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Month of May Reports from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway along with auto racing news & commentary during the course of the year …
Archive for May 26, 2016
Carlin Racing's Ed Jones to Start from Pole in Friday's Freedom 100 …
Posted: May 26, 2016 in Uncategorized
By: IndyCar.com
INDIANAPOLIS – Ed Jones was the fastest through the first half of qualifying today for the Freedom 100, until a rain washed out the remainder. No matter, the points leader will still lead the field to the green flag for the premier event on the Indy Lights presented by Cooper Tires schedule.
Jones, in the No. 11 Carlin Dallara IR-15, clocked two laps at more than 197 mph to set the pace early. Zachary Claman de Melo crashed on the second lap of his qualifying attempt shortly after, and the rains began as the track was being cleaned.
The starting grid will be set by points, putting Jones on the pole. Santiago Urrutia will share Row 1 in the No. 55 Schmidt Peterson Motorsports with Curb-Agajanian. Sixteen cars are entered.
The 40-lap race will be telecast live as part of NBCSN's Miller Lite Carb Day coverage.
Lilly Diabetes joins as Co–Primary Sponsor for Conor Daly's No. 18 Honda …
Dale Coyne Racing today announced that Lilly Diabetes of Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly and Company will serve as co-primary sponsor of the No. 18 ShirtsForAmerica.com / Lilly Diabetes Honda driven by Conor Daly, in the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil.
As part of the sponsorship, Daly's No. 18 car will run a special patriotic paint scheme with a series of four stars, one colored in blue to recognize the one in four veterans who live with diabetes, which is two and a half times greater than the general population.
Daly was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 14 in 2006. Now 24, Daly continues to manage his diabetes through proper diet, exercise and medicines. The Noblesville, Ind., native wears a glucose monitoring system to help manage his diabetes and his No. 18 Honda is equipped with a glucose monitoring readout device.
"It's a pretty exciting time for our race team to have Lilly Diabetes come on board for the Indy 500 this weekend," Daly said. "It's personal to me and also to so many people living with and managing diabetes. Being an Indiana native and having a company like Lilly help us bring awareness to the number of veterans living with diabetes is something really special."
The team announced last week that Indianapolis Colts punter Pat McAfee's new company, ShirtsForAmerica.com, would be a primary sponsor for the Indianapolis 500. For each T-shirt sold on the site, a portion of the proceeds goes to Wish For Our Heroes – founded by military veterans to help veterans – and the Pat McAfee Foundation that has given more than $150,000 in scholarships to children of military families.
The tie-in with the two sponsors was a natural, according to team owner Dale Coyne.
"We are proud to partner with Lilly Diabetes for the Indianapolis 500 to help bring awareness to the number of veterans living with diabetes and help connect fans with Lilly as a resource for proper management of diabetes," Coyne said. "With the Memorial Day weekend and the sponsors we have on Conor's car, we couldn't be more excited about Sunday's race."
Lilly has been providing solutions and support for people affected by diabetes since 1923 when the company introduced the world's first commercialized insulin. Many of the company's programs and solutions are designed around feedback from people who live with the disease every day.
Stinger raises $900,000 for charity, then is donated to IMS Museum …
The Stinger, an Indy car created by John Andretti and long-time sponsorship partner Window World to honor the Centennial era of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, sold at auction Wednesday night for $900,000 at the Dallara Factory in Speedway, Ind.
Proceeds from the sale of the race car, designed to resemble the Marmon Wasp that Ray Harroun drove to victory in the first Indy 500 in 1911, which is signed by 249 drivers who competed in the Indianapolis 500, benefited St. Jude Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. Window World is donating $189 for each signature, meaning the car has raised more than $1 million for St. Jude.
The winning bidder, a group of 10 investors known as the Century Club, intends to donate the car to the IMS Museum.
Castroneves' Crew Set to Defend Pit Stop Challenge Title …
Helio Castroneves' No. 3 Pennzoil Team Penske Chevrolet crew will defend its TAG Heuer Pit Stop Challenge title against 11 challengers on Friday during Miller Lite Carb Day. With seven wins in the competition, Castroneves' crew has more than any other in the contest that started in 1977.
Castroneves' crew received a first-round bye into the quarterfinals in the draw, as did the crews for pole sitter James Hinchcliffe (No. 5 Schmidt Peterson Motorsports Honda), 2015 Indy 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya (No. 2 Verizon Team Penske Chevy) and reigning Verizon IndyCar Series champion Scott Dixon (No. 9 Target Chip Ganassi Racing Chevy).
First-round crew pairings are: Matt Brabham (No. 61 PIRTEK Team Murray Chevy) vs. Ryan Hunter-Reay (No. 28 DHL Honda), Charlie Kimball (No. 42 Tresiba Chip Ganassi Racing Chevy) vs. Graham Rahal (No. 15 Steak 'n Shake Honda), Sage Karam (No. 24 Gas Monkey Energy Chevy) vs. Carlos Munoz (No. 26 United Fiber & Data Honda), and Takuma Sato (No. 14 ABC Supply AJ Foyt Racing Honda) vs. Mikhail Aleshin (No. 7 SMP Racing Schmidt Peterson Honda). The complete challenge bracket is below.
Brabham's crew will consist of the honorary CK Crew of military veterans and first responders gathered from around the nation. They have been undergoing extensive training in Indianapolis the past 10 days under the guidance of Jim Leo from PitFit Training.
The winning crew earns $50,000 and second place $15,000, with prize money decreasing to $2,000 each for the ninth- through 12th-place finishers.
More goings on at the Brickyard …
Xtrac, the exclusive supplier of gearboxes to Verizon IndyCar Series teams since 2000, presented gearbox No. 100 to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum today in honor of the 100th Running of the Indianapolis 500. It was the 100th gearbox built by Xtrac for use in Verizon IndyCar Series competition. It was taken from production and modified with a cutaway view so museum visitors can see its inner workings …
Andretti Autosport announced that entertainment technology company Technicolor will be an associate sponsor of the No. 98 NAPA Auto Parts/Curb Honda driven by Alexander Rossi in Sunday's Indianapolis 500. The team also announced a partnership with Dickinson Fleet Services to provide complete management and maintenance service for the Andretti team of transport vehicles and be a sponsor of the No. 28 DHL Honda driven by 2014 Indy 500 winner Ryan Hunter-Reay.
Friday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway …
Carb Day at the Brickyard
INDIANAPOLIS, Thursday, May 26, 2016
Information about the 100th Indianapolis 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil on Friday, May 27, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Please note, all activities Friday are weather permitting
SCHEDULE (All times local)
8am-6pm — Public Gates Open
8am-9am — Historic Race Car Exhibition
9am-3:30pm — IMS Midway Open
9am-11am — Firestone Pin #2 Distribution – Pagoda Plaza
9am — USF2000 Car Unveil – Pagoda Plaza
10am-3pm — Pin Trading Program – Plaza Retail Shop
10:15am — 2016 Indianapolis 500 Driver Class Photo – Yard of Bricks
10:30am-10:45am — Sam Schmidt Laps
10:50am: Clint Brawner Award Ceremony – Victory Podium
11am-Noon — Verizon IndyCar Series Practice
11am-5pm — Ivy Tech Garage Tours
12:05pm — Indy Lights Freedom 100 Driver Introductions – Victory Podium
12:30pm-1:20pm — Indy Lights Freedom 100 Race
2:00pm-3:10pm — TAG Heuer Pit Stop Challenge
3:30pm-4:15pm — Neal Schon Vortex Concert – Turn 4 concert venue
4:30pm-6:30pm — Journey Concert – Turn 4 concert venue
6:15pm-7:30pm — IndyCar two-seater rides
TICKETS: General admission $30
PUBLIC GATES OPEN: 8am-6pm — Gate 1, Gate 10, Gate 10A, Gate 11A, Gate 12, Gate 1B, Gate 2, Gate 3, Gate 4, Gate 6, Gate 7 S Pedestrian, Gate 7 Vehicle, Gate 9, Gate 9A, Media Gate
STANDS OPEN: A Stand, B Penthouse (22-25), Backstretch family mounds, Backstretch mounds, E Penthouse, E Stand, Gasoline Alley Roof, Northwest Vista (1-4), Northwest Vista Deck, Northwest Vista Wheelchair (21), Paddock (12-20), Paddock Penthouse (16-28), Paddock press box, Pit Road Terrace, South Terrace, Tower Terrace (37-45), Tower Terrace Wheelchair, Turn 1 mounds, Turn 3 mounds, Turn 4 mounds, Wheelchair Accessible.
DAILY PARKING (OPENS 7 a.m.): Lot 1B – Paid Daily Parking, Lot 2 – Paid Daily Parking, Lot 3G – Paid Daily Parking, Main Gate – Paid Daily Parking, North 40 – Limited Free Infield Public Parking
MUSEUM HOURS: 9am-6pm Admission $10 for adults and $5 for fans 6-15 years old, with children under 5 free.
Tickets are now on sale for the Brickyard Vintage Racing Invitational, Lilly Diabetes 250, the Crown Royal 400 at the Brickyard and the Red Bull Air Race. Fans have three quick, convenient methods to buy tickets:
Online: Visit http://www.ims.com/tickets. Tickets are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
Phone: Call 800-822-INDY or 317-492-6700 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday.
In Person: Visit the IMS Ticket Office at the IMS Administration Building east of the 16th Street roundabout and outside Turn 1 of the oval between 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (ET) Monday through Friday.
Tickets for groups of 20 or more also are available. Contact the IMS Group Sales Department at 866-221-8775 for more information.
Information on parking & camping at IMS events is available at www.ims.com/tickets
Indianapolis Motor Speedway announces spectacular holiday event — 'Lights at the Brickyard' … coming in 2016
INDIANAPOLIS, Wednesday, May 25, 2016 – The Indianapolis Motor Speedway will bring new levels of cheer to this holiday season with a spectacular "Lights at the Brickyard" seasonal event. Attendees will experience more than 40 scenes filled with 400 light displays along a 1.7-mile driving experience, which includes crossing the famous "Yard of Bricks" at IMS.
"'Lights at the Brickyard' is going to be a fantastic holiday event that becomes a tradition for families from near and far," said Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles. "We're always looking for new ways to engage with the community year-round and this event is a perfect fit. This extravaganza will be a truly unique experience during the holiday season, combining world class lighting installations with a world-class driving experience through portions of our iconic racetrack."
In addition to the Lights at the Brickyard driving experience, other out-of-car holiday festivities and attractions will be offered for families to complete their adventure at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
Dates are subject to change, but the event is tentatively scheduled to run from Nov. 18-Dec. 31.
Exhibits will include festive holiday celebrations as well as racing-themed installations throughout the iconic venue.
IMS has partnered with Winterland Inc., an international leader in holiday light installations and events to deliver the thrilling experience.
"Winterland Inc. is a world leader in holiday festivities and it is a pleasure to partner with the 'Racing Capital of the World' to celebrate the holiday season in a truly unique setting," said Winterland Inc. President R. David Fred.
Early-bird tickets will start at just $20 per car and will be available at a later date on http://www.IMS.com, or by calling the IMS ticket office. A $40 early-bird pass will provide expedited passage into the event. Prices will eventually increase to $30 and $60 for each.
Commercial and community partnerships for Lights at the Brickyard are welcomed and will include custom-constructed lighting installations for corporate partners. All inquiries should be directed to IMS Senior Director of Music and Events, Kyle Krisiloff, via kkrisiloff@brickyard.com
New Indy 500 logo and 'Race to Renew' campaign to set pace for exciting 2017 …
INDIANAPOLIS, Thursday, May 26, 2016 — On the heels of yesterday's historic sellout announcement, Indianapolis Motor Speedway officials unveiled the 2017 Indy 500 presented by PennGrade Motor Oil logo today alongside an exciting "Race to Renew" campaign for current ticketholders.
The red, white and blue logo captures the patriotic nature of America's greatest Memorial Day Weekend tradition and projects the forward motion that drives both the Indy 500 and the Verizon IndyCar Series onward.
"This has been a year of growth and opportunity for the Verizon IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway," Hulman & Company CEO Mark Miles said. "The 100th Running has been a powerful reminder that the Indy 500 will always be so much more than just a race. The challenge and opportunity for the 101st Running is to ensure this momentum fuels progress in 2017 and beyond. I'm confident we'll get the job done."
The buildup for the 101st Running starts with "Race to Renew."
Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 30, fans will have 500 hours to purchase their tickets for the 2017 Indy 500. Those who do so will be able to lock in their current seats at the most recent price or be first in line for upgrades. They will also receive a number of other benefits including:
A commemorative 2016 Indy 500 DVD
IMS concert pre-sale access
Special insider access to events and experiences
Commemorative tickets and packaging (reorders only)
Access to a party 101 days out
"Hundreds of thousands of fans know the Indy 500 is the only place to be on Memorial Day Weekend," Indianapolis Motor Speedway President J. Douglas Boles said. "'Race to Renew' is the best way to ensure our current ticketholders, both newcomers and veterans, can lock in their seats and apply for upgrades first. I'm confident the 101st Running is a race they won't want to miss."
The "Race to Renew" reaches the finish line on June 8 at 8 p.m. More information can be found at www.ims.com/renew


