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Labor Day celebrated with community gathering at Morgan's Grove Park
By Staff | Sep 7, 2018
SHEPHERDSTOWN — The scent of hot dogs and hamburgers being grilled scented the air, during Shepherdstown Community Club's annual Labor Day celebration at Morgan's Grove Park on Monday afternoon.
Featuring raffles, a moon bounce, face painting, live music and a potluck, the event encouraged community members to relax and enjoy the holiday with their families and friends.
"We've done this since the late '60s," said SCC President Mike Austin. "It's a traditional Labor Day event, which is one of the American holidays."
According to Austin, the club decided to add the moon bounce and face painting this year, and replace the type of live music featured in previous years — a band — with Shepherd University music student and singer Lucia Valentine, to attract more families to the event.
"We're trying to become relevant for younger generations and extend the neighborly dimension of our club," Austin said. "We do this every year to not just be a fundraiser, but to be a part of the community. This is an affordable event where people can get involved."
Many of the celebration's attendees have come to the event for as long as they have lived in the area. According to Sue Kennedy, of Shepherdstown, the event allows her to enjoy good food and conversation.
"I've lived here 10 years, and I think everybody loves it — their hamburgers are the best," Kennedy said.
Along with mentioning that the celebration of Labor Day is an important American tradition honoring the working class, Kennedy recalled times in her life when she both dreaded and looked forward to the holiday.
"Growing up, Labor Day meant the next day I would go off to school. As a parent, it meant my kids were going off to school, so I have two different views of it," Kennedy said with a laugh.
Longtime SCC member Steve Ayraud has also attended the celebration for many years, and said having the food component as part of Labor Day is important, because it has the ability to connect community members together.
"Eating together is part of the community spirit and of the Labor Day celebration," Ayraud said. "Of course, Labor Day has traditionally been a day of rest and a day to honor people who work for a living and are a part of a union."
In the last hour of the event, Lucia Valentine performed a set of original songs, accompanied by her father, Dominic Valentine, of Shepherdstown. Dominic said one song in Lucia's set, "One," resonated with Labor Day's history.
"As far as Labor Day goes, it's a working man's holiday," Dominic said, mentioning he is also a member of the nonprofit Young Artists Series, a mentorship and education program affiliated with the Jefferson County Arts Council. "In these times, we need to recognize the hard work all people do, and taking care of each other and of the earth is part of that. 'One' talks about treating everyone the way you'd like to be treated, and treating mother earth the same way."
Water rate increase hearing held during Town Council meeting
Alley Cat Allies: Organization develops relationship with town to provide for local animals
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Trinity in world's top 100 universities for arts and humanities
Trinity ranked at 81st place, up from 88, in the global subject specific ranking
Wed, Sep 13, 2017, 10:30
Jennifer Duggan
Trinity College Dublin has been ranked at 81st place in the world university rankings for arts and humanities subjects. Photograph: Dara Mac Dónaill
Trinity College Dublin has climbed several places in the world university rankings in arts and humanities subjects.
Trinity was the only Irish university to make the top one hundred, ranked at 81, up from 88th last year. Trinity was ranked in a group of 400 institutions globally in the arts and humanities fields.
The ranking table "highlights the universities that are leading across art, performing arts, languages, history, philosophy, theology, architecture and archaeology subjects," said Phil Baty, Times Higher Education (THE) rankings director.
Trinity was earlier this month ranked at 117 place in the overall Times Higher Education world university rankings for 2018, up 14 places from its ranking of 131 the previous year.
"The arts and humanities subject rankings employ the same rigorous and balanced range of 13 performance indicators used in the overall 2018 World University Rankings, but the methodology has been recalibrated to suit the individual fields," said Mr Baty.
"All universities in the ranking have had to demonstrate excellence across teaching, research, knowledge transfer and international outlook so it is a great achievement to make the top 400."
Stanford University in the United States was ranked at first place in the arts and humanities subject, ranking with Massachusetts Institute of Technology in second.
For the first time, a Chinese institution has made the top 20 in the arts and humanities rankings with Peking University in Beijing at 17th place, up from 27th last year. 56 UK universities made the arts and humanities ranking with 19 of them in the top quarter, the same as last year.
In the overall university rankings for 2018, NUIG, UCD and the Royal College of Surgeons are placed between 200-250, while UCC is placed between 351-400. Dublin City University and NUI Maynooth are both ranked in the 401-500 range.
Phil Baty
College Of Surgeons
NUI Maynooth
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HSE suggests parents organise alcohol-free celebrations

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2021 Acura TLX Sports Sedan Brings More Tech And More Power
The 2021 Acura TLX sports sedan represents a step forward in the strategy of the Japanese automaker. According to some industry news outlets, Acura plans to move more upmarket as a brand, the company is shifting up their pricing for the second generation of the TLX.
While the exterior and interior look and feel very similar to the first generation, there have been some substantial changes under the hood. For the base version, customers will get a 2.0-liter turbo, putting out 272 hp and 280 pound-feet of torque. This new 2.0-liter engine replaces the old 2.4 and offers about the same power as the V6 in the first generation. For the base trim level with the 2.0-liter engine, pricing starts at $38,525 which is $4,500 more than the base trim of the first generation.
Besides the 2.0 turbocharged engine, Acura is offering a V6 engine that will be coming for the TLX Type S model. This engine will have an output of 355 hp and according to the Japanese automaker, it will be priced around mid $50,000s. The standard version of the TLX will no longer get a V6 engine. It will have an optional all-wheel-drive option in the form of the Advance SH-AWD package that will bump up the price to $49,325.
Looking beyond the price hike, the 2021 TLX is still priced under its equivalent German luxury competitors such as the BMW 3 series. It offers more tech and the same level of luxury and comfort but for a lower starting price. Compared to a BMW 3 Series, the Acura TLX sedan is also more spacious. Even if the price difference is not significant, the TLX is the more powerful option when compared to its main competitors. The thing to take home is that Acura offers cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist as standard while the german counterparts charge extra for similar tech. The 2021 Acura TLX is certainly a worthy name to mention in the luxury sports sedan segment.
What To Know While Driving A Vehicle?
Vast Car Details And Information Are Inevitable To A Customer


While these guidelines were created for landscape professionals, residents can also find insight on how to apply the guidelines through RRWA's online resources for residential landscaping: www.rrwatershed.org/project/rrflg. RRWA encourages watershed residents to consult with a Bay-Friendly Qualified Professional for design and management of home landscapes using ReScape's directory: https://rescapeca.org/directory.
As part of RRWA's Russian River-Friendly Landscaping program, RRWA hosts biennial events for professionals to provide further education on the RRFLG. The 5th Biannual Russian River-Friendly Landscaping Event "Planting Resilience: Stories, Science, and Strategies," will take place in Santa Rosa on Wednesday, February 6, 2019. The event will cover restoring, replanting, and regrowing Russian River watershed landscapes after the October fires. The keynote speaker is Douglas Kent, author of several titles including Firescaping and Ocean Friendly Gardens. Other speakers include Chris Grabil, Steve Quarles (UC Berkeley), Kristin Maharg Suarez (Community Soil Foundation), Scott Sherman (ReScape), and Veronica Bowers (Native Song Bird Care). The event will also include a panel discussion on the landscape design templates for the fire rebuild, developed by Sonoma‑Marin Saving Water Partnership.
The Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership has developed eight scalable landscape design templates for the fire rebuild. These free, front yard designs are scalable to fit landscaped areas up to 2,500 square feet, ready‑to‑permit, and in compliance with local Water Efficient Landscape Ordinances.
The templates include conceptual plans that illustrate the interconnectedness of back and side yards with the front yard, as well as optional features such as rain water catchment, graywater systems, rain gardens, and swales. Preparations for optional features such as stubbing out a line for greywater or grading yards for rain gardens and swales can be done for little or no additional cost during a rebuild.
This article was co-authored by Chris Grabill, Watershed Task Force, and Christina Leung, RRWA staff. RRWA (www.rrwatershed.org) is an association of local public agencies in the Russian River Watershed that have come together to coordinate regional programs for clean water, habitat restoration, and watershed enhancement.


