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NPA murdered five men, burned equipment in Agusan del Sur
From the anti-communist ANAD Facebook page (Jun 22); NPA murdered five men, burned equipment in Agusan del Sur
In Esperanza town, a rubber plantation owned by town mayor Leonida Manpatilan was attacked by NPA killing its 2 caretakers and burned a bulldozer parked at the plantation 1O AM on June 18, 2013.
... The plantation is located at Sitio Camarangan in Brgy Hawilian.
Witnesses revealed that caretakers Angel Cosan and Danny Linonsag were hand tied by the communist terrorists before they were shot to death.
Esperanza MPS on its investigation conducted said that the NPAs continued to Km 7 of Brgy Milagros and attacked a church of "Pinagbuklod" group capturing 3 others identified as Felipe Hadraque, a former Philippine Army member, Remy Polintan a resident of brgy Milagros and Jun Tria who were also tied up and shot to death.
Witnesses said that Jun Tria tried the escape but was shot and died before he reached the local hospital.
The NPAs also burned another seven (7) heavy equipment parked near the church. The equipment were owned by Shanalyn Corporation.
Government troops are now deployed in the area for a pursuit operation.
Authorities learned that the NPAs boarded 2 Forward Trucks bearing plate numbers YJL 880 and PYZ 731, one Van Truck bearing plate number YBY 131.
Vehicle drivers said they were hired to deliver corn products and beach outing but were intercepted by the NPAs at Sitio Landing in Brgy Tungao, Butuan City.
Troops from 401st Brigade Phil Army together with ADS PPSC and 14th SAC are deployed in the area for a pursuit operations against the fleeing NPAs.
A Special Investigation Task Group is formed to handle the incident.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=516861115033798&set=a.516861108367132.1073741826.516833288369914&type=1&theater
Posted by Retired Analyst at 5:01 PM 1 comment:
Gov't confident final MILF peace deal signed before 2016
From ABS-CBN (Jun 22): Gov't confident final MILF peace deal signed before 2016
MANILA, Philippines -- The government is confident it can sign a final peace deal with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front even before President Aquino's term ends in 2016.
Chief negotiator Miriam Ferrer said the formal peace talks will resume next month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Ferrer has already turned over to her MILF counterpart, Mohagher Iqbal, the government's proposal on the wealth sharing annex so the MILF can study it.
The MILF had complained about the delay in the negotiations but said the resumption of the talks next month will help iron out the kinks in the peace process.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/video/nation/06/22/13/govt-confident-final-milf-peace-deal-signed-2016
PHL probe results of USS Guardian grounding still under review — Malacañang
From GMA News (Jun 23): PHL probe results of USS Guardian grounding still under review — Malacañang
While the US Navy has made public its findings of its probe into the grounding of the minesweeper USS Guardian at Tubbataha Reef last January, Malacañang said Saturday it is still reviewing the investigation report of Philippine authorities.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte did not give a timetable on when the government will make public the findings of the Philippine side.
"The results of our investigation (are) currently under review. Hindi pa tayo magkukumento hanggang hindi na-review nang kabuuan ang report (The results of our investigation are still being reviewed. We will defer comment until the review is completed)," she said on government-run dzRB radio.
On Friday, the US Navy released online a redacted version of its report indicating lapses in leadership may have led to the grounding of the USS Guardian at Tubbataha Reef last Jan. 17.
US Pacific Fleet commander Admiral Cecil Haney added a "lack of leadership" led to the watch team's disregard of visual and electronic cues and alarms.
"I understand this is result of their investigation. We do have our own," Valte said.
Earlier, the Philippine Coast Guard had submitted its report to the Department of Transportation and Communications, which in turn submitted it to President Benigno Aquino III.
http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/314112/news/nation/phl-probe-results-of-uss-guardian-grounding-still-under-review-malacanang
US Navy report on ship grounding nothing but alibis — militant group
From the Daily Tribune (Jun 23): US Navy report on ship grounding nothing but alibis — militant group
The activist fisherfolk alliance Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) yesterday dismissed the US report on USS Guardian grounding on the Tubbataha Reef as "tall tale of usual alibi," saying the report was meant to obscure the truth and reduce the issue to some technical blunder.
"In fact it is not a report, it is just a long narration of excuses authored by propaganda department of Washington DC. It is like a tall tale of usual alibi made to treat the global public to a roller coaster ride," said Pamalakaya information officer Gerry Albert Corpuz in a statement.
Adm. Cecil Haney, commanding officer of the US Pacific Fleet, in a 160-page document, said lack of leadership and faulty navigational equipment led to the grounding of the former USS Guardian on the Tubbataha Reef last January, which could have been prevented if the officers and members of the American minesweeper adhere to prudent, safe and sound navigation principles.
The US military official said the watch team's observations of visual cues in the hours leading up to the grounding, combined with electronic cues and alarms, should have triggered immediate steps to resolvewarnings and reconcile discrepancies.
Haney said the Jan.17 incident was a "tragic mishap" which is wholly preventable and was the product of poor voyage planning, poor execution and unfortunate circumstances. The US report said the investigation uncovers no single point of failure; instead, there were numerous links in the error chain leading up to the grounding — had any one of which been appropriately addressed, the grounding would have been prevented.
The US report, however, recommended "further administrative action against the commanding general of the USS Guardian, Lt. Cmdr. Mark Rice, the executive officer and navigator Lt. Daniel Tyler, the assistant navigator and the officer of the deck at the time of the grounding.
For his part, Pamalakaya vice chairman Salvador France said that they were right all along that the US report would be biased.
"We were correct with our fearless forecast that the US report on Tubbataha Reef is biased to Washington DC and would be meant to absolve this global policeman from his crime against the Filipino people and its heinous crime to Philippine environment. The 160-page document affirmed the sum of all our fears," France said.
"The US report on Tubbataha environmental disaster exonerated Washington DC and reduced the highly questionable incident to a drama of unfortunate event and plain and simple human error," France noted.
The Philippine government previously reported that USS Guardian damaged 2,345.67 square meters of the marine protected area and had asked the US government to pay the Manila government a fine of P58 million for the damage.
Meanwhile, Pamalakaya followed up their request to Department of Justice (DoJ) Secretary Leila de Lima to file criminal and other appropriate charges against officials and 79 other crew members of USS Guardian.
The militant group said it was wondering why until now there is no progress on their request letter to the justice chief filed last February urging De Lima to investigate and file appropriate charges against officials and 79 other crew members of the US minesweeper ship.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/index.php/nation/item/15737-us-navy-report-on-ship-grounding-nothing-but-alibis-militant-group
NPA fighters kill 2 soldiers in Agusan del Sur
From Rappler (Jun 22): NPA fighters kill 2 soldiers in Agusan del Sur
Two soldiers were killed in a clash with New People's Army (NPA) rebels in Esperanza, Agusan del Sur, Saturday afternoon, June 22, the Philippine Army said.
Lieutenant Col. Leo Bongosia, spokesman of the Army's 4th Infantry Division, said troops from the 26th Infantry Brigade encountered about 15 rebels in the vicinity of Barangay Maliwanag at around 4 pm.
The encounter occurred just days after communist rebels killed 5 workers of Shannalyne Corporation in the same town.
The Philippine Army has yet to identify the two slain soldiers.
Bongosia said government troops continue to pursue the rebels.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/31934-npa-fighters-kill-soldiers-agusan-del-sur
University employee abducted in Zamboanga City
From Rappler (Jun 22): University employee abducted in Zamboanga City
An employee of the Western Mindanao State University (WMSU) here was abducted by armed men – some of them wearing military uniform – just outside his house on Saturday evening, June 22.
The Zamboanga City police identified the victim as Alrashid Maha Roxas, 56, married, and a clerk at the Islamic Studies unit of the WMSU.
Authorities said Roxas got a text message at around 7:50 pm on Saturday, prompting him to go outside of his house on Amping Drive, Barangay Campo Islam, in Zamboanga City.
Four armed men wearing Philippine Army and Philippine Marines uniforms were waiting for him outside. One of them shouted, "Amo na yan!" It's Tausug for "That's him!"
He was then reportedly handcuffed and dragged toward the shoreline approximately 50 meters away, where 4 other armed men were waiting in white sea craft.
The suspects, believed to be part of a kidnap-for-ransom group, steered the sea craft toward Basilan province.
Authorities have alerted all military units in the area. They have yet to establish the motive for the kidnapping.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/31936-university-employee-abducted-in-zamboanga-city
RP-US sign trade data exchange accord to fight cross-border crimes
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22): RP-US sign trade data exchange accord to fight cross-border crimes
Without much fanfare but replete with subdued and dire warning to perpetrators of cross-border crimes, a landmark bilateral agreement on exchange of trade data was forged recently between the Philippines and the United States.
Signatories to the Trade Transparency Agreement held (June 20) at the US Embassy in Manila were Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ruffy Biazon, Deputy Director of the Office of Internal Affairs for ICE Homeland Security Investigations David A. Thompson and Deputy Assistant Director Joseph A. Gallion.
This accord in the continuing partnership of the two countries marks a milestone in combating the multi-faceted global menace of trade fraud, money laundering, contraband smuggling, tax evasion, international terrorist financing, and other transnational crime.
Under the agreement, which is part of the Mutual Assistance on Customs Administration pact between the US and the Philippines that was signed on July 27, 2000, the US will help the Philippine government develop a Trade Transparency Unit (TTU) at the BOC.
The TTU, which shall be manned by BOC personnel trained by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), shall monitor 24/7 the movement of cargoes and transactions at the BOC to detect suspicious trade and financial transactions susceptible to exploitation by criminal and terrorist organizations.
Biazon said, "The cooperation between the Philippines and the US through the establishment of the TTU will mutually benefit our two countries in terms of helping enhance our fight against illicit trade, smuggling and money laundering, among others."
"Moreover, with the new data sharing agreement between the US and the Philippines, coupled with the new technologies that would be infused in the TTU, ordinary Filipinos could just as well benefit from this agreement through the tighter control of our borders against the entry of anti-social goods and contrabands."Biazon added.
As a backgrounder, the first TTU was created by the ICE in 2004 and, since 2005, it has partnered with other countries such as Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and now the Philippines, in its global war against the "the rise in complex and sophisticated financial and trade crimes around the world."
DND acquiring 2 strategic sealift vessels for navy
From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 22): DND acquiring 2 strategic sealift vessels for navy
The Department of National Defense (DND) announced that it is acquiring two strategic sealift vessels (SSVs).
DND bidding and awards chair Undersecretary Efren Q. Fernandez said the ships have an approved budget contract of P4 billion.
The money will be sourced from the AFP Modernization Act Trust Fund.
It will use to improve the transport and lift capabilities of the Philippine Navy.
Interested parties must be able to deliver the SSVs within 1,095 calendar days (with the first ship to be delivered within 730 calendar days of the opening of the letter of credit and the second SSV to be delivered after 365 calendar days from the delivery of the first).
They must also have integrated logistic support for the vessels.