Mintages, pricing and full background information on each product can be found on the "Shop" tab of http://www.mint.ca. Coin images are available here.
The Royal Canadian Mint is the Crown corporation responsible for the minting and distribution of Canada's circulation coins. The Mint is recognized as one of the largest and most versatile mints in the world, offering a wide range of specialized, high quality coinage products and related services on an international scale. For more information on the Mint, its products and services, visit http://www.mint.ca.


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10. April 2020 10. April 2020 by fnfeurope
Democracy – a Covid Collateral?
Opinion Piece by Irina von Wiese
Now, rather than after the end of the Covid-19 crisis, is the time for pro-democratic parties to act. Paralysed by the scale of the current threat, we are tempted to stick our heads in the sand and focus on survival. This is exactly what others are hoping for. They are seizing the moment, building on today's fear to instil tomorrow's obedience. If we don't take care, much of the damage done to basic rights, democracy and the rule of law will be irreversible.
As in all times of uncertainty and fear, approval ratings across the world are up for political leaders of all stripes. National and international coordination of relief requires leadership, and power to provide such leadership resides, mostly, with national governments. Opposition politicians and activists are told to shut up and support such efforts, and 'state of emergency' rules are enacted to overcome the slowness of democratic decision making.
Authoritarian leaders have moved quickly, using this opportunity to dismantle the last remnants of democracy. Within days of the outbreak of the pandemic, Hungarian PM Victor Orban outmanoeuvred the parliamentary opposition and enacted a law which makes the State of Emergency (declared earlier) indefinite and gives him powers to rule by decree. Having done its duty, Parliament was promptly suspended and all elections postponed until after the state of emergency – in other words, indefinitely.
The Chance Orban had been Waiting For
Over the course of the last ten years, Hungary has morphed from a (reasonably) liberal democracy into an authoritarian regime where history textbooks are re-written, disinformation spread to discredit opposition politicians and where infringements on press freedom crept from intimidation to unabashed threats. Ultra-nationalist and racist imagery and language vilify migrants and refugees, and paid thugs target critics. One of my former MEP-colleagues, a young opposition politician from Budapest, told me her boyfriend was mugged at regular intervals – always two days after she had tweeted something critical of Orban. Last year's local elections produced a glimmer of hope, with ruling party Fidesz losing Budapest and some major cities in an increasingly polarised society. Young urban elites, it seemed, were finally waking up.
And then an unexpected turn of events presented Orban with his long awaited opportunity. The Covid-19 pandemic has provided the perfect cover to complete his work and silence the opposition for good. Within weeks of the outbreak, Hungary has turned into a fully fledged dictatorship in law as well as spirit.
Poland is not far behind. True to its name, the governing Law and Justice party started by dismantling Poland's independent judiciary. This cleared the way for a more subtle crackdown on non-conformists. LGBT+ groups and members of minority religions became free-for-all targets in a society that was not, before the current regime, exceptionally bigoted, or racist. PM Mateusz Marowiecki's government made effective use of technology to plant seeds of hatred, including some disturbing anti-Semitic 'deep fakes'. In June last year, it enacted a law which makes it a crime to ascribe any responsibility for Nazi-era atrocities committed on Polish soil, to Poland.
So far, the firing of some overtly critical health workers aside, Poland has resisted the temptation to step up de-democratisation during the pandemic. But its previous deployment of manipulative technology indicates that here, as in other places, geo-tagging and data mining to curb the spread of a virus could be extended, seamlessly, to stifle the dissemination of subversive ideas.
Because these two countries back each other in the EU Council, each vetoing measures against the other, nothing much has happened to halt this process. Paralysed by its own statutes, the EU has stood by and watched.
Article 7 of the Treaty of the European Union allows for the suspension of rights (but not of membership itself) for Member States who persistently breach the EU's founding values, such as democracy and the rule of law. A qualified majority in the Council suffices to set the process in motion, but after various warnings, a unanimous vote (excluding the Member State in question) is required to determine that the breach is still occurring (I.e. 'persistent'). Only after this determination can rights be suspended.
Proceedings against Hungary were instigated by the European Parliament as long ago as June 2015, but despite various votes confirming and extending the scope of the proceedings, nothing but verbal warnings ensued.
Similarly, Poland become subject of Article 7 proceedings in 2017 – accused, rightly, of removing the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary. Any sanctions against Poland were vetoed by Hungary.
As for the European Parliament, which does have a majority voting system and a large pro-democratic majority, it has not even managed to suspend Fidesz representatives (although legally, there are good arguments that it could). Although the first choice of Hungarian Commissioner was successfully blocked over a legal issue, the second choice – a soft spoken career diplomat, still very much toeing the official Fidesz line – was approved. Hungary, a Member State gone rogue, retains the right to appoint a Commissioner, and there are only so many times the Parliament can say No. In fact,
both Hungary and Poland retain all membership rights, including substantial EU financial support.
While conciliatory measures are difficult, punitive ones are largely unfeasible. Permanent expulsion is impossible. There is simply no mechanism in any of the EU Treaties to kick out a Member State.
After almost 5 years, Orban and Morawiecki concluded that that they can continue to act with impunity.
'Now is not the time', liberal leaders say, 'we will deal with it later'.
This is particularly true where Liberal and Liberal Democrat parties are in opposition. Crises are not a good time for opposition. Critical voices are drowned out by fear; common sense is buried under blanket justifications for blanket policies. 'We need to pull together to defeat this virus' – if you don't, you are ignored at best, ostracised and blamed for disaster, at worst.
But, as the Hungarian example shows, later might well be too late. Failure to act now may result in irreversible damage.
Democracy and the rule of law are fundamental principles of the European Union, enshrined in Article 2 of the 1957 Treaty. Where they are abolished, gradually or suddenly, the EU needs to have powers to expel Member States like any other club. The fact that it doesn't is not only a structural flaw in its architecture, but a testament to the naive optimism of its founders. Economic interdependence and increasing legal integration, it was thought, would prevent any Member State from playing foul. Aspiring members undergo rigorous scrutiny, but no-one foresaw the possibility that an existing, fully vetted and approved member could go rogue.
Over the ensuing decades, the EU expanded, but its integration was never completed. Reluctant to hand over too much power, Member States retained the right of veto in the Council – a right to veto practically everything, including the safeguarding of the Union itself. Just as Orban outmanoeuvred the Hungarian Parliament, the EU outmanoeuvred itself.
Like no other shock to the system, the Covid-19 crisis has crystallised these issues. With his autocratic coup d'etat, Orban has finally forced EU leaders to take a position. Acting together, they could expel Hungary and deprive Poland, for the duration of the Article 7 proceedings, of its vote in the Council. It is legally tricky, but politically feasible and even if not strictly speaking compliant with the letter of the Treaty, the much better option if the aim is to uphold its spirit. The alternative is to emerge from the clouds of the pandemic with the EU damaged, toothless, and permanently discredited.
And to set a dangerous precedent for the rest of the world. Would-be dictators elsewhere are watching closely to see what EU Member States get away with. Authoritarian leaders are rolling out emergency legislation with sweeping rights to control freedom of movement, personal data and access to vital services. Basic human rights are suspended in the name of 'saving lives', without much public or parliamentary scrutiny, and often without time limits. This, rather than the virus itself, could prove to be the bigger killer.
Liberal Democracies are under attack in many parts of the world. In Europe, it is crunch time. The pandemic will pass, but the loss of basic human rights for many will not. Liberal Democrat values
are based on freedom, democracy and the rule of law, and it for us to speak up, and act, when they are under threat.
Irina von Wiese was a Liberal Democrat Member of the European Parliament (MEP) for London between 2019 and the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the EU. She is a candidate for the London Assembly elections in 2021.
Human Rights & Rule of Law	Corona Dictatorship, Coronavirus, Covid-19, Covid19, democracy, EU
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From Poland With Love – March →

