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Playing 20 Questions with Bacteria to Distinguish Harmless Organisms from Pathogens
New biosurveillance technology would quickly identify potentially harmful traits in unfamiliar bacterial strains
Bacteria underpins much of our world, acting behind the scenes to affect the health and behavior of animals and plants. They help produce food, provide oxygen, and even reshape the environment through a vast array of biological processes. They come in a phenomenal number of strains—many still unknown—and thrive in different ecological and environmental niches all over the world. But while their diverse behaviors makes them essential to life, bacteria can also be deadly. This threat only grows as greater global travel brings people into contact with new places, foods, and animals, dramatically increasing the chances of exposure to dangerous microbial species known as pathogens.
How can the Department of Defense—whose forces, deployed around the world, constantly come into contact with new bacteria—discriminate between harmless and virulent strains to prevent a disease outbreak that threatens military readiness? Friend or Foe, a new program from DARPA's Biological Technologies Office, proposes to develop a platform technology that rapidly screens unfamiliar bacteria to establish their pathogenicity and even discover unknown pathogenic traits, necessary first steps for designing effective biosurveillance and countermeasures.
"Trends such as rising global population, changes in the environment, and the growing accessibility of tools for genetic engineering mean that our armed forces are increasingly likely to face new bacterial pathogens, whether they occur naturally or are engineered by adversaries," said Paul Sheehan, the program manager for Friend or Foe. "Our existing biosurveillance strategies don't work on previously undiscovered bacteria or on bacteria that have been specifically designed to evade detection by current tests. We need new screening tools that can quickly characterize the threat to enable a rapid response."
Existing forensic technologies for identifying bacteria are limited in their application and fall primarily into two categories: rapid diagnostic microbiology, which is confined to approximately 350 known strains and requires cultured bacteria; and metagenomics, which only inventories previously known bacteria present in a sample. Both technologies take 36 hours or longer to deliver results, and neither is capable of quickly evaluating previously unknown bacteria, especially strains that cannot be cultured in a laboratory. This means that, at present, the vast majority of bacteria species cannot be readily evaluated for risk to humans.
Yet within this diversity of bacteria—at least 107 to 109 species—there lies a large pool of unknown traits that could contribute to future pathogenicity. And, since bacteria can transfer traits between species fairly rapidly, individual strains can acquire new capabilities to help them evade the body's innate immune response or to resist antibiotics.
Although new genetic sequencing tools are being developed that can quickly read a bacterium's genotype—its genetic makeup—sequencing alone will unlikely solve the challenge of assessing risk. That's because simply knowing genotype is not the same as knowing phenotype—how that bacterium's genetic code leads to function. The sheer sequence of a bacterial genome does not indicate whether or not the bacterium is pathogenic in humans.
To directly and efficiently test for pathogenicity, Friend or Foe aims to build a portable platform that screens many unfamiliar strains of bacteria at once to reveal their phenotypes. Developing such a platform will require overcoming numerous engineering challenges. First, without killing the bacteria, the technology must extract and isolate them from complex environments such as soil, runoff, sewage, biofilms, and medical samples, where numerous strains of bacteria live together. Second, the system must sustain the bacteria in simulated host environments long enough to conduct testing. And third, it must run and evaluate a gauntlet of physical and chemical tests on the bacteria—the biological equivalent of the game "Twenty Questions"—to determine their pathogenicity.
The Friend or Foe system will test for three traits of pathogenicity. First, can the bacteria survive and establish a niche in a host organism? Does it, for instance, adhere to the host's cell membranes? Second, can the bacteria harm its host? For example, does it secrete toxins or have flagella that could disrupt the host's mucosal tissue? And third, can the bacterium protect itself? Does it inactivate the host's protective antibodies or resist antibiotics?
Dangerous bacteria would be flagged for genetic sequencing to map the newly discovered pathogenic trait to specific genes, leading to simpler biochemical tests for that pathogen in the future. A side benefit of the program would be speeding up all future efforts to identify new bacterial traits and the genes that provide them, which would support research ranging from antibiotic production to the degradation of pollutants.
"There are millions of species of unidentified bacteria in the world, and we now have no quick way of knowing which of those might endanger our troops," Sheehan said. "If we're successful in creating a tool for rapid evaluation of bacterial phenotype, we'll deliver the Defense Department a powerful new capability for force protection and a powerful deterrent to the development of engineered bio-threats."
DARPA envisions Friend or Foe as a four-year, fundamental research program. Once the program begins, a separate independent verification and validation (IV&V) team contracted by DARPA will work with performer teams to provide standardized biological samples that simulate different environments and include mixtures of known bacteria. The IV&V team will also evaluate the effectiveness of the performers' systems following demonstrations.
Researchers supporting Friend or Foe must adhere to all applicable guidelines for biosecurity. DARPA has structured the program so that potential discovery of new pathogens can only take place under the guidance and supervision of federal agencies tasked with preventing the spread of disease.
DARPA will host a Proposers Day on Wednesday, February 28, 2018, at the DARPA Conference Center in Arlington, Virginia. More information is available at https://go.usa.gov/xns5u.
Full details will be made available in a forthcoming Broad Agency Announcement.
Image Caption: The potential threats posed by unfamiliar bacteria can evade state-of-the-art forensics technology, which requires existing knowledge of a bacterium's function or biochemical makeup. DARPA's new Friend or Foe program aims to develop a platform technology that rapidly screens unfamiliar bacteria to establish their pathogenicity and even discover unknown pathogenic traits, necessary first steps for designing effective biosurveillance and countermeasures.
Associated images posted on www.darpa.mil and video posted at www.youtube.com/darpatv may be reused according to the terms of the DARPA User Agreement, available here: http://go.usa.gov/cuTXR.
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| CBRN | Countermeasures | Disease | Sensors |
Friend or Foe Proposers Day
GRIT Proposers Day Webinar
A Dose of Inner Strength to Survive and Recover from Potentially Lethal Health Threats
Enabling Revolutionary Nondestructive Inspection Capability


Jordan Peele, comedy star of the show Key & Peele and the movie Keanu, wowed audiences with his 2017 directorial debut, Get Out. The Twilight Zone– esque tale of a black man who visits his white girlfriend's parents, only to find some bizarre circumstances, touched audiences with its creepy vibe mixed with the socio-political commentary on racism in America. Now Peele has followed up that film with yet another horror thriller entitled Us. Has he struck gold for his sophomore effort?
The answer to that is a big yes. Us is another scary, suspenseful movie, tinged with humor and in some ways better than his debut. Instead of social and political commentary, this horror film takes on more philosophical type fare, and leaves plenty to interpretation. It also makes writing a spoiler free review a bit harder, but I will do my best.
The movie focuses on the Wilson family: mom Adelaide (Lupita Nyong'o), dad Gabe (Winston Duke), daughter Zora (Shahad Wright Joseph), and son Jason (Evan Alex). They take a vacation to Santa Cruz, where as a child Adelaide had experienced a traumatic incident. One night, a family dressed in red uniforms shows up in their driveway, and the nightmare begins.
Us takes a while to get going, but once it does, it's off to the races. The score by Michael Abels (Get Out) does a nice job of setting the mood, and the cinematography by Mike Gioulakis (It Follows, Glass) does a nice job of giving us a constant undercurrent of dread, making good use of color and shadow. The violence starts off mild but ramps up into some nice gore, though some of the violence is left to be heard and not seen. Those scenes that happen off camera are nicely effective, being a ll the more disturbing as we picture what is happening in our mind.
Despite this being a scary movie, Peele doesn't let it lack for humor. The laughs come mostly from Duke's (Black Panther) Gabe being quick with a joke, even while under dire circumstances. Joseph (The Lion King) gets some quips in as well as daughter Zora. Humor also comes from another couple (Elisabeth Moss and Tim Heidecker).
The big draw here are the performances, as the cast also portray their dopplegangers. Each one has subtle and not so subtle differences. Gabe's double Abraham is more of a menacing hulk. Zora's double has a creepy smile, and can run really fast. And Jason's double is more animalistic in his movements, keeping his face hidden beneath a mask as he scurries ape-like across the ground.
While the entire cast delivers with their performances, it's Lupita Nyong'o (Black Panther, Star Wars Episode IX) that stands out the most as Adelaide and her counterpart, Red. The differences in both movement and voice are very well highlighted, and yet both are very similar in being fiercely protective wives and mothers to their respective families. Nyong'o's performance really shows off the duality in her character's nature, and hopefully will get recognized come awards season.
The movie maintains the suspense throughout, with a nice twist that most won't see coming and an ending that leaves a nice chill and pretty much begs for a second viewing. In hindsight, I can pick out some of the clues, but while watching for the first time, it really did impact me.
While I feel Us is a better film than Get Out, I don't know if it will have the same universal appeal to audiences (this seems to be similar to what M. Night Shyamalan experienced with his debut The Sixth Sense and his follow-up, Unbreakable). Us seems to tackle headier philosophical themes rather than socio-political commentary, and that may leave some feel not as connected. Despite that, the performances here are strong enough, and when viewed more as a surrealistic nightmare I think the movie stands on solid ground.
Peele's sophomore effort Us shows that he is not just a one off writer/director, and proves he has a good grasp on these types of suspenseful horror movies. The fact that both Us and Get Out are very different in their execution, despite the similarity in tone, shows us Peele has some range, and isn't afraid to take some risks. The movie has me very interested to see what he will do with CBS All Access's reboot of The Twilight Zone. Us is a successful, scary, at times funny and poignant sophomore effort from an emerging master of the genre, and is well worth a trip to the theater to see. Don't miss one of this year's best films so far.


Feldenkrais for Children with Disability - Australian Feldenkrais Guild Inc.
As a parent of a child with a disability, you are used to seeing your child struggle with his or her body. More than anything, you would love to see your child delighted by his own movement, and excited by her own learning.
Children love the gentle and playful modality of the Feldenkrais Method.
Children from as young as a few weeks old to teenagers can benefit. In fact, the younger the child, the more plastic their brain and, often, the more rapidly they improve.
Using movement and touch to work with the brain, Feldenkrais wakes up the learning mechanisms of the child, improving their self-awareness and teaching them to move with greater ease and confidence.
A child learns to roll over, walk or play with a ball through curiosity and exploration, moving her body in many fun and varied ways. When a Feldenkrais Practitioner works with your child, he or she will use gentle, enjoyable and exploratory movements to tap into these natural learning processes.
Your child may not have discovered all the developmental stages of a typically developing child. So your Feldenkrais Practitioner will facilitate his progression through these developmental stages whether your child is ten weeks old or ten years old.
Some Feldenkrais practitioners are able to provide services through the NDIS. Please check with your plan manager or service provider for information.


