist Clara and her previously hinted-at back story. It worked well, not only filling out character but showing off serious consequences to people's actions. It is a tremendously satisfying end, one that also points directly to the next story arc lying in wait.
Drew Moss has really taken this book and transformed the characters into his own. The subtly different aesthetic has really firmed up now, making this really feel like the definitive version of this space western town. (4/5)
Copperhead #18. Image. Written by Jay Faerber. Art by Drew Moss. Colours by Ron Riley.
Under the cut: reviews of Batwoman and Doctor Strange.
Black Lightning: "The Resurrection"
Jefferson Pierce (Cress Williams) is a high school principal in the crime-ridden city of Freeland. Nine years ago he was Black Lightning, an electricity-powered superhuman whose vigilantism made him a target of Freeland's police force and criminal underground. When his youngest daughter Jennifer (China Anne McClaine) gets unwittingly involved with the dangerous 100 Gang, Jefferson is forced to put the Black Lightning suit back on to protect her.
After finding popular success with Arrow, The Flash, Legends of Tomorrow and Supergirl, the CW television network now adds a fifth television series about a DC Comics superhero. Is it overkill? Very probably, but thanks to a distinctive point of view and a strong lead performance it seems likely that Black Lightning will find a dedicated audience of its own. I hope it does: this is a very conventional but rather enjoyable first episode, and shows a lot of promise down the road.
Labels: Black Lightning, DC Comics, reviews, science fiction, TV, USA
Here's the honest truth: Aquaman is currently one of the finest superhero books on the market, and if you're reading DC and Marvel and not picking it up you are doing yourself an embarrassing disservice.
The first half of its success has been writer Dan Abnett. He writes a long game: setting up a broad range of supporting characters and weaving in all manner of subplots as he goes. The longer it stretches on - and he's been stretching it for more than 40 issues now across two volumes - the more rich and complex the story becomes.
The second half is the recent shift to painted-style artists - first Stepjan Sejic and now Riccardo Federici - that has given this epic story of Arthur's overthrow and slow return back to save Atlantis the appropriate level of gravitas and emotional power. Sunny Gho's rich colours emphasise that power tremendously. There isn't currently a DC superhero book that looks better than this. (5/5)
Aquaman #32. DC Comics. Written by Dan Abnett. Art by Riccardo Federici. Colours by Sunny Gho.
Under the cut: reviews of Batman, Superman and Super-Sons.
Judas kicked off last month with a pretty daring take on Judas Iscariot, the disciple who famously betrayed Jesus Christ to the Romans - rapidly leading to his crucifixion. It continues with this second issue, that throws any hesitancy aside and dives directly into an issue-long conversation between Judas' now-dead spirit and the Devil himself.
On the one level it is a superbly written and on-the-nose challenge by the Devil towards Judas, God, and Jesus. On the other it feels decidedly less artful this issue: there was a lyrical quality to the first part's obliqueness, whereas here it just does its job in a less artful fashion. Jakub Rebelka's artwork is excellent and distinctive, and really gives everything a very particular tone and aesthetic. It feels ancient and foreboding. There's a slightly sharp, jagged sense to it. It works very well.
This book obviously isn't going to appeal to anyone with an aversion or dislike for Christian mythology, but for those like me who - despite not actually being religious - get a kick out of Biblical stories, it is a very good book. I think I can see where Loveness is going with this, and it promises to be a striking and dramatic work. (4/5)
Judas #2. Boom Studios. Written by Jeff Loveness. Art and colours by Jakub Rebelka.
Under the cut: reviews of Mech Cadet Yu, Port of Earth and She-Hulk.
Labels: Boom Studios, comics, Image, Marvel, Pull List, reviews, USA
Doctor Who: "The Big Bang"
It is 26 June 2010, and time for the Season 5 finale of Doctor Who.
The TARDIS has exploded. The Doctor (Matt Smith) has been imprisoned inside history's most impenetrable prison cell. Amy Pond (Karen Gillan) has been shot dead by her fiancee Rory Williams (Arthur Darvill) - who turns out to be an Auton. Oh, and the universe just ended.
Doctor Who's fifth 21st century season ends with a complicated, time-travelling oddly miniscule epic that brings Matt Smith's entire 13-episode debut run to a close. Rewatched almost eight years later, and it feels like one of the most essentially 'Steven Moffat' episodes that Moffat ever devised. For me it also feels as if it has aged remarkably well. Upon its initial broadcast it felt a little too frantic and complex for its own good, with a hand-waved fairy tale ending. Sure, it's still a fairy tale ending, but in an entire season based on the idea that we are all in the end just somebody else's story, it's difficult to imagine a more perfect conclusion than this.
Labels: BBC, Doctor Who, reviews, science fiction, TV, UK
While Leonardo supervises the implementation of his siege engines, Isabel takes his automaton inside Volterra to rescue the city's praetor.
Monstro Mechanica is exactly my kind of comic: a period setting, a blend of real-life history and speculative fiction, and a robot with artificial intelligence. It's got a great sense of setting and tone, and is yet another book in the long and constantly growing list of "comics that, in the mid-90s, would have published by DC Vertigo".
Paul Allor's script is simple but strong, and he has presented a very fresh and more youthful take on some rather over-exposed historical characters like Machiavelli and Leonardo. That he makes his protagonist a spirited and aspiring young woman works very well, and provides a lot of dramatic material as she fights within an overtly patriarchal environment. Chris Evenhuis' artwork is clean, realistic and very sharply inked, and enhanced very well by Sjan Weijers' colours. Weijers uses a very simple palette, without much shading or too many colours, and that gives the book a very distinctive look.
With good writing, good artwork, an evocative setting, and a carefully limited fantastical element, Monstro Mechanica is pretty much my dream book. (5/5)
Monstro Mechanica #2. Aftershock. Written by Paul Allor. Art by Chris Evenhuis. Colours by Sjan Weijers.
Under the cut: reviews of Daredevil, Mister Miracle, Ms Marvel, and Rocko's Modern Life.
Labels: Boom Studios, comics, DC Comics, Pull List, reviews, USA
Highlander: The Series: "Deadly Medicine"
It is 7 November 1992, and time for another episode of Highlander: The Series.
While walking down the street one night, Duncan (Adrian Paul) is the victim of a hit-and-run accident. Rushed to hospital, his immortal healing powers attract the attention of a deranged emergency ward doctor (Joe Pantoliano) - who kidnaps Duncan to undertake experiments on him.
You have to at least admire the consistency of early Highlander episodes. They're packed with silly plots, terrible acting, and often-times pretty cringe-inducing dialogue. This one throws in what is effectively a mad scientist crossed with a serial killer, one who kidnaps patients from his own hospital without people knowing and who operates an entire backyard surgery for human experimentation in his suburban basement. Not that the episode interrogates him at all; he's just the villain of the week.
Labels: Canada, fantasy, France, Highlander, reviews, TV
Statix Press and Titan Comics continue making European comic works available to English-speaking readers with Atlas & Axis #1, the first issue of writer/artist Pau's action fantasy starring a pair of anthropomorphic dogs. In a sort of cod early medieval Europe, Atlas and Axis find their village decimated and its women and children kidnapped. They set off to rescue their family and friends, encountering other anthropomorphic animals along the way.
Pau, a Spanish writer and artist, is clearly inspired by the French comedic books of the 1970s and 1980s - Asterix and the like - and certainly works the book in that vein. There's a nice balance of humour, although a fair amount is derived on having the humanoid animals act like their four-legged counterparts.
It's breezy and pleasant, but not a must-read. It is good, however, to see these European works get more exposure to English-speaking audience. There's a whole industry of this stuff that we rarely get to see. (3/5)
Atlas & Axis #1. Titan Comics/Statix Press. Story, art and colours by Pau.
Under the cut: reviews of Batgirl and the Birds of Prey, Deadman and The Power of the Dark Crystal.
Labels: Archaia, Boom Studios, DC Comics, Pull List, reviews, Spain, Statix Press, Titan Comics, UK
Highlander: The Series: "Mountain Men"
Tessa (Alexandra Vandernoot) goes travelling in a mountain region, only to be kidnapped by a trio of men who live rough off the land - and whose leader Caleb Cole (Marc Singer) plans to forcibly marry her. Once Tessa is missing, Duncan (Adrian Paul) arrives to search for her - bringing back memories of an immortal hermit that once lived in the region.
Sometimes there are episodes for which there are no suitable words, and the best option for the reviewer is to just point in the episode's general direction and do 'jazz hand' motions. "Mountain Men" is, in spite of itself, pretty funny. I don't think it was supposed to be amusing, but sometimes bad television gets knocked sideways into the comedy genre by accident.
Trapped in a castle and targeted for assassination by unknown forces, Pyppenia must rely on her 'sleepless' bodyguard Cyrenic - unless she can somehow beg the king's permission to leave.
We're two issues into Sleepless and I think I've found another favourite comic. It is a beautifully developed but gently told fantasy, with a rich setting presented via beautiful artwork and engaging characters explored within excellent writing. Writer Sarah Vaughn and artist Leila Del Duca (not to mention editor and colourist Alissa Sallah) are presenting something rather special here.
While the deliberately slower pace does enhance the characters and the intrigue, it is making a little difficult to really ascertain precisely what sort of story Sleepless is going to tell. Personally, with writing and art this enchanting, I'm perfectly happy to wait and see it gradually unfold. (5/5)
Sleepless #1. Image. Written by Sarah Vaughn. Art by Leila Del Duca. Colours by Alissa Sallah.
Under the cut: reviews of Action Comics, Darth Vader, Detective Comics, and Doctor Who.
Labels: Batman, comics, DC Comics, Doctor Who, Marvel, Pull List, reviews, Star Wars, Superman, Titan Comics, UK, USA
Highlander: The Series: "Bad Day in Building A"
It is 24 October 1992, and time for another episode of Highlander: The Series.
When Tessa (Alexandra Vandernoot) heads into city hall to pay a stack of parking tickets, she and Ritchie (Stan Kirsch) are taken hostage as part of a violent criminal's escape attempt. When Duncan (Adrian Paul) steps in to help, he gets shot for his troubles - but as an immortal he is soon up and running, taking down the hostage-takers one at a time.
Or, in other words, 'Highlander does Die Hard'. "Bad Day in Building A" is terrible; really, truly, and overwhelmingly terrible. It does not actually feel like something written for Highlander; take out one scene of Duncan being 'executed' and it could easily sit comfortably inside of Walker: Texas Ranger or the like. There are no flashbacks - a first for the series so far - and no immortals other than Duncan. It is entirely generic and miserably redundant television.
The Pull List: 3 January 2018, Part 3
Scales and Scoundrels is fast becoming a real favourite of mine. It boasts a wonderfully simple art style from Galaad with good colours. Its characters are archetypal yet richly developed. It takes the whole Dungeons & Dragons format and tells a fun adventure story out of it.
In this issue the heroes escape from angry fish people to reach the lost treasure of Dalden Laria, deep underground. Dorma gets lost, Koro still struggles with protecting her prince in such a ridiculous and dangerous situation, and Luvander reveals a whole side to her that readers mostly likely did not expect. There's a flashback, moments of quiet, moments of action, and a rollicking cliffhanger ending. This is the stuff for which I read comic books.
Next month sees the release of the first collected edition, alongside issue #6. It's the perfect time to catch up on a really fun fantasy comic. (4/5)
Scales and Scoundrels #5. Written by Sebastian Girner. Art and colours by Galaad.
Under the cut: reviews of Captain Kronos: Vampire Hunter, Extremity, Giants and Rat Queens.
Labels: comics, Dark Horse, Image, Pull List, reviews, Titan Comics, UK, USA
Black Mare: "Death Magick Mother" (2017)
Black Mare is a music project written and performed by Los Angeles resident Sera Timms, who also plays in such bands of Zun and Ides of Gemini. Her latest release is Death Magick Mother, released this past September. I'm not quite sure whether one would describe it as an EP or a full album. It runs for seven songs in total.
The album begins with "Ingress to Form". A simple combination of guitars and percussion runs along with a very rough and simple sound. For a while it seems this garage-style grungy strumming is going to be all there is, but Timms' ethereal vocals kick in almost halfway through and lift the song up to a whole new level.
