text:
Some of our customers' cards.
Dorra Park
Game Box
Diana Entretenimientos
Pharaoh's Theme & Water Park
Mega Play
Some of our Customers say...
All | North America | South America | Europe | Asia | Oceania | Africa
Rick Barsness Owner/CEO. IPC, America's Incredible Pizza Company, USA
"We use SacoaCard exclusively in our 6 Family Entertainment Centers. They are so responsive to our needs to provide reports, etc to help us grow our business and make more money. I would highly recommend them to anyone"
Dave Corriveau, Co-Chairman and Co-CEO Dave & Buster's, USA.
"With the Sacoa Power Card, Dave & Buster's revenue has increased, our customer service has been enhanced and it put us on a platform that can keep up with our rapid growth. Reliability and support far exceeded our expectations. We're extremely happy with the Sacoa people".
Aaron Sagendorf | Director of Safety & Facility Management - Kings • Dining & Entertainment - Boston MA, USA.
"Sacoa's game play tracking reports have been a time saver and game changer for our operations. Card readers are easy to install, great price for smaller arcades & concepts. The entry investment is well worth it to move away from the coin system. The guest experience has improved as coin feed errors are a thing of the past".
Ernesto Margolis, Owner of Game Station, Brazil
"The Sacoa System has been a vital tool for our FEC operations. The level of operational control coupled with the added flexibility for our marketing strategies promoted our expansion. With all of Sacoa's features our team was able to implement innovative ideas which increased our customer satisfaction and saved us money. We are happy with our decision of going with Sacoa".
John Sophios, Managing Director of iPlay Australia.
"I would like to thank the Sacoa team for supplying us a great card system and awesome support. It is good to deal with a family run company which can relate to the on going needs of an amusement machine operation".
David Goldfarb, Owner PrimeTime Amusements, USA.
"I have recently installed my third Playcard System at Xtreme Indoor Karting in Ft. Lauderdale and could not be happier. We are making a minimum of 30% increase in overall revenues. We are installing our first wireless system at Nascar Cafe in Universal Studios Orlando soon. If you are looking for consistent accounting and increasing your profits The Sacoa System is highly recommended! PrimeTime Amusements would also like to thank all of the tech support and a special thanks to Violeta".
Darren Des Roches, Chief Operating Officer of GameWorks Inc, USA said in 2015
"The system's flexibility has been a key factor in successfully restructuring of our game rooms, and data provided by the excellent reporting tools has been invaluable in achieving our revenue growth goals. Sacoa's customer service has been instrumental in keeping our system 100% operational 24/7".
Scott Boardman, Vice President of Information Technology America's Incredible Pizza Company, USA.
"It has been a real pleasure working with Sebastian on our Monterrey, Mexico location as well as our upcoming Memphis, TN location. He as well as his installation team that installed in Mexico were very professional and made sure everything was as it should be in regards to operations and reporting. Everything that we have asked they have accomplished without hesitation. We look forward to working with the Sacoa team in the future".
George Smith, President of Family Entertainment Group LLC, USA.
"After working with debit card systems since 1985, I have found most to be failing in either hardware, software or support. Without question, the selection of Sacoa has been more than justified with its affordability, flexibility and lack of problems with the system. The documentation was complete and clear. The installation crew included some of the hardest working and most knowledgeable technicians I have ever dealt with. We now have a system which has allowed us to increase sales over 30% in our Wyomissing, PA, location since installation. Support has been consistent, unstinting and unfailing. We have had real and verifiable success with the system. I'm pleased and unhesitating in my confidence in Sacoa and your team. We definitely intend to use the system in new locations".
Dan Fonseca Gaming Manager Santikos Theatre, USA
"The card swipers look great and the kiosk interfaces are easy to use. There are several options available to you in regards to reporting, which is what I like the most about the system. You can break the daily operation down into as much or little detail as you want. In the event there is something you need that isn't immediately available the team in Argentina and the U.S. have really done their best to ensure that you get the reporting desired. The team is down to earth and easy to work with!"
Donovan Fremin, Executive Assistant Delta Music, USA
"Dealing with SACOA has been a delight from the beginning. The entire staff have been great to work with. The installation was quick and easy and I couldn't be happier with the results. We constantly had issues with the ticket and token mechanism's before. Since the install, we have seen a 99% drop in service calls. We were also able to get creative with our pricing to be able to make more revenue per play while making sure the customer felt they were still getting a good value for their purchases. I am so satisfied that I am currently working on installing the SACOA system to another one of our redemption locations".