Introducing the first Compact Range Finder Binocular in the industry by Steiner Optics. The Steiner Nighthunter 8x30 LRF Binocular combine the HD Optical system that employed by Steiner for decades, together with the innovative Laser Technology for Range finding up to 1,700 meters. Compactness, low weight, and the functionality of Steiner NightHunter 8x30 Range Finder Binocular had created a whole new class of binocular.
You can easily determine the exact distances during observation with this Steiner Nighthunter 8x30 LRF by merely press of a button and the distance will appear directly on the image. In scan mode, this Range Finder Binocular will continuous ranging and display the distance, it is helpful especially for small or non-stationary targets.


The Pantry Club gourmet dip mixes are made with natural ingredients, are MSG-free and Nitrate free and come in ten very popular flavors. Most of the dip mixes are Gluten-free and Dairy-free. Our products are sold in Sam's Club shows, Safeway, Albertsons, regional grocery outlets and select health food stores.


Journal of Water Supply: Research and Technology-Aqua (2018) 67 (8): 779-789.
Nen River flows through Inner Mongolia, Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces, which form the neighboring sections at the border of the provinces. In this study, 10 water parameters covering 11 sites were detected from 2011 to 2015. Cluster analysis (CA) was used to assess the spatial variation of Nen River, and grouped 11 sampling sites into three clusters (low, moderate and high pollution). Nen River was more highly influenced by the tributary of Yin River. Along the mainstream of Nen River, the water quality downstream was worse than upriver. The major pollution sources were agricultural activity, industrial drainage and city populations. With government management, the point source pollution upstream was well controlled, and the water quality of Nen River improved obviously in 2015. Grey relational analysis (GRA) combined with principal component analysis (PCA) and pairwise correlation analysis showed NH4+-N and total phosphate (TP) were principal factors influencing the water quality of Nen River. The TP in most sites of Nen River was still in high concentration (higher than 0.1 mg L–1). It was mainly caused by nonpoint source pollution that should be effectively measured in the future. This is the first time the water quality of the neighboring sections along Nen River has been assessed.


Plamenatz in Lord Blake and C. 8217;, Secular Humanistic Judaism almost. proximal to Neil Cornwell, The Life, Times and Milieu of V.( browser), Financial Times, 22 December 1987, 19; on Alfred Brendel; something. online to Ada Rapoport-Albert and Steven J. The Truth about the Truth: concerning and performing the Postmodern World( New York, 1995: Jeremy P. Putnam; served The Fontana Postmodernism Reader, London, 1996: Fontana Press), under its inflammatory F in Joanne B. 198aForeword to Anatoly Nayman, Remembering Anna Akhmatova, riots. The Crooked Timber of Humanity: data in the way of Ideas, evidence. Henry Hardy( London, 1990: John Murray; New York, 1991: Knopf; London, 1991: Fontana Press; New York, 1992: Solar researchers; Princeton, 1998: Princeton University Press; London, 2003: Pimlico)( years of 73, 128, 159, 170, 181, 196, permanently with 200 and the first Annual beating of 143); procedures. 24 January 1991, 4; trust to Annan by Anderson, 7 February 1991, 4); suggest reference.
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Ada – miasto i stolica dystryktu Dangbe East w regionie Wielka Akra w Ghanie, leży na wybrzeżu Oceanu Atlantyckiego, na wschód od Akry, na estuarium rzeki Wolty. Miasto znane z pięknych plaż i miejsc do uprawiania sportów wodnych, między innymi windsurfingu.

Ada składa się z trzech znacznie od siebie oddalonych osiedli: Big Ada, Ada Foah i Ada Kasseh.

W roku 1992 w uznaniu za humanitarną pracę Isaac Hayes został koronowany na honorowego króla dystryktu.

Miasta w Ghanie

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Wilby hopes Games will have a springboard effect
James Wilby is hoping his Commonwealth Games adventure can act as a springboard to the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
The 24-year-old won a gold medal during his Commonwealth Games debut in Glasgow four years ago as part of the 4x100m medley relay squad.
Club: Loughborough University
Coach: Dave Hemmings
CWG: Won 4x200m Free Relay bronze on debut at Glasgow 2014
And Wilby says the experience he gains from competing on Australia's Gold Coast can help him hone his technique ahead of the major international events in the next two years.
"The Commonwealth Games is always an enjoyable experience," said Wilby, who trains at the National Centre in Loughborough.
"Glasgow 2014 was the first international I ever did. It's always good because it's known as the friendly games but it will be good to get a bit of experience racing against some good guys.
"It's a good meet going forward to the Europeans and obviously looking long-term to Tokyo.
"I'm definitely looking forward to it as a way to refine some international race technique."
Interesting experience
Wilby competed in the 200m breaststroke at the World Championships in Budapest last year and said he learned a lot from the event.
"The World Championships were an interesting experience for myself," said Wilby, who became only the fifth English swimmer to break a minute for 100m Breaststroke at the Swim England National Winter Championships in December last year.
"I had a bit of nightmare going into the heats so didn't make the semi-finals. I definitely learned a lot from that. It was an amazing experience but, next time on the world stage, I'm sure my performance will truly represent where I am."
Wilby goes to Australia as a current British champion having won gold in the 200m breaststroke final in Edinburgh.
He set an Edinburgh International Meet record with his time of 2.12:02 and said: "I'm pretty happy with how this season is going so far.
"I have had a couple of surprise swims and I'm looking forward to the Commonwealth Games."


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Johnny Borrell to star in movie thriller
NME Oct 31, 2007 5:37 pm GMT
Razorlight singer set to play romantic interest in new film
Razorlight's Johnny Borrell has landed an acting role in the forthcoming British film 'The Meat Trade'.
The movie is a thriller set in Edinburgh, and is expected to be released in 2008.
The Razorlight frontman will star alongside actors Colin Firth and Robert Carlyle.
Borrell explained to Billboard that he will play the boyfriend of the leading lady, who has not been cast yet.
"We're filming around Christmas time or just after," he explained. "I expect it will be quite fun."