It is repetitive, but that repetition develops into an almost hypnotic hook. It's music you can feel as much as hear. There's something tremendously effective about it.
Labels: music, reviews, rock, USA
Does Batman have too many supporting characters? This is a question that briefly comes up in the first issue of the new spin-off miniseries Batman and the Signal, suggesting that creator Scott Snyder and writer Tony Patrick already know the answer to their question.
Scott Snyder created Duke Thomas during his New 52 run on Batman, with the character first encountering Batman during the events of "Zero Year". Duke then starred for a while in the underrated and short-lived We Are Robin, before becoming Batman's sidekick-in-training during Snyder's All-Star Batman. Most recently he was seen in the lead-up to Dark Knights: Metal, where he learned he actually had super-powers.
In this three issue series, Duke makes his debut as the Signal. He's the day shift for Batman's war on crime, and he has the power to see patterns of light that help him anticipate the movements of criminals in a fight, and see things that happened before he even entered the room. I like Duke as a character, and the Signal seems as good an identity as any. Cully Hamner's artwork is pretty great. I'm just not sure we need another supporting character helping Batman out. (3/5)
Batman and the Signal #1. DC Comics. Story by Scott Snyder and Tony Patrick. Script by Tony Patrick. Art by Cully Hamner. Colours by Laura Martin.
Under the cut: reviews of Batman, Giant Days, Green Arrow, and Spider-Man.
Labels: Batman, Boom Studios, comics, DC Comics, Marvel, Pull List, reviews, USA
In recent years DC Comics has been publishing a number of comic books adapting old Hanna Barbera cartoons in interesting ways. Wacky Races via Mad Max. A post-apocalyptic Scooby Doo. A pointed and satirical remake of The Flintstones. By and large I have avoided these books, simply because I have never been that bit a fan of the Hanna Barbera back catalogue.
Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles, however, grabbed my attention purely because it seemed just jaw-droppingly weird. Snagglepuss was a pink lion and aspiring actor who first appeared back in 1959 in an episode of Quickdraw McGraw. In this new comic miniseries written by Mark Russell, he has been re-imagined as a closeted gay playwright during the 1950s McCarthy hearings. It's also not really a comedy: it has a few jokes and gags, but nowhere near as many as you'd expect from the premise.
This book is just weird. It is weird that someone proposed it with a straight face, weird that a publisher would approve it, and weird that it was see release like this as if adapting a children's cartoon in an anti-communist LGBTI historical drama was a normal thing for DC comics to do. It's somewhat intriguing, and sometimes a little unsettling (the anthropomorphic animals looks bizarre without pants). Mainly, however, it's just really odd. (3/5)
Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles #1. DC Comics. Written by Mark Russell. Art by Mike Feehan and Mike Morales. Colours by Paul Mounts.
Under the cut: reviews of Atomic Robo, Secret Weapons, Teen Titan, Superman, and Transformers vs Visionaries.
Labels: comics, DC Comics, IDW, Pull List, reviews, USA, Valiant
Highlander: The Series: "Free Fall"
Richie (Stan Kirsch) meets a confused young woman named Felicia Martins (Joan Jett). Shortly afterwards she appears to commit suicide falling off the top of a downtown skyscraper. When Felicia returns, dazed but unharmed, Richie and Duncan (Adrian Paul) realise that she is a newly resurrected immortal. There is, however, more to Felicia that first appears.
In its early days Highlander: The Series undertook an odd little dalliance with stunt-casting pop and rock stars in guest appearances. It was a strategy that sort of worked, thanks to Highlander's Queen soundtrack giving it a sort of rock music cache to begin with, but it was also a strategy that sort of failed, since more often than not a talented rock singer was not also a talented actor. Joan Jett, the first of these guest stars, give it her all. Sadly she's really not very good, and it hurts the final episode.
The best comic books of 2017
2017 has been, all up, a pretty great year for comic books. DC Comics ran high on their well-judged and hugely enjoyable DC Rebirth books, Valiant made huge strides in varying their titles and publishing a constant stream of fun, smart four-issue miniseries, and Image and Boom Studios ran neck-to-neck in launching interesting and inventive creator-owned books. Really the only publisher to struggle this year seems to have been Marvel who, despite some stand-out books, have found it very difficult to relaunch its books in a manner that actually grabs audiences. The current spate of new books are almost entirely scheduled for cancellation next March.
Under the cut are the books that grabbed my attention the most in 2017. To qualify, I had to have read three issues in the past 12 months. Some are returning to my Top 10 from last year, while others are new entries. It was actually very hard this year to whittle the year's best list down to just 10 books. I've added a few runners-up just to give them their due.
Labels: comics, year in review
The Pull List: 27 December 2017, Part 3
Divinity and Mishka have travelled to the Unknown in search of their kidnapped child, only to find alien prophecies and civil war preventing them from rescuing their son - and which may ultimately split them apart too.
Eternity is turning out to be an odd little miniseries, taking Divinity off the Earth after three successful storylines and throwing him into a crazy science fiction environment. At the issue's core there's a powerful dilemma. Assuming their captors are telling the truth, Divinity and Mishka's son is destined to keep the universe in balance. To achieve that task, they must abandon him and return home. If they continue with their rescue mission, while they may save their child they may also doom the universe. It's a perfect set-up to what should be a hugely emotional final issue next month.
Trevor Hairsine's artwork is good with nice slightly old-fashioned feel to it. The inks by Ryan Winn and Stefano Gaudiano work well. Once again, it's a solid miniseries from Valiant - the most underrated publisher in the business. (4/5)
Eternity #3. Valiant. Written by Matt Kindt. Art by Trevor Hairsine, Ryan Winn and Stefano Gaudiano. Colours by David Baron.
Under the cut: reviews of Back to the Future: Tales from the Time Train, Batgirl and Usagi Yojimbo.
Labels: comics, Dark Horse, DC Comics, IDW, Pull List, reviews, USA, Valiant
Star Trek: Voyager: "Twisted"
It is 2 October 1995, and time for another episode of Star Trek: Voyager.
Voyager collides with an unexplained phenomena in deep space, causing the entire ship's layout to warp and twist into a nonsensical maze. As the crew begin searching for a way to reach the engineering deck and bridge, it becomes clear that the distortions are spreading and time is running out.
"Twisted" is another episode of Voyager that was produced for the first season but delayed upon Paramount's instruction to the beginning of the second. It famously under-ran in its original edit, by a jaw-dropping eight minutes, and that necessitated a lot of additional dialogue and padding to fill a commercial hour. The end result is something that might have made an intriguing short film but which stretches at full length to a lethargic bore.
Spider-Men II comes to a conclusion in a typical Brian Michael Bendis style: a truncated climax, a surprisingly effective epilogue, and an emotive conversion in the middle between Peter Parker and Miles Morales. Bendis is about to leave Marvel, after goodness knows how many years, and this fifth and final issue of Spider-Men II really feels like his farewell.
If there's a book for which Bendis shall be remembered, it's Ultimate Spider-Man. It helped launch Marvel's Ultimate line of superhero comic books, and after killing that universe's Peter Parker he replaced him with fan favourite Mile Morales. Some years - and one event series - later, Miles joined the Marvel Universe proper and now runs around New York as his own version of Spider-Man. Spider-Men II does not just feel like an end to Miles' story as Spider-Man; it feels like a farewell to that original title. Original Ultimate Spider-Man artists Sara Pichelli and Mark Bagley both illustrate this issue, which comes with an epilogue that pops out of nowhere like a grand sign-off on the creative team's part.
Does it work as an individual single issue? Possibly not, but as a sign-off from a much-loved comic it is difficult to fault. (4/5)
Spider-Men II #5. Marvel. Written by Brian Michael Bendis. Art by Sara Pichelli, Mark Bagley, Elisabetta D'Amico, and John Dell. Colours by Justin Ponsor.
Under the cut: reviews of Action Comics, Detective Comics, and Hawkman Found.
Labels: Batman, comics, DC Comics, Marvel, Pull List, reviews, Superman, USA
Star Trek: The Next Generation: "Bloodlines"
It is 2 May 1994, and time for another episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.
Captain Picard (Patrick Stewart) is once again hunted down by Daimon Bok (Lee Arenberg), the Ferengi captain whose son Picard killed years ago while captain of the USS Stargazer. This time Bok has targeted Picard's son Jason Vigo (Ken Olandt) for death - a son Picard did not ever know he had.
You can't keep a running theme down, and once again Star Trek: The Next Generation chooses to base an episode around family. This time it's Picard meeting and struggling to reconcile with a previously unknown son - the result of a doomed romance decades into his past. While focusing on a family member again is irritating - this is the ninth time in Season 7 - what really strikes me as bizarre is the return of Bok.
Ozymandias and Rorschach make their escape from the Watchmen universe as the Earth's government's unleash nuclear armageddon. Finding themselves on a new Earth, they split up to meet with this world's two smartest people: Lex Luthor and Bruce Wayne.
Doomsday Clock's second issue rattles along like the first. The pace is fast, the art and dialogue are strong, and the entire book is littered with deliberate callbacks and references to Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' original miniseries master work. It also continues to leave me slightly ambivalent about it. It may be an exceptionally well crafted tribute, but that is ultimately all it can ever be. It won't break the mould like Watchmen, and it won't make a bold statement on superhero comics like Watchmen did. It's a tribute act.
Within those boundaries it's a lot of fun, but the real annoyance was never going to come from this. It will come from the subsequent series. The Rorschach monthly book. The guest appearances by Ozymandias in Justice League of America. The endless re-use of Moore and Gibbons' characters as pop culture fodder. We know its inevitable. Best enjoy these characters' final moments of dignity. Great comic book, awful implications. (4/5)
Under the cut: reviews of Scarlett's Strike Squad, Star Trek: Boldly Go, and X-O Manowar.
Labels: Batman, comics, DC Comics, IDW, Pull List, reviews, Star Trek, USA, Valiant
The original 30 Days of Night was a tremendous horror miniseries by Steve Niles and Ben Templesmith, one that worked off a great killer premise and was successful enough to get its own feature film adaptation. It's no surprise to see IDW revisiting the premise, which they do with this new series. What is a surprise is how they do it: effectively rebooting the series and re-telling it from the beginning.
It's a bizarre creative choice, given the quality of the original book. By any reasonable measure, this new first issue simply isn't anywhere near as good. It's difficult to emphasize just how important Ben Templesmith's artwork was to the original. It looked incredible, and was deeply atmospheric. This new version, with a much more traditional artist, simply looks like every other comic book.
Readers who have never sampled 30 Days of Night may enjoy this. Anyone looking to re-experience what attracted them in the first place will likely come away bitterly disappointed. (3/5)
30 Days of Night #1. IDW. Written by Steve Niles. Art by Piotr Kowalski. Colours by Brad Simpson.
Under the cut: reviews of Aquaman, Assassinistas, The Beautiful Death, Copperhead, Quantum and Woody, Star Wars: Doctor Aphra, Superman and Super-Sons.
Labels: Batman, Black Crown, comics, DC Comics, IDW, Image, Pull List, reviews, Statix Press, Superman, Titan Comics, USA, Valiant
The Angriest: December 2017 in review
The most popular post on The Angriest last month, and by a considerable distance, was the review of Black Cab's recent electronica album (and anime tribute) Akira. Other popular posts in December 2017 included reviews of the Star Trek: The Next Generation episode "Eye of the Beholder" and the Highlander: The Series episode "Road Not Taken". Over at FictionMachine, the most popular review published was (unsurprisingly) of Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
During December 2017, I reviewed three new films and eight older films, nine TV episodes, two music albums, and 63 comic books.
A full index of reviews is included below the cut.
Labels: Month in review


