text:
Searching Past the Mechanics of Perception by Sadaputa Dasa
Sep 1, 1980 | Sadaputa Dasa, Science: The Vedic View, Volume-15 Number-09
The deeper scientists probe into the nature of perception, the farther away their subject recedes.
The idea that now dominates the life sciences is that life can be completely understood within the framework of chemistry and physics. Those who subscribe to this viewpoint say that we can explain all features of life from the metabolic functioning of cells up to the mental phenomena of thinking, feeling, and willing-as the consequences of underlying chemical processes. With the spectacular successes achieved by modern molecular biology, this viewpoint has become so pervasive that, in the words of Nobel-prize-winning molecular biologist James Watson, "Complete certainty now exists among essentially all biochemists that the . . . characteristics of living organisms . . . will all be completely understood in terms of the coordinative interactions of small and large molecules. * (James Watson, Molecular Biology of the Gene, 2nd ed. (New York: W.A. Benjamin, 1970), p.67.)
Yet despite the popularity of this view, we can point to at least one feature of life the phenomenon of conscious awareness that is not amenable to a molecular explanation. The basic phenomenon of conscious awareness is the most immediate aspect of our experience, and it is automatically presupposed in all our sensations, feelings, and thought processes. Yet even though consciousness certainly exists and is of central importance to our lives, the current theoretical framework of biological and physical science cannot even refer to consciousness, much less explain it.
To see this, let us examine the process of conscious perception through the eyes of modern science. Our examination will take us through several levels of successively increasing detail, and at each level we will try to ascertain whether our scientific picture of reality sheds any light on the nature of consciousness.
First let us consider a man observing a physical object in this case, a thermometer. Figures 1 and 2 depict the operation of the man's sense of sight on the grossest biological level. The process of perception begins when light reflected from the thermometer is focused on the retina of the man's eye, forming an inverted image. This light induces chemical changes in certain retinal cells, and these cells consequently stimulate adjacent nerve cells to transmit electrical impulses. These cells in turn stimulate activity in other nerve cells, and a systematic pattern of pulses is transmitted down the optic nerve. The image of the thermometer is now encoded in this pattern of pulses.
When these pulses reach the brain, a very complicated response occurs, involving many electrochemical actions and reactions. Although scientists at present do not know the details of this brain activity, they are nonetheless in substantial agreement about the basic phenomena involved. When the impulses streaming down the optic nerve reach the brain, they modify the overall pattern of chemical concentrations and electrical potentials maintained by the brain's vast network of nerve cells. This pattern, scientists say, represents in coded form the specific content of the man's thoughts and sensory impressions. As time passes, the physiochemical transformations of this pattern give rise to sequences of electrical impulses that emerge from the brain along various motor nerves, and these impulses in turn evoke corresponding sequences of muscular contractions. These organized contractions constitute the man's gross external behavior, which may include spoken reports of his sensations, such as "I am seeing a thermometer."
What and where Is Consciousness?
At this point in our investigation, we can understand how descriptions of this kind may, at least in principle, shed light on a person's external behavioral responses to environmental stimuli. We can easily imagine constructing a machine involving photocells and electronic circuitry that would respond to a red light by playing a tape recording of the statement "I am seeing a red light." On a more sophisticated level, we can visualize a computer that will analyze the images produced by a television camera and generate spoken statements identifying various objects. Thus although we are grossly ignorant of the actual physical transformations occurring in the brain, we can at least conceive of the possibility that these may correspond to processes of symbol manipulation analogous to those that take place in computers. We can therefore imagine that the man's statement, "I am seeing a thermometer," is generated by a computational process physically embodied in the electrochemical activity of the nerve cells in the brain.
Some Of The Main Neural Pathways In The Brain
But all this tells us nothing about the man's conscious perceptions. Our description of the image formed on the retina of the man's eye says nothing about the conscious perception of that image, nor do scientists suppose that conscious perception takes place at this point. Likewise, the statements that light-sensitive cells in the retina have been stimulated and that sequences of nerve impulses have been induced convey nothing at all about the actual subjective experience of seeing the thermometer.
Many scientists feel that conscious perception must take place in the brain. Yet our description of the brain, even if elaborated in the greatest possible detail, would consist of nothing more than a list of statements about the electrochemical states of brain cells. Such statements might have some bearing on patterns of behavior, but they cannot explain consciousness, because they do not even refer to it.
At this point one may argue that since consciousness is subjective, we cannot use the word consciousness in scientific statements describing objective reality. One might point out that while we can observe a man's behavior and measure the physical states of his brain, we could not possibly find any measurable evidence of his so-called consciousness. According to this idea, the man's statements about his conscious perceptions are simply electrochemical phenomena that require physical explanation, but to say that consciousness exists in any real sense is meaningless.
Each of us can refute this argument by considering the matter in this way: The reality of my own conscious perceptions is certainly undeniable, and my understanding of all other aspects of reality depends on this basic fact. Thus I know by direct perception that consciousness exists in me, and it is also perfectly justifiable to suppose that other beings like me have similar conscious experiences. There is no need to embrace the futile and absurd viewpoint of solipsism, which holds that I am the only conscious being and that all others occupy a lesser status as mere automatons. Consciousness, therefore, exists as a feature of objective reality, and any scientific account of reality that fails to explain it is incomplete.
If consciousness exists but the level of biological description we have thus far considered does not refer to it, then how can we understand consciousness in terms of our existing scientific world view? The mere assertion that neural impulses "generate" consciousness does not constitute an explanation, for it offers no conception of any connection between impulses and our conscious perceptions. Our only recourse is to examine the structures and processes of the brain more closely, with the hope that a deeper understanding of their nature will reveal such a connection.
Figure 3 presents a closer view of some of the neurons in the brain, and Figure 4 depicts the detailed structure of one of the synapses, or connecting links, between neurons. When we examine living cells closely, we find many intricate structures known as organelles. Just as we can describe the functions of the gross body in terms of the combined actions of its many component cells, so in principle we can describe the functions of the cells in terms of these subcellular components. Yet this does not help us in our attempt to understand consciousness, for it merely leads to a more complicated account of bodily behavior. As before, there is no reference to the conscious experience of seeing.
Let us go deeper. What is the essential nature of the cellular organelles? As we earlier pointed out, the nearly unanimous opinion of modern biochemists is that one can understand all biological structures as combinations of molecules, and all biological processes as the consequences of molecular interactions. Figure 5 depicts the three dimensional structure of a globular protein, one of the main kinds of complex molecules found in the body. Organic chemistry describes the structure of such molecules in terms of three dimensional arrangements of atoms, and molecular interactions in terms of the formation and dissolution of chemical bonds, or inter-atomic links.
Biochemists have found that living cells contain many different kinds of extremely complex molecules. For example, the E. coli bacterium, one of the simplest unicellular organisms, is said to contain some two to three thousand different kinds of proteins, each of which consists of thou-sands of individual atoms. A complete molecular description of a single cell would therefore be enormously complex, and, in fact, scientists have not yet come close to providing such a description, even for the E. coli bacterium.
Yet however complex it might be, a description on this level would consist of nothing more than a long list of statements about the making and breaking of chemical bonds. Such a list could give us no greater insight into the nature of consciousness than any of the higher-order descriptions we have considered thus far. In fact, lists describing patterns of bonds and lists describing trains of nerve impulses are equivalent, in the sense that both say nothing about conscious experience.
Can Quantum Theory Explain Consciousness?
Can we find the insight we are seeking by taking a closer look at the atomic structure of molecules? In Figure 6 we see a diagram representing the spatial distribution of electrons within an organic molecule. Those who subscribe to the modern scientific world view claim that we can completely understand atoms and molecules in terms of the interactions of subatomic particles such as protons, neutrons, and electrons.
The branch of science that deals with these interactions is known as quantum mechanics, and it describes subatomic phenomena in terms of mathematical equations, such as the one depicted in Figure 7(a). Although pictures such as Figure 7(b) can partially express some features of these equations, they are essentially impossible to represent in three-dimensional form. We might wonder, therefore, whether some deep insight into the abstract mysteries of these fundamental physical equations might finally enable us to grasp the nature of consciousness.
Unfortunately, however, this hope must meet with disappointment. If we study the essential nature of these mathematical equations, we find that they amount to nothing more than codified rules for the manipulation of symbols. Such symbols, in turn, are simply marks drawn from an arbitrary finite alphabet. They may be represented either by the internal states of an electronic computer or by marks on a piece of paper.
Thus Figure 8 gives us a glimpse of the ultimate appearance of a fundamental quantum mechanical description of nature when reduced to its elemental constituent terms. In this figure the alphabet of marks consists of 0, 1, 2, . . ., 9, A, B, C, . . .,F, and the rules for their manipulation are expressed in terms of the internal language of a particular computer. These rules simply describe certain ways of rearranging patterns of marks to create new patterns. Finally, in Figure 9, we reach the end of our investigation of the scientific world view. Here we find both patterns of marks and the rules for their manipulation encoded as strings of ones and zeroes.
At this point we meet with final frustration in our effort to understand consciousness in terms of modern scientific conceptions. At each stage of our investigation we have been confronted with a set of symbols that refer to repeating patterns in the stream of events we observe with our external senses. Thus we began our investigation by describing a man with symbols like retina and optic nerve, which refer to observable features of gross anatomy. Now we have ended up with an abstract description in which our symbols refer to mathematical constructs, or even to elementary rules for manipulating arbitrary marks on paper. At each successive level of examination, our symbols failed to refer to consciousness, and, if anything, the symbols on each successive level seemed more unrelated to the world of our subjective experience than those on the level above it.
An Extension of the Scientific Method
How, then, are we to understand consciousness? Although we know by direct perception that consciousness exists, we have seen that the methodology of modern science is inherently incapable of revealing anything about it. Does this mean that we have encountered an insurmountable barrier to our understanding of reality? The answer, in fact, is no. In our remaining space we will outline an extension of the scientific method that can give us a satisfying understanding of consciousness.
This extension, known as sanatana-dharma, is delineated in the Vedic literatures of India, such as Bhagavad-gita and Srimad-Bhagavatam. Since it has been known for a very long time, it is an extension of the modern scientific method only in the sense that it has a greater scope than this method and logically includes it. Historically speaking, we would have to say that the modern scientific method is a contraction of sanatana-dharma.
We can break down the subject matter of sanatana-dharma into the following basic categories: the Supreme Self, or paramatma; the individual self, or jivatma; the superior, or spiritual, energy; and the inferior, or material, energy. As with any science,sanatana-dharma consists of a body of theory supported by observations. But the methods of observation employed by sanatana-dharma enable it to deal directly with all four of these categories, whereas modern science is restricted entirely to the category of the material energy.
According to sanatana-dharma, the real self, or jivatma of each individual person is an entity distinct from the material elements that make up the physical body. The jivatma is equipped with senses inherently capable of perceiving the paramatma,other jivatmas, and both the superior and inferior energies. However, in the state of existence familiar to us, the jivatma is associated with a physical body and can perceive the world only through the material sensory apparatus of that body.
The situation of the embodied jivatma is like that of a pilot flying an airplane on instruments (Fig. 10). The pilot can obtain only a very limited picture of his surroundings from such devices as the radar screen and the altimeter, although he still has his normal senses and, in fact, uses them to observe these instruments. The embodied jivatma is similarly hampered. Since the sensory apparatus of the body is composed of matter, this apparatus can provide information only about configurations of material energy and their transformations. One can use this information to make indirect inferences about the other categories forming the subject matter of sanatana-dharma, but this information cannot directly reveal anything about them. Since the modern scientific method relies solely on observation through the material senses, scientists have tended to ignore these higher categories or even to deny their very existence.
As we have seen, however, modern scientific theories cannot explain our direct perception of consciousness, and this failure is sufficient to show that such theories must necessarily be incomplete. According to sanatana-dharma, consciousness is an inherent feature of the jivatma. Although the embodied jivatma restricted to observing the world through material senses, all sensory information must eventually reach the senses of the jivatma itself. The self-referential aspect of consciousness, whereby the self is not merely aware but is aware that it is aware, arises because the true senses of the jivatma perceive their own operation. Thus the self is never completely limited to perceiving the material energy but also has some awareness of the spiritual category. At this point one may object that although modern science might not be able to explain consciousness, we gain nothing by asserting that a nonmaterial self exists and that consciousness is one of its characteristics. One may say that this simply amounts to assigning a name to the mystery of consciousness-a name, in fact, that consists of nothing more than some marks on a piece of paper.
We reply to this objection by pointing out that sanatana-dharma provides methods whereby the consciousness of the individual can expand beyond the level of the material senses and come into direct contact with the paramatma and the superior, spiritual energy. Sanatana-dharma states that the Absolute Truth, the cause of all causes, is an eternal sentient personality who is the source of the innumerable jivatmas, or individual selves. These selves are also eternal persons, and though quantitatively minute and permanently individual, they are of the same qualitative nature as the unlimited Supreme Person. Thus each individual jivatma has a natural, constitutional relationship with the Supreme.
This relationship is one of loving personal reciprocation between the individual jivatma and the paramatma. Since personal reciprocation requires the use of senses, such a relationship can be experienced only if it is possible for the individual person to engage in active sensory perception on a level completely transcendental to the realm of matter. The purpose of the practical methodology of sanatana-dharma is to enable the embodied individual to attain to this level of sensory activity and reawaken his dormant relationship with the Supreme Person.
One method of doing this is by chanting the names of the Supreme Person. Since the Absolute Truth is personal, He has innumerable names, such as Krsna, Rama, and Govinda, and since He is absolute, these names are nondifferent from Him. By chanting these names, the jivatma comes into direct contact with the Supreme Person, and thus the jivatma gradually awakens to his natural relationship with the Supreme.
Here we see an interesting contrast between the use of symbols in sanatana-dharma and in modern science. From the viewpoint of modern science, the names Krsna and Govinda could at most be patterns of marks that play some computational role in a theoretical system. To the scientist, the ultimate justification for the use of such symbols would lie in the correlations he might find between the results of these computations and some measurements involving the physical senses.
If we simply examine these names through our physical senses, this viewpoint seems valid. However, sanatana-dharma takes into account the full sensory capacity of the self. From the viewpoint of sanatana-dharma, the pattern of marks corresponding to the name Krsna. and the manipulation of those marks on paper are the least significant aspects of the name Krsna. On the level of spiritual perception, the name Krsna is identical with the Supreme Person Himself. Thus Krsna is not merely a symbol but a name with inherent, absolute meaning. Because of his natural relationship with the Supreme, the jivatma can directly appreciate absolute reality; he is not limited simply to manipulating insubstantial networks of symbols that reduce in the end to nothing but strings of ones and zeroes.
We conclude by observing that sanatana-dharma offers an explanation of consciousness that is satisfying in a very genuine sense. In science, we generally say that an explanation is satisfying if it leads to new insights and new, interesting realms to explore. As it stands, modern science cannot provide such an explanation of consciousness. In contrast, sanatana-dharma introduces us to a realm of experience that gives us a deep understanding of the absolute nature and meaning of our own conscious existence.
SADAPUTA DASA studied at the State University of New York and Syracuse University and later received a National Science Fellowship. He went on to complete his Ph.D. in mathematics at Cornell, specializing in probability theory and statistical mechanics.