Michael Auger, Managing Partner of Trifecta Management Group INC, USA.
"TMG has been a Sacoa user for a long time. We were not surprised by their fast and professional response when we acquired GameWorks locations in Long Beach and Columbus. They were ready to assist us from day one to ensure a smooth implementation customizing the system to match KDB's operations style and met our aggressive grand-opening target date with a fully functional system. We are extremely satisfied with the Sacoa system. It is powerful, user friendly and the support is top-notch. We intend on using Sacoa in our future FECs".
Miguel Angel Notario. Owner of Sould Park, Spain.
"The implementation of the Sacoa system is the best move I made for my parks and my business. I have improved my earnings 32% and the control 100%. I highly recommend this system and the support staff is incredible. Thank you for your kind attention".
Patrick Smalley, Amusement Operations Manager of Foxwoods Resort Casino, USA.
"We noticed an increase in revenue immediately upon starting to use SACOA System. Net Income was up 15% and our profit margin was 76.32%. I attribute these increases to the Playcard system. The after-sales service and support places Sacoa in a class of its own".
Stan Caminsky, President of Caminsky Group of Companies, South Africa.
"Our experiences with Sacoa have only been at the highest level. Having 7 FEC's in South Africa in which we have the benefit of Sacoa I cannot recommend your system high enough. In regard to after sales service you certainly go the extra mile. It is one thing to purchase a product but it is another for suppliers to stand by their after sales promises. In this regard I cannot fault your company. Being a family business and operating your own arcades you are only too familiar with what operators go through when they have machines down and not earning income. We have not stopped at 7 FEC's and are looking at hopefully 3 more next year, The first on our tick list is Sacoa. I cannot recommend you and your team high enough."
Glenn Figueroa, Chief Operating Officer of Adventureland, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
"The Sacoa system is the most cost effective investment we've made for the Adventureland project. The system also helps streamline our operation in terms of management information. Management can now make better decisions based on the quality of information we get from the data."
Costas Christodoulou, Director of IT of MR Funtubbles Funfair, South Africa.
"When we decided to open the first indoor funfair in South Africa , we looked at sourcing the best and most established suppliers to help us. After much research we decided to go the Sacoa route for our operating system. We have been extremely pleased with the professional manner in which the team has set up and helped us in our everyday running of our business. The stability and reports of the debit card system is excellent. I would only recommend using Sacoa , as they are tried and tested".
Jason Kenney - Area Manager Golfland Entertainment Centers, USA
"The Sacoa system we installed last year is great. We feel the benefits and increased earnings will pay for the system in a short period of time. The Sacoa staff was even able to pull off some custom adjustments at install. We have been very pleased with the system."
Raul Vasquez, Manager of City Park, Colombia.
"We are more than satisfied using the Sacoa PlayCard System. Sales are up 20% and customer satisfaction is at an all time high due to constant promotions and discount offers. Our managers are now free to dedicate their time to cater to customer needs, motivate our personnel and general oversight of the operation. The management reports are fast and to the point. This enables us to base our decisions on hard facts. Whereas previously the question was "Is it worth the investment to install PlayCard at all our stores?", it has now changed to: 'How do we go about upgrading all operations in the shortest possible timeframe?".
Torrance Ring, Engineer/Manager, Castles N' Coasters, USA.
"After years of careful research and industry references, we selected the Sacoa PlayCard system; a company with a history very similar to our own. The Sacoa installation team worked tirelessly with our staff converting our 225 piece arcade DCS and POS system. Everyone was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and easy to work with. After 2-years post installation, the system has worked to our expectations. Sacoa customized and installed new software in our system. These upgrades have been a huge undertaking by Sacoa, and at no additional costs. Our company's 55 years in commercial recreation, coupled with Sacoa's experience and leadership in software development will keep us on the leading edge as the visionary leaders in this industry".
Mike Abecassis, Chief Executive Officer of GameTime & General Vending, USA.
"The Sacoa team consistently works entirely selflessly. They focus clearly on the outcome and do whatever it takes to get it done. In today's challenging business environment relationships are the key to success. The Sacoa team has mastered this!".