Metabo's powerful hammers are always the right choice when it comes to processing hard materials such as stone or concrete. The pneumatic impact mechanism generates high-energy impacts with almost no extra force required from the user. The high performance hammer mechanism is precisely mounted in a housing made of aluminum alloy, which resists even the highest mechanical loads. The enormous power, combined with user-optimized ergonomics, make Metabo hammers ideal tools for demanding applications. From compact cordless, multi, drill and combination hammers in the SDS plus range to the extremely powerful SDS max combination hammer KHE 96 with 1,700 watt and 20 joule single impact energy (according EPTA), we offer the right machine for every application.
Metabo offers you maximum mobility with its cordless hammers: The KHA 36 LTV cordless combination hammer with 36 volt power combines the advantages of plug-in machines with the flexibility of a cordless tool. With its maximum single impact energy of 3.1 joules, however, it truly packs a punch. The combination hammer drills holes up to 1 1/4" in diameter into concrete without any problems. Thanks to the high battery pack performance and capacity and quick drilling progress, with this machine you can work both powerfully and particularly efficiently in the workshop, on the construction site or in industrial applications. Our particularly compact and versatile KHS 18 LTX cordless combination hammer with a high single impact energy and low weight impresses in the 18 volt class.
Metabo offers a comprehensive range of accessories for all of our professional tools: from carbide-tipped hammer drill bits with two or four cutting edges and different chisels, to carbide tipped router bits and drill bits - at Metabo, you will find everything you need.