This remodeled cabin is perfect for families that want the convenience of being able to walk to the beach, restaurants, casinos, shopping, even skiing. Experience the Tahoe life in the remodeled rustic cabin with modern features. Lakeside beach and marina is perfect for relaxing on the sandy beach, or renting your water toys to explore the lake.
Jake es un Superhost · Los Superhost son anfitriones con mucha experiencia y evaluaciones excelentes que se esfuerzan al máximo por ofrecer a los huéspedes estancias maravillosas.
Almost 40. Married. Father of 3 young kids. Country boy living in cow town.


Ordered this from Red Ink following some quite extensive research into a new bat for the kid.
Must say I'm extremely happy and a big thanks to john. Best value out there.
Lovely butterfly. With straight grains through the toe.
Mid/mid-high middle as requested and thin handle. My daughters name is also punched into the shoulder which is a nice touch. Weight 1lb 12 oz. her old size 2 was 1lb 10oz so a similar weight. Finishing is top drawer and for £62 delivered I am well pleased.
Big thanks John and would thoroughly recommend.
That is not only rediculous value but a straight up great looking bat!
This would be to big for nick!!!
Looks a lovely bat that!!
Was a pleasure making it. Love making junior bats like this. Just makes me jealous thinking back to the planks I used to use at that age! Hope she enjoys using it!


Percentage Pricing - A Better Way to Get Paid What You Deserve - schoolofbookkeeping.com - Ignite Your Practice!
Participants will learn about our Percentage Pricing model that helps make sure your earnings are aligned with your workload and efforts. Percentage Pricing builds on the Value Pricing model, but adds a flexible component that manages ups and downs. We think it will make a big difference in the industry.


text:
"use strict";
jest.dontMock('../../../build/convnetjs');
jest.dontMock('../prime_net.js');
jest.dontMock('../workflow.js');
jest.dontMock('events');

var PrimeNet = require('../prime_net.js');
var ConvNetJs = require('../../../build/convnetjs');

describe('prime_net test', function() {
 it('Test AutoEncoder Constructor, in_depth: 10', function() {
   var TestAutoEncoder = new PrimeNet.AutoEncoder({in_depth: 10});
   expect(TestAutoEncoder.inputVol.getLength()).toEqual(10);
 });

 it('Test AutoEncoder Fire', function() {
   var inputVol = new ConvNetJs.Vol(1,1,4,0);
   var TestAutoEncoder = new PrimeNet.AutoEncoder({in_depth: 10});

   var callback = jest.genMockFunction();

   TestAutoEncoder.workflow.addFireListener(callback);

   expect(TestAutoEncoder.forward(false, inputVol)).toEqual(TestAutoEncoder.act);
   expect(callback.mock.calls.length).toBe(1);
   expect(callback).toBeCalledWith(false);
 });

});

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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Michael Jackson gives a dance lesson in Searching for Neverland clip
The Lifetime movie premieres May 29
By Christian Holub
April 28, 2017 at 04:28 PM EDT
Almost eight years after Michael Jackson's death, the King of Pop's absence can still be felt in the modern music landscape. The new Lifetime movie Michael Jackson: Searching for Neverland is keyed to that sense of loss. Chad Coleman (The Walking Dead) and Sam Adegoke (Switched at Birth) star as two men who become Jackson's bodyguards during his ill-fated final tour — and find themselves transformed in the process.
Jackson is played by Navi, one of the world's top King of Pop impersonators, in his acting debut. In addition to his bodyguards, Searching for Neverland also focuses on Jackson's relationship with his children. Jackson spent his childhood as a performer and was determined to give his kids a more normal life. But in his last years, as Searching for Neverland shows, that desire conflicted with his public controversies and attempt at a grueling comeback tour.
In an exclusive preview clip, below, Jackson walks his daughter Paris through some of his iconic dance moves. Michael Jackson: Searching for Neverland is set to premiere on Lifetime on May 29 (Memorial Day).
By Christian Holub @cmholub