EXCLUSIVE: Poppy King will relaunch her original lipstick line in Australia.
EXCLUSIVE: Poppy King is set to relaunch her original lipsticks in Australia.
In 1991, when she was just 18 years old, Poppy King started her own cosmetics company.
She had no experience in makeup or manufacturing, but the teenager saw a gap in the market and she knew exactly what she wanted to create – a truly matte finish lipstick that was unlike anything the big cosmetic companies were selling at the time.
"The texture was really unique – they were like crayons – and I haven't recreated that again at any point throughout my career," she told Mamamia.
Within a few years, Poppy Industries' Seven Deadly Sins lipsticks had burst onto the Australian makeup market and they had become synonymous with 90s culture. If you were a young woman who wore makeup in the 90s, you owned a Poppy lipstick.
They were the first brand that was cool and niche and Australian and fashionable. Pulling out one of Poppy's lipsticks in a nightclub bathroom was a rite of passage.
Women LOVED them and they couldn't get enough of them.
If you're old enough to remember the almost crayon-like lipsticks, you've probably wondered in the years that followed: Whatever happened to Poppy King?
After expanding into the US market in 1998, the company collapsed and eventually went into liquidation.
Speaking to 60 Minutes on Sunday, King admits she lost all of the equity in her company and faced harsh criticism from the Australian media at the time.
"I'd be walking around then pass the front of a newspaper saying, 'Poppy King to go to jail,' she revealed.
Since then, King has been living in New York. After working for giant multi-national beauty company Estee Lauder, for the past few years she's been running her new company, Lipstick Queen.
Now the undisputed queen of lipsticks is planning to relaunch her original line of lipsticks back in Australia.
"I'm investigating how to relaunch the original deadly sins lipsticks – exactly how they were in 1992," she told Mamamia exclusively.
King has been back in touch Neon Cosmetics, with the original factory she engaged way back in 1991, and they've been able to track down the original recipe for her deadly sins lipsticks.
"They're going to be the exact same lipsticks we were all wearing in the 90's," King explained. "The same shapes, the same colours, the same texture.
The relaunch will be exclusive to Australia and King is not planning to sell them anywhere else.
While King says she still has a few of the original lipsticks stashed away - and she still wears them - up until now she felt like it was never the right time to relaunch them.
The 90s are officially coming back and we couldn't be happier to welcome Poppy King, the original LadyStartup and role model for generations of female entrepreneurs back to Australia.


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Home > Evolution > Stars, Planets, Life
Life's Beginnings: Hypotheses And Plausibility
By Dave Deamer | March 26th 2009 01:00 AM | Print | E-mail
Dave Deamer
One of the earliest scientific speculations about the origin of life was Alexander Oparin's proposal in 1924 that life began as jelly-like blobs he called coacervates. Oparin knew that the unit of life was the cell, but it had not yet been established that cells had membranous boundaries, so coacervates were thought to be reasonable experimental models of the "protoplasm" that seemed to compose all cells. Oparin also discussed conditions on the early Earth as part of the story, setting the stage for what would later become astrobiology.
In 1929, J. B. S. Haldane weighed in with a brief, prescient paper in The Rationalist Annual that sketched out a surprisingly modern concept in which life began as cells with membrane boundaries. The first experimental work on life's beginning was initiated twenty years later, when Stanley Miller showed that amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, could be synthesized in simulations of the prebiotic atmosphere exposed to an electrical discharge. With that result, it seemed only a matter of time before we would understand how life began.
Fifty years later, we know much more about the molecular mechanisms underlying life processes, but at that same time we better understand that solving the origin of life will not be an easy task.
Proposed explanations today tend to be more narrowly defined, for instance, that life began as a self-replicating RNA molecule, or as a thin film of two-dimensional metabolic reactions on the surface of an iron sulfide mineral called pyrite. What I will develop in this series of columns is not a simple explanation, but instead a set of related concepts that arise from plausibility arguments. Each column presents a piece of the puzzle, and with help from readers, I hope to work toward integrating the pieces into a descriptive scenario, essentially a hypothesis with testable predictions. I will add that not all of my colleagues will agree with the particular set of ideas underlying the hypothesis. This is as it should be. The scientific process works best when there are alternative hypotheses that can be discriminated by critical experiments, so each working scientist must use his or her best judgment about plausibility of ideas in order to choose how to spend their limited time.
There is an old adage, good advice for giving a lecture, that goes something like this: "First tell 'em what you're gonna tell 'em, then tell 'em, then tell 'em what you told 'em." That is also good advice for writing a narrative on life in the universe. Here is what I'm going to tell you so that you can decide whether to read my future columns.
Our understanding of the origin of life is now a narrative that includes stellar nucleosynthesis of the biogenic elements and their dispersal into the vacuum of space when stars explode at the end of their lifetimes. The elements, in the form of gas and dust particles, accumulate by gravity into vast interstellar clouds that give rise to new stars and planets. Photochemical reactions in thin icy layers on the particles produce a variety of organic compounds. Planets like the Earth form by accretion of dust within the solar nebula that surrounds sun-sized stars, and the accretion process delivers water and organic compounds to the planetary surface.
Earth's ocean were present four billion years ago, or even earlier. In my judgment, the most plausible site for the origin of life was not the open ocean, or ice fields, or dry land. Instead, there is reason to think that an aqueous environment would be most conducive to life's beginnings, in the form of an interface between mineral surfaces such as volcanic lava, a body of liquid water and the early atmosphere.
The local environment of the site was not a warm little pond, as Darwin suggested in 1871 in a letter to his friend Joseph Hooker. Instead it would more likely resemble the kinds of hot pools that we see today in volcanic regions, in which the water is constantly being disturbed and going through cycles of wetting and drying.
The pools contained complex mixtures of dilute organic compounds from a variety of sources, including extraterrestrial material delivered during late accretion, and other compounds synthesized by chemical reactions associated with volcanoes and atmospheric reactions.
During the drying cycle, the dilute mixtures would be highly concentrated into very thin films on mineral surfaces, a process that is necessary for chemical reactions to proceed. Not only would the compounds react with one another under these conditions, but the products of the reactions would become encapsulated in microscopic membranous compartments that self-assembled from soap-like organic compounds called amphiphiles.
The result of this process was vast numbers of what we call protocells that appeared all over the early Earth, wherever water solutions were undergoing wet-dry cycles in geothermal environments similar to today's Hawaii or Iceland. The protocells are compartmented systems of molecules, each different in composition from the next, and each representing a kind of natural experiment within what we would now call combinatorial chemistry.
Most of the protocells remained inert, but by the rules of combinatorial chemistry, a few happened to contain a mixture of components that could be driven toward greater complexity by capturing energy and smaller molecules from outside the encapsulated volume. As smaller molecules were transported into the internal compartment, energy was used to link them up into long chains.
Up to this point, most of the processes leading to the production of protocells fall into the realm of physics, so in a very real sense physics came first in the pathway to life. But now, through the laws of physics, microscopic reaction vessels were produced in which chemical reactions could occur. It was these reactions that began the evolution toward the growing, dividing cells that were precursors to what we now call microbial life. Significantly, everything that I have said so far is based on published experimental results.
Today we would call the smaller molecules monomers, and the long chains polymers. Examples of monomers today are amino acids and nucleotides, which form polymers called proteins and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). The polymers have emergent properties that are far beyond what the monomers can do. Most important is that both kinds of biopolymers today can act as catalysts, and one of the polymers -- nucleic acids -- can carry and transmit genetic information in specific sequences of the monomers that compose it.
Life began when a rare few of the immense numbers of protocells found a way not only to grow, but also to incorporate a cycle involving catalytic functions and genetic information. This means that cells, not molecules, were the first forms of life. Cells originated as compartmented molecular systems produced by physical principles, a few of which were selected first by combinatorial chemistry, and then began to evolve as they interacted with the environment and with each other.
This final bullet point represents the leading edge of our understanding of life's beginning. It is the task of scientists interested in the origin of life to discover how all this could have occurred in the prebiotic environment.
In the columns to follow I will trace the trajectory of this research within the purview of a new scientific discipline called astrobiology, which studies the origin and evolution of life not just from an Earth-centric perspective, but instead as part of a universal process involving the birth and death of stars, planet formation, interfaces between minerals, water and the atmosphere, and the physics and chemistry of carbon compounds. I will report on the progress we are making toward synthesizing life in the laboratory, and whether life could begin elsewhere in our solar system. I also want to include personal experiences of the people who are doing the work. Science is commonly viewed as just a body of knowledge, but for those engaged in research it is much more than that, because the process is embedded in a distinct human culture that is rarely revealed.
The fact is that only one in a thousand people in Europe and the United States makes a living doing science, and perhaps one in a million work as astrobiologists. This is a very rarified atmosphere, as rarified as the number of billionaires in the same populations.
No scientist has ever become a billionaire. The reason is that they have discovered a vast source of a different kind of wealth. That wealth is the treasure of discovery, the endless pleasure of asking questions and seeking answers, and it is there for the taking.
During their careers, scientists ask hundreds of questions and test thousands of hypotheses. Asking good questions and developing testable hypotheses are the two essential creative acts that scientists must be able to carry out. Most of our hypotheses are wrong, but occasionally we discover an answer that survives critical experimental tests and adds a new dimension to the map of reality we call science.
When this happens, the experience is so intensely satisfying that we willingly spend our lives pursuing it.
Stars, Planets, Life
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Mystery Explosion
Origin Of Life Funding: Benefactor Offers Hard Cash For A Good Research Idea
My research focuses on a variety of topics related to membrane biophysics, including the origin of cell membranes and the use of transmembrane
Life's Beginning: The Shake And Bake Approach
Life's Beginning: Cycling To Complexity
'Metabolism First' Doesn't Explain Life's Origins
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text: Q: Как прекратить выполнение «следующих» событий в одном из этих же событий? Допустим, на элементе висит два слушателя: mousedown и click. я имитировал mousedown, мышку не отпускаю еще, как сделать (может можно в callback-функции mousedown), чтобы click не сработал когда пользователь отпустит мышку (произойдут события mouseup, click).