My wonderful minions, please welcome mystery guest blogger LS Fayne today, who will be discussing self-publishing and why she chose it over traditional publishing. An interesting topic for those newbie writers out there.
I've been talking with Linda for several weeks now, and she's a lovely lady. We have a few things in common, one of which is the fact that we both have Fibromyalgia, and she's written a book about her experiences with the disease.
Be certain to note that there IS a giveaway today!
People constantly ask me why I chose to self-publish. For me, it wasn't really a choice. I had my book all finished and was in the process of figuring out just where to send it. I soon realized that having a publisher actually choose my book before other known authors just wasn't going to happen. The odds were worse than winning the lottery.
Each publisher had their own formatting requirements. Some publishers even requested a statement which would list ten things I would do to sell my book. I thought that was their job! I soon realized that these publishers wouldn't do anymore for me than I could do for myself. Most also stated that even if they did accept a manuscript, it wouldn't be released for over 1½ years after the acceptance. I didn't have the time to wait for them. Not if I wanted to be an established writer before my retirement funds ran out. I had participated in an early retirement program with my company. I figured I had two years to establish a new career. It's been five years since then, my funds are gone, but I'm still writing. We make due where we can. I have seven books out in the market.
Do I regret my decision to self-publish? Not at all! There is no one to take care of me, and I've made some mistakes. I've learned a lot. I've seen some new authors spend so much money they will never recoup on their losses. I'm in an élite group of people who help each other to figure this all out. We teach each other things, which helps to bring success. It's a new era and we have a lot to figure out. Everyone is scrambling with the electronic age, including the traditional publishing houses.
Self-publishing is not for everyone. Some people need someone to push them forward, and to tell them what to do. Self-publishing is not for the lazy, or those without business sense. There are obstacles for those who self-publish, which are invisible to those who are taken care of by a publisher.
People are automatically more critical of the quality of a book they assume is self published. I've read many books from well-known publishers that have major editing and formatting flaws, especially with eBooks, and yet these flaws don't seem to get much mentioned in the review process. I've read very well-written Indie books that get hammered in the review process when there are only a couple of typos. Part of this is because when the Indie publishing movement started, there were a lot of poor quality books pushed off onto the public.
The public has pushed back and is now demanding better stories and better quality writing. This is as it should be for all books, whether they are Indie published or from a traditional publishing house.
There are obstacles for Indie publishers; invisible barriers. We don't even know they are in front of us until we smash into them.
I took six books for donation to the local library for the vision impaired patrons. They were 16 pt. large print, hardcover books. They wouldn't even look at them, wouldn't evaluate them, because they were self-published. Each book cost me $18.60 in printing. I ended up donating them to the Senior Citizen Center. They loved getting them! Your tax dollars at work here! Not all libraries are this way; I've also donated a set to the library of another city.
There are a lot of "rules" determining just how authors are to present and to market their books. Most of these rules, I feel, are deterrents of the publishing houses to keep control of the book market. They discourage authors from seeking reviews from friends and family, and yet the publishing houses hire teams to write reviews and create prior marketing advertisements to the release of a new book. Book critics will not accept manuscripts from Indie authors. There isn't a critic's door in which we can walk through. Maybe it's time to create an Independent Critic's Group? Oh wait! Critics are supposed to be independent.
Writers are being more careful to not do things that they feel might prevent publishers from accepting their work. They are being more careful to not post any piece of their work on the Internet in case it gets labeled as already published. I've recently learned that writers are even afraid to put in their own copyrights with the government. Afraid this even would cause a rejection letter.
I would seriously look closely at a publisher who doesn't want its writers to protect their own work from theft. I'd like to remind writers that publishers cannot own your copyright unless you carelessly sign it away to them. It's the same with movie rights. You created the work. You own your work!
It all looks like the best worlds meet when a person receives that acceptance letter, especially if it contains a fat advance check. Not everything is as it appears. Read those contracts carefully. You might be signing away more than you planned, and that big, nice advance check? It has to be paid back if your book does not sell to its projected number.
I've never sent my work to a publisher. I love the freedom. Would I sign a contract if one was offered. Maybe, maybe not. I've grown awfully used to having my own way with things. I chose my formatting, my style, and my covers. No one is going to rewrite my story and sign my name. No one is going to eliminate Book Two, and keep books One and Three.
I think the only way I would sign such a contract is if one of my books got so popular (50 Shades of Grey) that I got muddled with regards to fulfillment and distribution. Oh yes, just another thing Indie publishers have to deal with.
L. S. Fayne was born in Norwalk, California, grew up in Santa Cruz, California, and at the age of ten, her family moved to Oregon. She married her husband, Darrel, in June 1984. They are still together and very much in love. Still happy and wanting more.
She and her husband created their own publishing company, Fayne Artists, and in June 2008, they published her first novel, Christmas in the House of O'Byrne. She was so taken with the storyline and characters of the book that she created a series for it called, Druantia's Children. In these books, they described the ancestry of their magical family. Linda was inspired to go back in time, and create stories for the original seven sisters who migrated to America. This series is called, The O'Byrne Daughters.
Linda creates all her own covers and artwork. She wouldn't mind someone else putting on the publishing hat, but for now, is satisfied to be so involved. She is excitedly writing her seventh novel, of which, her only hint is that it belongs to the Druantia's Children Series.
Linda fights with Fibromyalgia. For those fighting with Fibromyalgia, she stresses for them to pursue something they are passionate about! Something that will help them get up every morning! She has her husband, a big extended family, writing, and cats. She is passionate about all of them.
All the book links above go to their respective Amazon pages. All of the images below are linked to their respective Smashwords pages.
Linda has agreed to do a giveaway for a print or ebook copy of one of her books you'll also find below, so here's what we'll do: comment on this post your feelings or experiences on self-publishing vs traditional publishing, and I'll select a winner using Random.org. Then the winner can choose which of Linda's books they're interested in and I'll send a coupon code for that ONE book (if an ebook edition is chosen). If the winner so chooses a print copy, I'll get the winner in contact with Linda for shipping details. Let the comments begin! *fires gun* I'll choose a winner on Friday, August 17th.
FYI, I'm throwing in a FREE copy of NEMESIS as well.
The ability to self publish is amazing and a valuable tool. I've enjoyed several ebooks, and with the spread of e-readers they make more sense than the traditional publishing. There is a part of me that will always feel more comfortable with the weight of a book in my hand and the rasp of the page turning.
Somebody needs to speak to that library. The books weren't even read, so they can't claim that there was objectionable content which is the only reason I could see for not taking them. (No I'm not for censoring the written word, but I am for knowing my nearly teenage son doesn't come out with the Claiming of Sleeping Beauty.) Bravo for the donation.
Thank you for commenting. You'll be in the drawing for either a print or eBook, whichever you choose.
Great article and I'm so glad that you commented on having business sense as an Indie author. My own impressions having pursued both routes to being published (choosing Indie finally over my agent) is that having no business sense it the #1 reason Indie authors struggle.
Shannon, I completely agree with you. I think a lot of people jump into it, not realizing just how much they'll have to do and just how much of it is like owning your own business bc that's exactly what you're doing.
Interesting point of view. It does seem that self-published authors are going to change the book world.
I'm in full agreement with the self-published way. I have a book up on Amazon now that was with a publisher for a year. In those 3 years, it did horribly.
That same book, up for less than a month, has sold more copies than in 3 years previously–and made a bestselling category list as well. I'm all for doing it myself. I love full creative control.
There are headaches–we have to out source for things like editing and artwork–but to me, it's still worth it.
I might not turn down NY if they knock on my door–but it'd be questionable whether or not I'd go with them.