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The Yankees at the One-Quarter Mark: Hanging In, But The Next 40 Are The Real Key (May 16, 2014)
The Yankees season is slowly blowing up, a bomb going often roughly every other day. Three starting pitchers are down, one for the season and the other two more or less indefinitely. And now Carlos Beltran, who, on paper, became the Yankees best hitter the day he signed, which was the day after Robbie Cano signed with Seattle, is gone for a while as well.
But, through the wonders of parity and the Tommy John-surgery epidemic, the Yankees remain in the hunt. Whether they can stay there depends a great deal on how they fare over the next 40 games, limping along with Vidal Nuno, David Phelps and Chase Whitley as three-fifths of their rotation.
How have they managed? Largely because of two players that even the most die-hard of Yankee fans had not even heard of one year ago, Masahiro Tanaka and Yangervas Solarte. They have easily been the team's best pitcher and hitter, respectively, and have dragged the club to two games over .500 at the 40-game mark.
Let's break it down, referencing my pre-season predictions here as a base: http://www.borntorunthenumbers.com/2014/04/yankees-2014-preview-is-it-2009-again-i.html
At that time I cautioned that while the Yanks had a treasure trove of new stars, this was not 2009 all over again, and I projected 89 wins based on my model. I said they would have a Team OPS of .747 and it is at .738 after 40 games. Not bad. I thought they would have a 3.85 Team ERA and it is somewhat worse at 4.18. All in all, pretty close, and they are 21-19 when I thought they would be 22-18.
The batters, as I said, have been on target overall. It may seem like they are not hitting much, but the fact is, I never thought they would be true Bronx Bombers to begin with. I pointed out that on the 2009 champions, Johnny Damon had the lowest OPS of any starter, at .854, which was higher than the highest OPS recorded by a Yankee last year (Carlos Beltran's .830 as a Cardinal). So I thought the Yanks were simply an "OK" hitting team, and indeed, that's what they've been.
40 Game
2014 OPS
Ellsbury
Solarte
They've gotten there in a bit of an odd way. All that great talent they brought in – McCann, Beltran, Ellsbury, Roberts and Johnson, have been pretty disappointing, with only Kelly Johnson exceeding my OPS expectations (even while losing his starting job to Solarte). The returnees – Teixeira, Jeter, Gardner and Soriano – have been mixed but collectively off. (Tex has actually been superb.) What has kept them on track has been the subs, most notably Solarte but throw in Ichiro and John Ryan ("Don't Call Me J.R.") Murphy, who have all excelled. Looked at the batters broken down this way:
Returnees
Pretty amazing! This should all level out a bit over the season – the Yankees badly need those "newcomers" to perform to expectation. They have 44% of team plate appearances thus far, as expected, so they represent nearly half the offense. It will be fascinating to see if Solarte is the real deal. (And if he is, all the more reason to buy out ARod and end his days in pinstripes.)
It is no secret the starting pitching has been disastrous, but the relief pitching has been nothing short of spectacular. And for a bullpen that lost Mariano, as well as Boone Logan, a strong bullpen was hardly pre-ordained. Dellin Betances has been lights out, better than Joba in 2007, and Adam Warren has stepped into the 8th inning role seamlessly. Not to mention David Robertson, who has not pitched that much, but compiled Mo-like stats in his 10 outings.
2014 ERA
Sabathia
Betances
But the season rests on the starting pitching. Ivan Nova is gone for the year, Michael Pineda is out for another month, and C.C. Sabathia is on the shelf with no return date set. The Yanks thought they had depth – they had four pitchers competing for the fifth spot in spring training, which Pineda won. But of the three who lost out in that competition, Adam Warren is entrenched in the bullpen, Vidal Nuno has by and large been a disaster, and only David Phelps has been adequate. Chase Whitley had a nice, albeit brief, debut against the Mets, but he is hardly a given going forward. Do I smell Cliff Lee on the horizon? But for what trade bait? The Yanks have little to offer from their minor league system.
Breaking it down further (in the chart below) summarizes this quite nicely. The starters have underperformed (aside from Tanaka), and their substitutes have been worse. The relievers have been amazing, though the replacement relievers (Aceves, Daley, LeRoux, Cabral, Billings et al) have been simply dreadful in their 22 1/3 innings. They resemble Dean Anna, the former backup infielder who gave up 2 runs in one inning of mop up work in a blowout.
Sub Starters
Relievers
Sub relievers
So the Yankees have held up after 40 games. Presumably by midseason they will have a stronger rotation, with either the return of Pineda and an (injury-free) Sabathia (though he was pretty terrible in the early going) or some replacement(s) from the major league trade deadline group. But if they are 10 games out, it may be too late by then. Unless parity continues to reign!
Posted by Tom Gardner at 10:06 AM 1 comment:
April Month in Review: Republican Key Campaign Themes Under Direct Assault (May 5, 2014)
The Republican Congressional campaigns this November are being run on two basic themes: 1) Obamacare is a disaster and emblematic of a Federal government that is out of control, both economically and in encroaching on the "rights" of private citizens, and 2) Obama's economic policies are failing and we are stuck in a rut accordingly. (The GOP knows that Benghazi and Ukraine are not terribly important to swing voters.)
Both tenets have had currency in the marketplace, and if the election had been timed for November, 2013 instead of November, 2014, it is highly likely the mid-terms would have been the rout many still expect.
But the last month has been sobering for the Republicans. Obamacare soared past 8 million in enrollment, well exceeding the 7 million goal, and payment data, trickling out from private insurers, is validating premium payment rates in the 85-90% range. And last month's unemployment report showed a robust 288,000 new job figure and the unemployment rate dropping to 6.3%. All of a sudden, the scenario I put forth last month looks ever more likely; you will recall my conceptual "formula" to guarantee that Democrats hold the Senate and not lose many, if any, House seats:
□ Meet goal of 7 million sign-ups for Obamacare
□ Unemployment rate drops below 6%
□ Obama approval rating at 50% or above
The first box has been checked, the second box is suddenly far more likely, though not a laydown (we've seen the economic promise of spring turn into summer stalls before). Will the third follow? Not as yet (as we'll see below), but possibly in time.
On the Republican presidential side, the buzz around Jeb Bush has ramped up in the wake of the Chris Christie implosion. The "will he or won't he" dance is in full flower, as well as press pieces finding the skeletons in his closet (big-time consulting to Lehman Brothers, for goodness sake). The sudden potential for yet another Bush-Clinton brawl is setting off the predictable frenzy. (And for you generational dynasty fans, there is already talk of Chelsea versus George P. a decade or two from now.)
One thing for sure…this is not a great time to be a Tea Party devotee. The Cliven Bundy spectacle was the latest debacle, as FOX News's Glenn Beck gave Bundy the biggest embrace one can imagine in his standoff over land-use rights with the Federal Government, only to recoil in the face of his Donald Stirling-esque pronouncements on race ("Let me tell you about the Negro…"). Not a good scene for those on the far right.
Meanwhile, for the Democrats, status quo reigns when it comes to 2016. Hillary remains a 66/12 preference over Joe Biden. Chelsea's pregnancy set off an amazing round of speculation on what it means for Hillary's candidacy. And John Boehner keeps up the chatter on Benghazi. He may have to. As Obamacare improves, the Econometer rises, and his own party rejects immigration reform (against his wishes), he may soon have no other arrows left in the quiver.
OBAMA APPROVAL RATING
The good news on healthcare and the economy has yet to translate into political gain for Obama, as his approval rating remains solidly in the 44-45% range and the net is sticking at about -7 points. But I would bet a month from now we will see a modest uptick. And that's all the Dems may need for Obama to become the rising tide that carries the boats upward in tight Congressional races.
11-Feb
10-Mar
6-Apr
4-May
OBAMACARE RATINGS
As predicted, Obamacare ratings continue to improve. Opposition to the law is abating, down to about 50% (from a high of 57%) and the net negative is now in single digits, having dropped from -18 points in early December in the wake of the website fiasco, to about -9 currently. Nothing is scarier to Republicans than the thought that this net negative could close by Election Day. Continued payment data, and, over the summer, the announcement of premium increases for next year, are the next important milestones. But one interesting indicator…for the first time, a prominent Republican Congressperson (Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Washington) has started talking of "reforming" Obamacare rather than "repealing" it.
For/Favor
Oppose/Against
ECONOMETER
The Econometer held in the low 50's, as the good news on unemployment was offset by rising gas prices and an anemic (and weather driven) 1st quarter GDP growth rate of 0.1%. This underscores that the economic story is not completely rosy, nor is the unemployment figure the only data point. Personal income has remained flat, and thus economic improvement has not really penetrated to Main Street, apart from possibly seeing a few neighbors get back to work.
Price of Gas
CONGRESSIONAL GENERIC BALLOT
The Democrats continue to retain a slim lead in the generic ballot, under a point. That is way too close for comfort.
Generic Ballot
REPUBLICAN PRESIDENTIAL RACE
March/April polling gives evidence of the Christie demise. The other candidates are all hanging within close range, none making a move. Paul Ryan seems to be fading, as he plays his own Hamlet maneuver, raising skepticism that he will actually take the plunge. The Republican leadership is surely unhappy to see Mike Huckabee and Rand Paul at the top of the polls. Is it possible that only Jeb Bush is really "electable" among this group? Yes, it is…the plight of the GOP in bold-faced type. The only viable nominee shares the same last name as both our last one-term President (41) and one of the most reviled Presidents of all time (43).
Jan-Oct
Nov/Dec
Mar/Aprl
In case you missed it, our President did a fabulous job at the White House Correspondents Dinner, check it out: https://movies.yahoo.com/news/president-obama-correspondents-dinner-digs-fox-news-cnn-031434519.html
Posted by Tom Gardner at 8:56 AM No comments:
The Yankees at the One-Quarter Mark: Hanging In, ...
April Month in Review: Republican Key Campaign Th...