Alvaro Junqueira Neto, President of Parks & Games, Brazil.
"We are more than satisfied with the SACOA Playcard System. Apart from adding us value information, we were most impressed with the support and professionalism of this company. All our requests, reports and adjustments are quickly addressed. Our biggest challenge was the management of information, and how to use it for a better utilization of our operations. With the reliable and friendly support from SACOA, we have more tranquility in our decision making. We are now reaching our goals".
Glenn Rowen, Director, Funland Ulladulla, Australia.
"With 40 years experience in the industry using coins, tickets, tokens and having recently changed from another card system (EMBED), I can say without doubt that the Sacoa system is the best available. Our takings are up! Our average visitor spend is up! Everyone finds it easy to use the system! Our customers are happy! Our running costs are down AND there are no royalties to pay so our bottom line is much healthier too! The Sacoa system works flawlessly. Sebastian and his team are totally professional, providing superb backup if ever we need it, as well as suggesting ways to improve our marketing using the playcard. The changeover was much easier than I expected, due to the dedication and experience of the Sacoa crew. They have become wonderful partners for us and the system enables us to promote with no limitations. If you can think of it, Sacoa can do it using playcard! I wish I had found them 40 years ago!".
Juan Carlos Rizzu, President of Tursol S.A, Uruguay.
"A few years ago we decided to gradually deploy the Sacoa system in our operation. It was a good decisione, no more tokens inventory and we achieved a high level of control of our business. Our main concern was a catastrophic system failure, but fortunately that never happened. The 24/7 help desk always promptly fixed any minor detail in less than 15 minutes. The best part of using this system is the free time I now have to enjoy my family. The system manages my business and I just count the profits!"
Rick Dee, VP / General Manager, PrimeTime Amusement, USA.
"In 2006, we purchased all-in-one systems to be used at unattended resort locations. This allowed us to simply drop the kiosk in place, plug the internet in and open for business! The system worked flawlessly, it increased the revenue +25% and allowed PTA the ability to open up a whole new market for card systems in unattended locations!"
Cassidy Cook, President of Renaissance Fun Park, USA.
"From the initial research stage Sacoa stood out from the other card systems. They bring a robust system coupled with unparalleled support and knowledge. From the Sales staff to the Support team, everyone wants to see you succeed. I would highly recommend you give them the opportunity to take your business to the next level!"
Moises Cohav, Owner of Rebounderz Trampoline Arena, Panama.
"Sacoa has been an essential tool for the operation of our arcade and trampoline park. It eases our collection and redemption process. We are very pleased to have acquired Sacoa. We recommend it to all operators who are still working with tokens or cash."
Enrique Zuniga, General Manager of Juegos Diana, Santiago, Chile.
"The system is a success. Collections went up from minute one with absolut control. Very positive to have online help assistance. We are very satisfied".
Jeffrey Apfel & Anthony Neri, President of Pizza Putt, USA.
"Since the introduction of the Sacoa System at Pizza Putt, we have noticed that our more expensive games are played more frequently. Customers lose track of cost because absent tokens, the price becomes intangible. "Just swipe your Playcard, and the game begins!". We are quite convinced the system has increased gaming revenue and created new promotional opportunities which drive business even more. There have been no issues at all with the games or Playcard readers. Their installation team and office support in Argentina are top-notch, and if you didn't know where their offices are, you would think they were located just down the road. Any questions you have are addressed promptly by people that makes you feel like you are their most important customer!. You can't delay your plans to install this system - your delay in action will only cost you lost revenue while you remain a token or quarter location!!!"
Irfan Butt, Managing Director of games The Coliseum Group, Inc, USA.
"I'm involved in Amusement Business from last 25 years. And got a chance to experience several Swipe systems available in the market. But the only system which impressed me the most is the Sacoa Swipe System. Its wide range of features and easy to understand reports are amazing. No matter if the Center is small or several locations it works great for both. We are using Sacoa Swipe System at The Coliseum since we opened 8 years ago. Since then the system is working great. The outstanding support by Sacoa team is incredible. For all my new locations my choice is only and only Sacoa System."
Mazen Faquieha, Owner of Nice Time Center, KSA
"We are using Sacoa system in our locations for more than 10 years. We feel lucky to be part of the Sacoa family, it is a greatest card system with wonderful service and support. Thanks for all Sacoa, we are proud with your permanent evolution."