text:
Clubs and Honor Societies
Afterschool Theatre Productions
Howard Theatre Department puts on two mainstage extracurricular productions each year: One fall play & one spring musical. Participation is by audition only, and auditions are open to all Howard students.
Alpha Achievers
Targeting African-American males in grades 9 - 12, the Alpha Achievers Program is a youth centered educational program jointly supported by Howard County Public Schools, the Alpha Foundation of Howard County and the Kappa Phi Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.
American Sign Language (ASL) Club
This club promotes appreciation and involvement in the culture and history of the Deaf. Meetings are on Thursdays in Room A111.
Provide a place for students to share and encourage enthusiasm for space and the cosmos, Introduce students to the planets, stars, and the cosmo through discussion, Telescope Construction, and night sky viewing.
Baking Club
Learn how to expand food preparation and baking skills through teamwork! We meet monthly to prepare recipes selected by the students. The club meets on the 3rd Thursday of the month in Room N103 from 2:30-4:30pm.
Best Buddies is a student run friendship club that creates buddy pairs who participate in activities inside and outside of school together to build one-to-one friendships between people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Offering social opportunities while improving the quality of life and level of inclusion for a population that is often isolated and/or excluded. Help people with IDD form meaningful connections with their peers, gain self-confidence and self-esteem, and share interests, experiences and activities that many other individuals enjoy.
The purpose of the Black Student Union is to promote activities of common interest, as well as cultural and educational benefits for the student body. The club provides students an opportunity to openly discuss issues faced in the community and culture.
Encourage a life-long love of reading in a comfortable environment where students discuss literature respectfully. Meets one Friday each month at 2:15 in the Media Center.
International care and service
Students of all player levels learn and play chess. Meeting on Tuesday in Room E105 at 2:15pm.
SGA for Freshman Class
Help lower the cost of prom & senior activities! The Class of 2017 is sponsoring two fundraisers for the holidays:
This group facilitates activities for the Class of 2018. They meet weekly on Wednesdays in Room A208 to organize events and fundraisers.
This group facilitates activities for the Class of 2019.
This group facilitates activities for the Class of 2020. Please see Ms. Goldsmith or Ms. Ose for meeting dates and location.
Share programming concepts, ideas, and comptete in Coding competitions, expose students to new programming languages
For all students to express their love for coffee and expand their boundaries in trying different kinds of coffee from different parts of the world.
This club encourages the process and development of creative writing, as well as promotes passion and creativity for non-academic writing.
Meetings are on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month in Room B113 from 2:15-3:00pm.
Cultural Diversity Club
Spread Cultural Diversity and make Global Connections
Dance Team consists of 16 technically trained dancers whose responsibilities include performing at school events such as pep rallies, half time shows at the basketball and football games, and school-wide assemblies.
Delta Scholars
Collaboration with Delta Sigma Theta to promote Academic excellence and self-esteem for Howard High School females through bi-monthly meetings with mentors.
Support interest in the field of Design and to stimulate creative expression and develop design skills
Dungeons & Dragons Club
Promote shared story creation, improvisation, problem solving through teamwork, and individual expression.
Educators Rising
A place for future educators to develop leadership skills,explore education as a career and work on steps that will help students get there.
English Honor Society
Charter of National English Honor Society
Environmental Awareness Committee
To promote ways to help the environment and make the Howard High School community aware of ways to reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle materials by recycling electronics, reduce the wasting of food through informational announcements, repurpose pens through art design, recycle markers, swap items campaign. Meets on Wednesdays after school in Room B208
Fandemonium Society
. To provide a safe and welcoming place to watch movies and discuss pop culture subjects Meetings are on Fridays in Room N211.
Fashion & Design Club
To diversify fashions at Howard High and discuss fashion trends. The club meets on Wednesdays in Room N107.
To see the world impacted for Jesus Christ through the influence of coaches and athletes and to foster fellowship among Christian athletes and non-athletes.
This group meets in Room N101 on Wednesdays at 2:15pm - 2:30pm.
Feminist Association
Promotes awareness of women's issues and equality for girls and women. Meeting on Fridays in B110 from 2:15-3:00pm.
The French Club is a student-led group that promotes the study and appreciation of the French language. Topics and themes include Crêpe making, film viewings, food tasting, francophone holiday celebrations. All students are welcome to join. Meets once a month, dates vary. Please contact Ms. Borgerding for details.
To celebrate and promote the French language and culture, both within and outside Howard High. Members are inducted annually based on their high academic standing in French and their enthusiasm to participate in and promote French culture. Meets quarterly in Room A104. Please contact Ms. Borgerding for further details.
The purpose of FBLA is to provide, as an integral part of the instruction program, opportunities for students to develop vocational and career competencies and to promote civic and personal responsibilities. The goals or objectives of FBLA are to develop competent, aggressive business leadership, strengthen confidence of students in themselves and their work, and create more interest in the American business enterprise.Competition in various events through out the school year. Regional competition (region 5, Howard County) takes place at Long Reach High School, 1/6/18.
Future Educators of America (FEA)
Students can attend workshops and talks by visiting speakers while exploring the option of teaching in the future. Students will also have the opportunity to spend time volunteering with children. Meetings are on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month in Room N107 at 2:15pm.
Future Health Professionals Students of America
To promote physical, mental and social well being, develop effective leadership qualities and skills, develop the ability to communicate more effectively with people., develop character, develop responsible citizenship traits. To understand the importance of pleasing oneself as well as being of service to others. To build self-confidence and pride in one's work. To make realistic career choices and seek successful employment in the health care field. To develop an understanding of the importance in interacting and cooperating with other students and organizations.
Gamers Unite
Play and discuss video games while building and uniting a community of gamers.
Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA)
The GSA is a club that aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (sexuality and gender) (LGBTQ) youth and their straight allies and bring awareness and promote LGBTQ+ issues and create a positive environment within the Howard community. Meetings are on Wednesdays on Room N104 at 2:15pm.
To promote the German language and culture through collaboration and have fun with other students who have an interest in the German language and culture. Biweekly meetings featuring topics based on club members' interests Field Trip with the German classes to German-American Day at McDaniel College on October 17th Participation in World Language and Culture Fest in October Participation in HCPSS World Language Day in April.
Raise awareness of issues related to women around the world and within the school community.
Global Education Club
The purpose of Global Education Club is to raise awareness and funds to promote access to education in the developing word. All money raised goes to non-profit organizations working around the world to increase access to education.
Meets every other Tuesday in Room B122 2:15-2:45pm.
Global Initiative
Global awareness and support by education and fundraising.
Provide more opportunities for volunteering and giving back to the community we also participate in Habitat for Humanity challenge.
Bring together students that love Harry Potter, and further iindulge in a great book series including movie day, trivia, and character analysis.
Howard High Mock Trial
Further understanding of the law, court procedures, and the legal system; Increase proficiency in soft skills such as listening, speaking, reading and reasoning;Heighten appreciation for academic studies as well as career consciousness of law-related professions. At the center of each year's competition is a new legal case - either civil or criminal in nature - that challenges students to think critically about timely issues. Acting as attorneys and witnesses, students portray defense or plaintiff/prosecution and are scored on their performances by judges or attorneys.
Howard HS Speech & Debate Team
We are a student-led group passionate about communication and competition. We teach, practice and compete the following forensics and debate formats: Public Forum and Lincoln Douglas debates, oratory, interpretation, impromptu speaking, and others. We participate in monthly local tournaments as part of the Baltimore Catholic Forensic League (BCFL), monthly on Saturdays. Students who compete also become members of the National Speech and Debate Honor Society, or the National Forensics League (NFL).
Howard Ice Hockey Team
To develop an understanding and improve functional knowledge of Ice Hockey. Students will develop skills for the playing of Ice Hockey, knowledge of the game of Hockey, and develop an understanding of Ice Hockey sportsmanship through off an on ice games, practices, and film studies.
Howard Leaders
Combine student leaders throughout the building in various initiatives to help make Howard High School a stronger community and provide mentorship to younger Howard students. Assist with the 8th to 9th grade transition through outreach. Documenting memories. Helping to create a more welcoming and accepting school climate. Celebrating diversity throughout our school community. Promoting school spirit.
Howard Rock Band Club
To perform at the end of the year in a battle of the bands concert/record music in a local studio and teach students how to perform as a band, teach students what is required to form and maintain a band, and record an EP in local studio Prescott Studios. Practice sessions, Battle of the Bands, Potential Local Studio Session.
Improv Team
"Hello, My Name Is..." Each June, auditions are held for the next year's Improv Team. The team meets weekly to practice their Improv skills and performs for the public 3-4 times each school year on selected Friday nights and perform improv games in front of a live audience, unscripted with audience interaction Please contact Ms. Greffen for further information.
International Club
The International Club is dedicated to creating a social awareness and understanding between American students and students who immigrated to the U.S. The International Club is open to all students at Howard regardless or age, race, ethnicity, nationality, political affiliation or sexual orientation, we explore the diverse characteristics of the cultures of the world.
Iron Lions Strength and Conditioning
The mission of this club is to condition students through various strenght training methodologies, and provide a healthier lifestyle and improved self-esteem through after school workout sessions for students.
It's Academic
Meets one to three times a week for practice on Tuesdays 2:30 to 4:30 and Thursdays 6:30 to 8:30 in B114. The primary goal of Howard High School's It's Academic team is practice for and competition on the It's Academic television show. To this end, Howard High School has one of the 10 most active It's Academic teams in the Baltimore-DC region, competing in many academic tournaments run by high schools, colleges, and independent organizers.
Jewish Student Union
To provide Jewish students (and those who aren't Jewish) a place to discuss religion and celebrate Jewish holidays in a safe, non judgmental place for students to come and express their religious views.
Key club is a club where students get together and do small projects every month for those in need. The club has already been run in Howard in years past including last year by Ms. Fromm.
To promote the classics and Latin language at HOH, enjoy Latin based activities for past, present and possible future language students through game days and movie days.
Legacy Step Team
To inspire and unite young women through Stepping which is a complex performance that melds folk traditions with popular culture and involves synchronized percussive movement, singing, speaking, chanting, and drama. While promoting academic achievement, unity and leadership within a diverse organization, through teamwork and to encourage self-respect and discipline throughout the young women in Howard high school.
Los Leones
Los Leones is a group that celebrates and recognizes the Hispanic culture and supports students academically, career/college, and personally/socially.
The club provides high school students with the opportunity to create ideas for fundraisers and then organize and manage their fundraisers from start to finish. Enables students to discover philanthropy by selecting their own fundraising project. Focused on leadership skills, building self-esteem and teamwork.To raise $1,000 to help grant the wishes of children in our area with life-threatening medical conditions.
Math Honor Society
To improve the overall math experiences of students at Howard through tutoring peers in math.
Students will learn advanced math and problem solving skills. They will compete against other schools in Math Competitions once or twice a month.
Model United Nations Club
The Model United Nations Club works to improve students' public speaking and collaboration skills while increasing awareness of world issues and working together to form solutions to these problems. We attend conferences and do activities during meetings designed to accomplish these goals.
Modelers Association of Howard High
Promote students in use of model trains, planes and automobiles
~Raise awareness surrounding Islam
~Correct misconceptions surrounding Muslim students
~Create a safe space for Muslim students
To increase awareness of the visual arts at HHS and to provide service through the arts within the broader community.
National English Society
Encourage school-wide interest in English Language Arts, Assist struggling students by volunteering tutoring services during lunch and/or LionsTime.
The National Honor Society is an organization for students who perform well academically and are interested in community service. Monthly Meetings are on the second Thursday of each month in the Cafeteria.
National Latin Honor Society
To honor students for excellent performance in Latin and to promote the use of classics in High School. This group meets as needed in Room A108. Please contact Ms. Holland for more information.
The National Technical Honor Society is an honor society for outstanding career and technical students whose focus is engineering and/or computer science courses.
Engage current students in engineering and computer science courses. As well as promote these courses to students not currently enrolled in one of these courses.
Photo Club members will create a community that focuses on exploring a variety of subjects through photographic processes.
Play ping pong and have fun. Make long lasting relationships
Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society
To promote scholarship and to recognize academic excellence in social studies among high school students.
To provide through its local chapters opportunities for exploration in the social studies in secondary school environments and the community.
To encourage interest in, understanding of, and appreciation for the social studies.
Rubik's Cube Club
Teach others how to complete a Rubik's Cube and improve solving times.
Science National Honors Society
Spreading community involvement in the sciences.
Participate in science excellence, tutoring, and spreading community awareness.
Self Advocacy Club
Provide a way for students to learn about policies and self advocation.
Help students teach themselves school policy, specifically student rights
Help students use effective and tactful methods to assert their rights.
SHOP (Student's Helping Other People)
Meets on select Tuesdays at 2:15 in Room B211. SHOP is an organization that assists the community through various food drives and fundraisers.
Spanish Honor Society
The mission of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica is to recognize high school achievement in Spanish and to promote interest in Hispanic studies.
Student Athletic Trainers
Compare and contrast various professional organizations dedicated to athletic training and sports medicine. Delineate the process for attaining national certification and state licensure for the athletic trainer. List and differentiate between the roles and responsibilities of other health care professionals who make up the sports medicine team (e.g., physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nurses, EMTs, etc.). Analyze the different types of job opportunities and settings available to the athletic trainer as well as other members of the sports medicine team.
Student Government Association (SGA)
Information forthcoming.
SWEnext (Women in Engineering)
To participate in engineering challenges and to expose more females to engineering careers and professionals.
Meets on Fridays from 2:15-2:45 in Room B207. Promotes the sport of swimming and helps organize Howard High School swimmers to compete in the Annual Howard County Swim meet.
Tea Appreciation Society
A place for over-scheduled and stressed students to debrief over a restorative cup of tea.
Meets on Fridays at 2:15 in the Media Center Tech. Crew Students are responsible for operating the auditorium lights, audio and stage. The club is open to all Howard High students who have an interest in drama and stage technology. Students receive training in stage management, light board operation, and the audio mixer.
This group seeks to provide a space for students of all faiths to discuss matters of faith and spirituality and to promote fellowship and discipleship in order to create a more faith-aware campus. The values of the core members of the organization are founded in Christian teachings and beliefs. Meetings are on Mondays in Room A107 at 2:15pm.
The Pink Ribbon Club
Promote Breast Cancer Awareness
UNICEF Club
Fundraising for children in poverty and other vulnerable situations around the world. The Club meets on the 2nd and 4th Monday of the month from 2:15-2:45 in the Office of Student Services.
Create the yearbook for Howard High School that chronicles what happens during the school year.
The Yoga Club teachs health and stress techniques, and promotes practices of well-being.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The statewide numbers, contained in the 2013 Overdose Fatality Report, show 1,007 overdose fatalities in 2013, compared to 1,004 identified in the 2012 report.
Of the 722 overdose deaths in which the state medical examiner did autopsies last year, 230, or 31.9 percent, were attributed to heroin, compared to 143, or 19.6 percent, in 2012.
The top five counties for heroin detected in overdose deaths were Jefferson, 105; Fayette, 35; Kenton, 34; Boone, 22; and Campbell, 16. The first four are the state's most populous counties; Campbell is No. 8.
Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn said Thursday said that his records showed slightly different numbers for 2013 than the state report: Ginn listed 81 drug overdose deaths in Fayette County, 44 related to heroin.
Of the overdose deaths in which the state medical examiner's office did autopsies in 2013, morphine was the most detected controlled substance, present in 43.49 percent of the cases, according to the report.
Dr. Tracey Corey, Kentucky's chief medical examiner, said in the news release that many of the cases involving morphine might involve heroine instead because morphine is the major pharmaceutical substance detected in the blood after injection of heroin, and substances present in the blood that indicate heroin use might have been eliminated at the time of death.
In terms of overall overdose deaths, Pike County had 12 fewer deaths in 2013 than in 2012, and Clark and Madison each had 10 fewer.
Bell, 93.2 per 100,000 people; Clinton, 49.3; Breathitt, 44.3; Floyd, 43.9; Perry, 42.8; and Harlan, 42.1. Of those, only Clinton County, on the Tennessee state line, is not in Eastern Kentucky.
Fayette County's rate was 27.9 deaths per 100,000.
The report was mandated under a state law that was passed in 2012.
In Washington on Thursday, U.S. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell mentioned Kentucky's problem on the Senate floor as he discussed legislation related to prescription drugs.
"Prescription drug and heroin abuse have risen to epidemic levels in my home state of Kentucky," McConnell said.