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Dwayne Gretzky Share "Make It Wit Chu" Video
Following the release of their self-titled debut album this summer, Toronto's Dwayne Gretzky have shared a brand new video for their cover o...
Bossie Not Pictured
Bossie's penchant for retro-future vibes emerged over a string of singles that have been trickling out since 2015. Now, with debut Not Pictu...
Bossie "Strawberry Moon" / "Solsbury Hill" (Peter Gabriel cover)
Toronto-based synth-popster Bossie is gearing up to release a two-track digital single at the end of the week, but Exclaim! is giving you an...
Bossie Premieres "Shine My Light" Video from 'Princess Sparkly Butt and the Hot Dog Kid'
Bossie (a.k.a. Anne Douris) proved she knows how to have a good time with the delightfully messy fun of her "Meteor" music video, and now sh...
Bossie "Meteor" (video)
Toronto-based musician Anne Douris may be known to some as part of bouncy Toronto power pop unit Stella Ella Ola, but her latest work arrive...


My headline reads like the title of a Little Critter book, doesn't it?
On Monday last week, TJ and I got to spend some time together. Just us. Mother and son. Like we used to before Baby E was born. It was the last session of Music Together (MT) for this quarter. Upon my request, Aaron worked from home that morning so I could leave a napping Baby E at home and attend MT without having her tag along.
Not wanting to take E along was infused with a little bit of guilt. Why would I not want my baby to go with her mother and brother, whom she loves so very, very much? Is it fair to her to leave her at home when clearly, she enjoys these music sessions too? Am I depriving her of social and cognitive development by denying her this one session even though she has attended as many sessions as TJ, in the womb and outside of it?
Then, the larger question of the moment made its presence felt. Isn't it also somewhat unfair that TJ hasn't been able to truly spend time with his mother, just him and me, since the baby came along? As a parent of multiple kids (two, in my case), how do you manage your feelings for wanting to give equal time to each child without making the other feel ignored?
I may have written about this before so if you have read it already, feel free to skip.
I had been wanting to spend some quality time with TJ for a while. Yes, I am a stay-at-home-mom which means I DO get to spend a lot of time with him and yes, a lot of that time is indeed, good quality time. But, I wanted to spend more time with him outside the home doing things more actively.
Back when he was a baby, I did get to be with him a lot but once my leave ended, I had to get back to work. Being a professor and the nature of the work being flexible, I continued to see him a lot and spend time with him but for the larger part of the day, he was in the care of an at-home nanny.
Chicago summers are absolutely gorgeous and we lived by Lake Michigan so there is never a dull moment or day during those three months. However, in the summer after his birth, he was too much of a baby to do much of anything really active. I did take him to our neighborhood parks but he couldn't participate much not being able to walk and all. Then came winter and other than short brisk walks to the grocery stores or short drives to appointments with his doctors, we were mostly at home, staying warm and cozy. By the time the following summer came along, it was time for us to pack up and move to California.
In the weeks leading up to our move, while still in Chicago and after I had resigned, I did get to do a lot of fun things with him. TJ was about 16 months then and I got to take him to our neighborhood beach, the Shedd Aquarium, the Adler Planetarium, the Lincoln Park Zoo, several walks and parks around our urban neighborhood, jogs and walks by the Lake, and so on. Those were good times. Did I mention how much I love Chicago summers already?
By the time we got to California, I was in the first trimester of my second pregnancy and those were not happy times. I remember getting so exhausted (how naive…I didn't know what exhaustion was back then. Exhaustion should see me now, two kids later, and redefine itself) that sometimes in the mornings after Aaron left for work, I would just lay there on the carpet, trying not to fall asleep, struggling to keep my eyes open while also trying to play with TJ.
My sweet, sweet boy, all wise for a 19-month-old, would drag me a cushion and throw blanket every time he saw me lay like that. Sometimes, he even let me close my eyes for a few seconds. I remember I actually fell asleep like that once. I woke up with a start within minutes of having dozed off to find TJ quietly doing his own thing. I forgot what he was doing but he gave me the confidence to know that it was okay to leave him to his own imagination and play for a few minutes every now and then.
As the pregnancy advanced, I still kept up the pace of his activities. We had a regular schedule. Mondays were for grocery shopping and running errands. Tuesdays and Wednesdays were visits to two different libraries for story time. Thursdays were for visits to the Zoo, playgrounds, or other local activities, and Fridays were for sessions of Music Together at our community center. The Tues/Thurs schedule changed once he started daycare that he attended for two months. This continued till I was 39 weeks pregnant. Clearly, from simply a quality time perspective, I got to do a lot with him. Just him and me.
Where I think I failed him was not being able to participate entirely in his more active activities of which, MT was the biggest offender.
So, off we went, my little boy and I, to our first Music Together class when I was neither pregnant nor had Baby E to worry about during our many movements.
Sounds like a fun day. Enjoy.
I just love that smile when I tell my daughter, "I am going to spend time just with you doing things that you like".


The Chief Executive Officer is Dr. Samir SERHAL, general and vascular surgeon, Fellow of Nice hospitals in France, and previously vascular surgeon in Hotel Dieu de France in Beirut.
The Medical Director is Dr. Robert HOBEIKA, interventionnal cardiologist.
Our Admitting department, located in the main lobby, is at your disposal for any information you may require during the administrative process.
The Interventional Angiography Department is a State-of-the-art technology unit specialized in percutaneous central and peripheral vascular procedures (cerebral, cervical, cardiac, aortic, renal..) Interventional doctors (radiologists, neurologists, cardiologists, vascular surgeons) can now benefit from the latest 2014 and newly installed SIEMENS Artis Zee Floor angiography machine which provides cutting-edge 3D High Definition imaging.
The Intensive Care Unit is a highly equipped department where seriously ill patients are treated by specially trained critical care doctors and staff. Located on the second floor, it is comprised of 12 full-service intensive care beds (8 beds of global intensive care and 4 beds specially dedicated to cardiac intensive care) under the guidance two Intensivists, interventional cardiologists and a multidisciplinary critical care team composed of nurses, respiratory therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and pharmacists.
The Laboratory is a unit where blood samples are drawn in order to perform a wide range of microbiological testing in the areas of Bacteriology, Molecular Biology, Environmental Microbiology, Mycobacteriology, Parasitology, Mycology, Immunoserology, Virology, Pathology and Newborn Screening.
The three operating theatres are staffed 24/7 to accommodate surgery at anytime with a team comprised of anesthesiologists, surgeons and operating room nurses. The recovery area has a specialized peri-operative nursing team to provide close monitoring of patients during the recovery process. A multi-segment SURGIRIS LED surgical light, three STORZ arthroscopy units, two ZEISS surgical microscopes, one of them being the ZEISS Vario/ S88 microsocope which is renowned for its flexibility and expandability and covers neuro, spine and ENT surgeries. Five Datex-Ohmeda anesthesiology machines are also among the latest equipements available for a secure surgical environement to both patients and physicians.
The Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics offers the full spectrum of women's health care services, including yearly checkups, prenatal care and advanced laparoscopic gynecologic surgeries. we have a team of providers dedicated to helping our patients manage their reproductive health. The Department supports women through all stages of life and works collaboratively with specialists in cardiovascular medicine, pediatrics and IVF to provide comprehensive care.
The pediatric department provides care for children and their families. Pediatricians in collaboration with other specialists give the necessary medical and surgical treatments to sick children starting from 29 days of life and up to the age of 14 years. It is located on the fifth floor.
The Outpatient Department clinics are located on the ground-floor and the first floor.
The Nutrition department is dedicated to providing the highest quality patient-focused nutrition care, to advancing the practice of clinical nutrition, and to educating future dietitians.The department has made significant contributions toward an understanding of the relationships between nutrition, heart disease and cancer; the relationships between dietary and genetic factors and obesity; and the uptake, balance, and requirements for daily dietary components.
The sterilization Department manages the reception, packaging, sterilization and delivery of all the articles that require the best sterilizing techniques approved by international accreditation programs.
It receives the textiles, instruments and other Operating Room and floor departments articles.
The general medicine / surgery department guarantees global care of patients and their families and offers concern and quality in the individualized care provided by the specialized nurses. The objective of this unit is to protect, maintain, restore and promote patient health in association with the responsible physicians. It is located on the third floor.
Supervised by Mrs. Hala CHOUEIRI, the Human Resources department's mission is to provide our employees a stable work environment with equal opportunity for learning and personal growth. Creativity and innovation are encouraged for improving the effectiveness of the hospital. Above all, employees will be provided the same concern, respect and caring attitude within the organization that they are expected to share externally with every customer.
•Mobilize and develop the human resources for a better patient oriented performance.
•Improve communication by respecting the enterprise's organigram.
•Elaborate and participate in quality improvement projects in the hospital hygiene.
•Evaluate the physical and psychological conditions of patients.
•Set a physiotherapy program depending on the medical condition of the patient.
•Refer to specific techniques of treatment such as manual therapy, electrotherapy, hydrotherapy , cryotherapy and massage.
•Help patients adapt to, maintain and properly use their prosthesis or braces.
•Give advice to relatives about the treatment.
•Discuss the situation and progress of the patient.
•Educate interns in the physiotherapy field and provide specific orientation for new staff members on the type of positions and lifting techniques.