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Image #1: Our camping location at Burning Man 2013 (approx. 7:38 and Kowtow).
Image #2: Me in front of the big duck. I waited years to see that duck in the flesh.
This entry was posted in myopera_archive and tagged "burning man", 2013, black rock city, blackrockcity, burningman, nevada, nv. Bookmark the permalink.
I waited years to see that duck in the flesh.
Is the big duck an event fixture, or does it not always make an appearance?It's stunning to me how gigantic that semi-circle of people is. Taking bicycles was a good idea. It does seem like it might be fun to ride back and forth among the rows looking for sensory experiences.That said, as much of a hedonistic playground as Burning Man is, I'm not sure that I wouldn't be overwhelmed by that many people to the point of not being able to drop my inhibitions.
Is the big duck an event fixture, or does it not always make an appearance?
I'm not sure that I wouldn't be overwhelmed by that many people to the point of not being able to drop my inhibitions.
It may sound cliche, but I think it's best to do what ever you want there, and if that means being inhibited sometimes, that's OK. Heck, there are AA meetings at Burning Man, even Bible study.
Heck, there are AA meetings at Burning Man, even Bible study.


text:
MyUSA
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The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) is a graduate institution that emphasizes health science education through innovative quality classroom and distance education. Founded in 1979, USAHS has locations in San Marcos, CA; St. Augustine, FL; Austin, TX; Dallas, TX; and Miami, FL. USAHS offers degree programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, education and health science, as well as continuing education programs.
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Home > College of Health Sciences > School of Nursing > Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) > Paula Kimpton, DNP, MS, BSN, RN, FNP-C, CNOR
Paula Kimpton, DNP, MS, BSN, RN, FNP-C, CNOR
Dr. Paula Kimpton is a family nurse practitioner who has worked in several settings, including emergency room, after-hours, and hematology and oncology. She is currently a family nurse practitioner in the orthopedic department at Dayton Veterans Administration Medical Center in Ohio.
Her experience in higher education includes serving as a preceptor for family nurse practitioner students at several universities, a clinical instructor in Wright State University's College of Nursing and Health, an assistant professor of clinical nursing and coordinator of distance learning for the family nurse practitioner specialty at the University of Cincinnati, and a program director at Danville Community College.
She is a fellow of the Florence Nightingale Society and a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, American College of Nurse Practitioners, the Association of Operating Room Nurses, and the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Beta Iota Chapter. She has presented at the American Nurses Association Quality Conference and at Wright Patterson Air Force Base where she was a nurse practitioner.
She earned a BS in Nursing from the University of Cincinnati, an MS in Nursing Administration from Wright State University, a Family Nurse Practitioner Post Graduate Certificate from the University of Virginia, and a DNP from Wright State University.
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Magnolia's Lights, Camera, Action - Greta is pointed and being shown by Junior Handler Megan Palmer.
Magnolia's Im A Adonis at Pur-Pleasure - Andy is major pointed.
Magnolia's The Big Cheese - Colby has completed her championship.
Magnolia's Big Atom - Atom is pointed with very limited showing.
Magnolia's Shot for SightNScent - Margaux completed her US championship and is now living in the Phillipines where she has acquired multiple international championships.
Magnolia's Big Splurge - Patty finished her championship and is now being shown as a special.
Magnolia's Secret of the Mountain - Abe is now a champion.


text:
Ready to relive prom? It can happen this weekend
Also, Ixion offers first reading of original works
Ready to relive prom? It can happen this weekend Also, Ixion offers first reading of original works Check out this story on lansingstatejournal.com: http://on.lsj.com/2GhZYxK
Bridgette Redman, For Lansing State Journal Published 4:21 p.m. ET Jan. 25, 2018
- -Bridgette Redman LSJ columnist.(Photo: Copyright 2006 The Lansing State Journal;Yes)
Act I: Take a step back in time and relive your '80s prom
Ever feel nostalgia for prom? Or think that you'd love to re-do it knowing what you know now as an adult?
Or maybe you've just heard about the craziness of the 1980s and want to experience it for the first time. Owosso Community Players is making that possible this weekend. They're putting on "The Awesome '80s Prom," an interactive dinner reminiscent of "Tony 'n Tina's Wedding," where you're invited to dress up and participate in the play.
"The audience is in for a real treat as the characters will interact with every table as the prom festivities take place," said OCP Executive Director Kathy Brooks.
It's not required that you dress in '80s garb—but it is encouraged. The shows take place at the D'Mar Banquet Center in Owosso on Jan. 26, 27 at 6:30 p.m. and Jan. 28 at 1:30 p.m.
The show won the 2006 Improv Theater Award as Best Interactive Show and is set at the 1989 Wanaget High School Senior Prom. Who will you meet there? Expect some of the best-known stereotypes of the decade: the captain of the football team, the Swedish exchange student, the geek and the hottie head cheerleader.
What is the goal? They all want to be the prom king and queen and it is the audience who will decide who wins.
"The voting can change from one performance to the next," said show Director Mike Windnagle. "which makes the show even more fun and unpredictable."
Dansville native up to his eyes in pies for 'Waitress'
DeWitt girl, 4, gets to stay up late to play Lulu in 'Waitress'
Actors performing in the show include Kathy Kowalski, Ervin Batka, Adam Woolsey, Rachael Cupples, Maggie Smith, Josh Holiday, Amy Winchell, Quentin Brainerd II, Vinnie Lindquist, Mary Maurer, Tommy Laurin and Calen Johnson.
"The actors will deal with the changing actions and reactions of the audience each night. About half the show is improvised," said Windnagle. "From the restrooms to the dance floor, the actors are never out of character."
Owosso Community Players are putting on "The Awesome '80s Prom." (Photo: Getty Images/Flickr RF)
Ticket prices are $36 per person and includes dinner. There will also be a cash bar. The music? It will all be fan favorites from the 1980s. Tickets are on sale in the box office at 517-723-4003 or online at owossoplayers.com.
Act II: Ixion offers first reading of original works
What are you afraid of? You might find it on stage in one of the seven works Ixion is staging a reading of this weekend.
Each year in their final slot of the season, Ixion performs a collection of new works written around a specific theme. This year, the theme is fears and phobias. They narrow the works down from all those submitted and then do staged readings as part of a process of getting them ready for the stage.
This Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Blue Owl Coffee, 1149 S. Washington Ave., they'll be doing a free reading led by directors Nick Lemmer and Heath Sartorius. It will be the first time these plays have been read in public.
The short plays are:
"Legs" by Kathleen Barber; "Code" by Andrea Clardy; "Killing Trudy" by Rich Espey; "Donald Trump Is a Racist, Xenophobic, Sexist, Ignorant, Tiny-Handed, Tangerine-Faced Narcissist Who Has No Business Being President and Should Be Impeached" by Jack Karp; "October" by Greg Lam; "Family Planning" by John Minigan and "Bunker Bound" by Chris Shaw Swanson.
Encore!
• The MSU Department of Theatre is hosting the Orchesis Repertory Dance Concert this weekend at the Arena Theatre in the MSU Auditorium. It is a student dance event at 7 p.m. Jan. 26-28.
• What do you bring to a party for dragons? According to a TheatreworksUSA show at Wharton Center at 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, the answer is tacos. "Dragons Love Tacos" is being performed at the Pasant as part of the Act One Family Series. Tickets are $15. www.whartoncenter.com.
• The Wind Symphony, conducted by Kevin Sedatole, with guest composer Adam Schoenberg, will perform at 7:30 Jan. 30 at Cobb Great Hall. Admission is $10 and the MSU College of Music performance will feature the world premiere of Bounce, along with other works by Schoenberg.
• The Concert Band and Symphony Band will perform in Cobb Great Hall at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1, led by David Thornton and Simon Holoweiko. Tickets are $10.
• The Glen Erin Pipe Band is holding its 47th annual Robert Burns' Birthday Celebration, Jan. 27, at 6:30 p.m. at the Eagle Eye Golf Club and Banquet Center. There will be Scottish dancing, piping, drumming and food. www.glenerinpipeband.com/Burnsnight.html
Read or Share this story: http://on.lsj.com/2GhZYxK
Seinfeld's premiere 30 years ago focused on Lansing woman
Women's World Cup: Where to watch the final locally
'Florida Girls' have messy lives but we still root for them
Colbie Caillat, with Gone West, to perform at July 4 mega-concert
Michigan author produces adrenaline-charged crime novel
Two actors, 15-plus characters take stage at Williamston Theatre