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Top 5 Country Songs About Football
The Boot Staff Updated: February 5, 2016
Maddie Meyer, Getty Images
Country music and football are two of America's favorite pastimes. One is America's favorite music, and the other is America's favorite sport. So it's only fitting that there should be some great country football songs.
From tunes that were directly involved with pro football to songs that champion the spirit of the game, and even a track about a pivotal "what if" moment, we celebrate America's biggest game with a list of the top country songs about football.
"The Ball"
James Otto
Otto used football as a metaphor for some of the unexpected twists and turns in life in this track from his 2003 debut album, Days of Our Lives. The narrator, who missed a key catch in a high school football game, is telling his son he wouldn't change his path, which led to meeting his wife: "No I wouldn't be the man I am at all / If I hadn't dropped the ball."
"Friday Night"
Gilbert celebrated the spirit of football and the fading values of small-town American life with this song from his 2009 debut album, Modern Day Prodigal Son. The lyrics present football as the last thing giving hope to a dying town: "This city's looking like a ghost town / All the stores downtown they've been closing down / Yeah, the only lights that shine for miles / Are lighting up the sky above Memorial Drive."
"Waiting All Day for Sunday Night"
Hill opened up Sunday Night Football for six years with this song, which is actually based musically around the Joan Jett classic "I Hate Myself for Loving You." Pop singer Pink originated the song in 2006, and Carrie Underwood took over in 2013, but Hill's is still the defining version.
"Are You Ready for Some Football?"
Hank Williams Jr.
Williams Jr., was practically synonymous with Monday Night Football for two decades, opening every game with the ubiquitous rallying cry, "Are you ready for some football?" Williams was dropped in 2011 after some controversial comments he made about President Obama, but the song remains popular with football and country fans everywhere ... and as of 2017, it's being heard a lot more often once again.
"The Boys of Fall"
Chesney is one of football's staunchest supporters in country music. He played ball in high school, and he has made more than one documentary film devoted to the sport, which he has said he uses as a map for how he conducts his life and career. "The Boys of Fall" celebrates the teamwork and camaraderie of the game: "You mess with one man, you got us all / The boys of fall."
What's Your Favorite Country Song About Football?
Did we leave out one of your favorite country songs about football? Let us know in the comments section below!
This list was originally compiled by Sterling Whitaker, and revised by Angela Stefano.
NEXT: Country Stars Who Have Played Football
Source: Top 5 Country Songs About Football
Filed Under: Brantley Gilbert, Editor's Picks, Faith Hill, Hank Williams Jr., James Otto, Kenny Chesney
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Exeter…stage left
December 4, 2016 December 4, 2016 Rebecca Travel Stories
Well, it was bound to happen eventually, I've been traveling for almost six months. Friday night I found myself temporarily homeless…at 11pm in London with the thermometer stubbornly set at under 30 degrees F. I
Well, it was bound to happen eventually, I've been traveling for almost six months. Friday night I found myself temporarily homeless…at 11pm in London with the thermometer stubbornly set at under 30 degrees F. I did not panic, as I knew that if worse came to worse…I had friends who would at least answer the door if I came a knockin at midnight…even if they might not necessarily be pleased about it. However, I would only take that route as a very-very last resort. I have made some dear friends here and I would like to keep in their good graces. Having me around can be trying enough when you are expecting me, let alone when I just pop up willy nilly. I left Exeter on Friday believing I had a reservation at a hostel near Hyde Park called "Smart Hyde Park Hostel". I was wrong.
Last week on Wednesday I took the bus from Victoria Coach Station in Central London to Exeter…a city in the south of England in the area known as Devonshire. A friend of a friend (they met in the local theatre) who had been introduced to me via this blog invited me to come and stay with them for a few nights. I had it on good authority that Janet and her family were perfectly respectable and not at all inclined toward any unfortunate "ism's". Turns out they were more than just respectable, they were brilliant! Janet, her husband Chris and their daughter Nicola met me at the bus station in Exeter and I was treated to a personalized tour of the city given as only life-long locals could. Between the three of them, they covered local and English history, architecture, politics, art, theatre, sport and more. We took a tour of the local Guildhall, which has served as the centerpiece of Exeter's civic life for more than 800 years. Chris had been involved in local politics for much of his life so I got first hand details of the duties of a local British politician! I took some pictures of the Guildhall which you can see below…and I've also attached a PDF that explains everything about it in much better detail than I could. They showed me a pub in the city called 'The Ship Inn-St. Martins Lane' that was rumored to have had the famous adventurers Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh (a local boy) as frequent visitors. (As a huge fan of Queen Elizabeth I and that period of history, stuff like this makes me squishy.) I saw the sad remains of the Royal Clarence Hotel(described as England's oldest hotel) which burned down in late October. Also destroyed in the fire were thousands of dollars worth of artwork from Bob Dylan and Rollins Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood. Even a month later, there was a crowd outside the hotel taking pictures and mourning the loss. Exeter is also home to one of the best universities in the UK, ranked number 13 in the country and alma mater of such luminaries as J.K Rowling, Will Young, Thom Yorke, Stephen Dillane, Nicholas Pegg and Robert Shearman. Even a few royals!
The next day we first drove to Exeter Quay, a quaint part of the city that surrounds the canal. The area is in the midst of a bit of refurbishment and gentrification, and according to my hosts only a few years ago was seedy as hell. Now it is home to trendy restaurants and craft stores. The little shops were unique in that the wood, glass and metal crafts for sale in the individual shops were actually made right there in the rear of each store. The shops themselves were cave-like cubbies cut into the embankment rising over the canal. I found the area to be very charming and exceedingly English. Next we drove to Exmouth, a town on the coast… and I touched the waters of the English Channel. And nearly died from hypothermia. I think it was colder there than it had been in Germany on the coast of the North Sea. On the plus side, my face was so cold that the muscles were frozen and for a little while I had the effects of a botox shot without needing the needle. Unfortunately when I thawed I could feel my face slowly melting back to its original state. I am hoping I will still be rambling in the spring so I can go back when it is warmer.
On Friday, Chris took me on a drive through the Devon countryside before taking me to the bus station for my return back to London. I've said it before, and I will say it again…England looks exactly like you damn well expect it to…and like no place else on earth. The rolling hills, the pastures dotted with sheep, small villages where homes still have thatched roofs… Of course a ride through the English countryside wouldn't be complete without having the most excellent driver recite the first part of the poem " The Rolling English Road" by G.K. Chesterton as you are zizzing around…
"Before the Roman came to Rye or out to Severn strode, the rolling English drunkard made the rolling English road. A reeling road, a rolling road, that rambles round the shire, And after him the parson ran, the sexton and the squire; A merry road, a mazy road, and such as we did tread the night we went to Birmingham by way of Beachy Head."
My apologies…I did not get any pictures as I was far too busy gawping and saying "ooooooohhh!" every two minutes.
Sadly, it was all too soon time for me to board the bus back to London. However, I have been given promises of a trip to Dartmoor and yummy 'Devon cream teas' if I am able to return for another visit in the spring, for which I am going to do my very best to make happen…even if only to be able to spend more time with Janet, Chris and Nicola.
I arrived back in London after 8pm and jumped on the 148 bus from Victoria Coach Station to the hostel where I had made reservations two weeks ago. Due to traffic around Hyde Park I did not get there till after 10. I was tired, but not cranky. Until I was told that I had been marked as a "no show" and my room had been given away… "they had no more beds… so sorry! But here is the log in to the wifi so you can find another room…have a good evening!" Needless to say, my "crank-o-meter" shot up to 11. There was nothing I could do about the situation but try to find another room. They offered to let me sit in their little café while I searched, but I preferred to stand right by the front desk so I could glare at them and make sure they could hear me muttering imprecations and disparaging remarks concerning their parentage and intelligence under my breath. (I've been in England long enough now that I am getting the hang of practicing the "passive aggressive moaning" of the natives. It's damn near a sport here.) So…. Friday night…in London…at Christmas…not a lot of hostel options remained. And because my budget is so extreme, I don't have extra money for when things go 'tits up'. So, at times like this.. you start examining options…
1. Wake your friends. 2. Go back to Victoria Coach Station and book an overnight bus to somewhere. 3. Go back to Victoria Coach Station and just stay there for the night trying not to look homeless. 4. Find an all-night "something" and drink coffee to stay awake till the morning. (I carry a cafetiere and coffee with me everywhere so as long as I can find hot water, I can have my black-bean brain juice.) 5. Find a better option as all of these suck.
I decided to hump my tired butt and luggage to the hostel I had stayed at in July as I knew it was fairly close and I had struck up a friendly bantering kind of 'acquaintance-ship' with the gentlemen behind the desk when I was there before. I hoped like hell they were working.
They were. And they found me a bed and gave me the best deal possible…and every discount they could come up with for that night and till I leave to head to York.(Safestay Holland Park Hostel.) It is still more than I had planned on, and I have to re-think my plans for the next few weeks…but it was an interesting learning experience. I was prepared to have to try one of the less desirable options, but I admit I am grateful that this time I did not have to.
So, I have a few more days to stomp about London before heading to York for a bit. I am writing this in the café at the National Gallery. Next, I shall head out into Trafalgar Square and start working on fulfilling a mandate from a friend of mine for "more Christmas pics please". And coming soon…part 2 of my Florence adventure! Till then,
Mural in the town center made by gouging the wall
Remains of the Royal Clarence
More of the fire damage
Cathedral and Christmas market
The Ship Inn-Quote attributed to Sir Francis Drake
Parliament Street- the narrowest street in England
The Guildhall
guildhalls-history
Inside the Guildhall
Interior of the Guildhall
Guildhall balcony
Jury room-
Exterior of the Guildhall, with Janet and Chris
Our tour guide standing in the cool double door into the Guildhall.
Portrait of the current lady Lord Mayor
Chamber of the Lord Mayor
Chris holding a prayer book form the 1700's I found in a drawer
the prayer book
Entrance to the Lord Mayor's chambers
The regalia of office. The sword in the center was presented to the city by Henry VII
Guildhall seen from the balcony
Cool ass door into the Guildhall
Exeter Quay
Shops dug from the embankment
Woodcarving shop with work area in the rear
Metalwork shop and store
'Hardy' in his cute little camouflage jacket
Exmouth and the coast
Rescue boat on the beach. There is a ramp leading from the boathouse to the water.
Service reports from the Lifeboat station. All staffed by volunteers.
I am very sorry I do not have pictures of the countryside. God willing I will be able to go back in the spring, in which case I will make sure to take tons of pics for your viewing pleasure.
I am also adding a brief explanation of the British political system. I was quite shocked when after Brexit…Prime Minister David Cameron resigned and only a few days later Theresa May was the new PM without anyone voting! Turns out…the PM is the head of whichever political party has the majority in the House of Commons. The two major parties in Parliament at the moment are the Conservative and Unionist Party(centre-right wing) and the Labour Party (centre left). The Conservative Party currently has the most elected representatives. At the time of D.C.'s resignation, Theresa May was the head of the party…hence she became Prime Minister. When citizens of the UK vote…they are voting for the head of their chosen party. Other parties include The Scottish National Party, Liberal Democrats (LibDems), Democratic Unionist, Sinn Fein and even a few more. However they do not have near the numbers that the top two do.
My last days in Florence….part 1 ………… "The Accidental Criminal"
It's XXXMAS in London!
One thought on "Exeter…stage left"
Debbie Sardone says:
Very interesting! Keep the stories …and the photos coming…love it!