Robyn Lambert, Owner/Director of Electric Avenue, South Africa
"As the Owner Operator of two fully fledged Family Entertainment Centres, Electric Avenue, we have found the SACOA product completely tailor made for the management and control of our revenue. The SACOA team have a positive and constructive approach to addressing the needs of our operations and will certainly form part of our expansion plans into the future".
Andy Marques, General Manager of GameRoom/Johnny Rockets Sawgrass, USA.
"We recently upgrade our Sacoa system to wireless and it as surpassed all of our expectations. Now when we get new games or have to move them it is a breeze. The support we have received from the Sacoa Team has been exceptional. It is a real pleasure knowing that we can call on them at anytime and that they are ready and willing to help."
Wilfredo V. Soares, President of Virtual Park, Acarigua edo. Portuguesa, Venezuela.
"I was doubtful about the PlayCard System at the beginning, but as I got to know its virtues and staff, I've started to understand how great its possibilities and cutting edge technology are. Nowadays I'm calm, my sales have increased, I've updated my accounting system, and withdrawn the tedious work that the coins collection means. The coin system means the past, whereas Sacoa PlayCard represents the future".
Marysol Aguilar C. Gerente de Fantasy Land, Costa Rica.
"My deepest and most sincere gratitude to you. Thanks for the identification with our request, showing a warm professional empathy, prompt and professional attention, which nowadays with the evolution of the market is extremely difficult to find. Special thanks to Roberto Diaz and Lucas."
Alberto Velarde Bolivar, General Manager of Game World, Bolivia.
"After the first year of operation of our FEC located in Santa Cruz - Bolivia, we are totally satisfied with the Sacoa System because it improved our business offering better control. Now customers can save their redemption points into their accounts and redeem them in the future. We recommend the Sacoa system."
Dave Pace, CEO, YaYa's Island of Paducah, USA.
"We decided to try to increase our revenue and profits by investing in more games and eliminating token and ticket cost. We looked into Embed, Ideal systems and Sacoa. We were impressed with your touchscreen reader and the positive reviews from Sacoa's current clients over the competition. Since installing the HDT readers on all 72 machines, we have reduced the technical issues with the machines and increased the collection. Thanks Sabastian!".
Dan Audette, General Manager of Essex Speedway & Action Center, USA.
"Sacoa, thank you for installing and the support we receive for the card swipe system we purchased. Everything went as planned and better then expected. We asked your company to do something that would normally take 6-8 weeks and you did it in 3. Every time we call for support your team is there to help us. I would highly recommend Sacoa to anyone in the future looking for quality card systems and support".
John Russo, Owner of Saturn 5, USA.
"Sebastian and his team at SACOA couldn't do more in terms of service, support,and consultation . They are prompt responsive and genuinely interested and invested in making our F.E.C. completely successful. As for the system itself; it's deep, multi-faceted, and now two years later has proved to be very stable . Simply put if you want the very best in a playcard system; you couldn't possibly do better than SACOA".
Cory Haynes, President of BFD, Bar Fun Dining, USA.
"I have been a Sacoa user for over 20 years. During my 27 year tenure with Dave and Buster's we converted from token to Sacoa's game card system, increasing revenue and lowering costs and down time. While President and COO of Sega Entertainment, Sacoa was our exclusive game card system for all locations. Their service, reliability and user friendly system made them my choice for my latest venture, BFD, bar fun dining. Ordyx Point of Sales and Sacoa are the two mandated systems for our franchising partners. Sacoa's seamless migration with Ordyx point of sales make it a snap when opening a location. Point of Sales changes and additions are made by the operator in their office and are instant, giving the operator total control in our constantly changing environment. Coupled with Sacoa's wireless system we can change game layouts in minutes and are up and running before we open."
George Yamin, President of Yamin Family Centers,Venezuela.
"With the Sacoa System our business entered a new era. We can now manage our 14 stores with ease and efficiency. Revenues have increased way beyond our expectations and hidden costs have been eliminated. Use of the system opened the door for an immediate expansion of our chain. Pity we did not meet the Sacoa people months before!
Javier Llaguno, Managing Director of Peke Park, Spain.