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Atheists Disappointed with Boy Scouts' Continued Discrimination Policy
Staff ReportersMay 24, 2013
WASHINGTON, DC — The Secular Coalition for America today said the Boy Scouts' recent decision to allow openly gay boys is a positive step in the right direction, but does not go far enough. The SCA expressed disappointment that the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) has decided to continue its policy of discrimination against atheists and gay Scout leaders.
On Thursday, Boy Scouts leaders voted to open their ranks to openly gay boys for the first time. However, the Scouts' longstanding ban on atheists and gay adults remains.
Edwina Rogers, executive director of the Secular Coalition for America said the Coalition is pleased that the Scouts have decided to allow openly gay youth, but that it's not enough.
"Discrimination is wrong — whether it's directed at children or adults, atheists or the religious," Rogers said. "We will continue to encourage the Scouts to address the full range of discrimination against atheists and LGBT adults.
While the Boy Scouts is a private organization, it holds a Congressional Charter and accepts federal funds via the use of supplies, space and equipment.
Equal Opportunity regulations in the military explicitly prohibit support of organizations that discriminate, however, there is close collaboration between the military and the Scouts. The President of the United States traditionally serves as the honorary president of the BSA, and Eagle Scouts are given automatic promotions upon enlistment in all branches of U.S. military service. In addition, there are explicit regulatory concessions given to BSA to use on-post military buildings and to support Boy Scout Jamborees. Finally, the Department of Defense promotes scouting among military families.
"No organization that discriminates on the basis of religion or religious beliefs should receive federal support," Rogers said. "We look forward to a time when the Boy Scouts will be a completely inclusive organization that does not discriminate at all based on religious belief or sexual orientation."
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Da Yu Ling Oolong tea is considered to be the best high mountain tea in Taiwan. $52.00/ 75g.
This tea garden is below Taiwan Jade Mountain National Park. Surrounded by virgin forest. $32.00/ 75g.
The tea has a pale yellow color with a light orchid aroma. A slightly sweet but yet complex flavor. $28.00/ 75g.
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Prince Harry and his new bride Meghan are the latest in a long line of British Royals to tour New Zealand. The first was Albert, Queen Victoria's second son. he came to New Zealand in 1867 and amongst other things, toured Nelson and went pig hunting. To make your own visit fit for a King – or at least a prince – here's where you should go to give your New Zealand journey a "by Royal appointment" flavour.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex reach New Zealand at the end of a tour which first calls in at Australia, Fiji and Tonga. In Wellington, follow in their footsteps by visiting Government House. The base of the Governor-General, this 110 year old property can be visited on an organised tour.
Abel Tasman is also on the itinerary. The Royal couple will learn about the environmental challenges faced by New Zealand's national parks. You can visit Abel Tasman secure in the knowledge that your kayak trip won't harm this beautiful landscape.
Harry's elder brother William accompanied his parents on a New Zealand journey as a baby. The press went wild for him, prompting Charles to quip that no one was interested in shaking his hand as the crowd's focus was on the Princess of Wales and her infant son. Follow the Royal family's lead and pay a visit to Auckland's Eden Park. It was there that Prince Charles announced an extra day off for the nation's school children. A major sporting venue, it hosted the 2011 Rugby World Cup Final and has also been the home of the city's cricket and rugby teams. This multi-purpose venue was specially designed so that the South Stand seats retract. This ensures that the pitch meets the requirements of international cricket. While you're in Auckland, don't miss the many maritime attractions of this coastal city.
Alternatively, follow William's lead – as an adult he visited Christchurch post-quake.
It's no secret that the Queen is a huge fan of horse racing. During her 1953-54 tour, she visited 46 towns and carried out 110 engagements. Unsurprisingly, she attended meets at Ellerslie and Trentham race courses. The crowd were so excited to see their Royal visitor they turned their backs on the horses. It's easy to build in a visit to Ellerslie while in Auckland or Trentham as part of a Wellington visit. Or perhaps you're tempted to have a go at horse riding yourself, with these suggestions for places to ride.


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Q: Do I need grub? I installed Arch Linux on my iMac in its own partition. I'm using rEFIt to choose from Snow Leopard, Windows 7 and now Arch as well. I already install grub on Arch's partition when I installed Arch, but do I really need it? First I have to pick Arch from the rEFIt menu, then pick it again in the grub menu (and there are two items in it: Arch and Arch Fallback). So do I really need it? And if not how can I get rid of it?
Thanks.

A: I'd recommend against removing it. You definitely need something to boot the kernel, but I don't know if rEFIt can do it. Also if you screw up settings on Arch, you'd definately want to have fallback.
The easiest way to solve this would be to edit the timeout in grub.conf file. Just set it to 1 or 2 seconds so you can stop it if you need to actually do something in grub menu. I don't know where the grub.conf is in Arch, but check under /boot. There is a high probability that it would be there.
EDIT: My mistake. The file you need to edit is /boot/grub/menu.lst
Here's a link related to this question on Arch wiki: http://wiki.archlinux.org/index.php/GRUB

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text: pip install -q psycopg2

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


I keep getting an error code of 3527, this happened after we had a power outage. The printer head will not return to centre of the track when you open the door to replace any inks?
alowe5 will be eternally grateful.