Fernandez said bidders must have completed a similar project from the date of submission and receipt of bids.
He stated that bidding is open to all local and foreign companies provided that they comply with the country's procurement law.
Pre-bid conference will be held on July 2 and bid opening on July 16 at the DND-BAC conference room, basement right wing, DND building, Camp Gen. Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
2 Filipino-Algerian women abducted by Abu Sayyaf in Sulu
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 22): 2 Filipino-Algerian women abducted by Abu Sayyaf in Sulu
About 10 heavily armed Abu Sayyaf members abducted two Filipino-Algerians in Sulu Saturday, the military reported.
Colonel Jose Johriel Cenabre, commander of the Joint Task Force Sulu, said the sisters Nadjova and Linda Abdelbasit were snatched at 9 a.m. while traveling in a passenger jeep in Barangay (village) Liang in Patikul town.
Cenabre said witnesses identified at least two of the kidnappers. They were Aljini Mundo alias Ninok Sapari and Bensaudi Mundoc, who alledgedly belonged to the "Lucky Nine" group of the Abu Sayyaf.
"The victims … were on board a passenger jeep enroute to Jolo and they came from Tambang village in Patikul. However upon reaching Sitio Baunoh in Liang barangay around 10 armed Abu Sayyaf Group members identified with the Lucky Nine forcibly took them," Cenabre said.
He said the bandits fled with the victims toward Sitio (sub-village) Kanjimaw, which is still part of Patikul.
"We were informed the victims were Filipino-Algerians based in Manila and they were conducting documentary about the Sultanate of Sulu. We are of impression that they were sent by the Sultanate of Sulu," Cenabre said.
But Abraham Idjirani, spokesperson of Jamalul Kiram III, who claims the title of Sulu sultan, said they had no knowledge of the visit of the sisters to Sulu.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/431117/2-filipino-algerian-women-abducted-by-abu-sayyaf-in-sulu
ASG kidnaps 2 Fil-Algerians in Sulu
From Rappler (Jun 22): ASG kidnaps 2 Fil-Algerians in Sulu
Members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) kidnapped two Fil-Algerian sisters in Barangay Liang, Patikul, Sulu, on Saturday, June 22.
Authorities identified the victims as Nadjova B. Abdelbasit and her sister Linda Abdelbasit.
Reports said the Abdelbasits were onboard a passenger jeepney from Barangay Tambang in Patikul, going to the town of Jolo. When the jeepney was approaching Sitio Baunoh in Barangay Liang, they were forcibly taken by more or less 10 armed men.
The men were identified as part of the kidnap-for-ransom group's Lucky Nine Group. They were led by Aljini Mundoc, Ninok Sapari, and Bensaudi Mundoc.
The suspects fled with their victims toward Sitio Kanjimaw, through Barangay Tugas, in Patikul.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/31938-abu-sayyaf-kidnaps-filipino-algerians-sulu
CAFGU killed in Sultan Kudarat clash
From ABS-CBN (Jun 22): CAFGU killed in Sultan Kudarat clash
A member of the Civilian Auxiliary Unit of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (CAFGU) was killed in an encounter between the military and an armed group in Barangay Bagumbayan, President Quirino town, Sultan Kudarat on Friday morning.
Authorities said the clash occurred after the military was fired upon by around 100 lawless elements led by a certain Commander Carialan.
The killed CAFGU member was identified as Vicente Macaraeg.
A farmer, identified as Roy Viala, was also killed in the firefight.
Around 80 families fled their homes due to the clash.
Colonel Edmund Pangilinan, commander of the Army's 33rd Infantry Battalion, said fighting has been ongoing in the area for some time now due to land disputes.
http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/regions/06/22/13/cafgu-killed-sultan-kudarat-clash
Abu Sayyaf seizes 2 Fil-Algerians in Sulu - source
From InterAksyon (Jun 22): Abu Sayyaf seizes 2 Fil-Algerians in Sulu - source
Two Filipino-Algerian sisters were abducted Saturday morning in Patikul, Sulu by gunmen believed to be members of the Abu Sayyaf, the military said.
"The abduction happened at around 8:45 a.m. today," said a source from the Armed Forces' Western Mindanao Command who spoke on condition he not be named because he is not authorized to speak on the matter.
The officer said Nadjova Abdelbasit and her sister Linda were seized in Barangay Liang from a public utility vehicle they were riding to Jolo.
"They were forcibly dragged by the bandits and vanished into a forested portion in the area," he said.
Marines were immediate deployed to pursue the kidnappers led by Aljini Mundoc, Ninok Sapari and Bensaudi Mundoc.
The operations are concentrated in Sitio Kanjimaw, Barangay Tugas, where the gunmen and their victims were last spotted.
There is no word yet if the provincial and municipal governments have activated the crisis management council to deal with the abduction.
http://www.interaksyon.com/article/64658/abu-sayyaf-seizes-2-fil-algerians-in-sulu---source
Food poisoning downs 8 soldiers in Davao del Sur
From the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Jun 22): Food poisoning downs 8 soldiers in Davao del Sur
At least eight soldiers from the Army's 39th Infantry Battalion (IB) based in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur ended up in a hospital after eating a type of poisonous mushroom they cooked with other vegetables on Friday, the unit's commander said Saturday.
Lieutenant Colonel Norman Zuniega, 39th Infantry Battalion commanding officer, said the soldiers were on patrol in Barangay (village) Kapatagan in Digos City when they decided to take a break, gather some vegetables and mushrooms and cook them.
A few minutes after feasting on the food, Zuniega said his men started experiencing abdominal pains and dizziness.
"The soldiers were fetched by an ambulance from Sitio Mainit and were evacuated to a hospital in Davao City for medication. They are now in stable condition after undergoing treatment," Zuniega said.
Despite the incident, he said the anti-communist operation in Kapatagan and other parts of Davao del Sur remained unhampered.
"The operation was meant to thwart any attempts by the New People's Army to sow terror," Zuniega said.
The Davao del Sur police office reported that the NPA has acquired some 500 police uniforms and that the rebels might have been planning a bigger offensive.
Senior Superintendent Ronaldo Llanera, Davao del Sur police director, said this was the main reason why all police units in the province have been placed under high alert status.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/431001/food-poisoning-downs-8-soldiers-in-davao-del-sur
MILF: Tahderriyah Schools Conduct s its 1ST Intramurals (MUSABAKAH) in BDA Southern Mindanao Region
From the MILF Website (Jun 22): Tahderriyah Schools Conduct s its 1ST Intramurals (MUSABAKAH) in BDA Southern Mindanao Region
Nine (9) schools (Modaris) plural forms of madrasah) coming from different barangays in the Municipality of Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat in Biwang Province participated to the 1st Intramurals (Musabakah) held last May 7, 2013 at Madrasah Usra Al-Islamie the host school in Barangay Kraan.
Around 300 Kindergarten (Tahderiyyah) Pupils joined in various fields of competitions that included Quor-anic reading, arranging of English and Arabic Alphabet, identifying color and shape, and reciting of some saying (Hadith) of Prophet Mohammad (S.A.W) Peace be upon him which is translated both English and local dialect by the students.
Mohalikin D. Piang BDA Regional Manager in Southern Mindanao Region said that to this encouraging exercises of the young students could develop their mental and physical capability as they grow. He also stressed, "Education is more important thing that could inherit of our children rather than anything. Hence, we always mentoring our children for their right future he added."
Piang also emphasized that the UNICEF program implemented by the Bangsamoro Development Agency (BDA) based on the Partnership Contract Agreement (PCA) between the BDA and UNICEF to the seven (7) Regional Management Offices of the BDA in Mindanao namely; Davao Region, Southern Mindanao Region, Central Mindanao Region, Ranaw Region, Zamboanga Peninsula Region, Zamboanga Basilan Region and Sulu Tawi-taw- Region which is under the supervision of its Central Management Office headed by Dr. Mohammad S. Yacob BDA Executive Director.
The intramurals was organized by the School (Madrasah) Administrators, Parents Teachers Community Associations (PTCA) and Teachers in order to promote the sportsmanship of the young students. Moreover, the students will be encouraged more and learn lot either academic or sportsmanship.
A group of Teachers (Asatidz) Chaired by Ustadz Abdullah Minanga the Provincial Secretary of Biwang Province designated as members of the judges during the competitions.
Some Parents, Barangay Officials, and Municipal Official of Palimbang were graced the event.
BDA Southern Mindanao Region extended its support to the activity particularly on prizes of the winning madrasah. The Musabaqa is one way to inspire and motivate young learners to strive more in education.
http://www.luwaran.com/
Top US diplomat backs 'peaceful' stance on West PH Sea
From Rappler (Jun 22): Top US diplomat backs 'peaceful' stance on West PH Sea
Malacañang on Friday, June 21, said the support of a top US diplomat for a peaceful resolution over West Philippine Sea disputes is a boost for the country.
Current White House senior director for Asian affairs Danny Russel said during his Senate hearing confirmation that the West Philippine Sea has no place for "coercion and bullying."
"I certainly will do everything in my power to try to lower the temperature, push claimants including China, into a diplomatic track and continue to warn them that the region in which China will flourish is a region of law, a region of order and a region of respect for neighbors, not one in which there is space for coercion and bullying," he said.
Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte explained the Philippines had gone to proper venues such as the ASEAN and the United Nations to push for its claim through diplomatic means.
She said diplomacy is the right way to end conflict.
Russel expressed strong US support for efforts by ASEAN to negotiate as a bloc and frame a "code of conduct" to manage the disputes. For him, it was "unacceptable" for China to demand only bilateral negotiations with the other claimants.
This call was consistent with the Philippine's actions, Valte said.
"Our position has always been that there needs to be no coercion when it comes to resolving maritime disputes, and our approach has always been to adopt the rules-based scheme, which is very evident from the steps that we've taken in the several disputes...that we are currently involved in," Valte said over drRB.
She added that Russel's pronouncements were welcome as they were in line with
the country's efforts to attain peace and development in the region.
The management of the disputes for the West Philippine Sea is an issue to be taken up at regional security talks in Brunei later this month.
Valte said there is no update yet on the case filed by the Philippines against China regarding the disputed territory except for Judge Chris Pinto's resignation for being married to a Filipina.
Last April, International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) president Shunji Yanai appointed the remaining 3 members of the 5-member United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) Arbitral Tribunal, including himself, to hear the statement of claim filed by the Philippines against China.
"I think the DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) expects there will be movement...The next step, apart from the formation of the panel, would be that the panel will be deciding if it has jurisdiction over the action, and I think that is supposed to come sometime in July," she said.
The top US diplomat
Russel is a nominee to become assistant secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, replacing Kurt Campbell, who resigned in February to enter business.
His association with Asia began in his 20s when he studied martial arts for 3 years in Japan. He has a long experience in Japan and Korea.
He played a central role in the Obama administration's strategic "pivot" to Asia.
The diplomatic stance of the US on maritime issues irked Beijing when Washington said it has a national interest in the peaceful resolution of the West Philippine Sea disputes.
Six governments claim the tiny reefs and islands across the resource-rich waters of the West Philippine Sea. China claims it has sovereignty over virtually all of it.
Though not a claimant, US says it has a stake in the freedom of navigation in the sea's busy lanes which are crucial to world trade.
Russel said the issue of China's behavior on the seas had been raised by President Barack Obama and Secretary of State John Kerry with its leaders, and the Chinese "are in no doubt that America stands by our allies."
Beijing has blamed the Philippines and Japan—both US treaty allies—for triggering maritime disputes involving China for the past couple of years.
http://www.rappler.com/nation/31920-top-us-diplomat-west-ph-sea
Army honors 4 wounded soldiers
From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 22): Army honors 4 wounded soldiers