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Welcome to EverAfter Romance!
Exclusive Excerpt
Morning Bites
Aural Pleasures
Swoon-Worthy Heroes
Posts in the Contemporary genre
How Reading Romance Shaped Mari Carr As a Writer
Mari Carr
I write because I read. It's as simple as that. I grew up with my nose in a book and, as my mother would say, my head in the clouds. I truly believe reading enhances and builds imagination. In my case, it built it up to the point where I had a million stories inside my head fighting to get out on to the page. Looking back, I can almost chart my course from reader to romance writer by simply looking at the stories I've read.
I read my first romance book in middle school. I checked Are You There God, It's Me, Margaret out from the library no less than a dozen times in sixth grade. I was enthralled and scandalized by the kissing in the closet scene! Then, my mother gave me another book by Judy Blume. Forever.
My mother, ever the teacher, handed it to me the summer before tenth grade with the words, "We'll talk about it when you're finished." I read it in one day. For those of you who haven't read the book, it's a great story about a teenage girl's first time. After I finished the book, my mother asked, "What did you learn?" I said, "I learned that if you really love someone, it's okay to have sex." My mother said, "No, you learned you should wait until after marriage." The fight that day was epic and in the end, my mother didn't try to instruct me with books after that. Now, as adults, we still laugh whenever that story is told!
Of course, when I look back, I realize both my parents were instrumental in guiding my future career as a romance writer. My father was a HUGE fan of romance books (and shhh…even the erotic ones). I stealthily lifted his copies of Jackie Collins' Lucky Santangelo books all the time. He caught me reading one once and after the initial shock wore off, he simply said, "Don't let your mother catch you with that."
Genres: Contemporary
Exclusive Excerpt: SILENT KNIGHT by Becky McGraw
Becky McGraw
Thomas Griffin never thought he'd be a homeless vet at forty-six years old. But when he was no longer useful to the government he'd spent his life serving, they turned their back on him when he needed them most, costing him everything he ever loved. After that, he really didn't care. Living his life on the fringe was safe and he didn't have to worry about anything except his next meal. That safety remains until a beautiful socialite decides to come slumming for Thanksgiving on the wrong side of town and gets herself into trouble.
Over her fifty-five years of life, Lou Ellen Wells had received many blessings. To pay them forward and honor the men in her life who served her country, both living and dead, she cooked Thanksgiving Dinner at the Dallas Veteran's Services Center every year. It was located in a bad part of town, but she'd never had a problem, until this year when she's brutally attacked and can't get to her gun. A bedraggled man with piercing blue eyes jumps to her rescue and saves her with moves out of an action movie. She gives him her card and offers him help, but he tells her doesn't need saving and takes off like his tail is on fire.
A couple of weeks later, Lou is surprised when the man calls her asking for help of a different kind. A teenage girl he cares about has gone missing in gang territory. He's afraid she'll get killed if he doesn't find her soon. Lou calls in the team to help him, but her price for that help is finding out why her Silent Knight, who is obviously skilled and educated, chooses to be homeless.
But will satisfying her curiosity about Thomas Griffin put her in the crosshairs of a terrorist group even more dangerous than MS-13?
Check out our exclusive excerpt of SILENT KNIGHT below!
Keep your head, Lou, she thought, as she squirmed and clawed at the thick arms around her chest. Her heels wouldn't allow her to get her feet under her, so she kicked them off. It would be easier to run without them too. Her purse was trapped behind her, between her and her assailant, so Bruno would be of no help until he released her.
But he didn't release her, he spun her and slammed her into the brick wall and put his forearm under her chin. Her head connected with the bricks and pain sliced through her skull as she fought to bring her knee up to kick him in the balls. This evidently wasn't his first assault, though, because he stayed just far enough away to prevent it.
Exclusive Excerpt, Giveaway
Exclusive Excerpt: One Week to Win Her Boss by Barbara White Daille!
Barbara White Daille
Single mom Amber Barnett loves family, kids, Christmas…and unfortunately, her boss, confirmed bachelor Michael DeFranco. It's a crush she really needs to get over. Except, when she's temporarily forced from her apartment, her only option is to stay at Michael's private ski lodge, where she's the housekeeper. No problem. Her handsome boss rarely visits Snowflake Valley unexpectedly, plus he's spending the holidays with his family. Or so she thinks…
A stormy Christmas Eve reunion leaves Michael seeking the solitude of his lodge, where he finds Amber in residence—and in trouble. Attempting to save her from her matchmaking family, he announces they're a couple. His good deed backfires when they're instantly included in each and every holiday event in town. So much for solitude.
Only the more time he spends with the beautiful, cheery brunette, the more he yearns to make things real between them. But he and Amber want different things, and Michael could never be the family man she's looking for.
One Week to Win Her Boss is the second stand-alone story in Barbara White Daille's Snowflake Valley series from Entangled Bliss. And to celebrate this week's book birthday, Barbara's sharing an exclusive excerpt and a giveaway!
Thanks for welcoming me to EverAfter Romance! I'm happy to be here and thrilled to have a new release from Entangled Bliss, especially because my series is all about the holidays.
Love in a Small Town | Barbara DeLeo
I've been writing romances set in small towns for over ten years now and I love every minute of it. I've set book in cities too – L.A and Auckland – but there's just something about the dynamics of small town life that's fascinating. Maybe I'm just a classic nosey parker, but I love the complex relationships in a small town, the incredible connections between people and the depths of history you can find there.
My parents were high school teachers and as they moved up in their careers it meant moving towns – always small. And by small, I mean 800-1000 people. Okay, there were some annoying bits, like when we'd go away on holiday and the minute we were back home and had switched the light on, there would be people knocking on the door needing something that couldn't wait a second longer. There were humbling times too. I can remember vividly, the day we held the funeral for a boy in my class who had been killed in a car accident on one of our remote country roads. The whole town came to the cemetery that day and for weeks after when I walked past his parents' house I'd see home baking and flowers on their front step, or one of their friends mowing their lawns or bringing in the laundry.
I've chosen to bring my kids up in a small town too and while my daughters roll their eyes and say our town's boring, and my boys can't wait to hit the mall when we visit the city, I think they secretly love it as much as I do.
Exclusive Excerpt: Bulletproof Butterfly by Anna Brooks
I wasn't a rookie, but I made a mistake because I was selfish, impulsive, and headstrong.
I was also in love.
My desire for her overwhelmed me. Consumed me. Distracted me.
To protect her, I stood motionless as my partner pried her from the security of my arms. I watched as she fought his hold. I even listened when she screamed that she hated me.
For years I've been patient, I've been smart, and I've gone by the book. But now… it's finally over.
It's time to get my girl back.
When I show up to reclaim what's mine, I discover she's not ready to forgive me quite yet… but that's okay, because I have no problem reminding her just how good it used to be, even if I have to show her over and over again.
What I do have a problem with is the guy who's been trying to take my place. Because here's the thing, I've waited too long to have her in my arms again to have anybody stand in my way… and I'm done following the rules.
Check out an exclusive excerpt below!
Without taking his concentration off me, he strides in my direction. The intensity of his attention is suffocating. I sharply draw in a gulp of air because he's going to be in front of me in a second. Close enough to touch. To smell again.
He ignores another officer calling him and comes at me, stopping even closer than earlier. His arms raise, and the rough callouses on his fingers abrade my cheeks when he holds my face in his hands. "Are you okay?"
My lips part. Words form on my tongue but won't roll off.
"Livvie." He leans down so he's eye level with me. "You okay?"
My heart hammers.
Thud.
"Yes." I practically moan, and we sway closer together. His thighs rub against mine, and he's close enough that if I took a deep breath, my hardened nipples could seek relief from brushing against his chest.
A moment is all it takes. Time suspends and the air around us is without gravity as I float from a single touch. I don't know exactly what it is, but something is happening between us. Something big.
"Ah! Motherfucker!"
A man yells, and I jump as Jay reacts before I can blink. He turns around, blocking me from seeing anything except his tense and muscular back. Grabbing me with one hand behind his back, he reaches for his gun with the other.
Shielding me.
A moment of panic surges through me, but when his shoulders relax and he lowers his hand from the gun on his belt, my head falls forward to land on the center of his back. His fingers flex on my hip, assuring me everything is okay—or at least he'll make sure of it—and a state of lust immediately replaces my fear. So powerful it makes me whimper.
He turns around but remains close and lifts my chin, causing my head to tilt up so I lock eyes with his. "I need to see you later."
"Okay." I need him to see me. I want to see him, too.
"I'm off in two hours. Will you be home then?"
One hundred and twenty minutes. "Yes," I whisper.
"Jesus." He steps back and takes no shame in devouring me with his eyes. "Christ. Be ready for me, Livvie."
©Anna Brooks
Anna Brooks began writing when she thought the world would want to hear her sick lyrics through song. Since then, she's realized her childhood dream wasn't so far-fetched, just misguided. Now she writes romance with real emotions and happy endings. If Anna isn't writing or reading, she can be found by a space heater drinking a ridiculous amount of Diet Dr Pepper. She also likes to hang out with her husband and two boys. If it wasn't for them, she wouldn't ever leave the house. Anna was born in Wisconsin but now lives in the Evergreen State.
Follow Anna online! Website | Newsletter | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+
Q&A with Ally Matthews! | Offsetting Penalties
Ally Matthews
Isabelle Oster has dreamed of being a prima ballerina her entire life, so when the only male dancer backs out of the fall production, she's devastated. Without a partner, she has no hope of earning a spot with the prestigious Ballet Americana company. Until hot jock Garret practicing stretches in one of the studios gives Izzy an idea, and she whips out her phone. But does she really want this badly enough to resort to blackmail?
All-state tight end Garret Mitchell will do anything to get a college football scholarship. Even taking ballet, which surprisingly isn't so bad, because it means he gets to be up close and personal with the gorgeous Goth girl Izzy while learning moves to increase his flexibility. But Izzy needs him to perform with her for the Ballet Americana spot, and he draws the line at getting on stage. Especially wearing tights.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains a bit of blackmail, a lot of sarcasm, and an ending guaranteed to melt your heart.
We had Ally Matthews, author of OFFSETTING PENALTIES, on the blog to answer our burning questions! Now, let's jump in!
What are your five favorite movies with romance or romantic elements?
Sixteen Candles Spoiler Alert (highlight to reveal) The ending of Sixteen Candles. It was so wonderfully awkward and romantic at the same time for Jake to pick up Samantha after her sister's wedding and give her a birthday cake after her family forgot her birthday.
For The Princesss Bride, my favorite scene is where Buttercup pushes Wesley down the hill, and when he says, "As you wish," she realizes who he his. Of course, I can't help but judge her a bit for not recognizing who he was immediately.
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult
#GIVEMEBLUEBALLS!
RC Boldt
BLUE BALLS
Truth: A painful condition caused by a prolonged state of sexual arousal without release.
Myth: Only affects males.
I'm beyond frustrated with the man who's left me high and very far from dry. Multiple times. But, somehow, even though I'm not interested in a relationship, Mr. Tall-Dark-and-Handsome keeps me coming back for more—one crazy, sexual debacle after the next.
Come hell or high water, the stars will align, and the release will be out of this world.
I'm captivated with the woman who's left me sixty-nine shades of blue, and she's only in this for one thing. The first time, I blew it—and not in the good way—but I'm going to ensure we finally see it through. I need to put an end to this "plague" of sexual calamities and prove to Sarah that we can have more.
It's time to grab the universe by the balls and show it who's boss.