Hearing your child is being bullied is never easy. In fact, it is hard not to have an emotional reaction. You may be tempted to jump on the phone and call the bully's parents. Maybe you are considering posting a rant on social media.
Ideally, though, you won't do any of these things. Instead, you will respond calmly. Listen to everything your child has to say and then validate his feelings. By doing so, you are giving your child the best chance of moving beyond this terrible ordeal. In fact, researchers have found that your response can have a significant impact on your child's recovery. Additionally, your response impacts how he will cope with the bullying and move on.
If your child is being bullied, there are ways to help lessen its lasting impact. For instance, focus on offering comfort and support no matter how angry or upset you are. Remember, kids often don't tell adults about bullying because they feel embarrassed, ashamed, or confused. You don't want to discourage him from telling you about the next incident.
Also, be sure you practice effective listening and avoid asking questions like "what did you do to cause it?" You also don't want to interrupt, criticize, or minimize what your child has experienced. Instead, focus on what he is saying. It also helps to make these six encouraging statements to your child.
Sometimes, kids keep silent because they are worried that reporting bullying will cause it to get worse. Other kids are worried about an adult's response. For instance, they question whether adults will do anything about the bullying. And they worry that they will be encouraged to fight back when they are too scared to do anything. As a result, it's important to praise your child for speaking up about the bullying. Acknowledge how difficult it is to talk about it. And be sure your child knows that reporting bullying is not only brave but also the best way to overcome bullying.
Sometimes kids feel like they did something to cause the bullying. So telling an adult just deepens their embarrassment and shame. Remind your child that bullying is a choice the bully makes and that the responsibility for the bullying lies with bullies. Also be sure your child knows that he is not alone. Bullying happens to a lot of people, but together you are going to figure out what to do.
Asking your child how he wants to handle the bullying demonstrates that you trust his decisions. It also empowers him to move out of a victim mentality and develop a feeling of competency again. It's never a good idea to take over and fix things for your kids. Instead, focus on helping him explore different options for dealing with the situation and then support him in those options.
While teaching your child problem-solving skills is important, do not delay contacting school officials especially if your child has been threatened, physically harmed or the bullying is escalating. It's also important to bring school personnel into the loop even when it is relational aggression. All types of bullying have consequences and any delay in getting outside help could make things worse for your child.
Getting your child to move beyond bullying incidents and think about the future is key. Aside from practical advice like walking to class with a friend or eating lunch with a buddy, have your child identify where the bullying hot spots are in the school. If at all possible, your child should avoid these areas. Additionally, get your child involved in outside activities and find things that will build self-esteem. Also, listen to your child. Let him tell you what he thinks might work. Your child's creativity might surprise you. Then, do your best to help him put those ideas into action.
This may sound like a silly question, but when it comes to bullying, your child's peers can do a lot to help prevent future bullying incidents. In fact, research has shown that friendships help prevent bullying. Get your children to think about the kids they can count on at school. For instance, is there someone he can walk to class with? Is there someone he can sit with at lunch and on the bus? If your child feels like he does not have friends, look for ways to help him develop friendships. Also, ask him to identify a trusted adult he can turn to at school for help.


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A Look Back at the Supreme Court's 2014 Opinions
Jeffrey Johnson is a legal writer with a focus on personal injury. He has worked on personal injury and sovereign immunity litigation in addition to experience in family, estate, and criminal law. He earned a J.D. from the University of Baltimore and has worked in legal offices and non-profits in Maryland, Texas, and North Carolina. He has also earned an MFA in screenwriting from Chapman Univer...
Written by Jeffrey Johnson
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As the Supreme Court wraps up a busy, and important, 2014 term, we have an opportunity to reflect on the significant decisions that will impact the legal community for years to come. While Burwell v Hobby Lobby received the lion's share of the headlines, and criticism, there were a number of key decisions this year that are worth exploring as the Court prepares for the next term.
Important Supreme Court Decisions of 2014
From criminal law to constitutional law, SCOTUS covered a wide range of topics this year, and delivered a number of opinions that will create long lasting ripples across American jurisprudence. Of note:
Cell Phone Search: We previewed the cell phone search cases here, and in late June, the Supreme Court concluded that data on cellular phones cannot be searched without use of a warrant, even if the phone is seized at the time of an arrest. Although police officers may seize a phone during an arrest, SCOTUS determined that authorities may not access the data contained within without first obtaining a search warrant from a judge. Writing that data on a cellphone cannot be used to harm an officer or facilitate escape, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that there are not immediate circumstances that justify conducting a search at the time of arrest. Finding that officers can minimize the risk of remote data wiping by removing phone batteries or making use of a Faraday bag, Justice Roberts concluded that the data could easily be preserved if and when a warrant for search of the phone was issued. Justice Roberts did note that the police may find themselves faced with circumstances that justify an immediate search – like the need to immediately access data to prevent further crimes – but those situations are to be the exception and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Presidential Recess Appointments: A unanimous SCOTUS concluded that President Obama had violated the Constitution with a series of 2012 recess appointments to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). In NLRB v Noel Canning the Court found that the President had been too aggressive in declaring the Senate to be on recess when he made NLRB appointments, and had therefore overstepped his authority. At the time of Obama's recess appointments, the Senate was convening only every three days and was not conducting business, but the Court determined that the infrequent gatherings were sufficient to qualify the body as being "in session." Writing for the majority, Justice Stephen G. Breyer noted that Obama, and future presidents, retain the authority to make unilateral appointments when the Senate is away for more substantial recesses.
Affirmative Action: A 6-2 divided Court upheld an amendment to Michigan's state constitution which prohibited the use of racial considerations in university admissions – thus allowing states to ban affirmative action. Finding that nothing in the Constitution prohibited a law that eliminated racial treatment – even positive – the Court declined to overturn Michigan's somewhat controversial approach.
Abortion Protests Zone: A unanimous Court found that a 2007 Massachusetts law which banned abortion protests within a 35-foot zone of the clinic violated the protestors' First Amendment Freedom of Speech. Finding that the state could have found a less-restrictive way to protect women who were entering clinics to receive abortions and ensure safety, SCOTUS invalidated the overly-broad legislation.
In addition to these decisions, the Court shot down Aereo's streaming TV model, upheld a town's right to start public meetings with a prayer, and changed campaign finance law. For more on the SCOTUS term, including summaries from written opinions, take a look at this article over at the Washington Post.
Looking ahead to the next SCOTUS Term
After a term littered with meaningful opinions across a variety of legal topics, it is hard not to expect more significant opinions in the Supreme Court's next docket of cases. Today, the Court released its schedule for October oral arguments, and there are some notable highlights:
Holt v Hobbs: Challenge the legality of a prison system's ban on inmate facial hair grown for religious reasons.
Kansas v Nebraska and Colorado: Challenge from the state of Kansas that alleges Nebraska is using too much water from the Republican River.
Heien v North Carolina: Review of the constitutionality of a traffic stop if the police made a mistake in believing a law had been broken.
Lurking in the wings is Utah's promise to appeal a recent 10th Circuit decision that upheld a challenge to its ban on gay marriage. Given the significance of the issue, Utah's appeal could be fast tracked to the Supreme Court, potentially forcing SCOTUS to directly consider the constitutionality of gay marriage bans as soon as next year.