Brig. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya, commanding general of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division pinning a 'Wounded Personnel Medal' to a trooper wounded in action during a gunbattle between communist insurgents and government troops in Alegria, Surigao del Norte. (Photo by Mike U. Crismundo)
Four Army soldiers on Friday were conferred the "Wounded Personnel Medal" (WPM) at Camp Evangelista Station Hospital Station, in Cagayan de Oro City.
Brig. Gen. Ricardo R. Visaya, commanding general of the Army's Northeastern and Northern Mindanao 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division (4th ID) personally pinned the medal to these wounded soldiers receiving treatment from gunshot wounds sustained from encounters with hostile forces last month.
The encounters occurred in the hinterlands of Alegria, Surigao del Norte, San Agustin, Surigao del Sur and in Malitbog, Bukidnon.
Among the soldiers given the award was Pfc. Aleps Andilong of 58th IB. Pfc Andilong paid tribute to his platoon leader 2Lt Dennis Avila, who died when they encountered rebel NPA's in Malitbog, Bukidnon. 2Lt Avila and Pfc. Andilong were extricated together from the encounter site by helicopters, but 2Lt Avila expired hours later in the hospital.
Pinning the medals, Gen. Visaya congratulated each trooper and appreciated the heroic deeds in the accomplishment of their respective unit's tasks and of Division's mission in the region.
The 4th ID chief conveyed to commanders in the field to be steadfast and ready as always to respond to the call of duty in securing the region and serving the communities.
http://mb.com.ph/News/Provincial_News/18512/Army_honors_4_wounded_soldiers_#.UcV-W47D9jo
Palace welcomes US statement on SEA territorial disputes
From the Manila Bulletin (Jun 22): Palace welcomes US statement on SEA territorial disputes
Malacañang on Saturday welcomed the statement of Danny Russel, the nominee of United States President Barack Obama to become the top US diplomat in East Asia, rejecting coercion and bullying by China in territorial disputes.
Deputy Presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in an interview with government radio dzRB on Saturday that Russel's statement is in line with the Philippine government's position for a peaceful resolution of its territorial dispute with China in the West Philippine Sea.
"That's a welcome statement considering that it's very---it's in line with our efforts with what we've been doing. Our position has always been that there is no need for coercion in resolving our maritime disputes," Valte said.
"And our approach has always been to adopt the rules-based scheme, which is very evident from the steps that we've taken in the several disputes that—in the dispute that we are currently involved in," she added.
She stressed that the Philippines has always wanted that the dispute be settled in peaceful means and at the proper venue.
The Philippine government early this year brought its territorial dispute with China before a United Nations (UN) arbitration tribunal in its desire to resolve the dispute with China within the framework of international law.
Russel at a confirmation hearing on Thursday reportedly said that "there's no place for "coercion and bullying in the region's seas."
He reportedly told a Senate panel that "he will do everything in his power to lower the temperature in territorial disputes in the South and East China Seas and push claimants, including China, toward diplomacy."
It was "unacceptable" for China, he said, "to demand only bilateral negotiations with the other claimants."
He also reportedly voiced "strong support "for efforts by Southeast Asia to negotiate as a bloc and frame a "code of conduct" to manage the disputes.
http://mb.com.ph/News/National_News/18564/Palace_welcomes_US_statement_on_SEA_territorial_disputes_#.UcV9No7D9jo
NPA murdered five men, burned equipment in Agusan ...
Gov't confident final MILF peace deal signed befor...
PHL probe results of USS Guardian grounding still ...
US Navy report on ship grounding nothing but alibi...
RP-US sign trade data exchange accord to fight cro...
DND acquiring 2 strategic sealift vessels for navy...
2 Filipino-Algerian women abducted by Abu Sayyaf i...
Abu Sayyaf seizes 2 Fil-Algerians in Sulu - source...
MILF: Tahderriyah Schools Conduct s its 1ST Intram...
Top US diplomat backs 'peaceful' stance on West PH...
Palace welcomes US statement on SEA territorial di...
US Department of Defense: The Asia-Pacific Maritime Security Strategy (2015)
China's Incomplete Military Transformation: Assessing the Weaknesses of the People's Liberation Army (PLA)
Ang West Philippine Sea: Isang Sipat
China's unpredictable maritime security actors
Summary of the Position Paper of the Government of the People's Republic of China on the Matter of Jurisdiction in the South China Sea Arbitration Initiated by the Republic of the Philippines
US Department of State -- China: Maritime Claims in the South China Sea
Souith China Sea: Assessing US Policy & Options for the Future
Philippines-China SecurityRelations: Current Issues andEmerging Concerns
The Rise of China's Maritime Power in the South China Sea: Maritime Security Dilemma in Philippines-China Relations
Congressional Research Service: Maritime Territorial and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Disputes Involving China--Issues for Congress
Historical Fiction: China's South China Sea Claims
AJIL: A Legal Analysis of China's Historic Rights Claim in the South China Sea
The West Philippine Sea: Territorial and Maritime Jurisdiction Disputes from a Philippine Perspective
Annual Report to Congress: Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China 2017
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Wikipeida: Provinces of the Philippines (Interactive)
Philippine Regions and Provinces
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Philippines (Political)
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OVERVIEW: Retired soldier/civilian analyst - Vietnam veteran- Southeast Asia specialist - Spent some time in Vietnam, Europe, the Middle East, and the Philippines - Now old and long-retired - Enjoying the good life - Blog helps to keep me mentally active
Communist Party of the Philippines: Key Research Documents
People's War, People's Press: History and Evolution of Ang Bayan (The People), the News Organ of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) (2015)
Deep Roots of Revolution: The New People's Army in the Bicol Region of the Philippines
Debates on the Philippine Left
Communist Party of the Philippines Mass Work
Why is the Membership of the New People's Army (NPA) 70% Lumad?: Historical Context, Causes, and Recommendations
Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army
Explaining the Sustainability of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army
The Great Left Divide
Evolution of the Armed Conflict of the Communist Front (Philippines)
Philippine Society and Revolution
Reaffirm Our Basic Principles and Carry the Revolution Forward
Our Urgent Tasks
Complete the Victory of the Second Great Rectification Movement
The Communist Insurgency in the Philippines: Tactics and Talks
Relationship of the Party with the United Front
Marxism-Leninism-Mao Zedong Thought as Guide to the Philippine Revolution
The National Liberation Movement in the Philippines and the "Terrorist Listing" by Foreign Powers
The Leadership Crisis in the Communist Party of the Philippines
Moro Islamic Liberation Front: Key Research Documents
Framework on the Bangsamoro 2012
The Philippines: Breakthrough in Mindanao
The Philippines: Indigenous Rights and the MILF Peace Process
The Philippines: A New Strategy for Peace in Mindanao?
History of Muslims in the Philippines: A Nation Under Endless Tyranny
Philippine Insurgency-Related Websites
Redspark-CPP/NPA/NDF
Communist Party of the Philippines
National Democratic Front Philippines
Moro Islamic Liberation Front
Revolutionary Workers Party-Mindanao
Philippine Military-Related Websites
Armed Forces of the Philippines
Armed Forces of the Philippines (Facebook)
Department of National Defense
Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines
Civil Relations Service Armed Forces of the Philippines (Facebook)
Civil-Military Operations School Armed Forces of the Philippines
Philippine Army
Philippine Army (Facebook)
Philippine Army Modernization (Facebook)
Philippine Air Force
Philippine Air Force (Facebook)
Philippine Navy
Philippine Navy (Facebook)
Philippine Navy 2020 (Facebook)
Philippine Marine Corps (Facebook)
Northern Luzon Command (Facebook)
Southern Luzon Command (Facebook)
Central Command (/Facebook)
Western Command (Facebook)
Eastern Mindanao Command
Eastern Mindanao Command (Facebook)
Western Mindanao Command
Western Mindanao Command (Facebook)
Mechanized Infantry Division
Mechanized Infantry Division Philippine Army (Facebook)
7th Infantry Division Philippine Army (Facebook)
1st Civil Relations Group (Facebook)
2nd Civil Relatrions Group (Facebook)
3rd Civil Relations Group
4th Civil Relations Group (Facebook)
5th Civil Relations Group (CRG)
Philippine Army 11th Civil-Military Operations Battalion
Philippine Military Publications
PAM 7-00 Civil-Military Operation Manual (2008)
PAM 7-03 Civil Affairs Operations (2014)
AFP Development, Support, and Security Plan "Kapayapaan"
AFP Internal Peace and Security Plan "Bayanihan"
PAF Flight Plan 2028 Presentation
Philippine Air Force Flight Plan 2028 Brochure
Army Transformation Road Map 2028
Philippine Navy Journal
The Naval Leader
U.S. Military Publications
Report to Congress: Operation Pacific Eagle-Philippines (Oct-Dec 2018)
Worldwide Threat Assessment of the United States of America (2019)
Summary of the National Defense Strategy of the United States of America (2018)
National Security Strategy of the United States of America (2017)
National Military Strategy of the United States (2015)
FM 3-05.301 Psychological Operations Process Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (2007)
FM 3-24 Counterinsurgency (2014)
FM 3-07 Stability Operations (2008)
Joint Publication 3-13.2 Military Information Support Operations (2010)
U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center & School: Special Warfare Magazine
U.S. Army Combined Arms Center: Military Review
National Defense University: Joint Force Quarterly
National Defense University: PRISM
Counter Terrorism Center (CTC): Sentinel
CTX Journal
U.S. Pacific Command: Asia-Pacific Defense Forum
Defense Video and Image Distribution System (DVIDS)
Terrorism-Related Key Research Documents/Websites
Annotated Worldwide Threat Assessment (2019)
US Department of State Country Reports on Terrorism (2017)
Worldwide Threat Assessment of the US Intelligence Community (2018)
National Strategy for Counterterrorism of the United States of America (2018)
Joining the New Caravan: ISIS and the Regeneration of Terrorism in Southeast Asia
Emerging Terrorist Financing Risks - Financial Action Task Force
The Impact of the Islamic State in Asia
Terrorism Financing Southeast Asia & Australia -- Regional Risk Assessment 2016
Global Terrorism Index (2018)
Global Terrorism Database
Department of State: Country Reports on Terrorism
National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC)
Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence, and Terrorism Research
Rand--Terrorism and Homeland Security
Combating Terrorism Center
International Crisis Group-Philippines
AFP-CRS: Church and state unite versus insurgency
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 18, 2019): Church and state unite versus...
AFP-CRS: AFP committed to Philippine development, security
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 11, 2019): AFP committed to Philippine d...
AFP-CRS: Group of farmers in Agusan del Norte disowns CPP-NPA terrorists
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 11, 2019): Group of farmers in Agusan de...
MILF: Some Moro leaders cautious about Piñol's appointment as point man in Bangsamoro-CM Ebrahim
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 11, 2019): Some Moro leaders cautious about Piñol's appointment as point man...
MILF: DBM releases funds for BTA officials and staff wages
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 12, 2019): DBM releases funds for BTA officials and staff wages The Depart...
AFP-CRS: CPP-NPA support in Eastern Mindanao in total collapse
Posted to the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Civil Relations Service (AFP-CRS) Facebook Page (Jul 11, 2019): CPP-NPA support in Eastern Mi...
MILF: Duterte, CM Ebrahim meet over concerns on Sec. Piñol's appointment as Point Man in BARMM
Posted to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Website (Jul 12, 2019): Duterte, CM Ebrahim meet over concerns on Sec. Piñol's appointmen...
NDF/CPP: Reaction to the UNHRC resolution to investigate Duterte killings 12 July 2019
Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) propaganda comment posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Jul 1...
Pio heads Army 8thID
From the Visayan Daily Star (Jul 12, 2019): Pio heads Army 8thID Maj. Gen. Pio Diñoso is back in the Visayas as commanding general of the...
NDF/Sison: On Duterte fixing the plunder cases of biggest crooks in previous regimes
Jose Maria Sison propaganda comment posted to the National Democratic Front Philippines (NDFP or NDF) Website (Jul 11, 2019): On Duterte fi...