"Our park has been open since 1995 and we always worked with tokens and coins. SACOA installed their PLAYCARD system in 2007, and we are more than satisfied of the results, control of games, specific reports and specially amazed about their staff throughout the last 4 years. Their immediate answer at any queries we may have and their on-line support is simply great! I can only highly recommend it!".
Javier Urbina Franco, General Manager of Playland Diver S.A., Colombia.
"We are very pleased with the Sacoa PlayCard system, we consider it the right tool to efficiently answer our operational, marketing and internal control needs. After analyzing many options we found in Sacoa the precise answer to our requirements and we can assure that the experience we have had with its application greatly exceeded our expectations".
D.R. Reddy Manager of Sha'ab Park, Kuwait.
"The system offers instant reporting which is very beneficial for a huge outdoor park facility like ours. We can monitor the prices of the rides and the traffic at the entrances and at each individual ride. Is fool proof and very secure. Customer friendly and helps to save operational costs".
Harry Kourbeis, Owner of Tunza Fun, Australia.
"Our association with Sacoa and our company's group of stores has been a very positive move. Sebastian and his team have always presented a very personal service to all our needs and their products have exceeded our expectations hence improving operations of our business".
Thank you Sebastian.
Billy Anderson, Director of IT of Corvette, Cohn Restaurants, USA.
"When we decided to introduce the arcade at our new location we envisioned a greener arcade that used playcards and was completely electronic. We knew it was a big project and were very impressed with the Sacoa system and even more so with the Sacoa installation and how easy it was to use. Their team helped us through the entire process of installation and training and the system has turned out to be just we needed both from an operational and guest stand point".
Merchid Mohamed Owner of Al Dorra Park Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
"The service and support provided by the Sacoa team has far exceeded our expectations with quick responsive software updates, caring respectful personnel and innovative hardware. The system offers us an absolutely new dimension of customer data management, operating and sales tools. The Sacoa Card System has been developed by a operating experienced company and we highly appreciate that. Choosing Sacoa was one of my best decisions ever".
Shalini Vij, Director Hang Out, New Delhi, India.
"Hang Out is very satisfied with the service and the system. Sacoa was one of our best decisions".
Jorge Luis Lopez, Manager for Development of Grupo Multimedios, Mexico.
"Thanks to the efficiency, security and flexibility afforded by the Playcard System, we have achieved in Diversia a level of control over the business which gives us and unmatched competitive advantage".
Joao Pimentel, GM of Sonae Group, Portugal.
"At Partnergiro (Portugal's largest FEC operator) we have adopted the PlayCard System at all our locations. It's a peerless working tool with a myriad marketing and auditing features. Furthermore it makes for a better playing experience for our customers. The system is extremely reliable: In seven years operation we've never had to suspend operations at any of our FECs."
Franki Katalbas, General Manager of GameWizzz, Kuwait.
"For almost 8 years in operation, Sacoa System, their people and maintenance support are still dependable. " It's worth doing business with Sacoa."
Suleiman F. AL-Abdullah, General Manager of Toon City, Jeddah.
"We feel SACOA System is very efficient to our operation, providing lot of details to plan our operation and organize our events also. I found Mr. Jorge and his sons not a System provider but an associate in our success providing a smooth & easy System."
Yaron Cohen, General Manager of Fantasy Park, Poland.
"Since December 2001 we are using the Play Card system. We're very satisfied having a great marketing and control abilities. In the last three years, the number of the system obstacles aimed to zero. The support of sacoa crew is amazing, very quick and perfect. Fantasy Park will open another 8 branches of Amusement Parks in Eastern Europe, I'm planning to have the Play Card system on each one. I can't imagine my branches without such a useful system."
Toni Fornés, COO of Eleval Group, Spain.
"The implementation of the PlayCard System at our Benidorm FEC in August 2001 resulted in a 10% increase in forecasted revenue. This offset a substantial part of the debit card system installation. A further 30% of the total cost was offset by the elimination of the cash float."
Matt Hodge, General Manager of The Beach House, Adelaide, Australia.
"We wanted a debit card system capable of handling everything from waterslides to rides and video games in both pay-as-you-go, passport modalities also needed our food and beverage fully integrated in our new venture. Only Sacoa System could offer a complete system solution, efficiently and securely integrated in a cost effective manner. It has proven to be extremel reliable and easy to operate. Support and technical back-up is exceptional and coupled with numerous marketing and audit procedures the entire 'Sacoa experience' has certainly exceeded our expectations".