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David's Tabernacle: Building Altars of Prayer and Worship in Our Cities
Michael Thornton June 9, 2020 Awakening, Prayer Leave a Comment
by Michael Thornton
Amos' Ancient Prophetic Word:
"In the last days, I will restore David's fallen shelter. I will repair its broken walls and restore its ruins and will rebuild it as it used to be." Amos 9:11
The church is in a reformation. The times we are living in demand it. Even though social media has connected us on a global level, many people remain divided by culture and race. The streets of America are aching for healing and reconciliation at many levels of society. Government and policy action can only place a bandage on a gaping wound that runs deep into America's fabric. It will take more than policy and apologies to bring people together again. Only a united church can heal a divided nation. God's presence is the only hope for America for sustainable change.
King David also lived in similar times thousands of years ago. The nation of Israel was culturally and politically divided. Communities were fragmented. There was a major disconnect between the law enforcement and local communities. The whole nation was on edge. The atmosphere was filled with anger, hostility, and civil unrest because of King Saul's prior leadership. In the midst of this crisis, King David brings a solution. He recovers the Ark of the Covenant (Presence) and places it in a tent in the middle of his city. He gathers and employs over 4,000 musical prophets and initiates a 24/7 worship reformation that lasts 40 years. Imagine an unending worship & prayer meeting erupting from a team of over 4,000 prophetic musicians.
Worship, Prophecy, and Intercession was the spiritual DNA that David hosted around this tent known as the Tabernacle of David. Day and night and night and day live worship teams filled the atmosphere of the nation with endless love songs and powerful declarations of faith towards God. In this environment, love conquered fear and hope dominated despair. Instruments prophesied with words and young prophets spoke prophetically into the land. Fresh songs and new sounds were breaking off old patterns of distrusting behavior. The nation prospered and David's Tabernacle gave even the most common person direct access to connect with God's presence. There was no holy of holies. No high priest. Anyone at any given time could connect with God because live worship fostered Heaven's glory 24/7. David built a national altar of pure worship and prayer.
Music is a universal language. Music is a connector that brings people together. Prophetically inspired worship pierces the soul. It heals wounds and trauma no matter how deep and how ancient. It can do what a thousand sermons cannot. What if the rebuilding of David's tabernacle is the solution to our division? Can it be that simple? Never underestimate what 3 chords and a burning heart for God can do to demons and powers of darkness. If David's harp drove demons out of the King, then why can't someone's guitar played for God drive out evil forces over cities? It's time to build altars of unending altars of worship & prayer in our homes, communities, and cities.
Let the worshipers arise!
Michael Thornton
Michael lives with his wife and 6 kids in Reidville, SC and together they pursue an awakening of the hearts of worshipers in America.
Latest posts by Michael Thornton (see all)
David's Tabernacle: Building Altars of Prayer and Worship in Our Cities - June 9, 2020
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Cattle prices up P2 per kg
31 December, 2008 in Botswana, Business
GABORONE – Botswana Meat Commission (BMC) has decided to make significant changes to the prices of cattle sold to the abattoirs.
According to BMC's Chief Executive Officer, Dr Motshudi Raborokgwe, the price increase would lead to more money being in the pocket of the producer.
Dr Raborokgwe said in a press release recently that the move was due to the development of a plan to increase production at the abattoirs as well as good prices the commission continues to realise in the European Union market.
"The board has decided to make general price increase of P2.00/kg CDM for cattle of all grades delivered to BMC. This P2.00/kg increase is over and above the export parity which will continue to be the basis for cattle payments by the BMC," Dr Raborokgwe said.
Dr Raborokgwe added that the average weight of carcasses delivered to the BMC over the last 12 months has been 201kh, noting that the [continue reading]
Tati suspends operations
31 December, 2008 in Botswana, Business, Mining
FRANCISTOWN – Norilsk Nickel has suspended operations at the Tati Nickel Mine for 12 days as a result of the recent furnace breakdown of the BCL smelter.
A statement from the mine says they shut down from December 24 to January 5 while various options are being considered.
It further states that 90 per cent of the concentrate produced at the Tati Nickel Mine is trucked to the BCL.
Therefore, the mine is dependent on [continue reading]
Zimbabwe: Cholera Death Toll Now More Than 1,600, UN Reports
31 December, 2008 in Zimbabwe
The death toll from the worst cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe's history continues to rise and now stands at 1,608, the United Nations said today, adding that the number of cases of the acute intestinal infection caused by contaminated food or water has risen to 30,365 as of 29 December.
UN agencies are continuing their efforts to help the country to tackle the epidemic, which affects all provinces of the southern African country and comes amid a collapsing health system and worsening humanitarian situation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has in recent days set up a response team comprised of an environmental health officer, epidemiologists and data managers.
The agency has also presented the terms of [continue reading]
Police intercept cross border smuggling of wild animals
30 December, 2008 in Botswana
TSHABONG – The police are investigating a case in which two South Africans with the help of some Batswana tried to smuggle live wild animals, including elands and kudus into South Africa over the weekend.
Station Commander Mokolobetsi Marata said the police gave chase after locating the suspects who were using two vehicles, one belonging to Batswana and another to the South Africans.
Mr Marata said after the chase the police found the vehicle that was used by Batswana abandoned while the one used by the South Africans was no where to be found. The South Africans are said to have re-entered their [continue reading]
Cholera deaths soar in Zimbabwe
The latest figures from the UN and Zimbabwe's health ministry reveal that two-thirds of the victims of the cholera outbreak have died this month.
The death toll at the end of last week stood at 1,564, with 29,131 suspected cases since August, the UN said.
Figures from the health ministry on 1 December put cholera deaths at 484.
The UN has warned it could take six months to control the outbreak that has been fuelled by the collapse of the health, sanitation and water [continue reading]
Murder cases drop
GABORONE – The Police weekly report from December 15 to 21 shows that Botswana's murder rate dropped in the past year with 212 murder cases recorded in January 2008 as compared to 239 recorded last year.
Armed robbery cases rose to 2079 in 2008 cases compared with 2003 cases in 2007.
During the 12 months ending in December 2008, 421 people perished on the roads as compared to 463 lives lost in 2007.
Rape cases were higher with 1628 cases reported as compared to 1427 cases reported in the previous year.
In 2008 motor vehicle theft showed an upward trend with 477 cases reported whereas 409 cases were [continue reading]
South Africa: Council salaries to go up
30 December, 2008 in South Africa
source: IOL
By Lindsay Dentlinger
A backdated average salary increase of 11 percent awaits municipal councillors in the new year, which will put the total annual salary of the council's top earner, Mayor Helen Zille, at R858 260.
The Minister of Provincial and Local Government, Sicela Shiceka, has by way of a notice in the Government Gazette instructed that the increases be backdated to July. Councillors received only 7 percent in 2008 and an average of 5,75 percent in 2007.
In 2009 Zille's salary will be almost R200 000 more than when she took office in March 2006, when her salary was R669 214. The mayor's salary comprises a basic salary of R643 695 and a vehicle allowance of R214 564.
Deputy Mayor Grant Haskin (ACDP) and Speaker of [continue reading]
Christmas and New Year Message to the Nation by H.E. Lt. Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama President of the Republic of Botswana – December 2008
29 December, 2008 in Botswana, Speeches
source: REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA – OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
26/12/08 – Tautona Times Holiday Special
Below please find below transcripts in English (1) and Setswana (2) of H.E. the President's Christmas Day and New Year's message to the nation:
1) CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR MESSAGE TO THE NATION BY H.E. LT. GEN. SERETSE KHAMA IAN KHAMA PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF BOTSWANA – DECEMBER 2008
1. Bagaetsho! As we come to the end of another eventful year, it is a pleasure for me to have this opportunity to wish each and everyone a safe and pleasant holiday season.
2. For many of us this day holds a special significance as the anniversary of the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, a pivotal event for believers that marks a transformative moment in humanity's existence.
3. For all of us, this can also be a time of new beginnings, as we come together to enjoy an annual break from life's routine.
4. As many of us have the pleasure of returning to our home villages; and as we find comfort and draw strength in [continue reading]
Zimbabwe: Botswana Host Christmas Shoppers
29 December, 2008 in Botswana, Zimbabwe
UN Integrated Regional Information Networks
Francistown — The streets of Botswana's Francistown, about 110km from Zimbabwe's western border, are teeming with Zimbabwean shoppers ahead of Christmas.
But it is Christmas shopping with a difference. Most basic goods are not available in Zimbabwe, so the cross-border hop is a shop for everything – starting with the basics – and in the mix are job opportunities for other migrants.
"I started off carrying shoppers' bags and luggage to the bus or railway station for five pula (US$0.50) when I first ventured here," Priscilla Gombacheche, told IRIN, who has since found work as a domestic helper in one of Francistown's upmarket suburbs.
"When I got a job as a housemaid, I graduated from the nightmares of sleeping at the railway station. Every night I dreaded police raids. I now have a job and a roof over my head," the 18 year-old college drop-out, who arrived in Francistown five months ago from the dormitory town of Chitungwiza, about 60km from the [continue reading]
Land shortage hampers BHC projects
FRANCISTOWN – The Botswana Housing Corporation (BHC) envisages building 29 000 houses during National Development Plan 10 but this milestone could be held back by an acute shortage of land in strategic places around the country.
Speaking during the ground breaking ceremony to officially mark the development of 545 housing units in Gerald Estates in Francistown the corporation's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Reginald Motswaiso said they intend to build about 4 000 houses in Francistown but unfortunately the 313 039 metres squared piece of land was the last piece of land to be allocated to BHC.
"This milestone can only be achieved if there is sufficient land for carrying out projects of the envisaged magnitude, and it would definitely help us go even further should the land we acquire be serviced.
This calls for even stronger collaboration between and amongst all stakeholders especially but not limited to [continue reading]
Tsvangirai receives his passport
source: Zimbabwe Guardian
Our reporter/VOA
Sat, 27 Dec 2008
ZIMBABWE'S opposition Movement for Democratic Change leader Morgan Tsvangirai has received his passport together with a letter from President Robert Mugabe inviting him to join a unity government, MDC sources told VOA Friday.
Tsvangirai's travel documents were hand-delivered by South African High Commissioner to Botswana Milo Moopeloa.
The MDC leader had spent more than a year without a passport.
Sources in Harare and Pretoria are said to have told VOA that President Mugabe's letter to Tsvangirai was the required official communication inviting him to [continue reading]
South Africa: Webcam captures new life
December 27 2008 at 01:48PM
By Sheree Bega
Wildlife lovers around the world now have a bird's-eye view of the mysterious breeding habits of South Africa's only breeding population of lesser flamingoes at their acclaimed artificial breeding island in Kimberley.
A new live-streaming website, run by Africam, has been installed at Kamfers Dam, and for the first time, it offers rare close-up images of chicks hatching out of their eggs, parents feeding their chicks, as well as a rare glimpse into the breeding behaviour of 20 000 lesser flamingoes gathered at the permanent wetland.
The website project, co-ordinated by the Save the Flamingo Association, together with BirdLife SA and Africam, was unveiled this week.
Lesser flamingoes breed only at vast open pans and [continue reading]
UN says Zimbabwe cholera death toll over 1,500
GENEVA (AP): The death toll from a cholera outbreak in Zimbabwe has risen to over 1,500 and case fatality rates are increasing, the United Nations said Saturday.
Some 1,518 people have now died of the disease and a total of 26,497 cases have been recorded since the start of the outbreak in August, the World Health Organization said. More than two-thirds of deaths occurred in December alone.
Agency spokesman Paul Garwood said the cholera outbreak is still not under control and that neighboring countries such as South Africa and Botswana, where the disease has also been reported, should scale up their disease monitoring and preparedness. But the U.N. agency is counseling against mass vaccination campaigns, which it says are unproven and [continue reading]
DTC Botswana confident as crunch deepens
GABORONE – The Diamond Trading Company (DTC) Botswana remains confident of the long term sustainability of the industry despite the current global economic crunch, which has put the project under severe strain as a result of declining sales.
"We are also closely monitoring demand from our clients and are taking a conservative approach as we enter 2009 and beyond. We are an agile and nimble organisation ready to adapt to client demand as it shifts moving forward," the company's Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Mr Kago Mmopi said in an interview.
He said the long term dynamics of the diamond industry remains strong, saying with future demand growth in China and India, the demand for diamonds is predicted to surpass supply in the coming decade, placing the DTC Botswana in a very strong position.
Mr Mmopi said their belief in the future has encouraged them to show leadership by [continue reading]
South Africa: Men climb tower to be `closer to Jesus`
December 26 2008 at 07:47AM
Two men were rescued from a 50 metre radio tower in Lenasia on Thursday, after they climbed up to be "closer to Jesus" on Christmas, paramedics said.
"When we arrived at the radio tower at 7.30am, we found two men aged 28, and 30, sitting on the tower from the night before for almost 20 hours with no water or food," said ER24 spokesperson Werner Vermaak.
"A bystander who spotted the men sitting on the tower, alerted police and emergency services who then arrived at the scene and tried to persuade the men to climb down."
He said after the men refused to climb down, paramedics and members of the fire department climbed up the tower to [continue reading]