It looks like it is not possible to use username "scp" to automate login.
C:\Temp>WinSCP.exe /console /command "open scp:password@10.1.11.45"
Username scp is not taken into consideration but "password" is used instead. Is there any way to automate login for username "scp"?


text:
package de.mhus.inka.constgenerator;

import java.io.PrintWriter;
import java.util.Map;
import java.util.TreeMap;
import java.util.TreeSet;

public class FileGenerator {

	private CGFile file;
	private TreeMap<String,String> names;

	public FileGenerator(CGFile file) {
		this.file = file;
	}

	public void doParse() {
		names = new TreeMap<String, String>();

		// TODO parameterize
		for (CGEntry entry : file.getEntries()) {

			String name = entry.toString().replace('.', '_');
			String id = entry.getId();

			names.put(entry.getType().toString().toUpperCase() + "_" + name.toUpperCase(), name);
			names.put("" + id.toUpperCase(), id);

//			names.put(entry.getType().toString().toUpperCase() + "_" + name.toUpperCase() + "_u", name.toUpperCase());
			names.put("" + id.toUpperCase() + "_upper", id.toUpperCase());

//			names.put(entry.getType().toString().toUpperCase() + "_" + name.toUpperCase() + "_l", name.toLowerCase());
			names.put("" + id.toUpperCase() + "_lower", id.toLowerCase());

		}

	}

	public void doGenerate(PrintWriter out) {

		out.println("package " + file.getPackage() + ";");
		out.println();
		out.println("// auto generated");
		out.println("public class " + file.getMainClass().getName() + "Const {");
		out.println();
		for (Map.Entry<String, String> entry : names.entrySet()) {
			out.println("  public static final String " + entry.getKey() + " = \"" + entry.getValue().replaceAll("\"", "\\\"") + "\";" );
		}
		out.println();
		out.println("}");