RC BOLDT is the wife of Mr. Boldt, a retired Navy Chief, mother of Little Miss Boldt, and former teacher of many students. She currently lives on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, enjoys long walks on the beach, running, reading, people watching, and singing karaoke. If you're in the mood for some killer homemade mojitos, can't recall the lyrics to a particular 80's song, or just need to hang around a nonconformist who will do almost anything for a laugh, she's your girl.
Connect with RC! Facebook Reader Group | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter | Instagram
GIVEAWAY/EXCERPT: A New Leash on Love by Debbie Burns
Debbie Burns
First in a fresh contemporary romance series from award-winning debut author Debbie Burns.
Every heart has a forever home.
Megan Anderson loves the animals at her no-kill shelter. She'll do anything for them—even go toe-to-toe with a handsome man who's in way over his head. She'll help him sort out his troubles, but getting too close to an adorable puppy's human counterpart? Been there, done that, got burned.
When Craig Williams arrived at the local shelter for help, he didn't expect a fiery young woman to blaze into his life. But the more time they spend together, the more he realizes it's not just animals Megan is adept at saving—she could be the one to rescue his heart.
Soon, Craig and Megan find that the magic of unconditional love can do anything…even lead to their forever home.
Check out our exclusive excerpt below!
Working to suppress the shivers traversing her spine, Megan switched the travel mug of sweet-scented mocha to her free hand and tucked her half-frozen one into her coat pocket. She tried not to focus on how much warmer the shoulder was that was rubbing against Craig's upper arm as they meandered the darkened streets of Webster Groves.
"I wish it were still Christmas so you could see it," she said. "I always feel like I'm in a snow globe because the houses are done up so cute."
"It'd be colder if it were Christmas. It's mid-March, and I can't feel my toes."
"I told you that you needed a jacket."
Why Arianna Hart Writes Happily Ever Afters
Arianna Hart
My husband is a news junkie. He has the network news on TV and is on his iPad cruising other sites. When something big happens he is glued to the TV.
I hate that.
I am not a news junkie. In fact, I would be really happy to only hear the weather report, the sports scores, and how kittens got rescued from trees. That doesn't mean my head is in the sand or I walk around like Pollyanna, but why go searching for bad news?
I work in a school for kids who have dropped out or have been kicked out of regular school. I teach teen moms, drug dealers, drug addicts, gang members, depressed students, bullied students, and a huge cross section of LGBTQ students who felt they didn't fit in at their regular high schools. Many of my students are now or have been homeless. Many of them have been abused or neglected by the very people who are supposed to love them the most. This year alone I had 3 students die from drug overdoses.
Trust me when I say, I know the world has bad things in it.
Top 5 Sexy Baseball Players by Lynn Stevens
Aw, baseball, America's pastime. There's nothing better than sitting in the stands and watching a player smash a 90+ mph fastball over the wall. The art of the game, the patience, the strategy, and those hot baseball pants, what's not to love?
I'm a lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, but I love watching games even if my RedBirds aren't playing. Pitching duels, high scoring games, the long ball, I'll sit through anything. Even a rain delay. Naturally, I also enjoy the sexiness on the field.
So here are my top 5 sexy baseball players who don't play for the Cardinals:
Kris Bryant – 3rd baseman for Chicago Cubs – just look at those eyes. It also helps that he's one hell of a player. His batting stance is almost perfect.
Derek Jeter – former shortstop for New York Yankees – no list is complete without Jeter who seems to get better with age. Retirement suits him.
Kevin Kiermaier – center fielder for Tampa Bay Rays – I watch the Rays when I can. For good reason.
Dustin Ackley – 2nd baseman for Los Angeles Angels – The crooked smile is stuff novels are made of.
David Freese – 3rd baseman for Pittsburgh Pirates – Okay this is a bit of a cheat since Freese was the hero of the Cardinals 2011 World Series run, but he plays for the enemy now so…
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text:
Secret phone recording of Pauline Hanson uncovered
by Megan Palin and Liz Burke news.com.au
4th Apr 2017 7:49 AM
A SECRET phone recording of tense discussions between One Nation leader Pauline Hanson and the party's former senator Rod Culleton has been aired on the ABC's Four Corners.
The network revealed it obtained a series of emails which indicated Ms Hanson was aware of Mr Culleton's legal woes when she selected him to join the party despite later publicly criticising him over it and urging him to stand down.
Mr Culleton secretly recorded a phone conversation with Ms Hanson after his private legal affairs played out across the media and she allegedly withdrew her support of him.
Mr Culleton can be heard telling Ms Hanson: "You're getting angry with me, Pauline".
Ms Hanson said: "You've been in politics for, what, six months? I've been doing it for 20 years. Don't tell me how to run politics and how the system works. I think I know a little bit more than what you do."
Ms Hanson continued the heated exchange: "Go and read your constitution section 44.2 and it states that if you have a criminal conviction, more than 12 months sentence. I haven't done that, Rod. You did it before you were actually standing. Now they've caught up with you over this. That is the facts. Right? Now don't try and blame me."
Mr Culleton replied: "I'm not blaming you. But I don't seem to be getting support from you in a sense now you're wanting me to stand down."
Ms Hanson advised him to "think about it" and get some legal advice.
"I'll leave it up to you. I'll see you at parliament next week," she said.
Mr Culleton told the ABC that when it comes to Ms Hanson's One Nation, "they're persona non grata".
"Yeah, it cuts deep, to be honest, so ... That's it," he said.
"I get better respect from a sheep dog."
The comments came during an explosive investigative piece which claimed Ms Hanson's One Nation party was a "brutal dictatorship". It said the party had a public face that was "very different to the private reality".
'NAZI-STYLE MIND CONTROL'
During the show, journalist Caro Meldrum-Hanna asked One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts to explain why One Nation endorsed candidates that have "said such things as single mums are too lazy to attract and hold a mate, gays should be treated as patients".
"What about the comment that the gay community uses Nazi-style mind control?" Ms Meldrum Hanna asked.
Senator Roberts then rounded on her, accusing the ABC of using "Nazi-style mind control" in relation to reporting on pollution.
"Whenever we talk about carbon dioxide on the ABC, you see on the news broadcast, billowing steam pouring out, giving people the impression that carbon dioxide is both, colourful and it's also huge in volume, when it's less than 0.04 per cent," he said.
ON THE ROAD WITH ONE NATION
The Four Corners crew spent more than a month on the road with One Nation candidates and party dissidents, gathering a "legitimate, real look as to what is going on inside this party at the moment", with fascinating results aired on the program on Monday night.
Ms Meldrum-Hanna, who led the investigation, told news.com.au the story was "both entertaining and revealing".
The explosive episode also showed cranky former candidates sharing scathing sentiments.
"A political party's supposed to be transparent, democratic, inclusive - the party at the moment is not any of those things," one former candidate said.
"If the public knew what went on in the party I don't think they'd have anything to do with One Nation," says another.
The party's former Queensland president and treasurer Ian Nelson presented the most scathing and blunt assessment: "Absolute dictatorship. Brutal."
CANDIDATES GAGGED
While putting the story together, Ms Meldrum-Hanna found fans and critics of the party and its leader, but what struck her most was the sense of fearfulness instilled in those that signed up to One Nation.
She said the party insiders and disaffected members had "scathing assessments" of how the party was being managed.
"They say that they feel tricked, or duped, that once they are inside the One Nation tent and they sign up as a candidate, they find that all of the public promises that One Nation and Pauline Hanson gave the country and indeed them, they evaporate," she said.
Ms Meldrum-Hanna said candidates experienced "uncomfortable levels of control" and found themselves being sent directives about who they were and weren't allowed to speak to, with media frequently falling into the latter category.
Former One Nation president Ian Nelson tells Four Corners the party is led like 'dictatorship'. Four Corners/ABC
"They weren't allowed to speak to party dissidents, they're not allowed to speak to anyone who's been disendorsed, they're not allowed to speak to anyone who's quit the party, and particularly when it came to media, super tight controls on who can speak to the media," she said.
"That made people feel very uncomfortable but also really angry, because they signed up to a political party that said we're all about freedom of speech.
"Pauline Hanson says we're not a mainstream political party and I'm not one of those politicians that hides away in my office in Canberra, I get away and I speak to people and I talk to the media. Well that certainly wasn't our experience."
Ms Meldrum-Hanna and her camera crew found themselves subject to One Nation's restrictions. The group noticed doors being closed to them on their travel to regional Queensland while scoping out the state electoral candidates, which all began to make sense when they were leaked a text message from the party's head office saying "do not talk to Four Corners".
When you're out filming @PaulineHansonOz and her chief of staff James Ashby repeatedly tries to get rid of you...and only you...#4corners pic.twitter.com/ZErKC6oXdW
— Caro Meldrum-Hanna (@caromeldrum) April 3, 2017
QUESTIONABLE FINANCES
The program also exposed questionable financial aspects of One Nation.
"Pauline Hanson has publicly maintained that her party doesn't accept large political donations. We've put to the test her claims and we've obtained material that would suggest otherwise, which is very revealing," Ms Meldrum-Hanna said.
The investigation also brought Ms Hansons's right hand man and chief of staff James Ashby into the spotlight, and allegations of intimidation within the party that comes from the Ashby-Hanson partnership down to the rank and file.
"There are claims that One Nation has turned into a brutal dictatorship, those are the word of the former Queensland president and treasurer Ian Nelson, and they're very strong words," Ms Meldrum-Hanna said.
"The concerns lay in the leadership of Pauline Hanson and James Ashby. He went from being a printer, someone outside of the party, to her chief of staff quite quickly and now they have an extremely close relationship, and there are concerns.
"People tell us how they feel intimidated, they feel pressure by James Ashby to tow the party line and that made them feel extremely uncomfortable, so there are concerns about his role and influence between the party about how he treats people and how he controls the party.
"In terms of a series of broken promises, we shed light on the preference deal that was done between One Nation and the Liberal Party in WA. What Pauline Hanson has told her candidates and what she was actually doing, we found them to be two different things and that was just a lightning rod for disaffection in the party."
GENUINE ADORATION
Ms Meldrum-Hanna insisted the report was "not a hatchet job". As well as speaking with One Nation critics and disgruntled party members, she said the crew came across their fair share of fans of the party, and particularly of its leader.
The crew spent two days on the road with Queensland Senator Malcolm Roberts - an experience Meldrum-Hanna described as "fantastic".
"Spending time with Malcolm Roberts we saw the genuine adoration and support for the party," she said.
As much as there is overwhelming belief in and support for One Nation in some parts of Australia, the crew quickly came to understand that the party would be nothing without Pauline Hanson.
"When I asked a few One Nation voters in one pub do you support One Nation they said no, do you support Pauline Hanson, yes. She's the absolute star of the party and without Pauline Hanson there really would no One Nation that became very clear," she said.
Neither Ms Hanson nor Mr Ashby agreed to talk to Four Corners.
Caro Meldrum-Hanna spent two days on the road with One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts, pictured here preparing a snack for the crew. Picture: Caro Meldrum-Hanna/Twitter
Caro Meldrum-Hanna spent two days on the road with One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts, pictured here preparing a snack for the crew. Picture: Caro Meldrum-Hanna/TwitterSource:Twitter
Ms Meldrum-Hanna's award-winning work with Four Corners has been known to make an impact. Her 2015 report on live-baiting in the greyhound racing led to the industry's overhaul and more recently a report on treatment of teenagers in the Don Dale Youth Detention Centre sparked a Royal Commission.
Asked whether her report on One Nation will likely have consequences for the party, particularly when it comes to financial matters and other accusations of misconduct, the reporter said: "Remains to be seen."
"I thought Pauline was a person fighting for the battlers"
Bill Shortens the odds as Malcolm tumbles in new poll
rod culleton
editors picks one nation pauline hanson rod culleton