Party in the city where the heat is on/ all night on the beach till the break of…Rick and Donna.
Tour update! Jen and I might not be the Rolling Stones, but we sure are on the road with a venegance.
We've done three cities in as many days, with Atlanta on Tuesday, Miami today, and Chicago tomorrow and Friday.
Our time in ATL was limited to a hot minute, so alas, no photos. Predictably,the Floridian weather proved much more inspirational. Here, a tableau.
Our homage to South Beach.
This morning, I was a guest on "Rick and Donna in the Morning," a genius radio show here in Miami. Yes, I got up at 4:45. I'd do it every day if I could. New career alert! (Kidding).
Rick and Donna look wide awake, but me? Basically comatose.
Anyway, Miami gave Jen and I one of those "Wow, our jobs seriously rock" moments yesterday while we prepped for "South Florida Today" while, yes, sunning at the beach.
Off to Chicago tomorrow. I can't wait to revisit it, especially since Saul Bellow died in 04 and I haven't been back to his beloved Chi-town since. I have some respects to pay. Tell us where to eat, play and most importantly, shop!


text:
Hue Jackson Net Worth 2022 : How Rich is NFL Coach Actually.
Beingpedia Send an email February 3, 2022
Did you know the Hue Jackson net worth? It might be interesting to know the complete biography of Hue Jackson. So, keep reading to know who is Hue Jackson actually. Hue Jackson is a famous American football coach and he is well known for his coaching career. The famous is living in Los Angeles, California with American nationality. Currently, he is serving as a professional football coach in the United States. According to reports, Hue Jackson net worth is approximately around $3-5 million as of 3rd Feb 2022.
Full Name Hue Jackson
Birth Place Los Angeles, California, USA
Profession Football Coach
Marital Status Married to Michelle Jackson
Height 5 ft. 6 in.
Net Worth $3-5 million
Professional Career and Hue Jackson Net Worth
Early life and Educational Background
Hue Jackson Social Media Presence
Personal Life and Educational Background
Hue Jackson Net Worth
Hue Jackson debuted his career as a coach in the Pacific in 1987 and before entering into NF, he served as a coach of renowned colleges of the United States. Moreover, Jackson started his professional coaching career with the Washington Redskins and provide his service as a Running backs coach.
Later on, Jackson also served as a coach for Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders, Baltimore Ravens, and Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson was appointed as the head coach of the Cleveland Browns on the date 13 January 2016. But unfortunately, in October 2018, he was fired by the Browns due to poor 2-36-1 with the team.
Miesha Tate Net Worth, Age, Height, Weight, Career, & Boyfriend
Jose Aldo Net Worth 2022: Age, Bio, & Career of UFC Fighter?
Furthermore, in November 2018, he had signed as an assistant coach to Marvin Lewis by Cincinnati Bengals. In November 2019, Jackson was released by the team and reportedly, he had been handling free-agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick's private workout for the team NFL. Throughout his career as a football coach, Hue Jackson net worth is good enough.
May You Like: Jennifer Aydin Net Worth 2022: How Rich is Star Actually
The famous coach Hue Jackson's date of birth is 22 October 1965 and his birthplace is Los Angeles, California in the United States. The birth sign of Hue Jackson is Libra and he holds American nationality.
The name of Jackson's mother was Lee Jackson, in August 2018, she had been passed away. Jackson face a terrible moment and fell in deep sorrow when his younger brother named "John Jackson" died in the same year.
Hue got his early education in Dorsey High School located in his hometown. When he was studying in high school, he impressed the public by showing his amazing skill as a player of football and basketball.
Jackson made an outstanding record in his junior & senior season of the football game of school. Being a junior, Jackson had 1,595 yards of the offense and 502 yards rushing, in which coach Hue Jackson passed for 1,455 yards and he rushed for 417 yards. Let's take a look at Hue Jackson net worth and other important facts.
Famous coach Hue Jackson's age is 56 years, 3 months, 1 week, and 5 days as of the current date of 3rd January 2022. The height of Jackson is around 5 feet 6 inches with 62 KG weight. Likewise, Jackson's chest is 40 inches with dark shading hair and dark black eyes.
Throughout his career, Hue Jackson made a huge amount of social media presence on almost every social media platform On Instagram Hue Jackson has more than 7,053 followers. Likewise, on Twitter Jackson has over 13.8K Followers
Hue Jackson got married to Michelle Jackson in the year 1995. Reportedly, Michelle was his girlfriend after dating her for some time, he got married to her. In the year 1985, Jackson and Michele met for the first time at their college. They dated each other for almost 9 years, then they got married in 1995.
The couple is living happy married life and shared three daughters named "Baylee", "Jordyn", and "Haydyn". Michelle also participates in charity works through Jackson's foundation. At this time, the couple Hue Jackson and Michelle with their three children is happily living in Berea, Ohio.
Throughout his career as a football coach, Hue Jackson net worth is good enough to live a luxurious lifestyle. The primary resource of his wealth is the football coach in which he made a huge amount of wealth. According to some reports, Hue Jackson net worth is approximately around $3-5 million as of 3rd Feb 2022. He is still struggling in his career, he might earn a good amount of wealth in the future.
Hue Jackson Hue Jackson age Hue Jackson career Hue Jackson height Hue Jackson Net Worth Hue Jackson Net Worth 2022 Hue Jackson wealth Hue Jackson weight
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
* #META: I just lost this whole journal entry while typing it on google scholar... as it seems, the browser does not work right on foreign sites....*