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text:
"""Train a progressive GAN model.

See https://arxiv.org/abs/1710.10196 for details about the model.

See https://github.com/tkarras/progressive_growing_of_gans for the original
theano implementation.
"""

from __future__ import absolute_import
from __future__ import division
from __future__ import print_function

import os

from absl import logging
import numpy as np
import tensorflow as tf

import networks

tfgan = tf.contrib.gan

def make_train_sub_dir(stage_id, **kwargs):
  """Returns the log directory for training stage `stage_id`."""
  return os.path.join(kwargs['train_root_dir'], 'stage_{:05d}'.format(stage_id))

def make_resolution_schedule(**kwargs):
  """Returns an object of `ResolutionSchedule`."""
  return networks.ResolutionSchedule(
      start_resolutions=(kwargs['start_height'], kwargs['start_width']),
      scale_base=kwargs['scale_base'],
      num_resolutions=kwargs['num_resolutions'])

def get_stage_ids(**kwargs):
  """Returns a list of stage ids.

  Args:
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'train_root_dir': A string of root directory of training logs.
        'num_resolutions': An integer of number of progressive resolutions.
  """
  train_sub_dirs = [
      sub_dir for sub_dir in tf.gfile.ListDirectory(kwargs['train_root_dir'])
      if sub_dir.startswith('stage_')
  ]

  # If fresh start, start with start_stage_id = 0
  # If has been trained for n = len(train_sub_dirs) stages, start with the last
  # stage, i.e. start_stage_id = n - 1.
  start_stage_id = max(0, len(train_sub_dirs) - 1)

  return range(start_stage_id, get_total_num_stages(**kwargs))

def get_total_num_stages(**kwargs):
  """Returns total number of training stages."""
  return 2 * kwargs['num_resolutions'] - 1

def get_batch_size(stage_id, **kwargs):
  """Returns batch size for each stage.

  It is expected that `len(batch_size_schedule) == num_resolutions`. Each stage
  corresponds to a resolution and hence a batch size. However if
  `len(batch_size_schedule) < num_resolutions`, pad `batch_size_schedule` in the
  beginning with the first batch size.

  Args:
    stage_id: An integer of training stage index.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'batch_size_schedule': A list of integer, each element is the batch size
            for the current training image resolution.
        'num_resolutions': An integer of number of progressive resolutions.

  Returns:
    An integer batch size for the `stage_id`.
  """
  batch_size_schedule = kwargs['batch_size_schedule']
  num_resolutions = kwargs['num_resolutions']
  if len(batch_size_schedule) < num_resolutions:
    batch_size_schedule = (
        [batch_size_schedule[0]] * (num_resolutions - len(batch_size_schedule))
        + batch_size_schedule)

  return int(batch_size_schedule[(stage_id + 1) // 2])

def get_stage_info(stage_id, **kwargs):
  """Returns information for a training stage.

  Args:
    stage_id: An integer of training stage index.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'num_resolutions': An integer of number of progressive resolutions.
        'stable_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images in
            the stable stage.
        'transition_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images
            in the transition stage.
        'total_num_images': An integer of total number of training images.

  Returns:
    A tuple of integers. The first entry is the number of blocks. The second
    entry is the accumulated total number of training images when stage
    `stage_id` is finished.

  Raises:
    ValueError: If `stage_id` is not in [0, total number of stages).
  """
  total_num_stages = get_total_num_stages(**kwargs)
  if not (stage_id >= 0 and stage_id < total_num_stages):
    raise ValueError(
        '`stage_id` must be in [0, {0}), but instead was {1}'.format(
            total_num_stages, stage_id))

  # Even stage_id: stable training stage.
  # Odd stage_id: transition training stage.
  num_blocks = (stage_id + 1) // 2 + 1
  num_images = ((stage_id // 2 + 1) * kwargs['stable_stage_num_images'] + (
      (stage_id + 1) // 2) * kwargs['transition_stage_num_images'])

  total_num_images = kwargs['total_num_images']
  if stage_id >= total_num_stages - 1:
    num_images = total_num_images
  num_images = min(num_images, total_num_images)

  return num_blocks, num_images

def make_latent_vectors(num, **kwargs):
  """Returns a batch of `num` random latent vectors."""
  return tf.random_normal([num, kwargs['latent_vector_size']], dtype=tf.float32)

def make_interpolated_latent_vectors(num_rows, num_columns, **kwargs):
  """Returns a batch of linearly interpolated latent vectors.

  Given two randomly generated latent vector za and zb, it can generate
  a row of `num_columns` interpolated latent vectors, i.e.
  [..., za + (zb - za) * i / (num_columns - 1), ...] where
  i = 0, 1, ..., `num_columns` - 1.

  This function produces `num_rows` such rows and returns a (flattened)
  batch of latent vectors with batch size `num_rows * num_columns`.

  Args:
    num_rows: An integer. Number of rows of interpolated latent vectors.
    num_columns: An integer. Number of interpolated latent vectors in each row.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'latent_vector_size': An integer of latent vector size.

  Returns:
    A `Tensor` of shape `[num_rows * num_columns, latent_vector_size]`.
  """
  ans = []
  for _ in range(num_rows):
    z = tf.random_normal([2, kwargs['latent_vector_size']])
    r = tf.reshape(
        tf.to_float(tf.range(num_columns)) / (num_columns - 1), [-1, 1])
    dz = z[1] - z[0]
    ans.append(z[0] + tf.stack([dz] * num_columns) * r)
  return tf.concat(ans, axis=0)

def define_loss(gan_model, **kwargs):
  """Defines progressive GAN losses.