I guess what makes this ad work is that you never see the other team, so you don't have to feel bad for a bunch of little kids who showed up hoping to win a kiddie league championship and wound up getting destroyed by a 6'7 NBA All-Star ringer. Still, you're supposed to feel good for a bunch of other kids who win the championship by blatantly cheating.
So i guess the conclusion is that middle America is okay with the idea of professional athletes using their massive skill advantage to dominate regular people, or even children, who are trying to play a game.


Improved nvidia mobile gpus every six months.
Last week we confirmed NVIDIA would be introducing a Tegra SoC with integrated Icera baseband called Grey, but we got the timeframe down. Above you'll see the updated Tegra roadmap. Wayne has been pushed out to late 2012/early 2013 and there's now a Kal-El+ part that will refresh the lineup in the middle of next year. Grey will debut in 2013.
Also note that with Wayne, NVIDIA bifurcates the Tegra roadmap into a high end and a mainstream SoC. Wayne (and its derivatives) will continue to be two chip solutions with a discrete modem, while Grey will introduce single chip solutions with integrated Icera basebands.


High Court Of Chhattisgarh, Bilaspur.
The Chhattisgarh HC announces District Judge vacancies to fill 22 positions through District Judge (Entry Level) Examination 2018, in reference to Adv. No. 2-A/S & A Cell/2018.
Under Chhattisgarh HC District Judge 2018 Job Notification, candidates completed Degree In Law and have Advocate experience are required to apply.
On basis of Written Exam and Viva-Voice, an applicant for CG HC District Judge posts will be finalized on merit.
Selected aspirant will be recruited with a salary in pay scale of Rs.1,31,100 - Rs.2,16,600 per month, for the post of District Judge (Entry Level) in Chhattisgarh Higher Judicial Service.
An Interested and qualified person has to apply through offline mode by 05/09/2018.
Name of the post: District Judge (Entry Level).
As on 01/01/2018, candidate age limit should be 35 to 45 years.
Candidate should complete Degree in Law from recognized university/institute and should have Advocate work experience.
On basis of Written Exam and Viva-Voice.
Candidates have to pay a maximum fee of Rs 1000 through Challan.
Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe or Other Backward Classes aspirants have to pay a fee of Rs 700.
A Candidate has to logon to http://highcourt.cg.gov.in/recruithc.html.
And send details to "Registrar General High Court of Chhattisgarh at Bodri, BILASPUR (C.G.), Pin – 495220".
Last date for submission of hardcopy of application: on or before 05/09/2018 by 5.00 pm.


text:
E. O. Wilson Zitate auf Englisch
Zitat des Tages von E. O. Wilson:
In my heart, I'm an Alabaman who went up north to work.
When you have seen one ant, one bird, one tree, you have not seen them all.
Science and religion are the two most powerful forces in the world. Having them at odds... is not productive.
If history and science have taught us anything, it is that passion and desire are not the same as truth.
Theology made no provision for evolution. The biblical authors had missed the most important revelation of all! Could it be that they were not really privy to the thoughts of God?
Sometimes a concept is baffling not because it is profound but because it is wrong.
Even as empiricism is winning the mind, transcendentalism continues to win the heart.
I was a senior in high school when I decided I wanted to work on ants as a career. I just fell in love with them, and have never regretted it.
If we were to wipe out insects alone on this planet, the rest of life and humanity with it would mostly disappear from the land. Within a few months.
A very Faustian choice is upon us: whether to accept our corrosive and risky behavior as the unavoidable price of population and economic growth, or to take stock of ourselves and search for a new environmental ethic.
There is no better high than discovery.
But once the ants and termites jumped the high barrier that prevents the vast variety of evolving animal groups from becoming fully social, they dominated the world.
We are drowning in information, while starving for wisdom. The world henceforth will be run by synthesizers, people able to put together the right information at the right time, think critically about it, and make important choices wisely.
It's like having astronomy without knowing where the stars are.
I had in mind a message, although I hope it doesn't intrude too badly, persuading Americans, and especially Southerners, of the critical importance of land and our vanishing natural environment and wildlife.
Ants are the leading removers of dead creatures on the land. And the rest of life is substantially dependent upon them.
If those committed to the quest fail, they will be forgiven. When lost, they will find another way. The moral imperative of humanism is the endeavor alone, whether successful or not, provided the effort is honorable and failure memorable.
But I feel music has a very important role in ritual activity, and that being able to join in musical activity, along with dancing, could have been necessary at a very early stage of human culture.
The human mind evolved to believe in the gods. It did not evolve to believe in biology.
You are capable of more than you know. Choose a goal that seems right for you and strive to be the best, however hard the path. Aim high. Behave honorably. Prepare to be alone at times, and to endure failure. Persist! The world needs all you can give.
Destroying rainforest for economic gain is like burning a Renaissance painting to cook a meal.
By any reasonable measure of achievement, the faith of the Enlightenment thinkers in science was justified.
Political ideology can corrupt the mind, and science.
I see no way out of the problems that organized religion and tribalism create other than humans just becoming more honest and fully aware of themselves.
Without a trace of irony I can say I have been blessed with brilliant enemies. I owe them a great debt, because they redoubled my energies and drove me in new directions.
The essence of humanity's spiritual dilemma is that we evolved genetically to accept one truth and discovered another. Is there a way to erase the dilemma, to resolve the contradictions between the transcendentalist and the empiricist world views?
Well, let me tell you, ants are the dominant insects. They make up as much as a quarter of the biomass of all insects in the world. They are the principal predators. They're the cemetery workers.
Change will come slowly, across generations, because old beliefs die hard even when demonstrably false.
It's always been a dream of mine, of exploring the living world, of classifying all the species and finding out what makes up the biosphere.
Perhaps the time has come to cease calling it the 'environmentalist' view, as though it were a lobbying effort outside the mainstream of human activity, and to start calling it the real-world view.
We should preserve every scrap of biodiversity as priceless while we learn to use it and come to understand what it means to humanity.
People need a sacred narrative. They must have a sense of larger purpose, in one form or another, however intellectualized. They will find a way to keep ancestral spirits alive.
Religious belief itself is an adaptation that has evolved because we're hard-wired to form tribalistic religions.
Every major religion today is a winner in the Darwinian struggle waged among cultures, and none ever flourished by tolerating its rivals.
It's obvious that the key problem facing humanity in the coming century is how to bring a better quality of life - for 8 billion or more people - without wrecking the environment entirely in the attempt.


text:
<?php

namespace BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata;

/**
 * Class representing AuthnAuthorityDescriptorType
 *
 *
 * XSD Type: AuthnAuthorityDescriptorType
 */
class AuthnAuthorityDescriptorType extends RoleDescriptorType
{

    /**
     * @property \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AuthnQueryService[]
     * $authnQueryService
     */
    private $authnQueryService = null;

    /**
     * @property
     * \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AssertionIDRequestService[]
     * $assertionIDRequestService
     */
    private $assertionIDRequestService = null;

    /**
     * @property string[] $nameIDFormat
     */
    private $nameIDFormat = null;

    /**
     * Adds as authnQueryService
     *
     * @return self
     * @param \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AuthnQueryService
     * $authnQueryService
     */
    public function addToAuthnQueryService(\BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AuthnQueryService $authnQueryService)
    {
        $this->authnQueryService[] = $authnQueryService;
        return $this;
    }

    /**
     * isset authnQueryService
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return boolean
     */
    public function issetAuthnQueryService($index)
    {
        return isset($this->authnQueryService[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * unset authnQueryService
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return void
     */
    public function unsetAuthnQueryService($index)
    {
        unset($this->authnQueryService[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * Gets as authnQueryService
     *
     * @return \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AuthnQueryService[]
     */
    public function getAuthnQueryService()
    {
        return $this->authnQueryService;
    }