## Motivation

Given one paper, I want to find out how often it is cited and what is the quality if that citations.
I can do that by using various web sites / apps,  typing in queries and following links, copy and pasting data...

I wish I could automate this....

## Problem

To automate this, one would require some service API so that one can write a program or script. But those APIs are not available or not cheaply available. But the web apps with their UI are. So many user fall back to writing scripts that scrape Web-site.... to automate their workflow.
This can create a) expensive traffic and b) the same technology can be used to get valuable data. And the service providers have a problem with both of it.

Idea: Why can't there be a middle ground where I can have automate my workflow with the same power I the Web app granted me....

## Approach

So lets just do this. Start with the Web-app itself and augment it with our lively explorative programming environment and see were we are going.

For the data extraction I am interested in:

- each citation
  - title
  - authors
  - googleid
  - year
  - number of citations.... here we could get recursively down....

## Implementation

- a) start with the paper (id...)
- b) retrieve all citations....
  - retrieve one page of citations
  - extract them and save them into results
- c) dump results.
- d) extract (and dump) data
- f)_analized and visualize data

## Analysis

```javascript
var data;
(async () => {
  data = await fetch("https://lively-kernel.org/lively4/bibliography-data/scholar/citations/5934603114068816979.json").then(r => r.json())

})()

var years = new Map()

data.map(ea => ea.year).forEach(ea => {
  var year = parseInt(ea)
  years.set(year, (years.get(year) || 0) + 1)
})

Array.from(years.keys()).sort().map(ea => ea + ":" + years.get(ea)).join("\n")
```

```
1983:1
2009:9
2010:22
2011:16
2012:24
2013:24
2014:18
2015:7
2016:13
2017:8
2018:6
2019:1
NaN:13
```

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Home » Tuscan Mineral Pools
Tuscany is rich in hot natural springs that bubble out of the ground filled with minerals and the heat of the earth. The springs have been used for their curative properties since the time of the Romans, who believed that the sulphurous water came from Hades, the underworld. Now the major hot springs are used by spa hotels and medical centres. But best of all are the wild hot springs which still pepper the countryside, free and untamed – if you know where to look.
Petriolo
Twenty minutes south of Siena are the Bagni di Petriolo, hot springs that were popular with the Romans, and later with the Medici family. The pools are located below ruined walls dating from 404AD, the only remnants of fortified Roman thermal baths. Petriolo is signposted from the main Siena to Grosseto road – then follow your nose down to the picturesque river Farma to find it.
The springs gush down into a series of small baths, climaxing into a large pool where people ease aching shoulders by sitting under the torrents of water. At 43C the temperature is perfect for cold days, and the pools collect water at different temperatures – there is the river alongside to dunk into for a blast of cold water. The locals gather clay from the riverbanks which they dry and pulverise to a fine powder. When mixed with the thermal waters, it turns into the sort of mineral mud sold at spas for a fortune, but at Petriolo it's free. The water is said to cure everything from colds to arthritis and to soften skin.
Italy's best-known hot spring is at Saturnia in the wild Maremma area of southern Tuscany, about an hour south of Siena. It is a dramatic landscape of thickly wooded hills and valleys, olive groves, rows of vines and acres of wheat fields, the horizon riveted by cypresses.
Legend has it that the Roman god of the harvest, Saturn, lost his temper with war-hungry men and sent a lightning bolt that split the earth. Hot sulphuric water flowed from the rift over the people, calming them down. The main falls are easy to find: not far from the town's main spa, a dirt track brings you to a field where you can park and change before heading down to the springs – a series of rock pools that have been turned white by the minerals in the water, which falls in a succession of cascades into the pools.
The water is about 37C and instantly relaxes the body, releasing aches and pains. The minerals here are sulphur, calcium and carbon, good for skin conditions and aching joints. When it gets too hot, there is the river Albegna alongside to dip into to cool down.
Located 40 minutes south-east of Siena, between the volcanic peaks of Mount Amiata, the highest mountain in Tuscany, and the deeply wooded Orcia valley, San Filippo takes its name from the Florentine hermit who retreated here in the 13th century. It is also known for its five hot springs, which gurgle out of the ground at 52C and are rich in sulphur, calcium, magnesium and sulphur bicarbonate, believed to be good for skin conditions, respiratory disorders and joint and bone problems. On the approach to the town a small wooden bridge on the right leads into the woods to a bucolic scene of fluttering butterflies, buzzing dragonflies and frogs hopping into the green water filling the pools that the river flows into. Most stunning of all is the Fosso Bianco – a series of calcareous rock formations that hang over the water in a series of stalactites. The water used to pour down here – though it has now been diverted to the spa in the town. But follow the path through dappled daylight and you come to pool after pool under waterfalls of opaquely white water, set below the spa above, from where the water gushes down. San Filippo's milky mineral water flows through the pools and along the river, banked by bamboo, for miles.
The nicest place to stay within easy striking distance of all three wild hot springs, is Castello di Vicarello (+39 0564 990718), a renovated 12th-century castle set in the mountains of La Maremma, with 360 degree views of the hills and valleys spread out below. There are two swimming pools, a spa with a hot tub overlooking the wooded valleys and delicious organic food and wine from its own estate. But beauty costs, and doubles start at €370 per night including breakfast.
Try La Locanda del Loggiato (Piazza del Moretto, Bagno Vignoni, +39 0577 888925), a charming B&B set in a 13th-century building in a spa village within striking distance of all three wild hot springs. Doubles from €130.


The 90s are back. This jacket features a modern, cropped body with an unfinished hem. Pair with your favorite sundress for a casual daytime look. 100% Cotton.
Incorporated in Istanbul in 1991, today Mavi is recognized as a leading lifestyle brand. Designing and producing products that are known for their superior quality, Mavi Denim has a strong reputation as a leader in the luxury denim market. Reinforcing the importance of product innovation, Mavi regularly partners with industry leaders and top fabric houses.


State-controlled Xinhua news agency said later that the ministry found that the U.S. government provided renewable energy companies unfair grants that are prohibited under WTO rules and distorted normal trade.
The ministry's charges are likely to heighten trade tensions between the two countries. The U.S. and China have recently sparred more frequently over clean energy issues, ranging from copyright violations of wind-power technology to subsidies for manufacturers of solar and wind-turbine components. The two countries are also at odds over China's rare-earth quotas and imports of Iranian crude oil.
The U.S. Commerce Department last week announced a preliminary decision to impose 31% tariffs on several of China's largest solar-panel companies that it had found guilty of dumping.
and "unreasonable," saying it provoked trade friction and would hurt both Chinese and U.S. companies as well as the clean energy sector.
The Ministry of Commerce didn't say Thursday how it might respond to the U.S. trade violations it had uncovered.
The Ministry of Commerce began scrutinizing U.S. trade subsidies and barriers in the wind, solar and hydropower industries in November, it said Thursday. It examined policies in states including New Jersey, California, Ohio, Massachusetts and Washington.
China and the U.S. have signed several cooperation agreements related to clean energy in the past three years, and in 2009 established a $150-million U.S.-China Clean Energy Research Center to develop clean energy.
The two sides issued a joint statement this month, following the fourth U.S.-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, pledging continued cooperation in clean energy under a plan agreed to by the U.S. Trade and Development Agency and China's National Energy Administration.