The goal of the SEC Career Tour, now in its third year, is to provide exposure for SEC student-athletes who are seeking opportunities in various fields.
The fall SEC ALDP workshop was recently held at the University of Kentucky with faculty and early career administrators from each SEC university participating.
The SEC continues its commitment to supporting the teaching, research, service and athletic excellence of its 14 member universities.


Always be in the know and assess your environment to create a better living situation for you, your loved ones and your community. i-Monitor is a service that encapsulates air quality and weather forecasting of your residential surrounding to deliver you information in real time accessible through your mobile phone at anytime, from anywhere so you can plan activities without any worry. Services offered include monitoring of air quality (PM2.5, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide), and weather conditions (rainfall, humidity, and temperature).
Always be in the know and assess your environment to create a better living situation for you, your loved ones and your community. iMonitor is a service that encapsulates air quality, rainfall monitoring and weather forecasting of your residential surrounding to deliver you information in real time accessible through your mobile phone at anytime, from anywhere so you can plan activities without any worry.
Real-time monitoring of current weather of residential areas, and 5-day forecast with 3-hour interval.
The i-Environ Weather Station consists of following sensors enclosed by an industrial-grade chassis for outdoor operation.
2. Accuracy ±2.0% RH (20%-80%) and ±3.5% RH (0%-100%).
• Industry-leading long life of 20,000 hours provides stable operation and continuous use.


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Energy companies that keep customers on hold for the longest, according to Which? survey
According to a Which? survey, some customers can be on hold with energy companies for up to 30 minutes
Scottish Power has the longest average wait time with 21 minutes 24 seconds (Image: Gareth Fuller/PA Wire)
Energy firms can keep customers on hold for more than half an hour and about a fifth of companies typically take more than 10 minutes to respond to a call, according to a Which? survey.
The consumer group says energy companies need to improve their customer service as the long waiting times can be frustrating to customers.
Which? made more than 400 calls to 36 energy suppliers to find out how long customers were left waiting before speaking to a member of staff.
Some companies took more than 30 minutes for calls to be answered, the snapshot investigation found.
To ensure the investigation was fair, each provider was called 12 times at different times of the day and on different days of the week to calculate the average call waiting time for customers.
1/5 of companies typically take more than 10 minutes to respond to a call (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Which? found that Scottish Power was the biggest culprit, keeping customers on hold for an average of 21 minutes and 24 seconds before calls were answered.
Surprisingly, last year Scottish Power was the fastest of the Big Six providers.
This year, EDF Energy was the best of the Big Six for answering calls, taking an average of three minutes and two seconds to respond.
A Scottish Power spokesman said: "Nobody wants to be at the bottom of this type of list and we're already working hard to regain our top spot."
Warning over scarily realistic energy bill email scam
Another energy company that keeps customers on hold for a long time is Bulb Energy (19 minutes 2 seconds); they also had the longest single call waiting time of 41 minutes and 48 seconds.
Around a fifth of suppliers included in the research - Avro Energy, Boost, Bulb Energy, Engie, Green Network Energy, Utilita, Utility Point and Scottish Power - kept customers waiting for more than 10 minutes on average.
Twelve companies in the investigation also offered a live chat online for customers to seek help. Spark Energy was the fastest to respond, taking just 30 seconds on average.
In contrast, British Gas was the slowest company to respond to live chat queries, with an average wait of seven minutes and 14 seconds.
According to the research, British Gas customers may have better luck getting through on the phone, as the company answered calls in four minutes and 19 seconds on average.
Natalie Hitchins, Which? head of home products and services, said: "Energy customers should be able to expect good customer service from their supplier, so it is unacceptable that some people are facing waits of half an hour or more just to speak with an adviser.
"If you are tired of poor customer service and wasted time on the phone, then you should switch to a provider that can better meet your needs, and potentially save you hundreds of pounds."
Sleeping with the heating on can disrupt your sleep pattern, experts warn
5 energy firms with the fastest average response times
1. So Energy, 38 seconds
2. Together Energy, 41 seconds
3. Flow Energy, 45 seconds
4. Ebico, 50 seconds
5. Ampower, 57 seconds
5 energy firms with the slowest average response times
1. Scottish Power, 21 minutes 24 seconds
2. Bulb Energy, 19 minutes two seconds
3. Utility Point, 18 minutes five seconds
4. Boost, 17 minutes 35 seconds
5. Utilita, 15 minutes 44 seconds