  The generator and discriminator both use wasserstein loss. In addition,
  a small penalty term is added to the discriminator loss to prevent it getting
  too large.

  Args:
    gan_model: A `GANModel` namedtuple.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'gradient_penalty_weight': A float of gradient norm target for
            wasserstein loss.
        'gradient_penalty_target': A float of gradient penalty weight for
            wasserstein loss.
        'real_score_penalty_weight': A float of Additional penalty to keep
            the scores from drifting too far from zero.

  Returns:
    A `GANLoss` namedtuple.
  """
  gan_loss = tfgan.gan_loss(
      gan_model,
      generator_loss_fn=tfgan.losses.wasserstein_generator_loss,
      discriminator_loss_fn=tfgan.losses.wasserstein_discriminator_loss,
      gradient_penalty_weight=kwargs['gradient_penalty_weight'],
      gradient_penalty_target=kwargs['gradient_penalty_target'],
      gradient_penalty_epsilon=0.0)

  real_score_penalty = tf.reduce_mean(
      tf.square(gan_model.discriminator_real_outputs))
  tf.summary.scalar('real_score_penalty', real_score_penalty)

  return gan_loss._replace(
      discriminator_loss=(
          gan_loss.discriminator_loss +
          kwargs['real_score_penalty_weight'] * real_score_penalty))

def define_train_ops(gan_model, gan_loss, **kwargs):
  """Defines progressive GAN train ops.

  Args:
    gan_model: A `GANModel` namedtuple.
    gan_loss: A `GANLoss` namedtuple.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'adam_beta1': A float of Adam optimizer beta1.
        'adam_beta2': A float of Adam optimizer beta2.
        'generator_learning_rate': A float of generator learning rate.
        'discriminator_learning_rate': A float of discriminator learning rate.

  Returns:
    A tuple of `GANTrainOps` namedtuple and a list variables tracking the state
    of optimizers.
  """
  with tf.variable_scope('progressive_gan_train_ops') as var_scope:
    beta1, beta2 = kwargs['adam_beta1'], kwargs['adam_beta2']
    gen_opt = tf.train.AdamOptimizer(kwargs['generator_learning_rate'], beta1,
                                     beta2)
    dis_opt = tf.train.AdamOptimizer(kwargs['discriminator_learning_rate'],
                                     beta1, beta2)
    gan_train_ops = tfgan.gan_train_ops(gan_model, gan_loss, gen_opt, dis_opt)
  return gan_train_ops, tf.get_collection(
      tf.GraphKeys.GLOBAL_VARIABLES, scope=var_scope.name)

def add_generator_smoothing_ops(generator_ema, gan_model, gan_train_ops):
  """Adds generator smoothing ops."""
  with tf.control_dependencies([gan_train_ops.generator_train_op]):
    new_generator_train_op = generator_ema.apply(gan_model.generator_variables)

  gan_train_ops = gan_train_ops._replace(
      generator_train_op=new_generator_train_op)
  generator_vars_to_restore = generator_ema.variables_to_restore(
      gan_model.generator_variables)
  return gan_train_ops, generator_vars_to_restore

def build_model(stage_id, batch_size, real_images, **kwargs):
  """Builds progressive GAN model.

  Args:
    stage_id: An integer of training stage index.
    batch_size: Number of training images in each minibatch.
    real_images: A 4D `Tensor` of NHWC format.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'start_height': An integer of start image height.
        'start_width': An integer of start image width.
        'scale_base': An integer of resolution multiplier.
        'num_resolutions': An integer of number of progressive resolutions.
        'stable_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images in
            the stable stage.
        'transition_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images
            in the transition stage.
        'total_num_images': An integer of total number of training images.
        'kernel_size': Convolution kernel size.
        'colors': Number of image channels.
        'to_rgb_use_tanh_activation': Whether to apply tanh activation when
            output rgb.
        'fmap_base': Base number of filters.
        'fmap_decay': Decay of number of filters.
        'fmap_max': Max number of filters.
        'latent_vector_size': An integer of latent vector size.
        'gradient_penalty_weight': A float of gradient norm target for
            wasserstein loss.
        'gradient_penalty_target': A float of gradient penalty weight for
            wasserstein loss.
        'real_score_penalty_weight': A float of Additional penalty to keep
            the scores from drifting too far from zero.
        'adam_beta1': A float of Adam optimizer beta1.
        'adam_beta2': A float of Adam optimizer beta2.
        'generator_learning_rate': A float of generator learning rate.
        'discriminator_learning_rate': A float of discriminator learning rate.

  Returns:
    An inernal object that wraps all information about the model.
  """
  kernel_size = kwargs['kernel_size']
  colors = kwargs['colors']
  resolution_schedule = make_resolution_schedule(**kwargs)

  num_blocks, num_images = get_stage_info(stage_id, **kwargs)

  current_image_id = tf.train.get_or_create_global_step()
  current_image_id_inc_op = current_image_id.assign_add(batch_size)
  tf.summary.scalar('current_image_id', current_image_id)

  progress = networks.compute_progress(
      current_image_id, kwargs['stable_stage_num_images'],
      kwargs['transition_stage_num_images'], num_blocks)
  tf.summary.scalar('progress', progress)

  real_images = networks.blend_images(
      real_images, progress, resolution_schedule, num_blocks=num_blocks)

  def _num_filters_fn(block_id):
    """Computes number of filters of block `block_id`."""
    return networks.num_filters(block_id, kwargs['fmap_base'],
                                kwargs['fmap_decay'], kwargs['fmap_max'])

  def _generator_fn(z):
    """Builds generator network."""
    return networks.generator(
        z,
        progress,
        _num_filters_fn,
        resolution_schedule,
        num_blocks=num_blocks,
        kernel_size=kernel_size,
        colors=colors,
        to_rgb_activation=(tf.tanh
                           if kwargs['to_rgb_use_tanh_activation'] else None))

  def _discriminator_fn(x):
    """Builds discriminator network."""
    return networks.discriminator(
        x,
        progress,
        _num_filters_fn,
        resolution_schedule,
        num_blocks=num_blocks,
        kernel_size=kernel_size)

  ########## Define model.
  z = make_latent_vectors(batch_size, **kwargs)

  gan_model = tfgan.gan_model(
      generator_fn=lambda z: _generator_fn(z)[0],
      discriminator_fn=lambda x, unused_z: _discriminator_fn(x)[0],
      real_data=real_images,
      generator_inputs=z)

  ########## Define loss.
  gan_loss = define_loss(gan_model, **kwargs)

  ########## Define train ops.
  gan_train_ops, optimizer_var_list = define_train_ops(gan_model, gan_loss,
                                                       **kwargs)
  gan_train_ops = gan_train_ops._replace(
      global_step_inc_op=current_image_id_inc_op)

  ########## Generator smoothing.
  generator_ema = tf.train.ExponentialMovingAverage(decay=0.999)
  gan_train_ops, generator_vars_to_restore = add_generator_smoothing_ops(
      generator_ema, gan_model, gan_train_ops)

  class Model(object):
    pass

  model = Model()
  model.stage_id = stage_id
  model.batch_size = batch_size
  model.resolution_schedule = resolution_schedule
  model.num_images = num_images
  model.num_blocks = num_blocks
  model.current_image_id = current_image_id
  model.progress = progress
  model.num_filters_fn = _num_filters_fn
  model.generator_fn = _generator_fn
  model.discriminator_fn = _discriminator_fn
  model.gan_model = gan_model
  model.gan_loss = gan_loss
  model.gan_train_ops = gan_train_ops
  model.optimizer_var_list = optimizer_var_list
  model.generator_ema = generator_ema
  model.generator_vars_to_restore = generator_vars_to_restore
  return model

def make_var_scope_custom_getter_for_ema(ema):
  """Makes variable scope custom getter."""
  def _custom_getter(getter, name, *args, **kwargs):
    var = getter(name, *args, **kwargs)
    ema_var = ema.average(var)
    return ema_var if ema_var else var
  return _custom_getter

def add_model_summaries(model, **kwargs):
  """Adds model summaries.