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India's squad for WI tour to be announced on July 21
First glimpse of Arjun, Gabriella's baby is out
India's UN vote against NGO not against Palestinian cause: MEA
In a move that made headlines all around the world, India on June 6, voted in favour of Israel blocking the Palestinian NGO Shahed's entry as an observer in the UN institution.
PM Narendra Modi | Photo Credit: ANI
New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified on Thursday that India's vote against a Palestinian Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), in the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) should not be viewed as a vote against the Palestinian cause.
In a move that made headlines all around the world, India on June 6, voted in favour of Israel blocking the Palestinian NGO Shahed's entry as an observer in the UN institution. India voted in favour of Israel after Tel Aviv said the NGO did not disclose its ties with Hamas.
"We voted in favour of a proposal which was submitted by Israel at the Economic and Social Council of the UN for further scrutiny by the committee on NGOs. The proposal was submitted by Israel based on information that the NGO allegedly has close contacts with terrorist organisations," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said.
India's vote was in conjunction with India's position on scrutiny of the NGO committee on technical grounds.
"Again, it should not be seen as something linked to the Palestinian cause. It is something we have done in the past. It was done so that proper vetting is done before it is admitted as an ECOSOC observer," Kumar added.
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu thanked PM Narendra Modi for India's vote.
"Thank you Narendra Modi, thank you India, for your support and for standing with Israel at the UN," Netanyahu said in a tweet on Wednesday. According to Israel's stated position, 'Shahed is a Palestinian organization based in Lebanon that claims to deal with human rights and humanitarian issues, but in practice is an organization that Israel has declared a terrorist organization and in fact, operates as an arm of the Hamas terror organization in Lebanon'.
The resolution was rejected by an overwhelming majority at the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on June 6.
55 Asia- Pacific nations back India at United Nations
A big diplomatic win for India: Asia-Pacific Group United Nations unanimously endorses India's candidature for a non-permanent seat of the Security Council for a 2-year term (2021-2022). 55 member countries came out in support for India. | Srinjoy with details. Watch!
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India's UN vote against NGO not against Palestinian cause: MEA Description: In a move that made headlines all around the world, India on June 6, voted in favour of Israel blocking the Palestinian NGO Shahed's entry as an observer in the UN institution. Times Now