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ESM Investments
Welcome to ESM Investments, we invest in early-growth stage technology companies located in Scotland and the North of England. We are located in Stirling. Read more if you are interested in looking at investment opportunities or if you are a company seeking investment.
We offer members opportunities to invest alongside an experienced investment team with a strong track record of investing, supporting growth and realising returns.
As part of our commitment to our members, we implement and maintain investment standards promoting consistency in approach and encouraging feedback loops for learning.
We are committed to hosting ESM Member events every quarter - giving members the opportunity to hear first-hand from our leadership team, hear from new investment opportunities and existing portfolio companies.
Our team has strong entrepreneurial networks in both the national and international tech community.
A Time of Opportunity
ESM invests directly into early stage technology companies and has done for the past 8 years. ESM was formed by a group of successful technology entrepreneurs in 2011 to provide early stage growth capital to best in class early-growth stage technology companies throughout Scotland and the North of England.
In recent times, we have seen that a number of tech hubs have emerged and are gathering real momentum both in Scotland and in the North of England. These tech hubs are home to an ever-increasing number of early-growth stage technology companies seeking investment to grow their businesses beyond ideas to world class and sustainable businesses. ESM is ideally located to play its part in providing opportunity for investment and in ensuring that investors are given the opportunity to invest in high quality and qualified investment propositions.
ESM has >£13 million invested to date and currently maintains a membership of >100 high net worth individuals, many of whom have been alongside us from day one. Some 35+ investment transactions have been completed in this timeframe. The ESM team has a strong track record of investing, supporting growth, identifying when the best stage is to exit and realising returns.
We are a lead investor but we also co-invest with investment partners world-wide.
ESM Investments - growing the future together
We are delighted to extend the opportunity for high net worth individuals to co-invest alongside us. These investments are not for everyone and should be only considered as part of your overall investment strategy. By co-investing alongside ESM Investments you will however qualify for some valuable tax advantages through the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), subject to an annual limit of £2 million. These include up to 30% of your income tax bill and the ability to defer any capital gains you make. The EIS scheme is designed to encourage investment in small, higher risk firms in need of expansion capital.
Our entire investment focus is on early-growth stage technology companies that can demonstrate a validated customer base. These are relatively small businesses that have invariably identified a gap for a new product or service and need capital to commercialise and/or expand operations. Our existing portfolio of investee companies are formed of them and typically we will look to hold an investment in each company for a period of between 5 to 7 years before exiting.
Not every start-up project can succeed. We seek to identify the successes of the future and a fundamental part of our selection and on-going investment management processes is in the maintenance of ESM Standards. These standards have been crafted from our own experience as former founders of tech businesses. They help us to take a balanced and consistent view of the needs of our portfolio and, importantly, help to provide a clear and attractive proposition to be of interest to future external investors and potential acquirers.
Our involvement does not stop at the point of investment. Within ESM Investments we have decades of entrepreneurial excellence to draw on and give all of our investee management teams daily access to that expertise. We also regularly review ESM portfolio companies and provide updates to our investors.
Our Investor Events
ESM Investments is committed to hosting an ESM Member Event every quarter. As well as providing the opportunity for you to hear first-hand from the leadership team of ESM Investments and from the management teams of our investee companies, the events are stimulating and often highlight timely and valuable further investment opportunities for ESM members. ESM events are by invitation, online and they are free to attend. Simply contact us if you would like a no obligation invitation and we look forward to getting to know you.
The format is simple. Presentations are made by up to three different and new investment opportunities and a presentation is usually made from at least one of ESM's existing portfolio company's about their product developments, commercialisation and/or investment plans and future growth strategies. This is followed by thoughts from the ESM Leadership team to start off an in-depth discussion amongst attendees.
Our current portfolio
Adimo
Adimo provides distributed commerce technology used by the world's biggest advertisers. Adimo is a suite of connected products that both enhance a shopper's experience and wins customers for brands. Adimo gives brands convenient new ways for their shoppers to buy. It is a shoppable layer for any consumer context.
Website: https://adimo.co
Asura is a software business specialising in the financial services sector. Its products currently manage over £1.5 billion for stock broking clients in London. It improves: end-to-end business efficiency by streamlining and automating workflows, client relationships and maximises revenue with its innovative software platform.
Website: http://www.asurafin.com
Bellrock Technology
Bellrock Technology supplies software as a service that improves performance and safety. It supports multi million pound operations at blue chip companies like EDF Energy and SSE. Its software, Lumen®, lets Bellrock customers predict problems before they occur and act sooner to prevent them. It reduces the risk of failures, inefficiencies, costs and dangerous incidents.
Website: https://www.bellrock.tech
Mobile Acuity
Mobile Acuity has created and patented inventions that allow access to information about an object via an image collected through a mobile device camera. The company has 5 patents granted in the USA and in Europe with a number of additional pending patents. The company is monetising these patents by licensing to technology companies throughout the world.
Website: https://www.mobileacuity.com
Network 90 is a leading online sports platform co-founded by Luis Figo and Luke Donald. It is an exclusive platform for professional, amateur and junior sports people that connects sportsmen and sportswomen to sports clubs.
Website: http://www.network90club.com
Payment Centric
Payment Centric empowers financial inclusion and fairness. The product brings banking and bill payments into the heart of African communities through networks of local shops and virtual shops for African Diaspora. Its clients (mobile network operators, electricity, water & other utility companies) benefit from efficient collection of revenues and retailers (its sales agents) benefit from increased footfall, impulse purchases and enhanced services to drive sales.
Website: http://www.paymentcentric.co.uk
Objective Associates
Objective Associates Ltd is a specialist in the e-commerce marketplace sector, a sector that grows in retail dominance daily. The company provides ambitious retailers with Seller Dynamics, ensuring they can compete successfully within Amazon. eBay, Cdiscount, Fnac and other lucrative global channels. The highly experienced team of e-commerce professionals are led by founders Alex Ogilvie and Fraser Ingram.
Website: https://www.sellerdynamics.com
Sharein
Sharein, an FCA regulated business, is a leading provider of white label investment platforms co-founded by Jude Cook and Andrew Pickett. It provides both the technology platform and the regulatory umbrella for businesses so they are compliant in this regulated industry, allowing them to focus on marketing deals to investors.
Website: https://www.sharein.com
Time for you Care
Time for You Care uses a sophisticated software platform and smartphone application to monitor the movements of staff and the needs of those requiring care, replacing inefficient back office systems freeing up its workforce to concentrate on caring for people. The benefits of the technology also allow the business to remunerate care practitioners at a level that better reflects the responsibility and commitment they make.
Website: http://www.timeforyoucare.co.uk
'The UK cements its position as a global tech leader – its digital sector is a shining light not only in Europe but also on a global scale.'
TechNation Report 2018
'The UK has digital suburbs not just cities. Digital tech is empowering local economies across the UK.'
'Global connections are key to domestic success. Collaboration and global connectivity helps the UK tech sector grow 2.6 times faster than the rest of the economy.'
'Diversity remains a key challenge for digital tech. Only 19% of the digital tech workforce is female compared to 49% across all UK jobs.'
'We believe that the UK regions have a critically important role in strengthening the country's position on the global stage.'
EY quoted in TechNation Report 2018
'In 2017 the number of investments of £0.5m or over in early stage/scale up companies increased by 20% over the same period in 2016.'
The Scale Up Institute
The ESM Advisory Group
Danny Meaney
Head of Investment Services
Co-creator of private and public sector funds. Experienced investor and business growth specialist. Currently serving as a Non-Executive Director for a number of Boards in the private and public sector. Danny was formerly a Digital Industries Trade Ambassador for the UK Government. Prior to joining ESM Investments, Danny founded The UP Ventures Group, a growth partner for corporates and scale-ups providing business acceleration programmes and mentoring. Danny Meaney and Steven Morris and have worked together on boards for over 4 years.
Steven Morris
Steven is an experienced technology entrepreneur, investor and Non-Executive Director. Steven has successfully cashed out of one technology business that he founded and one other technology business as an investor. These exits returned a 20x and a 10x return to shareholders respectively. Steven currently chairs several early-growth stage technology companies in the UK and has several years' experience as a technology sector investor. Steven has been a Stirling City Commissioner since 2017.
Stephen Henry
Specialism: Transformation programmes
A highly experienced, proven and successful International, business and technology leader with over 20+ years' experience as a Manager, Consultant, Director, Executive, Coach and Mentor, leading the delivery of successful transformation programmes, sustainable business improvements and turnaround success in both, fast paced, high growth international private, public and third sector environments.Stephen's core skills enable technology and business transformation, with recent roles for Napier University, CYBG, ACCESS, Skanska etc and has recently provided 18 months of business support, through startup and into the 'scaling up' phase for Asura Financial Technologies Ltd.
Steve Langmead
Specialism: Innovation, Commercialisation & Growth
An experienced natural leader and innovator with a successful track record in delivering business growth, commercial innovation and business transformation in both the public and private sector. Steve is an experienced investor and Non-Executive Director and excels at creating high performing teams. Prior to joining ESM Investments Corporate Services in 2014, Steve was the CEO of Capita Scotland, Senior VP for Altos Scotland, Wales & Ireland and CEO for Visit Scotland.
Specialism: Corporate Finance
Former Managing Director of Menzies Distribution, experienced Investor and Non-Executive Director and corporate finance specialist. Experienced in mergers, acquisitions and disposals. David trained as an Accountant with EY and has worked with ESM Investments Corporate Services since 2014.
Victoria Russell
Specialism: Leadership & Mentoring
An experienced Management Consultant whose deep knowledge of cultures, leadership and team dynamics is used to deliver intervention programmes to entrepreneurs and senior team members, both in the UK and internationally. Programmes are focused primarily on strategy, leadership and executive coaching, particularly with transformational change. Victoria joined ESM Investment Corporate Services in 2017. She manages ESM investor communications, organises investor events and supports portfolio companies with investor readiness, particularly in the areas of personal branding, pitching and the development of business plans.
Specialism: International Sales & Operations
Matt is an experienced investor and Non-Executive Director. He has a proven track record and extensive experience in establishing new businesses in new countries with new teams. He has over 20 years' experience in the creation of Customer Service Organisations. This includes the establishment of service & support companies and trading entities in over 14 different countries within Asia and the Middle East. Matt has worked alongside Steven Morris for over 10 years.
Sandra Auld
Specialism: Healthcare Sector
Sandra has specialist knowledge and extensive experience of the Health and Social Care environment in Scotland. She has strong relationships with its supporting networks at a National and Health Board/Integrated Joint Board level. Sandra is an experienced Non-Executive Director. She has co-authored a number of publications and is a strategic thinker with a particular interest in shaping health policy. Sandra has worked with ESM Investments Corporate Services since 2017.
Click Advisory Group members' images OR click left and right arrows to view staff biography and view contact details.
If you are considering a tax qualifying investment and you would like to discuss how to get started or you are an early-growth stage technology business that would like to discuss potentially receiving investment from ESM Investments, please contact us.
In the first instance, please contact us:
Office Address:11 Gladstone Place, Stirling, Scotland, FK8 2NN
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Wondering how Levelset can improve your payment process?
9Wood did, too. Now, after increasing its revenue by 26%, this custom manufacturer has experienced firsthand how we can minimize credit risk and help users get what they've earned.
Find out more about how 9Wood confronted payment problems caused by customer credit and protected itself in the midst of difficult economic times, and what good outcomes this could create for your business.