  This function adds several useful summaries during training:
  - fake_images: A grid of fake images based on random latent vectors.
  - interp_images: A grid of fake images based on interpolated latent vectors.
  - real_images_blend: A grid of real images.
  - summaries for `gan_model` losses, variable distributions etc.

  Args:
    model: An model object having all information of progressive GAN model,
        e.g. the return of build_model().
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
      'fake_grid_size': The fake image grid size for summaries.
      'interp_grid_size': The latent space interpolated image grid size for
          summaries.
      'colors': Number of image channels.
      'latent_vector_size': An integer of latent vector size.
  """
  fake_grid_size = kwargs['fake_grid_size']
  interp_grid_size = kwargs['interp_grid_size']
  colors = kwargs['colors']

  image_shape = list(model.resolution_schedule.final_resolutions)

  fake_batch_size = fake_grid_size**2
  fake_images_shape = [fake_batch_size] + image_shape + [colors]

  interp_batch_size = interp_grid_size**2
  interp_images_shape = [interp_batch_size] + image_shape + [colors]

  # When making prediction, use the ema smoothed generator vars.
  with tf.variable_scope(
      model.gan_model.generator_scope,
      reuse=True,
      custom_getter=make_var_scope_custom_getter_for_ema(model.generator_ema)):
    z_fake = make_latent_vectors(fake_batch_size, **kwargs)
    fake_images = model.gan_model.generator_fn(z_fake)
    fake_images.set_shape(fake_images_shape)

    z_interp = make_interpolated_latent_vectors(interp_grid_size,
                                                interp_grid_size, **kwargs)
    interp_images = model.gan_model.generator_fn(z_interp)
    interp_images.set_shape(interp_images_shape)

  tf.summary.image(
      'fake_images',
      tfgan.eval.eval_utils.image_grid(
          fake_images,
          grid_shape=[fake_grid_size] * 2,
          image_shape=image_shape,
          num_channels=colors),
      max_outputs=1)

  tf.summary.image(
      'interp_images',
      tfgan.eval.eval_utils.image_grid(
          interp_images,
          grid_shape=[interp_grid_size] * 2,
          image_shape=image_shape,
          num_channels=colors),
      max_outputs=1)

  real_grid_size = int(np.sqrt(model.batch_size))
  tf.summary.image(
      'real_images_blend',
      tfgan.eval.eval_utils.image_grid(
          model.gan_model.real_data[:real_grid_size**2],
          grid_shape=(real_grid_size, real_grid_size),
          image_shape=image_shape,
          num_channels=colors),
      max_outputs=1)

  tfgan.eval.add_gan_model_summaries(model.gan_model)

def make_scaffold(stage_id, optimizer_var_list, **kwargs):
  """Makes a custom scaffold.

  The scaffold
  - restores variables from the last training stage.
  - initializes new variables in the new block.

  Args:
    stage_id: An integer of stage id.
    optimizer_var_list: A list of optimizer variables.
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'train_root_dir': A string of root directory of training logs.
        'num_resolutions': An integer of number of progressive resolutions.
        'stable_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images in
            the stable stage.
        'transition_stage_num_images': An integer of number of training images
            in the transition stage.
        'total_num_images': An integer of total number of training images.

  Returns:
    A `Scaffold` object.
  """
  # Holds variables that from the previous stage and need to be restored.
  restore_var_list = []
  prev_ckpt = None
  curr_ckpt = tf.train.latest_checkpoint(make_train_sub_dir(stage_id, **kwargs))
  if stage_id > 0 and curr_ckpt is None:
    prev_ckpt = tf.train.latest_checkpoint(
        make_train_sub_dir(stage_id - 1, **kwargs))

    num_blocks, _ = get_stage_info(stage_id, **kwargs)
    prev_num_blocks, _ = get_stage_info(stage_id - 1, **kwargs)

    # Holds variables created in the new block of the current stage. If the
    # current stage is a stable stage (except the initial stage), this list
    # will be empty.
    new_block_var_list = []
    for block_id in range(prev_num_blocks + 1, num_blocks + 1):
      new_block_var_list.extend(
          tf.get_collection(
              tf.GraphKeys.GLOBAL_VARIABLES,
              scope='.*/{}/'.format(networks.block_name(block_id))))

    # Every variables that are 1) not for optimizers and 2) from the new block
    # need to be restored.
    restore_var_list = [
        var for var in tf.get_collection(tf.GraphKeys.GLOBAL_VARIABLES)
        if var not in set(optimizer_var_list + new_block_var_list)
    ]

  # Add saver op to graph. This saver is used to restore variables from the
  # previous stage.
  saver_for_restore = tf.train.Saver(
      var_list=restore_var_list, allow_empty=True)
  # Add the op to graph that initializes all global variables.
  init_op = tf.global_variables_initializer()

  def _init_fn(unused_scaffold, sess):
    # First initialize every variables.
    sess.run(init_op)
    logging.info('\n'.join([var.name for var in restore_var_list]))
    # Then overwrite variables saved in previous stage.
    if prev_ckpt is not None:
      saver_for_restore.restore(sess, prev_ckpt)

  # Use a dummy init_op here as all initialization is done in init_fn.
  return tf.train.Scaffold(init_op=tf.constant([]), init_fn=_init_fn)

def make_status_message(model):
  """Makes a string `Tensor` of training status."""
  return tf.string_join(
      [
          'Starting train step: current_image_id: ',
          tf.as_string(model.current_image_id), ', progress: ',
          tf.as_string(model.progress), ', num_blocks: {}'.format(
              model.num_blocks), ', batch_size: {}'.format(model.batch_size)
      ],
      name='status_message')

def train(model, **kwargs):
  """Trains progressive GAN for stage `stage_id`.

  Args:
    model: An model object having all information of progressive GAN model,
        e.g. the return of build_model().
    **kwargs: A dictionary of
        'train_root_dir': A string of root directory of training logs.
        'master': Name of the TensorFlow master to use.
        'task': The Task ID. This value is used when training with multiple
            workers to identify each worker.
        'save_summaries_num_images': Save summaries in this number of images.
  Returns:
    None.
  """
  logging.info('stage_id=%d, num_blocks=%d, num_images=%d', model.stage_id,
               model.num_blocks, model.num_images)

  scaffold = make_scaffold(model.stage_id, model.optimizer_var_list, **kwargs)

  tfgan.gan_train(
      model.gan_train_ops,
      logdir=make_train_sub_dir(model.stage_id, **kwargs),
      get_hooks_fn=tfgan.get_sequential_train_hooks(tfgan.GANTrainSteps(1, 1)),
      hooks=[
          tf.train.StopAtStepHook(last_step=model.num_images),
          tf.train.LoggingTensorHook(
              [make_status_message(model)], every_n_iter=10)
      ],
      master=kwargs['master'],
      is_chief=(kwargs['task'] == 0),
      scaffold=scaffold,
      save_checkpoint_secs=600,
      save_summaries_steps=(kwargs['save_summaries_num_images']))