    /**
     * Sets a new authnQueryService
     *
     * @param \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AuthnQueryService[]
     * $authnQueryService
     * @return self
     */
    public function setAuthnQueryService(array $authnQueryService)
    {
        $this->authnQueryService = $authnQueryService;
        return $this;
    }

    /**
     * Adds as assertionIDRequestService
     *
     * @return self
     * @param \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AssertionIDRequestService
     * $assertionIDRequestService
     */
    public function addToAssertionIDRequestService(\BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AssertionIDRequestService $assertionIDRequestService)
    {
        $this->assertionIDRequestService[] = $assertionIDRequestService;
        return $this;
    }

    /**
     * isset assertionIDRequestService
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return boolean
     */
    public function issetAssertionIDRequestService($index)
    {
        return isset($this->assertionIDRequestService[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * unset assertionIDRequestService
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return void
     */
    public function unsetAssertionIDRequestService($index)
    {
        unset($this->assertionIDRequestService[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * Gets as assertionIDRequestService
     *
     * @return
     * \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AssertionIDRequestService[]
     */
    public function getAssertionIDRequestService()
    {
        return $this->assertionIDRequestService;
    }

    /**
     * Sets a new assertionIDRequestService
     *
     * @param
     * \BankId\Merchant\Library\Schemas\saml\metadata\AssertionIDRequestService[]
     * $assertionIDRequestService
     * @return self
     */
    public function setAssertionIDRequestService(array $assertionIDRequestService)
    {
        $this->assertionIDRequestService = $assertionIDRequestService;
        return $this;
    }

    /**
     * Adds as nameIDFormat
     *
     * @return self
     * @param string $nameIDFormat
     */
    public function addToNameIDFormat($nameIDFormat)
    {
        $this->nameIDFormat[] = $nameIDFormat;
        return $this;
    }

    /**
     * isset nameIDFormat
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return boolean
     */
    public function issetNameIDFormat($index)
    {
        return isset($this->nameIDFormat[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * unset nameIDFormat
     *
     * @param scalar $index
     * @return void
     */
    public function unsetNameIDFormat($index)
    {
        unset($this->nameIDFormat[$index]);
    }

    /**
     * Gets as nameIDFormat
     *
     * @return string[]
     */
    public function getNameIDFormat()
    {
        return $this->nameIDFormat;
    }

    /**
     * Sets a new nameIDFormat
     *
     * @param string $nameIDFormat
     * @return self
     */
    public function setNameIDFormat(array $nameIDFormat)
    {
        $this->nameIDFormat = $nameIDFormat;
        return $this;
    }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Ekpo, Others Laud Ugwu's Choice As Caretaker Coach
Ex-Nigeria international, Friday Ekpo, has lauded the management of Rangers International FC, Enugu for appointing Benedict Ugwu as the team's Caretaker Head Coach.
Tidesports source reports that the management announced Ugwu's appointment last Wednesday, following the expiration of Olugbenga Ogunbote's contract as technical adviser in June.
Ugwu is expected to hold the position, pending the employment of a substantive technical adviser.
Reacting to the appointment in an interview with newsmen in Enugu yesterday, Ekpo described Ugwu's appointment as "the best thing to happen to the club''.
He said: "Ugwu, who we call `surugede', is a player with the blood of Rangers flowing inside of him and he has the passion to make positive impact in the players.
"Rangers management has really done well to have a look in his direction.
"He has what it takes to deliver the goods with adequate support from his colleagues and management.''
Also, Sunday Onuoha, a staunch Rangers fan told newsmen that the club's management had done well to entrust the team to Ugwu and his colleagues.
"With the much I know about him, he will do well with adequate support from all.
"Sincerely, we need this kind of tasks thrown to our people to prove the stuff they are made of.
"Ugwu can do it as he has shown with the state football team during the 2012 National Sports Federation in Lagos."
Onuoha also said that Ugwu distinguished himself, when he handled the Rangers' feeder team before his elevation to the senior team.
Another ardent supporter of the Enugu-based club, Ifeanyi Okonkwo, also commended the club for recognising hard work and commitment in appointing Ugwu.
"We are happy with the management's decision to put a square peg in a square hole.
"I know that Ugwu will not disappoint. He will deliver as he did with the club's feeder team,'' Okonkwo said.
It would be recalled that Ugwu plied his trade with Rangers and the defunct BCC Lions of Gboko FC during his active days as a footballer.
He spent 10 years playing for the "Flying Antelopes'' and was a strong member of the team that won the National Challenge Cup in 1983 and 1984.
He helped the Gboko side to a national Challenge Cup in 1989 and the CAF Cup Winners trophy in 1990.
During the period, the then fullback maestro won the Best Player Award in Nigeria and third best player on the continent.
He also played for El-Kanemi Warriors and 3SC where he also excelled before travelling abroad.
Ugwu is a graduate of the National Institute of Sports, Lagos and holds the Confederation of African Football coaching licence.
Fans Hail S'Eagles, Urge Them To Lift Trophy
Salaries Of Players, Officials Are Paid Promptly – Rivers Angel's TM
Nigeria Tackles Angola In Handball Opener
Nigeria will take on Angola in a tough opening match today at the 24th Men's Senior Africa Nations Cup, in Rades,Tunisia.
The match is the third game of the day and the first in Group B which also has Gabon and Libya. The Angolans are favourite to win this game after finishing third at the last edition in Gabon, while the Nigerian team finished last.
However, a resurgent Nigeria team that went on a training tour in Tunisia, winning two and losing two warm up games, is expected to give the Angolans a good fight. The best Nigeria has achieved is a fourth place finish at the 1998 edition in South Africa.
Coach of the team, Rafiu Salami told newsmen that the players were getting in shape and will go far in the championship even as he insisted that his wards have become tactically and technically strong during the training tour ahead of the tournament.
"I am happy with what we have been able to achieve before the championship started. We have done well in the friendly games and the team is mentally and physically strong to take on any opposition," he said.
Technical director of Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN), Ferdinand Emeana said the team was in good shape to do well at the championship while commending president of the Federation, Sam Ocheo for ensuring that the team embarked on a training tour.
Since the inception of the championship in 1974, only three teams: Tunisia (10 times), Algeria (7 times) and Egypt (6 times) have won the title. The competition will end on the 26th.
Total Recommits To Sports Dev In Host Communities
Oil and gas giant, Total E&P Nigeria Limited (TEPNG) has restated its commitment to the development of sports in its host communities, just as it promised to identify with youths who wants to make a career in it.
Deputy Managing Director (DMD), Port Harcourt District, Mr. Guillaume Dulout stated this during the grand finale/closing ceremony of the 2019 NNPC/TEPNG football competition for OML 58 host communities held at Obite sport field in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on Wednesday.
After a 90-minutes thrilling encounter between Elele-Okinali and Erema communities, the former came from two goals down to win their rivals by three goals to two with all five goals coming in the second half.
Godstime Abaje of Erema community won the highest scorer award with six goals, while Dinoba Ameki of Elele-Okinali emerged as the Most Valuable Player (MVP); just as Obite community won the third place fixture.
Continuing, the Total E&P DMD said, "This football competition is a unique project that has become the hallmark and testimony of the enduring relationship, which we want to preserve with our host communities, notwithstanding the challenges and other adverse socio-economic environment in the industry today.
"I am indeed proud to be part of this competition and as the Executive General manager (EGM) had stated in his address during the opening ceremony, you should be assured of the commitment of the management of Total E&P Nigeria Limited and our joint venture partners, the NNPC, to continue to identify with our youths in their efforts to carve a niche for themselves through coordinated sustainable sports development programmes such as this.
"I would like to salute the courage of all the teams that participated in this championship for the fair play and soccer artistry displayed throughout the competition. For the first time in the history of this competition, we started this 17th edition with 18 teams," saying he was proud to be part of this competition.
"I also congratulate the players in all teams and their respective supporters for your patronage in this tournament. We appreciate and encourage your continued support of our commitment to sustainable skills development and the aspirations of the youths to hone their skills and excel in their chosen sports," he said.
Dulout thanked the organisers, the Central and Local Organising Committee, the Technical Committee, the Rivers State Football Association and the Rivers State Football Referees Council for a job well done, as well as media partners for their support.
"Your partnership and support have bolstered the visible media exposure which has given this championship a name and meaning," he stated.
In his remark, Chairman, Rivers State Football Association (RSFA), Barr. Christopher Green, represented by a board member of the association, Ibigoni Benjamin-Akobo thanked Total E&P for sponsoring the competition which he said ended in peace.
"Let me thank Total for the effort you have kept. It is not easy to start a process like this. I can tell you for one that there are many other multinational companies who may have started something close to this and half way they have packed up.
"I will tell you as football secretary for many years. Now you have sustained the tempo, whether in the middle of the turbulent water or not. There is no better way to appreciate you. Let me encourage you to keep the faith. For the children that you are doings these thing for. I am sure they do appreciate," Green stated.
Highlights of the event were presentation of the cup to the champions by the Total E&P DMD, Port Harcourt District, while gold, siver ad bronze medals were also presented to the three top teams.
Dennis Naku & Favour Ukwe
Iwobi Wants Quick Return
Everton summer signing Alex Iwobi has posted a positive two-word Instagram update to let Toffees fans know that he will be 'back soon'.
The Super Eagles striker was taken off in the 11th minute against former club Arsenal last month with a hamstring injury, and he has been absent ever since.
However, the 23-year-old latest update suggests he could be return to the pitch in the nearest future, which will be a boost for manager Carlo Ancelotti who has barely seen the £34m addition in action.
Iwobi has hardly hit the ground running since his move to Goodison Park either, scoring two goals and providing one assist in 20 appearances in all competitions for the Merseyside outfit. It will also be interesting to see where the experienced former Napoli boss sees the African fitting into his starting XI too, with Duncan Ferguson starting him on the left in his final caretaker match in charge against the Gunners.


text:
Barrington pens new contract
Saracens is delighted to announce Richard Barrington is the latest player to commit his future to the club.
The loosehead prop joins Scotland centre Duncan Taylor and wing Rotimi Segun in penning a new contract which will see him stay in north London until the end of the 2021/22 season.
Initially signed from Jersey for the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2013, Barrington has become a cult figure at Sarries and is much-loved by fans, players and coaches alike.
"I've turned out to be a better player and person here."
The 31-year-old has played a major part in the Men in Black's success during his eight years at StoneX Stadium, helping Mark McCall's side secure three European Cups, four Premiership titles and an Anglo-Welsh Cup in five seasons.
With his experience of the second tier, Barrington will continue to prove a valuable component of the squad as they look to be promoted from the Championship this term.
"Staying at Saracens was a no-brainer for me," he said.
"I love this club. I've enjoyed being here since 2013 and I'm looking forward to the challenge ahead of getting the club back to where it was.
"A lot of people here are like family to me and we're very close to each other on and off the pitch. I've turned out to be a better player and person here."
Director of Rugby Mark McCall said: "It is difficult to overstate Baz's contribution to our club.
"His level of consistency on the field is matched by his care and support for his teammates off the field.
"Richard is hugely popular and highly-respected and we are thrilled he has extended his time with us."