text:
Full Court Prep
Subscribe to Full Court Press
Clay Kallam's Scorecard: A Bad News Day for the WNBA
Photo Caption: It was a bad news day for the WNBA as Chamique Holdsclaw decided to jump ship from the Atlanta Dream and Cheryl Ford's bad knees led to her waiver by the Tulsa Shock.
Photo Credit: Courtesy NBAE/Getty Images Scott Cunningham
By Clay Kallam
A bad day for the WNBA, starting with …
Chamique Holdsclaw: The first shining star of the women's game could have been something special, could have been the one who led the league to glory – but in the end, it was just asking too much.
Holdsclaw, sadly, just wasn't stable enough or healthy enough to bear the burdens thrust upon her, and her latest trade request (from Atlanta, this time) is just the latest in a long line of strange swerves and odd turns in her once-so-bright career. Remember, she was on the cover of SLAM magazine; remember, she won national titles at Christ the King and Tennessee; remember, she could play the game as well as any woman alive in the late '90s.
Maybe it wasn't fair to put so much on Holdsclaw's shoulders, but she never backed away from the money or the fame, and in return, the game needed her. to rise to the occasion. Sadly, she couldn't live up to the hype, and in fact didn't even come close. Demanding trades, "retiring" in midseason, supposedly demanding that certain players must be on the roster with her, all this coupled with her admitted struggles with her mental health, and her injuries, turned her into something much less than the 17.3 point-per-game and 7.9 rebound-per-game player she been over the course of her career.
From one perspective, those numbers are impressive, dazzling even, given Holdsclaw's struggles, but from another they are simply depressing. Imagine what could have been, imagine what might have happened, imagine a strong and mentally stable Holdsclaw staying in L.A. to play with Lisa Leslie.
In some ways, it seems unfair to blame Holdsclaw, a young woman born with a talent she didn't seem to want all that much, and burdened with depression. None of that was her fault – but still, it seems she could have handled it all so much better, and it's hard not to be deeply disappointed over what might have been.
Now she wants to go somewhere else than Atlanta, the team she wanted to play for last time we went through this. Even though she will be 33 in August, and her skills aren't what they were, she's still a very good player who can help any team in the WNBA on the court. Off the court, though, things aren't so sunny, and in fact the clouds over Chamique Holdsclaw may mean this is the end of her WNBA career.
Cheryl Ford: Ford is just a few weeks away from her 29th birthday, and should be in the prime of her professional career – but her bad knees may mean it's all over for this 6-3 prototypical power forward. In her two best seasons, she averaged a double-double, and Karl Malone's daughter was a beast in the paint, using her strength and aggression to dominate inside.
There is hope that Ford may someday return, but she has been waived by the Tulsa Shock, and that franchise's struggles are as big a part of this bad news as Ford's inability to play.
The Shock could have arrived in the WNBA's newest city as a potential power, ready to impress local fans and sponsors with a lineup featuring Ford, Katie Smith and Deanna Nolan. But Ford is now hurt, and Smith and Nolan refused to play in Tulsa this year. Smith wound up in Washington, and Nolan is skipping the WNBA season entirely, supposedly to keep the Russian citizenship that allows her to make more money in Europe, where the big bucks are.
Hype and the media: Burned by Holdsclaw, who was trumpeted as the next great women's player, the media dug for other stories, prominent among them Ford, who was Malone's estranged daughter. Toss in Marion Jones, who gets more publicity than people like Diana Taurasi, who is not only media-friendly but a charismatic Olympian and one of the best players in the world, and the WNBA looks more like a promotional circus than a legitimate sports league, with its story lines and marketing never focusing on the product on the floor.
Of course, this still could be a great summer for the WNBA, with Cappie Pondexter capable of rejuvenating the league's most important franchise, and the possible announcement of expansion/relocation into the San Francisco Bay Area in 2011. And hopefully, the contracted league will feature plenty of points, lots of excitement, few injuries, and exciting playoffs.
And after all, it should be easy to have better news than today's.
Originally published Wed, May 12, 2010
Reader Discussion
SECrets: Tennessee restores order to the universe
By Mike Siroky
Here's a line that's never been written before: Tennessee upset Kentucky in women's basketball.
SECrets: Parity makes an appearance
At this time of the season in the mighty Southeastern Conference, all the next-level teams can beat each other on a given night on a given campus.
Exhibit A is South Carolina, which won for the first time in any of the players' lifespans at Tennessee. The Gamecocks moved back into the Top 25 – and how did they celebrate? By going to Fayetteville and losing easily, 68-47.
This Week in the Big Ten: Things Do Not Go as Planned for Conference Front Runners
By Mark Bradford
When competition started Thursday, most observers assumed that by the night's end, there would be a three-way tie at the top of the Big Ten Conference. But by the time it was over, only one team held the top spot—and that was Purdue, the team that did not play.
Clay Kallam's Scorecard
Coaches' Corner
Jim Clark's Husky Report
Sharon Crowson's The Big Ten: As I See It
WNBA Players
Women's Basketball Calendar
Today's Top Games
For a full calendar and related details on upcoming nationally televised and Top 25 games, as well as past game scores, and other women's basketball games of interest, click on the link "Women's Basketball Calendar" above.
Try Advanced Search
NCAA DIVISION I TOP 25 COACHES' POLL
WOMEN'S COLLEGE BASKETBALL
Week: February 7, 2012
LAST WEEK'S RANK
PRESEASON RANK
1 Baylor (31) 24-0 1 1 1 775
2 Notre Dame 23-1 2 2 2 743
3 Connecticut 21-2 3 4 3 710
4 Stanford 20-1 4 5 4 685
5 Duke 19-3 6 8 5 650
6 Miami (FL) 20-3 7 7 6 604
7 Kentucky 21-3 5 15 7 584
8 Maryland 20-3 10 10 8 534
9 Wisconsin-Green Bay 20-0 9 24 9 530
10 Ohio State 21-2 11 NR-RV
11 Tennessee 17-6 8 3 11 476
12 Delaware 20-1 13 NR 12 434
13 Georgetown 18-5 15 11 14 379
14 Texas A&M 16-5 16 6 15 378
15 Nebraska 19-3 18 NR 13 309
16 Rutgers 17-4 14 12 17 372
17 Louisville 17-6 12 9 20 276
18 Gonzaga 21-3 19 NR-RV
19 Purdue 19-5 17 21 16 222
20 Georgia 18-6 20 12 21 202
21 Penn State 18-5 21 14 18 176
22 DePaul 17-7 23 18 NR-RV
23 Georgia Tech 16-6 22 NR-RV
24 South Carolina 18-5 NR-RV
(13) NR 24 46
25 Vanderbilt 18-5 NR-RV
(23) NR-RV
(19) NR 45
Dropped Out: No. 24 North Carolina, No. 25 Kansas.
First-place votes: Total first-place votes received (if any) are indicated in parentheses following school name.
Others receiving votes: St. Bonaventure (22-2) 34; North Carolina (17-6) 19; California (17-6) 18; Florida Gulf Coast (21-2) 16; Middle Tennessee (19-5) 15; Texas-El Paso (20-2) 8; Texas Tech (16-6) 5; Brigham Young (21-4) 4; Fresno State (19-4) 4; St. John's (15-8) 4; Princeton (15-4) 3; Oklahoma (15-7) 2; West Virginia (17-6) 2; Kansas State (15-7) 1.
Rank remains unchanged since last week
Ranking has risen since last week.
Ranking has dropped since last week.
Credit: Courtesy Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA). The weekly Division I Top 25 Coaches' Poll, sponsored by USA Today and ESPN, is based on voting by a Board of Coaches made up of 31 head coaches at Division I institutions all of whom are WBCA members.
© 1996-2019 Full Court Press


text:
Za Svoju Dusu - sampler
Za Svoju Dusu Sampler 4:43
After the release of the New Horizons CD, I became a little restless and felt that I should more deeply explore song writing as well as playing. So partnering with the talented Angelina Račić (who sang on my first CD New Horizons/Novi Vidici), we jointly worked on a number of original tracks (6 original, plus one Narodna). It has taken a long time, but I am pleased to say that these tracks are now ready for release. We called the compilation "Za svoju dušu"
The tracks are all unique reflecting a variety of styles we wanted to explore.
We decided that our music would only be available via digital download so you can find these tracks at iTunes, Amazon, Rhapsody, etc by searching on the album title: "Za svoju dušu" or the artist(s), "Angelina and John". The tracks are also available directly on this website under the "store" menu.
The pages under this menu will give you details about each song including lyrics.
Check out this YouTube promotional video to give you an overview of the new material: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_VHNswgBzzE
Thank you to those who contributed their talents to make these tracks possible: Michael Lukich, Angelina Račić, and Gord Basa.
We sincerely hope that you find something of interest. Feel free to contact me with your comments.
Angelina and John
Toronto/Oakville Ontario Canada July 2016


Here's a great gadget if you're looking to snag some video footage and remain completely unnoticed, especially at the office. Well, if you're a guy that is. Sorry girls – we'll stay on the lookout for necklaces with hidden cams though!
For most females, a handbag is a veritable extension of the body, but that doesn't mean they never get lost or accidentally left behind – probably something an undercover British female agent should have considered before traipsing across South America with a USB stick chock-full of intelligence in her purse.
Over a month ago, on March 17, two US journalists working for the San Francisco-based CurrentTV, which is owned by former VP Al Gore, were arrested by Korean patrolmen for having allegedly crossed the China/North Korea border illegally. They were in the area on an assignment pertaining to North Korean refugees.
Hilton Hotels Spying on Starwood?
It seems luxury hotels can play the spy game too.
American-Iranian journalist Roxana Saberi was convicted of espionage against Iran in a sentence announced by Tehran on Saturday. The verdict carries with it an eight-year prison term and was reached after a closed-door trial in Iran that lasted exactly one day.
Forty-nine people – allegedly operatives for the terrorist group Hezbollah – have been charged by Egypt's attorney general with espionage and plotting to destabilize the nation.
As part of Lebanon's ongoing effort to ferret out those spying on Hezbollah activity for Israel, a retired Lebanese general – who allegedly passed on significant information to Israelis for over ten years – has just been arrested.