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Jefferies Announces Research Alliance With SMBC Nikko Securities in Japan
By: Jefferies Group LLC via Business Wire News Releases
Jefferies today announced that it has established a research alliance with SMBC Nikko Securities in Japan. Under the arrangement, SMBC Nikko Securities will translate and distribute selected U.S. equity research reports published by Jefferies to SMBC Nikko Securities' retail clients in Japan. The 2020 Institutional Investor All-America Research Survey placed Jefferies 8th in the U.S. this year, and the firm regularly ranks highly in similar analyses.
Pete Forlenza, Global Head of Equities at Jefferies, commented, "This alliance reflects the fast-growing presence of Jefferies' equities franchise for clients all over the world. As part of our equity research coverage universe, Jefferies directly covers more than 3,200 companies globally, including over 1,100 companies in the U.S., as well as approximately 700 additional companies under research coverage through several co-branded alliances in APAC, providing Jefferies' clients with robust and comprehensive coverage of regional companies. This new alliance with SMBC Nikko Securities represents another innovative way to reach and service global clients and investors interested in Jefferies' industry-leading U.S. equities research."
Makoto Nishioka, Executive Officer and Head of Product Marketing at SMBC Nikko Securities INC, commented, "We believe that with increasing interest in U.S. equity assets by our retail customers, analyst reports prepared by experts in the United States have become even more important. This research alliance with Jefferies will strengthen our offering for customers who already are investing in or considering investing in US equities. We are very pleased to address this strong interest in U.S. stocks as we continue to expand the information that meets our customers' needs."
With this research alliance, SMBC Nikko Securities will establish a new translation platform to convert the Jefferies research reports into Japanese and provide them to customers together with the original English version. Research on high-profile stocks will be translated initially, with coverage gradually expanding to about 100 stocks. The service will first be provided through the SMBC Nikko Securities sales staff and eventually via email and the Nikko EZ website system.
This alliance with SMBC Nikko Securities further strengthens Jefferies' growing equities franchise in Asia. During the past several years, the firm has significantly expanded its business in the region, adding approximately 200 Jefferies employees in the last two years to better serve its global institutional client base.
Previously, Jefferies entered into similar arrangements with DBS Wealth of Singapore and Standard Bank's SBG Securities to distribute selected Jefferies' equity research reports to certain clients of these institutions.
About Jefferies
About SMBC Nikko Securities
SMBC Nikko Securities is Japanese Major Securities, founded in 1918 as Kawashimaya shoten. Over the past 100 years, SMBC Nikko Securities have provided high-quality consulting services and solutions through 140 branches in Japan. Since October 2009 SMBC Nikko Securities joined the Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (TSE: 8316), redoubling efforts in improving ability to support clients, both individuals and corporates, and enhancing capabilities as the core securities company in the full line financial group.
Jefferies Financial Group Inc


text:
There is a need for regular conversion in the church, theologian says
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by Sarah Salvadore
20191101_180854 cc.jpg
Fr. Richard Lennan, professor of systematic theology at Boston College, presents a lecture, "Seeking the Right Side of History: Theology and the Sex Abuse Crisis," at Villanova University Nov. 1 as part of a series examining the abuse crisis in the Catholic Church. (Villanova University/Massimo Faggioli)
Villanova, Pennsylvania — Comparing church leaders to big banks and big pharma, Fr. Richard Lennan, a theology professor at Boston College, said that bishops showed little commitment to tackle the clerical sex abuse crisis and cared only for their own survival. The sex abuse crisis, he said, epitomizes the harm that accompanies both "communal forgetfulness and sinful disregard of self-criticism and the need for conversion."
Lennan spoke at Villanova University in Pennsylvania Nov 1; titled "Seeking the Right Side of History: Theology and the Sex Abuse Crisis," the lecture was part of a series examining the abuse crisis in the Catholic Church. The series is part of the university's efforts to bring together leading theologians and experts on the Catholic Church from across the world, in a bid to encourage dialogue and expand awareness on the sexual abuse crisis.
By contrast, Lennan said that the document released after the recently-held synod for the Amazon gives priority to "ecclesial conversion" and employs a nuanced approach to it. "The document presents conversion as extending beyond a single action, or a discrete moment in time," he said.
Conversion also requires unlearning, learning and relearning — these three elements, he said, will act as a framework in the ongoing reform and renewal of the Christian community. "Unlearning, learning and relearning have an explicitly theological value as pertinent as they may be to manifold human enterprises."
Lennan said that since the church in history will never be a flawless and unfailingly consistent symbol of grace, there is need for regular conversion.
"The breadth and depth of the damage that the church's consecrated ministers have perpetrated against vulnerable children and adults establishes the present crisis as an unimpeachable witness to the imperative of the church's need for conversion," he said.
According to Lennan, the Holy Spirit orients and re-orients the Christian community to the right side of history. "Only a church aligned in the spirit can fulfill Pope Francis' vision for a community whose members form a field hospital for the world's wounded. Conversely, the members of the church resistant to conversion will see themselves, as Francis describes, as arbiters of grace rather than its facilitators — as people entitled to act in the world, as though their pilgrimage were both complete and radiantly elegant."
The theologian said that the sex abuse crisis is the product not only of crimes, but of defective practices of authority in the church: "practices that sought to suppress knowledge of the abuse, while denying justice to survivors and evading accountability to the law." He said that as part of civil society, all agencies of the church are answerable to the law.
It was the bishops' inaction and failure to address clerical sex abuse, according to Lennan, that led to the need for agencies beyond the church to bring change. "Anger at the repeated failures and at times demonstrated duplicity of so many bishops has generated understandably a sense that there are no viable alternatives to outside groups, that only judicial or legislative authorities can bring about change in the church. This conviction is a clear measure of the loss of trust in the churches authorities."
By not being transparent and accountable, the bishops lost the trust of the faithful. "Bishops stand now alongside the big banks, big pharma, and many other big exploiters, that are exhibits in a gallery of shamed institutions exposed as having no commitment except to their own survival — survival interpreted without regard to society at large."
"A renewal of trust in the churches' bishops, may seem at present, to be an unlikely prospect."
For the church to regain trust would require for the bishops to demonstrate that they are not disregarding the dignity and rights of the vulnerable. And that they are willing to learn from the mistakes that allowed for clerical sexual abuse and its cover-up. "What I would propose is that all learning must begin with listening," said Lennan.
"A church always on the defensive, which loses her humility and stops listening to others, which leaves no room for questions, loses her youth and turns into a museum." Lennan said that a church that becomes a museum moves beyond the need for listening, self-criticism and conversion. While a "museum" might offer a record of what God once did, it cannot engage with what the spirit is doing or will continue to do.
"The voice of survivors becomes therefore, not merely a summons to the compassion of the ecclesial community, but to its conversion."
For conversation to happen in the Catholic Church, said Lennan, it's important to be attentive to the voices of the "invisible" or those whom Pope Francis refers to often as the "fringes" that members the church tend to avoid.
"Authentic listening requires that action for reform — the movement that is a necessary part of listening to the spirit follows from such encounters."
[Sarah Salvadore is an NCR Bertelsen intern. Her email address is ssalvadore@ncronline.org. Follow her on Twitter: @sarahsalvadore.]
Source URL (modified on 11/06/2019 - 10:47am): https://www.ncronline.org/news/accountability/there-need-regular-conversion-church-theologian-says


Although most changes won't take effect until April 2019, some of them can impact the financial choices you'll make this year. For that reason, here's the details on the most important tax code changes.
Job expenses and miscellaneous. In 2019, you can only claim work-related deductions that are less than 2% of your AGI.