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package com.example.wangxiaojian.qq;

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import android.support.v4.app.FragmentManager;

import java.util.List;

/**
 * Created by Wangxiaojian on 2016/12/2.
 */

public class ViewPagerAdapter extends FragmentPagerAdapter {
    private List<Fragment> fragments;           //fragment集合
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Florida State at Georgia Tech Odds, Picks & TV Info
Written by Kenny Bell on January 24, 2017
NCAA Basketball Betting News
Could Wednesday's matchup at Georgia Tech be a letdown game for No. 6 Florida State? The Seminoles just completed arguably the hardest stretch of schedule in school history with six straight games vs. ranked teams. And the Noles impressively won five of them. The Yellow Jackets are a long way from being a ranked team. Let's take a look at the NCAA basketball odds for the game.
Florida State at Georgia Tech Odds, Betting Pick & TV Info
Jonathan Isaac earns Player of the Week honors with back-to-back double-doubles in top-15 wins: https://t.co/hDBK0Z4r4a pic.twitter.com/qYhcH7zdvB
— NCAA March Madness (@marchmadness) January 23, 2017
When: Wednesday, Jan. 25, 7 PM ET Where: McCamish Pavilion, Atlanta TV: ACC Extra Stream: WatchESPN Radio: FSU / Georgia Tech Opening NCAA Basketball Lines: FSU favored by TBA
Why Bet On Florida State?
On Dec. 30, Florida State visited Virginia for the first of six straight games against ranked opponents, the first time an ACC team had embarked on such a run since Maryland in 1992-93. FSU moved up to No. 6 in the new AP Poll on Monday. Florida State leapfrogged UNC to become the highest ranked ACC team in the poll, even though the 'Noles lost to UNC just over a week ago on the road. UNC's struggles with lowly Boston College Saturday likely contributed to the movement. Overall, there are five ACC teams ranked in the top 25 and FSU basketball has beaten all of them except the UNC loss over the last six games. The Seminoles beat No. 12 Louisville 73-68 on Saturday. The Seminoles raced out to a 14-0 lead – raising the decibel levels to uncommon heights along the way – and then held off a series of Louisville rallies to improve to 18-2 overall, 6-1 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Freshman Jonathan Isaac had 16 points and 10 rebounds to become the first FSU freshman with three straight double-doubles since Corey Louis in 1994-95. Isaac's 10th rebound came with less than 30 seconds left, as he thwarted a layup attempt with less than 30 seconds to play and the Seminoles leading by four. Dwayne Bacon, meanwhile, chipped in 16 points and three rebounds and Terance Mann, who was shut out in both points and rebounds during last Wednesday's win over Notre Dame, bounced back with 15 points and three boards. "Nobody that we would be in this situation (after) this stretch," Bacon said. "Nobody thought we would be top-10 in the country. Nobody thought we would go 5-1 in the six games against six ranked teams. Everybody doubted us. Nobody thought we would have the record we have today." Isaac was named ACC Rookie of the Week on Monday. Isaac averaged 19.5 points and 10.0 rebounds, shot .688 from the field and was a perfect 100 percent from the free throw line. Isaac was Florida State's leading scorer, its leading rebounder, its leading shooter from the field, the 3-point line (.750) and the free throw line while leading the Seminoles in blocked shots. Isaac enters Wednesday's game against Georgia Tech averaging 13.3 points and a team-leading 7.8 rebounds. He is now tied for the team lead in blocked shots with 26 and will shoot for his fourth consecutive double-double (all in ACC play) against the Yellow Jackets.
Why Bet On Georgia Tech?
The Yellow Jackets (11-8) lost to No. 16 Virginia 62-49 on Saturday. Josh Okogie led the Yellow Jackets (11-8, 3-4) with 14 points, all but one in the first half, and fellow freshman Justin Moore had 10. Quinton Stephens matched his career high of 13 rebounds. It was his sixth double-digit rebound game this season, and the 6-9 senior is averaging 8.2 rebounds per game for the season, 8.4 in ACC games. Ben Lammers was held under 10 points for just the second time this season (7 points with 7 rebounds). He went 3-for- 12 from the floor and did not block a shot for the second time this season. The Yellow Jackets pulled within 29-28 with 4 1/2 minutes left in the first half, but Virginia scored the last six points of the half and started the second half with a 16-7 run to lead 51-35 with under 10 minutes to play. "We've been pretty good at answering runs, but we didn't answer that one," first-year coach Josh Pastner said. Tech trailed at the half for the seventh time this season (35-28), and for the first time in four games. The Yellow Jackets are 1-7 when trailing at the half this season. Tech's 49 points was its second lowest offensive output of the season (43 vs. Virginia), but the Yellow Jackets shot 45.2 percent from the floor and 44.4 percent from three-point range. The Cavaliers entered the game No. 1 in the ACC in field goal defense (38.0 pct.) and seventh in three-point defense (32.4 pct.). Tech held Virginia to its third-lowest point total of the year and eight points below its season scoring average entering the game (70.0 ppg). Tech held Virginia to 5-for- 22 from three-point range; the Cavaliers came in No. 1 in three-point shooting (41.3 pct.). Virginia's 45.8 percent from the floor overall was the best against the Jackets in five games, since Duke hit 55.7 percent. Tech came into the game first in the ACC in field goal percentage defense against conference foes and has allowed 41.5 percent this season. Nine out of Tech's last 10 opponents have shot 40.6 percent from the floor or lower. Tech has held its ACC foes to 40.9 percent, and that includes a 55.7-percent game by Duke. Tech has shot 46.5 percent (100-for- 215) from the floor in its last four games, 47.1 percent from three-point range (24-for- 51).
Florida State at Georgia Tech Betting Pick: Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Take Georgia Tech to cover the NCAA betting spread.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Northwestern Wildcats: 1/17/2021 Matchup Betting Preview, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds and Trends
Purdue Boilermakers vs. Penn State Nittany Lions: 1/17/2021 Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line, Spread and Betting Trends
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UMass Minutemen vs. Fordham Rams: 1/17/2021 Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line, Spread and Betting Trends
Memphis Tigers vs. Tulsa Golden Hurricane: 1/17/2021 Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line, Spread and Betting Trends
Nevada Wolf Pack vs. Fresno State Bulldogs: 1/17/2021 Matchup Betting Preview, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds and Trends
Sacramento State Hornets vs. Idaho State Bengals: 1/17/2021 Betting Trends, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line and Preview
Dayton Flyers vs. George Washington Colonials: 1/17/2021 Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line, Spread and Betting Trends
Santa Clara Broncos vs. San Diego Toreros: 1/17/2021 Betting Preview, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds and Trends
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons: 1/17/2021 Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds, Line, Spread and Betting Trends
Weber State Wildcats vs. Tarleton State Texans: 1/17/2021 Betting Preview, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds and Trends
CSU Northridge Matadors vs. Long Beach State Beach: 1/15/2021 Betting Preview, Predictions, Computer Picks, Odds and Trends – CANCELLED
Gonzaga Vs Saint Mary's Expert Analysis – NCAAB Betting


In-Depth Mai Jing Pulse Diagnosis. 2 Days.
This method of pulse diagnosis is easy to learn, clarifies underlying theory and shows hard to diagnose aspects such as the 5 Element constitution and 8 Extraordinary vessel imbalances.
The Mai Jing pulse diagnosis technique is presented in detail. It gives a clear picture of the 6 paired channels, 8 Extraordinary Vessels and importantly gives an accurate reading of the elemental imbalance and CF. This latter aspect is quite a revolution for 5 element practice as the reading very much complements and corroborates findings of CSOE (colour, sound, odour, emotion). It also gives a special insight into the nature of Yin and Yang pulses. With a unique notation method and a clarification of the position and character of the pulse, we can re-discover the dynamic qualities of the pulse qualities that we already know.
With an enhanced method of pulse diagnosis that we are confident in, we can in turn better understand the meaning of certain important topics in Chinese Medicine theory.
I am confident that it will make a significant difference to your clinical results and enjoyment of practice.
Seminar includes comprehensive notes, and a certificate on completion.
Eligibility: Suitable for Acupuncture Practitioners as well as Shiatsu practitioners and 3rd year students.
Venue: Quaker Meeting House, Edinburgh.
Elaine H: "I would thoroughly recommend studying here; it's tailored to your needs, very informative, and Jamie a very good source of information and a great teacher".
Applied Channel Theory: Advanced Classical Practical Skills. 2 Days.
We are delighted to welcome again Michael Phoenix, to teach this two-day workshop. Additional to the principles of Applied Channel Theory, pioneered by Dr. Wang Ju-Yi, we will also explore diagnostic palpation of the channels - which includes treatment of points and channels with pressure and specialist pulse diagnosis - as well as other advanced classical treatment modalities: work on the Du channel, plucking technique and special Gua Sha techniques.
Attendance on this course will qualify graduates to attend the advanced workshop with Jason Robertson in November 2019.
Interpreting the Twelve Zang Fu Organs of Chinese Medicine. 2 Days.
Explore key characters and phrases related to the twelve zang fu organs to deepen your understanding of their function and dysfunction. This two day workshop will look at Chinese Medicine through the characters and reveal their meaning. Each zang fu organ has a 'cluster' of Chinese terms that are used specifically with it: for instance, the classics state to 'firm the spleen' rather than the looser idea of to 'tonify the spleen'. Chinese medical terminology represents a vital link to our interpretation of the Chinese Medicine itself.
East West College is delighted to invite guest lecturer Deborah Woolf to explain and bring to a wider audience the details of these essential characters. An experienced teacher of Classical Chinese Medicine and Philosophy, Deborah 's knowledge and love of the Chinese language enables direct interpretation for practitioners of Chinese Medicine.
Introduction to Jing Fang. 1 Day.
Jing Fang is an approach to Chinese medicine founded in the second century clinical manuals the Shang Han Lun (Treatise on Cold Damage) and Jin Gui Yao Lue (Secrets of the Golden Cabinet). Its study continues to bring new insights and applications for acupuncturists today. Key concepts focus on a three-layered model of the human body, and include the nature of Qi and the vital need to resolve Damp. Observe Chinese Medicine afresh through this fascinating lens.
This Course is now full, but Jason will be back Mid-November 2020 for another advanced intensive, and we can take bookings for that now, please ask using the booking form.
Jason Robertson Ph. D. Lic. Ac.
We are excited to announce that in November Jason Robertson will visit us from Seattle to teach an in-depth advanced practice of Applied Channel Theory for the first time in the UK. The workshop will be based on his latest research and clinical experience as well on his PhD based on the writings of Dr Wang. The course is only available to postgraduate students who have already completed a previous Applied Channel theory 3-day course (either at East West College or elsewhere). Please register your interest early to avoid disappointment.
This weekend will be an enjoyable and potent mix of qigong and lifestyle education. Peter will teach qigong forms (backed up by videos) that everyone can take away for daily practice, as well as discuss how we can cultivate our minds, emotions, bodies, and breath to increase health and wellbeing. Places are limited to 20 so book early!
Is Dr. Wang's therory related to Tung and Tan styles?
In a word: "no". All three of these teachers did ephasise the need for palpation of channels and used ideas that relate to the six channels (Taiyang, Shaoyin etc.) but Dr. Wang's approach contains a theory base very much in line with classical Chinese Medicine, whereas Dr. Tung (and Dr. Tan whose work was based on Dr. Tung) has a different lineage of thinking.
Can you teach a course where I am based?
Yes we can. With about a 6 person minimum we can come to you with a similar cost stucture to the courses quoted above.
What if I am a shiatsu practitioner?
You may well be able to join our courses. If you have a reasonable TCM knowledge you should be fine with any.