A book on the teas, a pocket guide to these simple herbs from home-gardens that have been used traditionally, is almost finished and will be available at the markets and online.
As for the farm, it's moved back to where I started–with a biodynamic approach. All herbs, greens and herbal teas, wildcrafted or cultivated, are Certified Naturally Grown (CNG), which is a non-government, non-profit alternative to the USDA organic certification. In addition to meeting all the standards for CNG, the approaches here follow biodynamic principles (I am a member of the US Biodynamic Association) which emphasize working with nature on many levels.
What is more holistic and sustainable than following the patterns of nature? Sometimes weeds are actually beneficial plants that are naturalized. For this reason, it should be opted to use natural remedies to cure any health discomfort. Understanding that farms are natural systems and working with those systems–and within them–is good for both the environment and for human health–and human spirit.
For more on the herbs, please visit Simpleherbals.com. For more on biodynamic approaches, please visit the association's url listed above.
The poultry here are managed very traditionally! Here the hens free-range–true free range–and are fed a supplement of non gmo grains.
What does this mean? Unlike typical pastured eggs, the hens are raised and allowed to range with cockerels, replicating a flock in nature. Birds don't have their beaks trimmed or wings clipped. The cockerels protect the flock just as in nature, leading the birds in to roost at night. Birds make their own dustbaths (essential for their health) and get a varied diet of bugs and grasses, along with their supplement of grain.
Under biodynamic management, hens are allowed to go broody and to hatch out eggs, and raise their own chicks–making for a much healthier bird.
While birds raised this way don't have the production levels of industrial farms, the flavor of the eggs are superior and are extremely nutrient dense–and the birds have a much better quality of life.
In 2016, Terembry Farm will be developing its flocks of Americaunas, Cuckoo Marans and Silver Phoenix.
And, goodness, we've been asked this question a lot in the last two weeks at the local markets. In Europe, eggs are rarely refrigerated. In the US, it's mandatory. We've also gotten lots of questions about egg production in general, and how long eggs will keep. Here are some questions to ask.
1) What are the chickens eating? Do you care about organic and/or non-GMO feed? Is the forage area clean?
There is increasing evidence that GMO food technology may be harmful to our health, and 98% of the corn, a staple of chicken feed, commerically produced in the US is GMO. The World Health Organization has declared the pesticide primarily used with GMOs a probable carcinogen; Russia has banned all GMOs; Europe requires labeling. Even Pope Francis has recently expressed concern about GMO Impact on human health. So what poultry are fed is an important question. Producers should be able to demonstrate that they are feeding a non-gmo or certified organic feed—or have certification to back up their assurance, of course there are also other people who prefer to get a protein promo because they prefer other protein sources.
If chickens forage, that is great, but also ask what they are foraging on. Was the property sprayed with pesticides, or was sludge applied (bringing with it heavy metals?) Again, a farm that is certified to be free of pesticides has gone through a review process. If the farm hasn't, ask to visit. Ask how pesticides are managed. Ask about sludge aka "bio-solids.". Does the farm use "bio-solids?" Sludge is the application of municipal waste. I recently looked at a copy of a sludge permit form–because of the heavy metal content (not to mention all the pharmaceuticals that get flushed down the drain), farms that apply bio-solids aren't supposed to grow certain things, as some plants can take in toxic levels of heavy metals. However, what's grazed on land that has had sludge applied has very little regulation. It's a common practice. Sustainable farms concerned about healthy food avoid it like the plague.
2) How are the eggs handled?
Eggs have a bloom which if not washed off, will provide a protective barrier for the eggshell. Eggshells are porous. Here we keep the eggs in a cool place out of direct sunlight immediately after gathering and inspect and pack eggs daily. We move our eggs quickly so eggs for market are one-two days old and are stored in a cool room. Eggs for retail stores and restaurants are refrigerated.
Once eggs are refrigerated, they should stay refrigerated. Since we get asked this question about refrigeration a lot, here's a brief overview of history behind differences between European and American egg producers.
In Europe, there isn't as much focus on the cleanliness of the eggs. In the US, that cleanliness is a must—and for farms subject to USDA inspection, washing and refrigeration is mandatory. Producers who don't follow the rules can be shut down. European shoppers also shop differently from the US; they shop for only a day or two of food at a time. US shoppers usually buy a week of food, or more.
But back to the systems. Both work. The European system doesn't wash and leaves eggs non-refrigerated, albeit usually in a cool place. The US system washes and refrigerates. Either way has a good safety history. Either way leaves the flavor intact. (I did a blind test on my farm intern. He could not tell the difference between refrigerated eggs and non-refrigerated eggs.) One benefit to refrigeration is that un-refrigerated eggs have a shelf life of 21 days while refrigerated eggs have a shelf life of 50 days.
Unlike most producers in the US, here our eggs are free-range and the health of our flock is better, usually better than birds in any type of containment system (unless they get eaten by predators). We go out of our way to ensure a healthy, non-gmo, pesticide-free grain to augment what they get from forage. And when we pull up weeds like morning glories from the garden, guess what the chickens get to eat? we always recommend to get the dihydrocodeine 30mg whenever you feel pain, no matter where it comes from.
Production cleanliness goes beyond just having clean straw in the hen house. Management of livestock requires thought and understanding of all aspects of their environment, including exposure to toxins that might be on the farm. What chickens eat is extremely important for health concern. Another question to ask if birds are being fed medicated feed. That will add antibiotics to the eggs. We don't feed it, but medicated feed is a staple in area feed stores. Another question to ask is if the birds are managed by the producer from day 1 of life, or if they are buying pullets at 3 or 4 months of age, and didn't control the earlier production. Many people buy pullets and then shift to organic practices but the birds will still retain the toxins from earlier exposure.
We manage our birds—all of them—from day 1 of life. We buy from only one supplier to ensure good health from the start.
3) What's the difference between pastured and free-range and conventional eggs?
Here both pastured and free-range have been tried and the decision was to stay with free-range, because of the improved quality of the egg. Our yolks are a good flavor and good color because our free-range birds, unlike pastured, get a more diverse diet. They go where they choose and aren't confined to just grass. We also find that holistic flock management helps with egg quality, too. Conventional poultry methods keep the birds in cages or in a large house. That's not as sanitary as either free-range or pastured, and the eggs don't have the richness of flavor of either free-range or pastured.
Keep in mind that some of the eggs certified organic in the grocery store, or that advertise "cage-free" birds may only allow the birds 1-2 square feet of space, keeping them in a contained area. Organic egg production rules don't necessarily keep in mind the quality of life for the bird.
4) Why does the USDA mandate washing and refrigeration?
Around the turn of the century, egg producers in the Midwest sent un-refrigerated eggs that were 3 or 4 weeks old into the big urban centers like NYC—without automobiles, shipping took more time then. By the time eggs got to the consumers, they were already at least month old and subject to all sorts of conditions. On several occasions, very serious outbreaks of Salmonella occurred, and quite a few people died. This was one of several food safety concerns at the time. The US government stepped in, mandating washing and refrigeration.
5) Local may not equal organic or sustainable.
A good number of large area farms that are not certified organic or Certified Naturally Grown use sludge and synthetic herbicides, and for dairy, growth hormones. Just because food is produced locally does not mean that the production practices are toxin free. Asking about production practices is important. Don't fall for the "we get our grain from the Amish" line.
Back to the topic of healthy eggs!
Understanding that how eggs are managed affects their shelf life is important. If you want to have eggs un-refrigerated, it's best to use them within 21 days from their laying date.


A distinctive technological masterpiece protected by 14 patents, the Oyster Perpetual Sky-Dweller provides the information global travellers need to keep track of time at a glance. Launched in 2012, the Sky-Dweller is a compelling timepiece of revolutionary design that blends to perfection mechanical sophistication and ease of use.The dial is the distinctive face of a Rolex watch, the feature most responsible for its identity and readability. Characterised by hour markers fashioned from 18 ct gold to prevent tarnishing, every Rolex dial is designed and manufactured in-house, largely by hand to ensure perfection.


Northwind Traders is a fictitious company created by Microsoft for the purposes of demonstrating the database capabilities of Microsoft Access and then later for SQL Server. Since then, it has also been used by numerous companies as a sample database to demonstrate how their development tools work. Well, now you can count us among them.
The Northwind Database was chosen because of its wide use over the years as a sample database. Many developers are familiar with the database and can relate to the transactional data for a company that would import and export specialty foods from around the world. If you're not familiar with the database, it is pretty small with 13 relational tables and, while an old database, provides a nice sample for us to use with Accelerator to create a new modern demo application.
Screen shot of Northwind Web App Demo on a desktop.
Screen shot of Northwind Web App Demo on a mobile device.
Screen shot of Northwind Windows App Demo.
Northwind Web App Demo on a desktop in Japanese.
Northwind Windows App Demo in Japanese.


it is used for SSO using pin from password argument.
Upstream commit r1687 includes this flag for use.
pass pin as password to tl-run-rdesktop.
in Active Directory with thrid party CA / certificates.
SSO (pin as password) is used.
backend Windows systems exhibit so unpredictable behaviour for smart card auth.