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Veterans Day Spotlight: A Life Spent Delivering on America's Promise to Veterans
November 10, 2017 Sarah Clinton Leave a comment
Photo: This handmade presentation case, sent to Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 10454 in Grapevine, Texas, contains an American flag and an Afghan flag flown in Afghanistan in honor of Lisa Holmes. Also included was a note: "Sirs: please present this to Lisa Holmes, from the Soldiers of Camp Phoenix, Afghanistan." The gold inscription reads, "Lisa Holmes, Thank you from the Veterans."
As we commemorate Veterans Day, Consilium Staffing would like to recognize the work of Lisa Holmes, Consilium director of government services, who has dedicated more than thirty years to supporting United States veterans and active duty military.
Lisa Holmes means it almost literally when she says that her heart for veterans is just part of her DNA. With her extensive family military history—relatives on each side of Holmes' family have fought in every American war from the Revolution to Vietnam—Holmes has never known a life unaware of the pride, pain, and continuing sacrifice that comprise the aftermath of military service.
That legacy is part of why Veterans Day has been a meaningful, if bittersweet, event as far back as she can remember.
Photo: Holmes' parents in France, 1956. Holmes' father served in the Korean War. His brother—Holmes' uncle —was an Air Force lieutenant colonel who served in World War II, the post-war occupation of Berlin, and the Korean War, in addition to two tours of duty in Vietnam. Both men enlisted in honor of their father's service in the Spanish-American War. Holmes' two brothers served in the Air Force during the Vietnam era.
"Veterans Day has always been a big deal in my household," Holmes said. "I have vivid memories of the parades, big flags flying off our house, and old stories recounted by my grandfather, still the larger-than-life paratrooper right down to the boots he still wore on November 11. And truthfully, I wouldn't even be here had World War I not happened."
Holmes' grandparents were introduced by her great-uncle John Vincent McGee, or "Vin," when he insisted that his sister meet the war buddy with whom he had been instant friends (Holmes' grandfather). Just as he'd hoped, the two hit it off and soon became a couple. Unfortunately, while serving in the trenches during World War I, Vin had been poisoned with mustard gas, a chemical agent that causes severe blisters on the skin and inside the lungs.
"That mustard gas just ate him alive," Holmes said. "Uncle Vin didn't live long after the war. He had all these hopes and dreams—including owning his own potato chip company—that he never got the chance to pursue, and he never got the benefits he was promised. I don't ever want that to happen to another veteran, and I'll do anything I can to ensure that it doesn't."
For Holmes, virtually her entire career has been a means of furthering that goal. From 1983-1993, she served in Germany as a government service contractor for the United States Department of Defense (DoD). Holmes was responsible for ensuring that military units received all the supplies they needed—an especially important job in times of war. Holmes continued traveling between Germany and the United States to support the commands as needed until 2011.
Photo: Holmes accepting an award from Lieutenant General Pagonis in Kaiserslautern, Germany, upon his return from the First Gulf War
In 1998, after moving back to the United States, Holmes was offered a position with the quasi-governmental agency National Industries for the Blind (NIB), which creates federal career opportunities for blind individuals. The NIB is classified as a "mandatory source," meaning it has legal priority when federal entities determine from which companies to acquire products. Holmes, as national sales manager for the company, would travel to government facilities in her region to secure contracts for products made by NIB employees, ensure compliance with the law, and work to get suppliers on board with their mission.
Holmes recounts the story of meeting a young man whose NIB job was to make the 3M wound tape used by the military. He was 18 years old and had been blinded in a farming accident the year prior when a rock flew up and blinded him in both eyes.
"He gave me a tour of the workshop and proudly showed me their new break room, which was decorated with newspaper clippings about the military going back many decades," Holmes said. "When I asked him—without thinking—about the stories on the walls, he said, 'Ma'am, I will never be able to serve my country. But I will help all I can, and this is how I am going to do it.' All I could think was that this kid was willing to give as much as he could for his country, yet there were people showing reluctance to buy his product? Nope, not on my watch. It was at that moment that my work became a mission."
Photo: Holmes with Barbara Bush in 1998 while working on behalf of the NIB
In 1999, after the NIB underwent a vertical realignment (meaning that each individual would be in charge of a federal agency instead of a geographic territory), Holmes was told she would be tasked with selling to Veterans Affairs facilities exclusively.
"I was so upset at the time," Holmes said. "I had a long history with the Department of Defense and suddenly I was being shifted to Veterans Affairs, which had a terrible reputation at the time. We had all heard stories of bad things happening at VA facilities, and soon my name was going to be associated with that. But I sucked it up and did my duty despite everything, and I am proud that I was able to make a difference."
"Every time I walk into a Veterans Affairs hospital, I see evidence of my work."
Photo: Working with VA officials Cojean Sprouse and Norbert Matyniak on behalf of the NIB, November 2000
Holmes, who believes strongly in selling face to face when working with government agencies, established the very first VA optical shop run by a blind agency. Even more impressive, she eventually brought 75% of Veterans Affairs facilities under one procurement contract, a feat that was nearly unfathomable at the time.
"I rattled a lot of cages back then," Holmes recalled. "My work was not always embraced because there was just a certain way things were done. All these alliances had already been formed, and here I was upsetting the apple cart. There was one time in San Diego, after I had landed a significant contract, that a woman actually came up to me and spit in my face. It was a tough slog at times, but I just kept pressing on."
In 2001, Holmes received a call from Corporate Express (now a Staples company) with an offer to work as their federal sales director. After being promised that the company would automatically switch to products made by blind or handicapped workers—and would categorize the government as a prime vendor—Holmes agreed. Her new role allowed her to travel to approximately 75 different divisions and ensure that federally mandated products were stocked and sold in a manner compliant with the law.
Photo: April 2003, with representatives from the Hines VA Hospital and The Chicago Lighthouse, a social service organization that provides Veterans Affairs facilities with assistive technology for individuals who are blind or visually impaired
"I was able to do a lot of good in that position, and I always tried to get people on the same page instead of using the law to bully anyone into doing the right thing," Holmes said. "I also met a lot of people while I traveled, which enabled me to help get supplies where they were needed in emergencies, including 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina."
During Hurricane Katrina, it was Holmes' company that had the only warehouse—complete with supply trucks—left standing in the area. As a result, they were able to support the entire Gulf with supplies from a procurement cell set up in North Texas. Through her travels, Holmes also happened to have met the man who owned the only warehouse in America with enough towels and blankets that met the strict government requirements for use by FEMA.
However, Holmes said the employee in charge of the warehouse refused to open the doors. With no time to waste, she went right to the top: Holmes made a call to the owner, who just so happened to be a Marine veteran with two Purple Hearts.
"Ken drove down there with a bolt cutter, sliced through the padlock, kicked open the front door, and started loading trucks himself," Holmes laughed. "And he had that first truck loaded and in Dallas—all the way from Georgia—in about 12 hours. I told my boss we should stage FEMA trailers preemptively so they would already be loaded and ready when the next disaster hit. It took a while to implement because of all the regulatory hoops, but that is a program that still exists today."
In 2004, Holmes also was asked to run for a board seat with the American Logistics Association (ALA), an organization that was exclusively male at the time and, coincidentally, had strongly discouraged her membership in the 1980s (according to Holmes, the European chapter was quite reluctant to consider including women). When asked what the position would entail, Holmes was told she would go to Congress and lobby incessantly for the MWR (shorthand for the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation program) benefits that military members were supposed to have earned by virtue of their service.
Photo: 2003, at the Better Opportunities for Single Soldiers Conference, sponsored by the MWR Program, Corporate Express, and the U.S. Army
Holmes won the board position and served from 2005-2008. However, on one of her visits to the capitol, Holmes said she was given very disturbing news.
"One of my associates informed me that the transfer cases—which hold the remains of soldiers killed in action—were being ransacked en route from Iraq to Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany," Holmes said. "I was horrified, but I also knew there was a fix. I was determined to figure out who was doing this."
Modern radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology was still relatively new at the time, but Holmes knew that it held the key to determining when the cases were being opened—and thus, by whom. Thanks to that suggestion, and a connection with someone who knew the technology, Holmes said the culprit was apprehended soon thereafter.
"That was personal to me," Holmes said. "And it wasn't a business deal or anything that I profited from—nor did I need to. I simply provided a solution and connected people who could work together to implement it."
To Holmes, her career is best summarized as a quest to find innovative solutions to pressing problems, whatever those may be.
"There was one time in 2005 that I took a very big risk on behalf of the United States Army," Holmes said.
She had received a call from an Army contracting officer who asked for a large number of toner cartridges, a seemingly innocuous request. However, two commercial planes had been blown up at that airport two days prior, and the military was asking for the equivalent of about $6 million of printer ink. If she sent planes chock-full of supplies and they were subsequently destroyed, the loss would not be covered by insurance. With that great a loss, her company itself would have been at risk.
"I had to take a step back in my heart and evaluate the impact of my decision," Holmes said. "It was a huge risk, but they needed those supplies and they knew who to call to get them. After a short hesitance, I said, 'Yes sir, we will have it there—and your boys will protect my plane.' He replied, 'Yes ma'am,' and that's exactly what happened. I had effectively opened a supply chain from Europe into Iraq in theater, and that was when our guys rolled up and took over that airport."
After moving on from Corporate Express in 2007, Holmes brought her federal procurement expertise to several other mandated sources, most recently a service disabled veteran-owned small business based in Atlanta. By 2011, however, Holmes felt that her time dealing with products exclusively was coming to a close.
"At some point, I realized that I was just plain tired and decided to take some time off," Holmes said. "I was developing my patent at the time (editor's note: Holmes currently holds the U.S. patent for anti-microbial cards), but I needed to figure out what else to do with my spare time. I decided to put up a sign at my local VFW and offer assistance for veterans who needed transportation to doctors' appointments at the VA."
Holmes soon found herself not only transporting but actually accompanying veterans to their appointments. Several of her passengers had suffered traumatic brain injuries in combat and were unable to remember physician instructions, so Lisa sat in and took notes.
"During that time, I saw things that I had never even imagined as a vendor," Holmes said. "I was incensed about the way our veterans were being treated, and I thought, 'Boy, this is not what America thinks is going on here.'"
Around that time, Holmes received a call from Consilium Staffing.
"My journey to Consilium was very fortuitous," Holmes said. "My interest was piqued as soon as I heard they worked with qualified healthcare providers across the country. I realized I could play a small part in protecting veterans by ensuring they get the best healthcare possible."
Under her direction, a mere six months after being awarded its federal supply schedule, the Consilium Government Services Division won a $40 million contract to place quality healthcare providers in U.S. Army facilities.
Holmes recently attended a Concerned Veterans for America town hall meeting with Senator Ted Cruz, during which Cruz invited Holmes and Consilium executive vice president Matt Baade to Washington, D.C., to present solutions to existing problems in the delivery of federal healthcare at Veterans Affairs and military medical facilities. While in Washington, Holmes also met with Jan Frye, deputy assistant secretary for acquisitions and logistics at the Department of Veterans Affairs.
"It was an honor to present solutions to problems that have plagued federal healthcare for so long," Holmes said. "The current level of care that many of our veterans receive—which I see first-hand when my husband requests care at the VA—is truly in violation of the commitment we made to care for them after they came home."
Photo: Holmes and husband Jon at the 2014 Military Order of the Purple Heart parade in Grapevine, Texas
Holmes and her husband Jon, a Vietnam War veteran, are active in a number of veteran advocacy organizations. Jon currently serves as Senior Vice-Commander for the Department of Texas Military Order of the Purple Heart and as the State Inspector for the Department of Texas Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Photo: Holmes with Staff Sergeant Ty Michael Carter—recipient of the Medal of Honor, the Purple Heart, and numerous other military awards. Holmes wears a replica Purple Heart necklace (pictured right) in honor of her husband's sacrifice and as a reminder to everyone she meets that "freedom is never free." The necklace was a birthday gift from Jon, who also presented her with the Purple Heart he received after being wounded in Vietnam.
"I live by one motto, summarized beautifully by John Adams' assertion that 'Our obligations never cease but with our lives,'" Holmes said. "That, to me, is what it means to be a patriot, to be an American: you support those who defend our country, and then you protect them when they come home. That is a duty I get to fulfill through my work with Consilium."
Get more information about Consilium's work in the government sector or learn more about opportunities to provide healthcare for veterans and active duty military members and their families
Locum TenensMilitaryPhysician StaffingServiceVeteran's DayVeterans Affairs
Thank Veterans by Supporting Their Transition to Civilian Life
November 10, 2016 Sarah Clinton 1 Comment
On November 11th each year, we take time to honor the men and women who served in the United States Armed Forces. Often after completing their service agreements, military veterans—especially those with combat experience—face difficulties readjusting to the flow of civilian life. Despite these complications, veterans bring with them an array of skills and perspectives that can be huge assets in the workplace. To commemorate Veterans Day, we would like to highlight one of our own— a combat veteran and current member of the Army Reserves—who provided us with insight into the significance and impact of Veterans Day and discussed ways companies can better support their veteran employees, especially those still struggling to assimilate into civilian corporate culture.
Phillip has served in the United States Army for 15 years, 12 of which were active duty, and completed four tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan. At Consilium, Phillip works to place medical providers in understaffed government-operated facilities—including veterans hospitals and on-base medical treatment facilities—as an account manager in our Government Services division. Aside from hitting key performance marks early on, his drive, commitment to working for the betterment of the team, and in-depth understanding of the nature of government processes have been huge contributions to Consilium (and he makes a pretty mean red bean chili, too).
What does Veterans Day mean to you, having served long-term and in conflict situations?
Veterans Day is a time to reflect on combat veterans' sacrifices—and believe me, they were sacrifices in every sense of the word. For me, and I think for many of us, the week leading up to Veterans Day can be a complicated time. I am proud of my decision to serve this country and it is important to me that every time I put on that uniform, I represent to others what a soldier is and should be. I strive to live in such a way as to honor the memory of those who were lost in the line of duty. At the same time, this week can take a very sad tone for veterans as we remember men and women who were severely injured or who made the ultimate sacrifice while we served together.
What can companies do on Veterans Day—and every day—to better support employees who served in combat?
Get to know who we are as people; speak to us individually to gauge our needs and find out how we would like to spend Veterans Day. If given the flexibility to be out of the office that day, for example, many of us would take that opportunity to go speak at schools, participate in parades, pay our respects at gravesites of fallen comrades and/or visit their families, or simply to spend time with other veterans, especially those who are struggling.
On a year-round basis, companies can help their veteran employees by working to understand the challenges that come with assimilating back into a civilian environment. There are times we may not react the same way a civilian would because a certain process is different or nonexistent in the military—even a seemingly simple situation like a routine performance review meeting—and it is stressful feeling as though you may not be reacting appropriately and worrying that you might be making people uncomfortable. While we do not want anybody to purposely treat us differently than anyone else, it would go a long way for people to remember that at the end of the day…we are not like everybody else. We gladly carry burdens that most people cannot even imagine, but sometimes that takes its toll. Don't feel like you need to tiptoe around us, but do be aware that some days are harder for us than others even if it isn't obvious why. Know that our method for handling situations when we don't know how to react may be to simply stay quiet until we have figured out how best to respond.
In what ways is military service facilitative of success in the (civilian) workplace?
When you hire a veteran, you are going to get a worker with a very specific and refined set of skills. The military teaches you to be highly organized and driven, to be both an effective leader and an operative follower, and to interact with and respect people from a range of backgrounds. Personally, I have gained a big appreciation for diverse viewpoints, skills, and experiences. To effectively unlock the skills of a veteran who works for your company, you really have to get to know that person as an individual, learn about his or her military duties and experiences in detail, and then learn to play to those specific strengths. We are hard workers and we are performance-oriented, but to provide us with avenues for success you have to learn where we really excel and which tasks may feel a bit like uncharted waters.
What is one thing that companies should know about combat veterans and the overall assimilation process so that they can best support veteran employees?
We are protectors by nature. Most combat veterans would pretty much do anything asked of them if it would help someone else: we want to be that guy people trust in a crisis situation. With that mindset, however, is the reality that our role in protecting the people of this country means that—because we have different experiences—it can be difficult relearning how to act in civilian settings, particularly in the corporate world.
Understand that in our minds, we will never again be who we were when we were serving, so to speak. We are no longer facing life or death situations every day because in office settings people don't usually need saving, which used to be our guiding purpose. Transitioning to the civilian world requires a complete change in identity, and that's a difficult process. Sometimes it can feel like we have already done the most important things we'll ever do in life, and being around people who genuinely care about you and are excited about what we do together every day can help keep that feeling in check.
How has your work at Consilium fit into that picture?
I have worked elsewhere in the industry, and I can attest to the fact that this company is different. Even though we work in a competitive, performance-based environment, I have never felt as though we are being pitted one against the other and that is important to me. I value the ability to work as a cohesive team, and it feels like the company itself is a large team. I also think that part of the difference in environment may come from the fact that this is a faith-based company at its core. Even if people don't always discuss their beliefs outright, it is clear from how they treat one another here that there is a set of shared values that people truly buy into and try to live each day.
What does your work in the Government division mean to you?
I know firsthand how important it is to find good medical providers to work with current and former members of the military. This is simplistic, but anything we can to do to help, helps. Personally, I pay close attention to finding medical providers with a true passion for working with veterans, who truly care about us and what we need. These are the people who see their work as a life mission. If I had to choose between the two, I would place the doctor who truly cares for veterans and charges a little extra versus a physician who would net our company a larger profit but who does not have a genuine heart for working with combat veterans. Consilium gives me a way to give back, even when I'm not in uniform.
Veteran's DayVeteransVeterans in the workplace
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Please add the classic lines you've seen here that could only come from the Talk Tennis hivemind.
"Maximagq is the Novak Djokovic of Talk Tennis."
Andy Murray belongs in the same conversation as the big 3.
Andy Murray is comparable to Agassi.
In the "Fedr" dialogue, there are only two interlocutors, peacefully sitting under the plane trees near the almost dried in summer river Ilis. This is Socrates and Fedr. The conversation theme reveals the frantic, insane side of the essence of love, its role in the formation of the soul on the paths of good and in the creation of a genuine philosophy, rather than empty eloquence.
Our advice, our support, our proximity allow a real adaptability in the organization of our trainings, a true longitudinal follow-up and a simple and effective relation with our customers. Fedr's philosophy is to "federate" all stakeholders involved in training throughout the training or coaching process and to set up a genuine partnership at each stage.
What is the purpose of this thread?
Slam count does not matter, H2H does.
Anyone can launch 120 mph missiles down the T.
For those that can't, send footage for expert internet advice.
Likes: ak24alive, Subway Tennis and vive le beau jeu !
"i can serve that fast and i posted 8 youtube videos of me using the pinpoint stance but i cant post them because youtube flagged them for copyright infringement."
"i cant make new videos at the moment. I am too busy because i am working as a tennis coach in Tokyo."
A player has had an annus horribilis if he has finished the year with a top three ranking in the world and 'only' one slam.
Clay is an irrelevant surface according to ITF.
Players who come back from injury inadvertently position themselves for a thread on 'false dawn' only to be 'exposed' by someone.
"Nadal is not a 1-dimensional clay courter" - LOL, only on TTW.
Andy Murray got lucky when he beat the Big 3 because they were tired.
Andy Murray wouldn't have even taken a set off Agassi.
Agree with the positive and negative sentiments here.
This is very accurate. I had to stop myself from posting in a thread today that the only reason andy won the 2008 uso sf was because Nadal was running on fumes after a big summer.
A tournament is just a meaningless exho (if your favourite player hasn't been able to win it).
"We're in he presence of greatness"
Why did you stop yourself?
Today's tennis is crap compared to any previous era.
"Best player without a major is Rios."
I actually rewatched the match before talking s&$%.
Nadal and Djokovic aren't talented.
Nadal is 1-dimensional clay courter" - LOL, only on TTW.
Murray just outplayed him then and there. He was in excellent form that US Open. There's also the Tokyo 2011 final. I think he even served Nadal a bagel there.
1) Proofing that Fed is the G.O.A.T.
2) NO, RAFA is the real G.O.A.T.
3) NO..NO..NO! NOLE is the G.O.A.T.
4) WAAAAIT! It's the big 4 NOT 3!
5) Non of the above... I doubt!
Murrays forehand in that Tokyo final was devastating. A lot of full blooded dtl winners on the full run. In the final set he was fueled by adrenaline and almost unplayable imo.
Likes: Sabratha and vive le beau jeu !
What kind of blathering idiot said that?????
Not sure about the origin... calling the experts here: @stringertom , @Sentinel , @MichaelNadal - anyone?
Who said Federer is a poor man's Santoro with a better serve?
Federer vulturing wins to stay relevant.
Nadal vulturing clay wins to remain in top 10.
Djokovic doesn't care about masters, 500, 250, WTF losses, the only thing he cares about are grand slams.
Fognini is overweight and doesn't have enough hair to attract women.
The earliest attribution I can find is from the great mind of @Carsomyr in 2015...Federer the junkballer? thread.