	}

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
首頁-企業資訊-新聞-Renishaw supports 3D printing exhibition at London Science Museum
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Renishaw supports 3D printing exhibition at London Science Museum
Renishaw, the UK's only manufacturer of an additive manufacturing machine that 'prints' metal parts, is a major sponsor of a free exhibition being held at the Science Museum, London, which explores the future for 3D printing. The exhibition, titled '3D:printing the future', which is being held in the Antenna gallery, opened to the public on 9th October and runs for eight months.
The new exhibition explores the rapidly evolving field of 3D printing and takes visitors on a journey through three key sectors in which the technology is driving innovation – industry, medicine and small-scale projects and businesses. It features 600 printed objects that illustrate the diverse applications for the technology including replacement body parts, artworks, metal teeth, aeroplane parts, and the notorious 'Liberator' plastic gun.
Suzy Antoniw, Exhibition Leader, Science Museum said, "3D printing enables engineers and designers to manufacture things they couldn't make with traditional methods. Every week we learn about new ways in which people from across society are capitalising on the technology to realise their ideas and enrich people's lives. Our exhibition aims to shine a light on the latest developments and discuss where the technology may take us in the future."
Renishaw designs and manufactures its metal-based 3D printing machines in the UK, and also uses the technology to develop and manufacture its own products, including metal crowns and bridges for its dental business which are supplied across the UK and Europe.
Simon Scott, Director of Renishaw's Additive Manufacturing Products Division, said, "The fact that the Science Museum is hosting this excellent exhibition illustrates the significant awareness that 3D printing has gained in recent years and the exciting possibilities that it offers to transform manufacturing. However, rather than a replacement technology, 3D printing will positively complement existing technologies to bring significant improvements to product design and manufacture."
The exhibition is supported by Principal Funder EADS, Major Funders Renishaw, the Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC) and the Additive Manufacturing & 3D Printing Research Group (3DPRG) based at The University of Nottingham.
As the home of human ingenuity, the Science Museum's world-class collection forms an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical achievements from across the globe. Welcoming over 3 million visitors a year, the Museum aims to make sense of the science that shapes our lives, inspiring visitors with iconic objects, award-winning exhibitions and incredible stories of scientific achievement. www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
News release: Renishaw supports 3D printing exhibition at London Science Museum [100kB]
News release: Renishaw supports 3D printing exhibition at London Science Museum
Renishaw, the UK's only manufacturer of an additive manufacturing machine that 'prints' metal parts, is a major sponsor of a free exhibition being held at the Science Museum, London, which explores the future for 3D printing.
[100kB]
3D printing exhibition at the London Science Museum [2.4MB]
3D printing exhibition at the London Science Museum
[5519 x 3448] [2.4MB]
Simon Scott, Director of Renishaw's Additive Manufacturing Products Division [10.8MB]
Simon Scott, Director of Renishaw's Additive Manufacturing Products Division
[5620 x 4022] [10.8MB]
Simon Scott views a metal engine part printed on a Renishaw additive manufacturing machine [5.5MB]
Simon Scott views a metal engine part printed on a Renishaw additive manufacturing machine
Simon Scott views a metal engine part printed on a Renishaw additive manufacturing machine at the 3D printing exhibition at the London Science Museum.
All images and text copyright Renishaw
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no more videos we apologize for the tradegy.
Late Linkin Park singer Chester Bennington's widow Talinda has released the final publicly video of Chester, filmed on July 18, 2017, 36 hours prior to his death.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008274430293 El Inicio Del Final Video Oficial.
Como hacer menu final o outro para sus videos!!! 2016Mateo Guallart.
Video Oficial de "... Y Al Final"
Find out the truth in this video What really happened between me & Ducky bhai and i'm also giving reactions on my roast videos Watch the full Video.
love you forever Telling my crush i love her: https://goo.gl/zoQwK2 New channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvoTHBZkZtmPzCg52cocmoA.


Tae Kwon Do instructors, Master Lucy Hanson and Master Kimberly Arnold recently visited participants in the Fulton CYO Summer Program. The two provided the children with a demonstration on self-defense. Pictured above Master Lucy Hanson working with CYO participant, Christine Collins. A program of Catholic Charities of Oswego County, the CYO Summer Recreation Program is offered free of charge to children ages 7 to 13 and is held Monday thru Friday, 9a to 3 p through August 15th.
Master Lucy Hanson and Master Kimberly Arnold recently visited the CYO Summer Program for a special demonstration on the martial art of Tae Kwon Do. The children observed several demonstrations as they, as well as the CYO staff members, learned how to defend themselves. The students even had the opportunity to practice what they learned on Master Hanson and Master Arnold.
The CYO Summer Recreation Program is offered free of charge to children ages 7 to 13 and is held Monday thru Friday, 9a to 3p through August 15th. Children enjoy a variety of special events and activities designed to aid in the recreational development of youth in Fulton, as well as the surrounding communities of Oswego County. Children may attend the CYO Summer Program daily, or whatever days they choose, however participation is limited to the first 75 children each day.
Activities in the CYO Summer Program include; daily recreational activities, outdoor recreation at local parks, special presentations and awareness groups, arts & crafts, a reading program featuring guest readers, themed game days, and other fun activities. The special themed days, to be held August 1st, & August 15th, include games, movies, snacks, and a piñata reflective of that day's theme.
A trained staff supervises all activities and assists all participants as needed to insure that they receive the full benefits of the program as well as help in their physical and mental development.
Children receive a free lunch daily through the USDA Summer Feeding Program sponsored by the Food Bank of Central New York.
The CYO Summer Recreation program is funded in part by the United Way of Greater Oswego County, the NYS Office of Children and Families, and the City – County Youth Bureau of Oswego County. For more information on the program contact Jim Smiley, CYO Director at 598-3980.
Catholic Charities of Oswego County serves all people in need regardless of their religious affiliation. Primary funding sources for Catholic Charities of Oswego County programs are the United Way of Greater Oswego County, the Diocesan Hope Appeal, the County of Oswego and private donations by individuals and local companies and organizations.


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Denzel Valentine named AP Player of the Year, Bill Self Coach of the Year
campussportswriter | Mar 31, 2016 2:50 pm
Michigan State guard Denzel Valentine has been named the AP Player of the Year, while Kansas' Bill Self took home the Coach of the Year honor. Multiple sources reported the news on Twitter.
AP Player of the Year is Denzel Valentine and Coach of the Year is Bill Self.
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) March 31, 2016
Denzel Valentine wins AP Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/az2GF0LeSf
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) March 31, 2016
Bill Self named AP Coach of the Year. pic.twitter.com/fZ5PvQAmZf
Valentine received 34 votes for AP Player of the Year. Buddy Hield received 31. AP Top 25 voters select the award
— Kyle Austin (@kylebaustin) March 31, 2016
There's no doubt that Valentine was the one who would win the award, though Oklahoma's Buddy Hield would give him a run for his money after advancing to the Final Four while Valentine's Spartans were stunningly upset by No. 15 Middle Tennessee in the first round of this year's NCAA Tournament. Valentine broke out his senior season, averaging 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.8 assists per game while shooting 46 percent from the field and 44 percent from long range, leading Michigan State to a Big Ten championship along the way.
Self also flourished at Kansas this season, his 13th with the Jayhawks. Kansas was the No. 1 overall team in the tournament this year and won its first Big 12 championship in three years, going 33-5 (15-3 Big 12) overall before falling to Villanova in the Elite Eight last weekend.
Needless to say, though there was more parity than some could handle in college basketball this season, the winners of the AP awards could not have gone to more deserving people than Denzel Valentine and Bill Self.
South Carolina was informed of NCAA Tournament bid
Basketball,Big Ten,Big-12Bill Self,Denzel Valentine,Kansas Jayhawks,Michigan State Spartans


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ALBANY, New York, May 03, 2016: The research report offers a comprehensive overview of the overall low power wide area (LPWA) IoT technologies market and its impact on the global economy. To authenticate the research report, the industry experts have included opinions of industry leaders in the well-researched document. For a holistic overview of the market, the historical data pertaining to the market has been studied and compared to the present day market situation to map a trajectory of the LPWA technologies market in the coming years.
The adoption and coverage of low-power wide area (LPWA) IoT technologies is growing by leaps and bounds in the unlicensed spectrum. Some of the factors driving this growth are the advantages of these technologies such as low power, low cost, and broad coverage inclusive of indoor spaces that no short range wireless, cellular, and other connectivity options can match.
Therefore, several players are using these technologies for a wide range of applications. Researchers predict that the improvements seen in the coverage area, power consumption, and pricing in comparison to various forms of M2M connectivity and cellular technologies are expected to boost the demand for LPWA technologies. Statistics indicate that between 2015 and 2020 the LPWA M2M connections will grow from 20 million to over 860 million.
The biggest users of LPWA technologies will be smart meters, accounting for nearly 45% of the total LPWA connections by the end of 2020. The second-largest users of LPWA technologies will be various industrial verticals and financial institutions. This pace will be followed by consumer electronics, which is also expected to grow at a rapid pace all through 2020. Furthermore, smart city applications such as intelligent lighting, parking, and smart buildings will hold a 12% share in the total LPWA connections by 2020. However, the usage of LPWA in land-vehicle-based applications will be lesser than expected.
The research report profiles some of the top players in the LPWA technologies market such as LoRa, SIGFOX, and RPMA. Each of these players has a unique set of industrial support, capability, business model and management, levels of adoption, and coverage that is determining their position in the overall competitive landscape. The report explains the regulatory framework governing the overall LPWA technologies market. Furthermore, it also states the financial overview, business and marketing strategies, investment outlook, expansion plans, joint ventures, and strategic mergers and acquisitions of top players in the overall market.