Levent Baloglu, CEO of Balo Tur LTD, Turkey.
"We are Turkey's major FEC operator and the main distributor of the famous brands in the arcade sector. As we converted token to Sacoa Play Card System, our income from the FEC's increased significantly. The system was so flexible that allowed us different kind of promotions and campains. This helped us a lot with customer loyality. Because of the great satisfaction and realistic benefits of the system, we introduced Sacoa to our existing clients. Incredible feedbacks about their increase in turnover! With Sacoa we have only confident customers. Once you choose Sacoa your business is in secure hands, they provide fast and effective technical support 24/7".
Francesco Ferrari, Owner of Playcenter, Italy.
"The introduction of the PlayCard System at the Playcenter Family Entertainment Center has changed the whole concept of arcade gaming. Our customers have adopted enthusiastically this new system from the very beginning. We are convinced the PlayCard System will push us to the front position this year, allowing us to implement policies and promotions which the public will find thrilling. The new system reminds our customers that Playcenter has something new to offer every day!"
David Silverman, Founder and Executive Director of National Pinball Museum, USA.
"We have been absolutely thrilled with the SACOA PlayCard system! Absolutely made the right choice in going with SACOA, it is the one thing around here that works exactly like it?s supposed to. The system that is not only reliable, but is also is extremely user-friendly: We were able to train our cashiers on front-end POS operations in a matter of minutes and the back-of-the-house/administrative functions are just as easy to learn and operate. As with the opening of any new facility, we have run into a few glitches but they have all been as a result of our errors and/or delays. The technical and customer service team at SACOA have been angels in navigating us through every problem. I know that Adrian personally worked late a couple of days to help us with some stubborn issues. One of the concerns in our selection process was the fact that SACOA is based in Argentina. But except for the screen that lists your address, one would never know your staff isn?t just down the street. Response times have been incredibly fast, and again, everyone has been extremely knowledgeable, professional and helpful! When we considered the size of some of your other customers, we were a little concerned that we were ?too small? for SACOA and would be lost in the mix. But, we have felt like your most important and valued customer from day one. I would highly recommend SACOA to anyone in the market for a PlayCard system!!".
Ivan Canute Martis, It Head of Galaxy Entertainment Corporation Ltd, India.
"We have installed Sacoa Playcard system in over 20 stores across India and it has been a wonderful experience. The wireless hardware is trouble free and it gives great flexibility in movement of the machines within store. The software is also very flexible and we have run a lot of exciting promotions using this. The system is fool proof and it gives a great control in managing the stores at remote locations. The support has been very good from Sacoa backend and they have done lot of customization in the software and reports as per our need".
Radwan H. Hejazi, Operation Manager FEC Majed Al Futtaim Group of Companies, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
"We installed the PlayCard system, and have had no problems at all. The system is tremendous, in terms of flexibility, management control, and security. I am confident it is contributing positively to our sales. I doubt we will wait to finish the evaluation period before we start installation in our other stores, and it is certainly going in to our new projects".


text:
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Jay Hao
Principal Trombonist, Shanghai Symphony
Acclaimed trombonist Jay Hao was born in Tsingtao, China, and has been continuously demonstrating his innate talent and passion for music since he was a child. Jay Hao started music studies at the age of 7, and at the age of 13 he took his first trombone lesson under the instruction of Mr. Jiang De Cao, Principal Trombonist of the historic Central Symphony Orchestra in Beijing, China. At the age of 16, Jay Hao entered the Affiliated Music High School of the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing for professional training. Three years later he won his first position as the second trombonist of the China National Symphony Orchestra and later became the principal trombonist at the early age of 23. In 1990, Jay Hao went abroad to pursue further study at the School of Music and Theater in Hannover, Germany, studying with Hilmut Seifelt and Joh Doms. Jay Hao continued his studies abroad at Indiana University with Jay Friedman.