Presently in Nigeria, the lecture demonstration methods are frequently used in teaching mathematical sciences, base on these principles and theories and facts are memorized for examination purposes only. In view of the above, the students do not show adequate positive attitude to mathematical sciences. This is obvious from the low enrolment in the school certificate science discipline. Records show that out of the large number of students who enter for science based disciplines in WAEC, there is a great number of failures in mathematics science and percentage of students within WAEC grades 1 – VI is low. Oyedeji Noah Bisi (1986) at the 9th Convocation Ceremony of College of Education, llorine, argued that this is why the students' intake, into the university that was formally dominated by Arts has now been reversed in favour of science students by the National University Commission, (NUC) which now stipulates the ratio of 60 : 40 for Science and Arts education respectively.
In spite of this increased ratio of students in terms of admission facility, not many students qualify to do mathematics science. Yet, Nigeria is struggling to be one of the technological and scientific advanced countries in the world. How can this struggle successful with the low intake in science? This will destroy our hopes to be among the scientific and technologically developed country in the world.
Something must be done to change this ugly situation and improve the size of science students intake before our educational system is shattered.


We can ship to virtually any address in the continental US (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Merchandise is shipped via USPS mail, standard or priority depending on how far away the destination is.
Merchandise is shipped daily Monday–Friday.
Orders shipped to US addresses typically arrive in 3–7 business days.
Next day shipping available. Prices dependent on weight and destination of package.
We gladly accept returns or exchanges at any of our store locations or online.
You may return most new, unopened items within 30 days of delivery for exchange or a refund. We do not pay for shipping on returns.
You should expect to receive your refund within one week of after we receive your return, however, in many cases you will receive a refund more quickly.
Returns for exchange accepted if the bottle is mostly full.
No returns if package is opened or damaged (unless defective).


News by NV Corsetry & [sys]!
Today it was time to create a crazy art look again and the new "Commedia Del Arte" outfit from NV Corsetry combined with the new "Vogue" ankle boots from [sys] brought me on this style.
The "Commedia Del Arte" outfit is a full outfit that contains one of the incredible corsets of NV Corsetry. The outfit itself can be worn in different ways. You have 2 corsets to choose from, one with black and one with white ribbons. For this post I went with the black version. An alpha layer as well included makes it even easier to wear this amazing corsets, if you do not wanna fiddle around too much with the fitting :p. As well for the skirt you can decide if you wanna have the short mini version that I am wearing for the post ir if you wanna go with a bigger skirt that is open in the front. The wonderful puffy sleeves, the huge collar and the cute hat with the red roses are as well part of the full outfit.
To bring the red of the roses back I decided to go with the new "Vogue" ankle boots from [sys] The red version of this awesome booties has some dangerous looking cool spikes at the heel in the back. The red leather is just amazing detailed and looks very real. The heel is covered with silver metal plates and carry the hot sharp spike that you as well can see more little in the front. The back of the booties is open and just decorated with amazing filigree lines. To make it look perfect, [sys] included part of a barefoot for the back or the feet. You can tint that to match your skin color with a HUD that comes with.