> failed. Most devs simply weren't interested in doing *only* bugfixing work.
people interested in doing that work.
And of course anyone can use local branches for ongoing development.
That's a bit like git treats it: if you branch you'll do it locally.
> maintain a patch he can't commit because of the freeze.
frustration but we can't satisfy everyone -- as we can't among users.
In reply to: Nicolas Pennequin: "Re: Rockbox development model"


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Mexico FP3: Perez in the groove in Mexico
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A bright, modern, high floor, studio unit is now available for rent at the low rise SanSiri built project Plus 38 Hip. This studio unit is 30 sq.m and located with un-blocked city views over the leafy gardens of Thonglor.
Nicely furnished, high floor studio at Plus 38 Hip unit comes with LCD TV, double bed, fitted wardrobes, glass dining table and 2 chairs, 2 seater couch, electric stove with extractor fan, washing machine, microwave and is fully air conditioned.
Plus 38 Hip has a beautiful sunny roof top swimming pool with private sun bathing area, a small fully fitted gym, laundry facilities, garden areas and onsite management and 24 hour security.
Plus 38 Hip is a condominium project, developed by Sansiri, located on Sukhumvit Soi 38 within 5 minutes walk of the BTS at Thong Lo.
Construction of Plus 38 Hip was completed in 2005 and the project consists of a single building with 9 floors a mix of studio, 1 and 2 bedroom units.


Saturdays just aren't the same without rugby are they?
On Saturday, Bangor Grammar School's 1st XV welcomed Royal School Armagh to Gransha Road, for the first proper match of the new season. Armagh were the runners up in last season's Schools' Cup, so would be a formidable opposition, even though both sides had several players absent due to provincial representation.
Fittingly, it was new captain Rhys Larmour who had the honour of kicking the season off. With a slight tailwind behind, the ball flew straight into touch.
Armagh had the first 'semi' chance as some nice set up play allowed their tighthead prop to run clear of the Bangor defence. Fortunately, this was only temporary as Patrick Dobie tracked back well to send his opponent to the well manicured Gransha turf.
Moments later a penalty conceded by BGS on the halfway line allowed Armagh to kick to the corner. The lineout wasn't straight and Bangor had the benefit of placing the ball into the following scrum. From this, scrumhalf Oliver Hamilton was able to kick the ball clear of harm's way.
From here on, Armagh began to control possession and advance slowly up the pitch. Some more excellent Bangor defence on top of the try line kept the visitors out.
In the 8th minute, one of Armagh's wingers speedily chased a kick bouncing nicely into the goal zone. Fortunately for BGS, the try wasn't awarded as the referee brought play back for an earlier infringement.
Four minutes later, and the burgundy clad side were attacking dangerously again. Off the back of a scrum, quick hands from the Armagh #12 set up winger Ben Lavery to run through a gap and touch down for the first points of the match. Out-half Romain Morrow was tasked with the conversion, and successfully added 2 points.
Bangor Grammar didn't get much of the ball through the rest of the first half, but defended well to keep Armagh out. One of only a few Bangor attacks in the opening period came at the hands of Ryan Bull, making 20 or so metres from the halfway line, but spilt the ball when tackled. His colleague in the second row, Patrick Dobie had a similar chance shortly after, after fullback Lewis Hatty opened a gap with a darting run. Unfortunately neither chance amounted to anything. All throughout though, Armagh's well trained defensive wall was holding up, and impossible to penetrate.
As halftime drew near, Bangor were forcing that wall further back up the pitch, but still had no points on the board.
Rhys Larmour and Conor Lusty came very close for the hosts, attempting an audacious 1-2 whilst running at full pelt up the pitch. Sadly the final pass was just too far back for Larmour to control without knocking on.
Five minutes into the second half, and BGS had picked up where they had left off before the break. From a five metre scrum, Oliver Hamilton quickly passed the ball across the back line to Rhys Larmour, and then Conor Lusty making incredible gains towards the try line, and using rotation to full effect. Lusty managed to get the ball to ground scoring Bangor Grammar's first points of the season. Rhys Larmour was on target with the kick. Momentum now with Bangor it would seem.
Over the last few seasons, we've really seen big improvements in Bangor's defensive abilities - credit to the coaches. Throughout the second half, the team managed to hold off Armagh time and time again, then either kick or play the ball out to safety.
That made it harder to take when Nicholas Jennings of Royal Armagh managed to drag his way through four Bangor men and score... actually almost identical to Conor Lusty's try earlier. The conversion this time was missed.
This try gave Armagh an edge again, which wouldn't be overturned. They hung on for a slender victory.
Last year the score was 34-7 to Armagh, so if statistics are anything to go by, Bangor have made big improvements over the last 12 months. The action on the pitch seems to back that up as well. This result bodes very well for the year ahead. Using last season as a form guide, we've just been narrowly beaten by the second team in Ulster.
It is very early days, but if the players missing can reintegrate themselves well into the team, who knows what we can achieve this year.


One Stop Auto Repair has served Arizona's foreign and domestic auto repair needs for over 26 years, and today is at the forefront of the environmental "green" movement. Certified "green" by the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality, the shop is a great source for quick, local and reliable auto repair. They offer unbeatable auto repair prices and reliable, experienced and efficient service in their state-of-the-art repair facility. Mention this article and receive a complete brake system inspection and fluid service for $89.99—a savings of $60.
The bumper-to-bumper auto repair shop works on all domestics, Asian and European vehicles. They specialize in correct and accurate diagnostics and emissions repair by ASE Certified Technicians. No auto repair job is too small or too big for One Stop Automotive.
Some of One Stop's auto repair specialties include: AC/heating, alignment, check engine light, diagnosis, muffler and exhaust, oil change and lube, scheduled maintenance, timing belts, transmission repair, windshield/glass, radiator and cooling repair. They offer senior citizen, military and student discounts, and provide an Auto Repair Service Guarantee for all work done with them.
Location: 1545 S. Craycroft Rd., Tucson. For more information, call 520-571-1811 or visit OneStopAutoRepairTucson.com.


A Humboldt County judge this week denied a petition for an enforcement order against the county, sparing hundreds of cannabis business permit applications from possible invalidation.
Superior Court Judge Christopher G. Wilson wrote in his Monday ruling that he found it ironic that the petition used environmental protection arguments to prevent the county from permitting these businesses.
"The court interprets this ordinance as intending to bringing in as many of those unlawful operations 'out of the cold' so as to mitigate the environmental damage suggested by these operations," Wilson wrote.
Wilson stated that the main issue in the petition was the ambiguity in the interpretation of the county's commercial medical cannabis regulations that took effect in January 2016.
"The county, despite their contrary statements, have the ability to clarify that ambiguity," Wilson wrote.
County Counsel Jeffrey Blanck said the county can now continue to focus on working through the nearly 2,300 cannabis business permit applications it has received.
The county's marijuana ordinance splits marijuana business applicants into two categories — existing and new — which have their own set of regulations and allowances.
The marijuana advocacy organization Humboldt-Mendocino Marijuana Advocacy Group, also known as HUMMAP, filed the enforcement order petition last year alleging the county violated a July 2016 legal agreement it made with the organization by allowing existing medical cannabis growers and business operators to apply for permits by the Dec. 30, 2016, deadline for application submission.
HUMMAP cofounder Robert Sutherland said that the organization would never have made the settlement agreement if it had known the county would be accepting these existing grows. Sutherland also disagreed with the judge's ruling stating the language in the ordinance was ambiguous.
Sutherland said the group is considering appealing the ruling.
HUMMAP argued the county's marijuana ordinance prohibits existing marijuana business operators — defined as those that were operating before Jan. 1, 2016 — from applying for permits if they had not also applied for a "good standing" designation by the Aug. 23 deadline. This designation allows these operators to be put on a fast-track for the state's marijuana licensing process once that comes online in 2018. To be a legal medical marijuana business owner in California, operators must have both state and local licenses or permits.
More than 2,300 marijuana business applications were submitted to the county by the Dec. 30 deadline, with more than 1,400 of those having been submitted in the last two weeks of December alone. A recent review of the applications by the Lost Coast Outpost last week found that about 1,700 applications — or about 75 percent — of the total applications were submitted by existing operators.
Calls to the county Planning and Building Department, which oversees cannabis permitting, were not returned.
HUMMAP argued in its petition that by allowing these existing operators to continue applying for permits past Aug. 23, the county violated a settlement agreement it made with HUMMAP in July 2016. As part of the agreement, the county agreed not to take any "substantive action" to expand the scope of the medical marijuana regulations until it completed a full environmental impact review. The county argued that the "good standing" registration was not a prerequisite for existing growers to obtain a permit and therefore did not violate the settlement agreement.
Wilson ultimately agreed with the county and denied HUMMAP's petition and request for attorney's fees.
Who funds the International Church Cannabis?