Jay Hao returned to China in 2000 to perform as the principal trombonist for the China Philharmonic Orchestra, contributing to the great legacy of the orchestra for nearly a decade. He began his tenure as a professor at Shanghai Conservatory of Music in 2005. Today, Jay Hao actively maintains multiple positions simultaneously, including principal trombonist at Shanghai Symphony Orchestra and professorships at both Shanghai Conservatory of Music and the Shanghai Orchestra Academy. In 2014, he was awarded the "Magnolia Gold Award" for his extraordinary contribution to Shanghai's music culture. This honor is a highly prestigious and international award, granted only to the finest and foremost leaders in their professional fields.
Jay's Edwards
Model T396-A
Follow Jay
shsymphony.com
We're ready to help you place an order, schedule an appointment, or just talk shop!
Edwards Instrument Co.
530 County Road H
Elkhorn, WI 53121-2017
(262) 723-4221 (intl)
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Edwards Instrument Co. Edwards Store Edwards Instrument Co. Griego Mouthpieces
Prices listed on our website are for customers in the United States and Canada only. Customers in other countries should visit our dealer page or call us at (800) 562-6838 to get the product pricing for your country.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Acne may go away after a few days without a trace, but sometimes they leave scars. Acne scars form when acne becomes injured, becomes very infected, or when it heals slowly. To treat a scar, the infection on it must be minimized. Tea tree oil is a good disinfectant and may be used to treat acne scars.
Use products with tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is now mixed in a variety of skin products that treat acne. There are soaps, lotions, washes, cleansers, toners and the like with an amount of tea tree oil on them. Look for these products and use them as directed. Before using a product, read the list of ingredients. Find out if there are some components that you're allergic to. Allergies provoke acne outbreaks and worsen scarring. Before using it, test it on a small area of your skin and see if redness or itchiness develops. If it does, don't use it.
Combine tea tree essential oil with aloe vera. Aloe vera helps with healing wounds and moisturizing dry skin. It works great with tea tree oil because tea tree is drying to the skin. Put 3 drops of tea tree oil into an ounce of aloe vera then mix them together. Apply the mixture to your acne scars.
Dilute tea tree essential oil with a carrier oil. Essential oils are often harsh to the skin when applied undiluted. To make tea tree become milder to the skin, mix 20 drops of tea tree essential oil with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Make sure that the carrier oil you use is not too thick, as this may block your pores.
Mix tea tree essential oil into a moisturizer. Put 20 drops of tea tree essential oil with every 30 ml of moisturizer. This combination moisturizes your skin and promotes acne scar healing. Choose a moisturizer that is not too oily but not too drying.
Blend tea tree essential oil with fruit juices. Fruit juices have wonderful effects to the skin. For example, lemon juice lightens dark acne scars, tomato juice helps skin regenerate, and cucumber juice improves the condition of the pores. Mix 20 drops of essential oil for every 2 tablespoons of fruit juice.
Use tea tree essential oil as a bath. For body acne, mix 20 drops of essential oil to lukewarm bath water. Mix milk with the bath water for a moisturizing effect. Make sure that the bath water doesn't get into your eyes, ears and mouth and that you don't have open wounds.
Combine tea tree essential oil with other essential oils. Use other essential oils along with tea tree oil to get their benefits. For example, geranium essential oil cleans oily residues from the skin, eucalyptus kills microorganisms, chamomile soothes inflammation, etc. Mix 20 drops of this combination with 30 ml of carrier oil before application.
Tea tree oil may be used in several ways to treat acne scars. Buy essential oil from trustworthy essential oil sellers. Handle the essential oil properly and store in a good container away from heat and cold. Before using essential oils, consult a doctor regarding their safety.


MINNEAPOLIS (9/16/15)--The U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota has granted class-action status in the lawsuit against Target related to its massive data breach during the winter holiday shopping season in 2013.
"Credit unions incurred at least $30 million in card reissuance costs related to the Target breach and I'm encouraged the court awarded class action status. I'm hopeful this will result in financial recovery for the credit unions and their members who were affected.
Now that the court has certified the financial institution class, financial institutions will be allowed to seek damages together, rather than individually. As reported earlier, it allows the financial institutions to coordinate use of attorneys, collection of evidence, requests of witnesses and most other aspects of the litigation.
The 2013 Target breach was huge, reportedly comprising 40 million debit and credit card numbers, as well as the personal data of as many as 70 million consumers. Credit unions alone, based on CUNA's research, incurred $30.6 million in costs related to the breach, not including any fraud costs.