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Why Garland is not Paris: It's hard to terrorize Texas when the citizens shoot back
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger
Tags: Garland shooting, gun control, Texas
(NaturalNews) There's a very simple reason why terrorists failed in yesterday's attack in Garland, Texas: Good guys with guns fired back, killing the assailants.
Compare this to the attack on the headquarters of Charlie Hebdo in France, where terrorists killed 12 people, all of whom were completely unarmed. Even the cops in France were unarmed, apparently believing that guns are bad. This allowed the terrorists to escape and threaten even more people, resulting in three-day manhunt across France, during which the crime spree continued.
"The gunmen reportedly sought out members of the newspaper's staff by name during the rampage through the 2nd floor office, which lasted between five and 10 minutes," reported CBS News.
And why did the bad guys with guns have 5-10 minutes to go on a killing rampage? For the simple reason that nobody shot back!
Garland incident demonstrates how guns prevent violence
It turns out that guns are only bad when they're in the hands of bad people. When guns are in the hands of ethical, law-abiding citizens and peace officers, guns prevent violence.
That's what happened in Garland, Texas yesterday: Good guys with guns shot and killed the bad guys with guns, protecting the innocent citizens (many of whom were packing their own guns, too. It's Texas after all...).
This brings up a very important point that people who hate guns never seem to quite grasp: despite the fact that we may all be peace-loving people who do not seek out violence, do not condone violence and do not wish to participate in violence, sometimes violence comes knocking at your door. When that day comes, would you prefer to be completely unarmed and surrounded by a crowd of unarmed "anti-gun" people who will likely leave in body bags, or would you prefer to be in a room full of gun-owning everyday citizens who have the ability and proficiency to shoot back and thereby HALT the violence?
This incident in Garland demonstrates yet again why guns save lives when they're in the hands of law-abiding citizens (the Garland Police Department, in this case, whose members are all local citizens).
As Breitbart writer AWR Hawkins explains, "On January 19, Breitbart News reported that French police were demanding more guns as well as guns that were more powerful. The Charlie Hebdo attack was very lopsided -- in favor of the terrorists -- because of policing and arms policies, and had revealed a very important point: Gun control was not working."
Personally, I would never live in a city or country where I couldn't legally carry a firearm for self defense. As much as I promote herbal medicine, permaculture, natural healing and protecting the environment, I'm also enough of a realist to know that there are bad people in this world who wish to commit violence against good people. A firearm remains the single most effective tool ever invented to quickly and reliable halt an attacker intending to commit extreme violence against innocent people. That's why I carry one, and it's why I encourage everyone else who can legally own a firearm to become proficient in its safety and use.
Don't mess with Texas... the citizens are armed!
As people everywhere are realizing today, Texas is not the place to try to carry out a mass shooting against innocent people. Bad guys intent on carrying out a massacre know full well that they have a greater chance of producing casualties if they deploy in gun-free zones where people are universally disarmed (like New York or Aurora, Colorado).
Think about it: If you're a bad guy trying to kill people, do you want those people to be armed or disarmed? You want them disarmed, of course. And you won't find that in Texas.
Garland sends a strong message to all would-be attackers trying to cause mayhem and violence in Texas: Prepare to be resisted with force. There are a lot of people in Texas who don't even bother calling 911 for crimes like home invasions. Instead, they call on their Glock, Remington or Benelli. And yet, to the great surprise of people who believe all the lies in the mainstream media, Texans are not violent people. In fact, they tend to be far more polite than people in New York City, for example. "Southern hospitality" is alive and well in Houston, Dallas, Austin and all the small towns that dot the large Texas landscape.
Texans don't seek out violence; nor do they put up with it. The recent Baltimore riots, for example, would never be tolerated in Texas. Baltimore demonstrates the kind of violence and mayhem you find in disarmed cities run under disastrous economic and social policies of big government. In Texas, we believe in law and order, due process and the Bill of Rights. As a result, we enjoy far greater prosperity and liberty compared to most other states. And when the citizens of Texas get angry, they don't burn down their own cities, either... (they storm the capitol!)
Interestingly, Texas is about to legalize the open carry of pistols for citizens who are already licensed for concealed carry (like I am). This would allow Texas citizens to walk down the street with a sidearm clearly displayed on their hip. If this freaks you out, please don't move here. But if you like to live in a state where personal liberty and self defense are respected -- and you embrace the Bill of Rights -- then consider Texas. We could use more liberty-loving citizens to help counter balance all the Californians who are moving to Austin and trying to reenact the same disastrous Big Government policies that caused them to flee California in the first place!
More news on Garland shooting
Texas votes 100-47 to nullify unconstitutional federal gun control laws
Gun grabbers are Holocaust deniers, claiming Hitler never engaged in gun confiscation
CNN 'Communist News Network' trying to shove gun control down our throats
Gun control is racism
The true history of gun control - Timeline
If gun control passes, there will come 'free speech control' and the government banning of websites, books and art
Gun control now turns to machete control as NY lawmaker tries to criminalize common agricultural tool


Danisco Animal Nutrition has announced a number of important new appointments, which will further strengthen its technical team and improve the service to customers throughout the world.
Dr Helena Bento and Dr Augustine Owusu-Asiedu have joined the company as research and development managers within the R&D team at Danisco's Head Office at Marlborough in the UK, to enhance an already highly active research group focused on delivering high-quality solutions to the growing global animal feed industry.
Dr Helena Bento, who will work closely with Danisco Innovations and external research sites throughout the world to develop new products and services, was previously employed by the Avian Science Research Centre at the Scottish Agricultural College, where she worked with Danisco on enzyme research for poultry feed. Born in Portugal, Dr Bento obtained an MSc in animal nutrition from the University of Aberdeen before gaining a PhD, which included a study of the effects of tannins on nutrient digestibility in ruminants and poultry. Dr Bento has worked as a research fellow at INRA in Montpellier, at the Macaulay Institute in Aberdeen and for the Directorate of Agriculture at the European Commission in Brussels.
Dr Augustine Owusu-Asiedu, previously a nutritionist for the Prairie Swine Centre and Fast Pigs in Canada, has worked with Danisco personnel for several years on both contract research projects and publicly-funded research projects to which the company contributed. The work has included assessments of Danisco's multi-enzyme product Porzyme® on wheat quality in pigs, fibre on digesta passage rate and gut microbial communities, and of enzymes on pea protein quality. Dr Owusu-Asiedu obtained his BSc in Agricultural Science at the University of Science and Technology in Kumasi, Ghana, before gaining an MSc in animal nutrition and a PhD at the University of Manitoba. He has also produced a number of scientific papers and presented at conferences.
As Regional Technical Services Manager for the Americas, Dr Milan Hruby is responsible for delivering technical support to Danisco Animal Nutrition's distributors and customers throughout North, South and Central America. Based in Minnesota, he reports to Dr Tom D'Alfonso, the company's regional director. Milan joined Danisco Animal Nutrition as Regional Technical Manager for Europe in 1998 and subsequently as part of its Global Technical Team, was instrumental in developing and launching many of the company's innovative products and services, including Phyzyme® XP and Avicheck™ Corn. Having gained his MSc in monogastric nutrition, Milan subsequently completed a PhD in poultry nutrition at the University of Minnesota.
Dr Ceinwen Gilbert, who takes over from Milan as Technical Services Manager within the Global Technical Team, will be responsible for launching Danisco's pipeline of new products, services and applications to the pig and poultry sectors. Reporting to Dr Gary Partridge, Technical Services Director, she will operate from Danisco Animal Nutrition's head office in the UK. Ceinwen, who has been with the company for the past four years, until recently as Regulatory Affairs Manager, has a PhD in poultry nutrition from Aberdeen University and a degree in animal science from Nottingham University.
Danisco Animal Nutrition, a division of leading global food ingredient specialist Danisco A/S (Denmark), pioneered the development and use of enzymes and betaine in animal nutrition. Its products are now widely used by poultry and pig producers throughout the world. The company's mission is to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions that increase the efficiency and safety of the food production chain in an environmentally responsible way.


Providence Friends Meeting in Providence, Rhode Island is a new addition to the Sacred Spaces of New England project. While Quakers do not believe that meeting for worship necessarily requires a special place, Providence Monthly Meeting was established in 1718 and due to the growth of the Quaker community in the area, a meeting house was established. Its current building, completed in 1953, reflects the philosophy of a Quaker Meeting House with its absence of liturgical symbols and simplicity of design.
If you would like to learn more about the meeting house, please visit the Providence Meeting's entry on the Sacred Spaces of New England website.


Former Sen. Mike Lee chief of staff Boyd Matheson and former DC Democratic Party Chairman Scott Bolden on the government shutdown over funding for a border wall.
A partial government shutdown stretched into its third week on Saturday after congressional leaders and President Trump failed to reach a bipartisan funding deal because of a dispute about how much money to allocate to a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border.
And there's no near-end in sight: Trump, while meeting with Democratic leaders on Friday, reportedly threatened to shutdown the governemnt for "months or even years."
Although about three-fourths of the government remained open, the shutdown still has sweeping ramifications – and not just for the hundreds of thousands of furloughed government employees.
These are some of the unlikely ways that a government shutdown can impact your everyday life.
Tourism: On Wednesday, the Smithsonian Institution announced that all of its museums and the National Zoo will be closed because of the shutdown.
The Smithsonian previously used its prior-year funding to remain open through the end of 2018, but said it planned to close on Wednesday if the shutdown hadn't ended yet. The animals continue to be cared for.
But it's not the only national tourism site affected by the shutdown: Arches and Canyonlands in Utah and Yellowstone National Park have announced full or partial closures because of personnel shortages, according to NPR.
Although some national parks, including Yosemite and Joshua Tree in California, remained open, they're making do with fewer resources – including restrooms.
Because trash collection was suspended due to the shutdown, garbage and human waste are piling up in Yosemite, according to The Los Angeles Times, prompting the closure of two campgrounds.
Joshua Tree is also closing campgrounds due to health and safety concerns caused by toilets at near-capacity.
Loans: Several government agencies that give out loans are unable to do so because of a lapse in federal funding.
The Small Business Administration (SBA), which approved more than $30 billion in loans to companies in the fiscal year that ended in 2017, is unable to process the loans, USA Today reports.
It's also possible that new housing development grants and housing quality inspections could be delayed, along with loans for new homebuyers, according to NPR.
Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said it would discontinue the provision of new rural development loans and grants for housing community facilities, utilities and business until the shutdown ends.
Small business: Of the roughly 30 million small businesses across the U.S., many are feeling the pressure because of the shutdown.
Without workers at the SBA to process loan applications, small businesses are forced to look elsewhere for capital, or wait until the budget impasse ends. According to Forbes, during a 16-day government shutdown in 2013 under former President Barack Obama, small business loan approval rates dropped from 50 percent to 44.3 percent at small banks. At big banks, it dropped nearly 20 percent.
Because foot traffic in popular tourist areas is expected to fall, that could hurt nearby small restaurants, bed-and-breakfasts and boutiques.