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  second = document.getElementById("second").value

  interval = setInterval(tambah, 1000)

  function tambah() {
    second--
    if (minute != 0 && second == -1) {
      minute--
      second = 59
    } else if (minute == 0 && second == 0) {
      clearInterval(interval)
      document.getElementById("hasill").innerHTML = "Finish!!!"
      document.getElementById("btninput").disabled = false
    }
    document.getElementById("hasil").innerHTML = minute + " : " + second
  }
}

function stop() {
  document.getElementById("btninput").disabled = false
  clearInterval(interval)

  document.getElementById("btninput").innerHTML = button;
}

TIMER

<input type="number" id="minute" placeholder="minute" style="width: 65px;" data-component="minute">
<input type="number" id="second" placeholder="seconds" style="width: 69px;" max="60" data-component="second">

00

<audio src="ding-sound-effect_2.mp3" id="sound" data-component="sound"></audio>
<button onclick="yok()" data-component="button" id="btninput">start</button>
<button onclick="stop()" id="stop">stop</button>

A: When you press resume, yok() is invoked. Which resets the minute and second on
minute = document.getElementById("minute").value
second = document.getElementById("second").value

You could add a condition to handle case for resume.
  if (document.getElementById("btninput").innerHTML !== button){
    minute = document.getElementById("minute").value;
    second = document.getElementById("second").value;
  }

EDIT:
So to explain more clearly, you should keep in mind that the resume button still has onclick event set to yok() (since you only changed the innerHTML from start to resume).
So what happens if you press resume? Well, yok() function will be executed, and runs the line
minute = document.getElementById("minute").value
second = document.getElementById("second").value

which sets the value of minute and second to whatever is in the input field (basically resets the timer).
So what has to be done, is to check if the button is set to the start button state, or the resume button state. So just like how I did above, the simplest way (although not the cleanest) you can check if the innerHTML on the button says 'resume' or not.

Also, as ImranRafiqRather mentioned, it might be a better idea to set a default value of minute and second.
I suggest doing something like
  minute = document.getElementById("minute").value || 0;
  second = document.getElementById("second").value || 0;

which ensures that if the elements' value were falsy, the code will still set the variables to 0 (you might want to read about falsy values and || (or) syntax, it might look weird but yes, javascript is a weird language :P).

A: There are many issues, that I have seen so far.

*

*The initial values for minutes and seconds is not set initially in your code which creates bugs into your code.

*I don't find any use of  minute and second input fields when they are no longer used in your code. (I have perhaps used those input fields and added my hour field as well)
I have made some changes and provided a better Timer logic as per conversions between hours and minutes and seconds. Go through the code provided and see if it works fine for you. I have removed unwanted code (You can use the same logic in any manner you like).
You basic Timer is ready though :)

let second = 0;
let minute = 0;
let hour = 0;
var interval;
var button = (HTMLButtonElement.value = "Resume");

function yok() {
  document.getElementById("btninput").disabled = true;

  interval = setInterval(tambah, 1000);
}

function tambah() {
  // if (minute != 0 && second == -1) {
  //   minute--;
  //   second = 59;
  // } else if (minute == 0 && second == 0) {
  //   clearInterval(interval);
  //   document.getElementById("hasill").innerHTML = "Finish!!!";
  //   document.getElementById("btninput").disabled = false;
  // }
  // document.getElementById("hasil").innerHTML = minute + " : " + second;
  second++;
  document.getElementById("second").value = second;
  if (second === 60) {
    minute = minute + 1;
    document.getElementById("minute").value = minute;
    second = 0;

    if (minute === 60) {
      hour = hour + 1;
      document.getElementById("hour").value = minute;
      minute = 0;
    }

    // You can take it forward from here onnwards
  }
}

function stop() {
  document.getElementById("btninput").disabled = false;
  clearInterval(interval);

  document.getElementById("btninput").innerHTML = button;
}
<!DOCTYPE html>

    <meta charset="UTF-8" />
    <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" />
    <meta http-equiv="X-UA-Compatible" content="ie=edge" />
    <title>Timer in Javascript</title>

TIMER

    <input
      type="number"
      id="hour"
      placeholder="hour"
      style="width: 65px;"
      data-component="hour"
    />
    h

    <input
      type="number"
      id="minute"
      placeholder="minute"
      style="width: 65px;"
      data-component="minute"
    />
    m
    <input
      type="number"
      id="second"
      placeholder="seconds"
      style="width: 69px;"
      max="60"
      data-component="second"
    />
    s

    <button onclick="yok()" data-component="button" id="btninput">start</button>
    <button onclick="stop()" id="stop">stop</button>

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
COOPER SWAPS BLUES FOR U's
© Stephen Hamilton/INPHO Joel Cooper
Linfield have announced the imminent departure of winger Joel Cooper after he agreed to join League One side Oxford United when the transfer window opens next month.
The 24-year-old will swap Windsor Park for the Kassam Stadium on a three season deal after two successful years with the Blues which produced 21 goals in 81 appearances after he had joined from Glenavon.
Cooper is, of course, the latest in a recent line of emerging NIFL stars to make the journey across to the university town, following the footsteps of Mark Sykes and Gavin Whyte over the last couple of years.
Linfield boss David Healy, whilst sorry to see Cooper go, was full of praise for his efforts for the Danske Bank Premiership champions.
"I want to thank Joel for the major contribution he made to our successes over the past couple of years. He was a brilliant lad to work with and he was a very popular player both in the changing room and with our supporters as well," he told LinfieldFC.com.
"His consistent and excellent performances in our team have earned him this exciting move to Oxford and we all want to wish him every success and happiness as he embarks on this next important chapter in his football career.
"He leaves us with many memories of exciting wing play, goals and assists and we want to place on record our appreciation for all his efforts in the service of his club."


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It still feels surreal, and even though I have this gorgeous shiny award sitting on my desk reminding me of the incredible day that was the Cosmopolitan Women of the Year Awards, I still feel like I need to pinch myself.
2016 was by far one of the most challenging years for so many of us, but to be recognized along side some of the most remarkable women in Australia really made the testing times feel worth it.
Just a few days before the awards I was taken to hospital as my health had been rapidly declining due to me pushing myself so much throughout the year but somehow I managed to battle through it and get on that plane to Sydney.
There is no other person in the world that I could imagine having by my side for this event than my mother. After all, it's been her strength and determination that has help create the women that I am today.
We arrived at our tiny little apartment that couldn't be further from "wheel chair accessible", and although mum was having a fit, I just laughed it off as given the days before hand, for me it just felt good actually being able to even be there (in Sydney).
Somehow we managed to get a spray tan in our room by the amazing Colour Me Bronze, who was so patient with me as being able to stand up for the tan was a huge challenge given that my blood pressure was so low due to being sick.
We were up bright and early for hair and makeup – I decided to actually treat myself and not do my own for a change, and then it was time to slip into the stunning dress that was gifted to me by the incredibly generous team at Thurley.
It's not often I get to frock up and feel glamorous but as this event was all about feeling empowered, I'm a big believer that with the right outfit, a women can take over the world, and that is exactly how I felt.
Off we went as we experienced our first ride in an Uber to the Centennial Gardens and as we pulled up I my heart almost jumped out of my chest, as the first person I saw was Bethany Hamilton!
Bethany has been a women I've admired since my injury as she survived the most grueling shark attack whilst surfing and she has since gone on to inspire so many of us with the power of using her experience to create a positive influence and prove that we are not what has happened to us but we are who we choose to be.
Never one to shy away from being star struck I quickly raced up to Bethany and told her how brilliant she is (crazy fan girl moment) and made sure I got a snap with her.
Then it was truly time to sit back and take it all in.
I had never been to the Centennial Gardens before, let alone be surrounded by so many positive influences so I felt it only normal to feel a little overwhelmed. People were introducing themselves to me and telling similar things to what I was telling Bethany, but they were saying it about me?
It wasn't until this moment that I have ever really felt like I have made a big impact on people as I just go about my life the only way I know how. I take each day as it comes, and not all of those days are good ones. It has never once came into my mind that I wouldn't be using my experience to help others, it's what I've always done as that is what I watched my mother and great grandmother do. For me, what I am doing isn't a job; I don't get paid for it. It's just my way of life.
We took our places at our gorgeously decorated table opposite Samantha Harris (Super Model) and Bonnie Sveen (Actress) and were serenaded by none other then the incredibly talented Koi Boys. These guys are not just absolute hunks but they are hilarious and my tummy was hurting from laughing so much.
I kept looking around the room putting faces to names as I had followed so many of the other nominated women's stories. The love in the room was so apparent as every single woman here today had her own story and it was one that was having an impact on all of us.
I truly cannot thank each and every one of you that took the time out of their busy days to vote for me. This day was unlike any other and one I will remember for the rest of my life!
I have to give the biggest shootout to Australian Designer Thurley for gifting me the gorgeous dress I wore for the occasion and to the the beautiful Rebecca Hayes from OneTwo Agency for making the dress happen!


There is no one I know who has not been touched by our economy's downturn. It's looking more and more like the end is not quite as close as we hoped it might be. But who is to say this is all such a terrible thing?
I like to look for a silver lining. We find it hard to believe the stories of our grandparents who lived through the Great Depression. We look at their "odd" ways and wonder why they bother. Their hoarding and use of what has already been re-used seems unnecessary to us. But maybe we are learning lessons now that will stick with us for years to come.
I wonder if you might agree that you are beginning to realize what is most important to you. For millenia, culture has revolved around the struggle to have more, look better, and become successful and powerful. But what if that isn't really what is important at all? What if your striving for "things" is really what is making you the most unhappy?
Maybe your making choices like: do I buy that new pair of shoes or take the family to a movie? Are you finding yourself skipping the full-service carwash for the $2 do-it-yourself version? For you it may be cutting out the monthly manicure or beginning to buy generics at the grocery store. Some are making much harder choices: do you pay the electricity bill or the car payment this month?
I wonder if ten or twenty years from now we'll look back and realize that these hard times gave us a better understanding of what we truly value. I'm choosing to value people and time rather than a brand-names or fancy titles (of course, I am a "stay at home mom" which might be the best title of all!). We should each be able to find our worth in our zest for life and the relationships that make up that life.
If we get creative in how we save and spend our money, we might even find happiness in realizing that (aah-ha!) we can actually live with less and (gasp) like it! I am doing some of the things I mentioned above. Some of them I've been working at for years - like finding which store-brands are actually exactly the same or better than the name-brand that costs twice as much. And although I get frustrated at my lack of quarters, you can't beat the self-service car washes - and it takes less than five minutes!
What are ways that you are cutting corners? Share your favorite ideas right here!


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Windows are an essential component of any home, one which shouldn't be overlooked. Poorly insulating windows will mean less heat is kept in your home and you'll have to expend more energy to heat it. Of course, if energy was free this might not be such an issue, but any UK homeowner knows the reality is very different. So to ensure heating costs will be kept to a minimum, our collection of windows feature a Window Energy Rating (WER) of A as standard. Combining this with beautifully crafted uPVC profiles, you can enjoy stylish, low-maintenance windows in a range of styles.
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What makes the perfect Nigerian wedding? Let's face it, this is Naija. For most people, the answer is always going to be food. But beyond the food, opinions vary about everything else.
For the traditional baes, family (over)involvement is not up for debate, everyone is invited. But, for the modern/IJGB/upwardly mobile baes, the fantasy is quite different: it's all about the optics. And then, there are the woke/feminist baes who will not subscribe to 'our African culture'.
This has been the biggest Nigerian wedding this year. The world has been raving about Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's wedding, but here in Naija, it's unlikely that any wedding will top this one in 2018.
Now this is how to do a destination wedding. We'd like to see another bride outrank Salewa's wedding gown.
This is for the woke baes who want a nice compromise between tradition and their independent streaks.
A presidential wedding does not come by every other year or administration, and this wedding was up there on the list of Aso Rock weddings.
We loved the fact that every detail of this Warri wedding was steeped in the bride's rich Itsekiri culture.
This classy wedding had to catch our attention because everybody loves Zainab Balogun. And we all want to know who styled her in that eclectic fabric!
We all love a cross-cultural wedding. And, for good measure, we got a chance to see what Nollywood veterans, Olu Jacobs and Joke Silva are like as parents.
This wedding makes the list because as much as we love to hate our billionaire 1 per cent, we look forward to the splash they make when they celebrate just about anything.
This wedding makes the list because the couple managed to pull off a secret Nigerian wedding on their own terms. We just want to know how they did it!
Which Nigerian wedding has been your favourite this year? Speaking of favourites, here are our favourite photos from the double Indimi wedding.
These Black Bridesmaids Dresses Will Give Your Wedding A Classy Vibe!


text:
Issue PDFs
Sankofa Institute Presents Charlie Parker Symposium
By Ken Bullock, Special to the Planet
"We want to bring Jazz back to the fore, make it relevant again—and bring it back to black audiences," said Duane Deterville, founder of the Sankofa Cultural Institute, of the two-day symposium "Bird, Bop, Black Art & Beyond" at the House of Unity, Suite 230 in Oakland's Eastmont Mall, 7200 Bancroft Ave., this Saturday and Sunday.
"Jazz has been presented too much as music of the past, not for young audiences," he said. "We'll be looking at how great players like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were catalysts for art and style of worldwide appeal, and how they were part of a cultural movement that germinated in black neighborhoods, communities like Brooklyn and the Bronx that gave birth to Hip Hop in more recent years."
The symposium, running from 2-8 p. m. Saturday and 12:30-4:20 p.m. Sunday, will feature a Norwegian documentary film, never released in the United States, with interviews of musicians who played with Parker, shown over the two days of the event. A one act play, "Wounded Feathers, A Jazz Tragedy," will be performed Saturday by its author, actor and jazz promoter Robert Carmack.
Both days will also feature panel discussions, with Arthur Monroe, an artist and historian who was acquainted with Parker; Karlton Hester, musician and director of Jazz Studies at UC Santa Cruz; musician and scholar Rudy Mwongozi; archivist Julian Carroll; and jazz promoter Melva Young, as well as Robert Carmack. Duane Deterville will moderate the panels.
Monroe met Parker in New York, through black abstract expressionist painter Norman Lewis, who had a studio near Willem De Kooning's.
"Bird not only had an impact on the painters and writers who gathered at places like The Five Spot," Deterville said, "but also studied painting with Harvey Cropper. Most of his canvases are gone, but one or two apparently survive. Part of what we want to do is to resurrect him from the stereotypical image of being just a slave to his own addiction, the myth of him and other Jazz artists as being just about emotions and 'natural talent,' not the rigor of study. Charlie Parker was well-read, basically an intellectual, and listened to everything in music. Downbeat put him through a blindfold test of a wide range of music, which he got all right, including Stravinsky and other composers, some of whom he had met. We want to make him more three-dimensional."
Deterville also told the story about how Monroe met Jan Horn, the Norwegian documentarist who made the Parker film on a grant from his government.
"It includes interviews with Red Rodney, the Heath Brothers—from some great players no longer with us," he said. He also mentioned other artists who traveled back and forth between the black community, jazz, "beat" and other scenes in American and international society, like the late poets Ted Joans and Bob Kaufman (long a San Francisco resident).
"We want to show that these things that originated in the African diaspora in Black communities in the U. S. occurred more than once," Deterville said. "Hip Hop is in that way almost an echo of Be Bop, and not only in the sound. Like jazz, it's got a world-wide appeal, moving youth culture, inspiring painters like Keith Haring and Basquiat, as well as sparking poetry slams, fashions in dress, literature ... We'd like to make Jazz relevant to younger listeners, show how these are materials that can be used in their current aesthetic--and that there are words to draw upon as well."
Deterville founded the Sankofa Cultural Institute in 1999 to bring about encounters, workshops and cultural exchanges concerning African Diasporic cultural expression. The Institute has both a local and an international focus.
Past conferences have brought artists and cultural leaders from as far away as Brazil and Nigeria. Yet Deterville's focused on the future, culturally speaking.
"You have to wonder what's next on the horizon after this," he said. "Looking back, who knows what brings these things in and out of vogue?"
He's making sure the discussions will be documented, so in the future younger people will be able to hear the participants talk, "and hear other people chiming in, to know there was still an interest in jazz in the black community in Oakland, that it wasn't completely forgotten in the 21st century."
BIRD, BOP, BLACK ART
A symposium on legendary saxophonist Charlie Parker and the significance of black artists in the 1950s. Saturday, Aug. 26 and Sunday, Aug. 27. House of Unity, Suite 230, Eastmont Mall, 7200 Bancroft Ave., Oakland. $5-15 per day, sliding scale. For more information, call 836-6234.


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