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The Life and Legacy of Alejandro Abellan
December 28, 2022 December 27, 2022 Rosella 0 Comments
Alejandro Abellan was a renowned Spanish artist and painter who is best known for his vibrant, colorful works of art. He was born in Madrid in 1936 and is credited with being one of the pioneers of the New Spanish Painting movement. Abellan's paintings are characterized by their strong colors, bold lines, and abstract forms. Throughout his lifetime, he has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work. This article will take a closer look at the life and legacy of Alejandro Abellan, including his early life and education, professional career, achievements, personal life, major works of art, style and influences, recognition and awards, and legacy.
I. Introduction to Alejandro Abellan:
II. Early Life and Education:
III. Professional Career:
IV. Achievements:
V. Personal Life:
VI. Major Works of Alejandro Abellan:
VII. Style and Influences:
VIII. Recognition and Awards:
IX. Legacy:
X. Conclusion:
Alejandro Abellan was a Spanish painter and artist born in Madrid in 1936. He is best known for his vibrant, colorful works of art and is credited with being one of the pioneers of the New Spanish Painting movement. Abellan's works are known for their bold lines, vivid colors, and abstract forms. Throughout his lifetime, he has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work.
Abellan was born in Madrid in 1936 and was exposed to art from a young age. He studied art under the tutelage of his father, a renowned painter in his own right. After completing his studies, Abellan attended the Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid, where he further honed his creative skills.
Abellan became a professional artist in the late 1950s and soon gained recognition for his work. He was a part of the New Spanish Painting movement, which sought to modernize Spanish art and break away from traditional styles. Abellan embraced this new direction and his works soon became popular among art enthusiasts.
Abellan was an incredibly successful artist who achieved much during his lifetime. He was featured in numerous exhibitions and his works were collected by galleries and museums around the world. Abellan was also a prolific painter who created hundreds of works of art throughout his career.
Abellan was married to Maria Teresa and together they had three children. In his personal life, Abellan was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling, especially to places with beautiful landscapes. He was also passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring artists.
Abellan's most famous works include "The Bathers" (1966), "La Lluvia" (1966), and "La Danza" (1968). He also created numerous landscapes, still lifes, and abstract works. All of his works are characterized by their bold colors, strong lines, and abstract forms.
Abellan's style was heavily influenced by the New Spanish Painting movement and its emphasis on modernizing Spanish art. He was also heavily influenced by the works of his father and other artists such as Joan Miró, Salvador Dalí, and Pablo Picasso.
Abellan has received numerous awards and recognitions for his work, including the Medal of Honor from the Spanish Ministry of Culture, the Gold Medal of Merit in the Fine Arts from the Spanish Royal Academy of Fine Arts, and the Grand Prize from the International Biennial of Painting.
Abellan was an incredibly influential artist who has left a lasting legacy on the world of art. His works have been featured in numerous exhibitions and are part of permanent collections in galleries and museums around the world. He has also inspired many aspiring artists with his unique style and vibrant works of art.
Alejandro Abellan was a renowned Spanish artist and painter who is best known for his vibrant, colorful works of art. He was a pioneer of the New Spanish Painting movement and left a lasting legacy on the art world. Abellan's works are characterized by their bold lines, strong colors, and abstract forms. Throughout his lifetime, he received numerous awards and recognitions for his work.
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Recommendations from NPR's Books We Love
By Maureen Pao
Published December 11, 2022 at 4:20 PM CST
It's December, and that means it's time for NPR's Books We Love. That's our curated collection of recommendations from 2022. And I'm told that many people would appreciate some light reads during what can be a hectic season. So we called Maureen Pao from NPR's Culture Desk to help us. And she is with us now. Maureen, thank you so much for joining us. Thanks so much for walking down the hall.
MAUREEN PAO, BYLINE: Absolutely, Michel. It's my pleasure.
MARTIN: So before we dive in, would you just say a little bit more about Books We Love?
PAO: Absolutely. It is a massive labor of love. And this year, NPR staffers and freelancers picked more than 400 of their favorite books from the year. You can see the whole list if you go to npr.org and search specifically, you know, for things like book club ideas or memoirs or graphic novels. And the really cool thing is, I think especially as we're going into the gift-giving season, is that you can mix and match different genres. So let's say you're looking for a gift for your dad, and he likes thrillers that have a historical twist. You can select both of those categories and hopefully come up with a really good gift for him.
MARTIN: So let's say you're looking for a little light reading because the news is heavy and you want a little bit of a distraction. What do you recommend?
PAO: All right. So I have a couple of choices for you here. First up is a rom-com that is come to us from across the pond. It's called "Honey And Spice." It's by a British author named Bolu Babalola. And our reviewer called it Beyonce meets Jane Austen on a London campus. It follows a spicy female college DJ who spins hip-hop and also dispenses advice on how to avoid relationships. So she's kind of an anti-relationship guru. And she literally runs into the hot new guy on campus. She immediately sizes him up as bad news and to be avoided at all costs. So they start out as adversaries. But, as we know, first impressions are often very, very wrong. So...
MARTIN: That sounds very cute. OK. If meet-cute isn't your thing, how about another one?
PAO: OK, so if meet-cute is not your thing, then we have a heist/rollicking caper, but it does have some romance in it. Of course, like any good caper, it's set in Las Vegas. And it's called "Partners In Crime" by Alisha Rai. The main character is an accountant, and all she really wants is to settle down with a nice Indian boy. But fate intervenes, and her aunt dies. And that brings her face to face with a handsome ex-boyfriend. And not only are they thrust together, they're actually kidnapped together. And so during one action-packed night, they've got to recover a stolen diamond necklace with gangsters on their trail. And it's all very, very "Ocean's 11," which, you know, in my book is a good thing.
MARTIN: I bet a screenplay is coming, right? It just - it sounds like it's - (laughter).
PAO: It definitely struck me that way.
MARTIN: Right. OK, so if rom-coms aren't your thing, do you have some other picks for somebody that's still a little on the lighter side?
PAO: Absolutely. I got you. My first recommendation is a memoir. It's called "The World's Worst Assistant," and it's by Sona Movsesian. And she's the long-time assistant to Conan O'Brien. And, you know, she's actually really hilarious herself. This book is billed as a how-to guide to getting away with doing as little as possible on your job. You know, for instance, she once binge-watched 58 episodes of the TV show "Friends" while she was on the clock.
PAO: And she's definitely going for this, like, slacker, deadpan vibe. But, you know, she made it to the top echelons of Hollywood. So there are a lot of layers to the story.
MARTIN: I'm not sure I want to be encouraging people to read how to be a slacker. I don't know - I'm not quite sure who I'm giving that to. But how about one more?
PAO: OK. Well, you know, if you don't want to teach people how to be a slacker, I'm not sure you're going to like this next one, which is called "How To Take Over The World." And it's basically - you know, the subtitle of the book is "Practical Schemes And Scientific Solutions For The Aspiring Supervillain." And so I think that tells you everything you need to know about this book. It's by Ryan North, and he's written chapters on things like cloning dinosaurs and time travel and controlling the weather and other dastardly deeds. So it's, like, these outlandish scenarios. It's really cheeky writing, but he backs it up with facts and research. So it makes science a lot of fun. But again, I don't know. Do you want to give a gift that's going to tell people how to be a supervillain? I don't know.
MARTIN: I don't know. Maureen, I'm kind of seeing a theme here. Maybe we should chat later. But - (laughter).
PAO: My subconscious is coming to the conscious, I guess.
MARTIN: I see that. I see that. Well, all right. Well, thanks so much for these suggestions. Thanks, Maureen. That's Maureen Pao from NPR's Culture Desk. Maureen, thank you so much.
PAO: Michel, thank you.
(SOUNDBITE OF GLASS ANIMALS SONG, "GOOEY") Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.
Maureen Pao
Maureen Pao is an editor, producer and reporter on NPR's Digital News team. In her current role, she is lead digital editor and producer for All Things Considered. Her primary responsibility is coordinating, producing and editing high-impact online components for complex, multipart show projects and host field reporting.
See stories by Maureen Pao


Oliver Miede and Barbara Nuddle own a video production company, Life Out Loud, that helps preserve family histories.
Some of their projects are as simple as an interview, starting at around $2,500, and others are full-blown documentaries with family photos, home movies and music that can top $30,000.
Today, Life Out Loud interviewed Richard and Audrey Lasday, a couple in its 80s. Their daughter, Deborah, says her mother's recollections arefading and with it, the opportunity to save a lifetime of shared memories.


Chris Hipp is a technology visionary, blade industry pioneer and tireless evangelist for efficient computing. In late December 1999, Mr. Hipp co-founded RocketLogix, Inc. with partners John Harkey and John Cracken in pursuit of dramatically improved data center efficiency. There, he originated, designed and patented the then revolutionary concept of low power consumption, ultra-dense Blade Servers. Based on this potentially disruptive innovation, RocketLogix was able to raise $59M in venture funding and soon thereafter became RLX Technologies.
Mr. Hipp served as RLX Chief Technology Officer through 2001, and in May of that year RLX introduced its first product, the System 324. The System 324 was at that time the world's first ultra-dense blade server system and it ignited a major shift in server hardware architectures. RLX was number five on Red Herring's top 10 companies to watch in 2001 and received the praise of numerous articles and analyses predicting the rise of blade computing.
In 2002, RLX continued to innovate its integrated hardware platform and the complex software required to manage it. Despite a poor economic climate, the company persevered to become a leader in the emerging blade computing market. During 2002, Mr. Hipp served as market and technology evangelist for RLX and worked closely with Los Alamos National Laboratory on the launch of the widely acclaimed "Green Destiny" cluster. Aptly named, Green Destiny was the first serious research effort to bring efficiency to High Performance Computing (HPC).
Before founding RLX, Mr.Hipp founded and operated a Silicon Graphics (SGI) Value Added Reseller (VAR) business in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. The company, Digital Media Performance Labs (DMPL), specialized in selling high-end servers, networking, systems and software for graphics and video editing. The company was the first exclusive Discreet Logic high end systems reseller and provided end-to-end support and services to TV stations, post houses, animation companies and agencies in the Texas/Oklahoma region.
Mr. Hipp ended his two and a half year odyssey at RLX in September 2002 and moved to Silicon Valley in order to pursue opportunities which address new and emerging markets. He remains committed to efficiency in computing and has been working with several promising technology start-ups that allow him to apply his strong creative vision and inventive problem solving ability. Mr. Hipp is a natural artist and his formal background is in graphic design and illustration.
Design Recommendations for High-Performance Data Centers.
International Conference, Rational Use of Energy in Data Centers.