In case ya haven't noticed at this point. I love citrus curd. And once I made the Meyer Lemon Curd, followed shortly by the Blood Orange Curd. Well, it has now officially become an obsession. So last night, WAY past my bedtime, I was bitten my the Key Lime bug. I had originally bought Key Limes to make a pie. Well, so much for pie, although lemme tell ya. The curd, with a little creme fraiche on a scone, is JUST like eating a Key Lime pie.. :) Awesome!!
Some people may not be familiar with a Key Lime. They really do come from the Florida Keys and they definitely taste different than the normal Persian limes that you purchase from the store to make margaritas and squeeze into your Corona. Oh yes. These teeny tiny little key limes are much less "Bitter" and more acidic. Thus the sugar content is a little higher in this recipe.
Separate the eggs, placing 2 of the Whites in the bowl with the Sugar and Key Lime juice.
Then add the Sugar/Lime mixture to the Yolk/Butter mixture and place over simmering water.
Cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture reaches 172 degrees, or until it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
As with all Citrus Curd, Best when served with Creme Fraiche or Devon Cream on a scone.
I know... Right? 1 little tiny drop and it goes from pale chartreuse to Slime Green... It's like a Nickelodeon Kids Game Show green.... !!! Yikes!
Wow... lime flavored slime... I don't know if I've seen key limes here.... do they have a season?
Spryte - I am not sure if there is a season or not.


text:
Clergy Removed from Ministry for Reports of Sexual Abuse; Where Are They Now?
SNAP Wisconsin
http://www.snapwisconsin.com/blog/2011/10/13/clergy-removed-from-ministry-for-reports-of-sexual-abuse-where-are-they-now/
A story appeared in the Auburnpub.com titled "Banished priest finds a new ministry" about a priest removed from ministry for credible reports of sexual abuse. Auburn is a small city in New York State with a population of just under 30,000. The priest removed was Fr. Dennis Shaw who was placed on leave shortly before Christmas in 2010.The spokesman for the diocese of Rochester reports that Shaw's case is currently before the diocesan review board. Doug Mandelaro, the diocesan spokesman indicates that the board will make a recommendation to the local bishop, and the case will then be forwarded to the Vatican for review.
A story about a priest removed for reports of sexual abuse is unfortunately not new. What is important about this story is it asks the question "What is Dennis Shaw doing now?" According to the paper Shaw is now conducting bible study groups at the local Methodist church in Auburn. The Methodist church allows Shaw's bible group to use the church as a meeting space, however the group is composed primarily of Catholics who have stayed loyal to Shaw.
In addition to leading the bible study group Shaw is working in a variety of ministries. He works part time at the YMCA, assists at a funeral home, and has partnered with a psychologist to offer "a combination of clinical psychology and spiritual counseling". One of his loyal devotees feels that Shaw has been treated unfairly proclaiming that "It's like they crucified Christ all over again…they treated him like a damn criminal, he didn't kill anybody".
The questions raised by this story could be asked about any of the thousands of priests who have had reports of sexual abuse made against them. The Washington Post published a comprehensive story in December of 2010 called "After child abuse allegations Catholic priests often simply vanish". The Post found that "The priests have largely vanished from public view. Their fates are often a mystery to their victims, their parishioners, and even their attorneys". One such priest was Robert Petrella, who had been accused by 25 men of sexual abuse. He was convicted twice but his name is not listed on the state's sex offender registry because of laws in effect at the time of his conviction. He has since been released from jail and his probation has ended. The Washington archdiocese stated they had no idea where Petrella was.
As the archdiocese of Milwaukee continues through the bankruptcy process the same questions could, and should be asked concerning the offenders in our area who have been removed from ministry.
BishopAccountability lists 62 individuals from the archdiocese of Milwaukee who have been publicly accused of child sexual abuse. The archdiocese of Milwaukee's list, which excludes members of religious orders, lists 44 diocesan priests who have been restricted due to reports of child sexual abuse.
Some of these individuals are now deceased, some have been laicized, and some have been restricted from ministry. The vast majority are not listed on the State of Wisconsin's sex offender registry.
The primary reason why most of these individuals do not appear on the state's registry is because they were not convicted of a crime. They were not charged in criminal court for several reasons. In many cases the victim/survivor came forward to report the crime after the statutes of limitations had expired. It is now known, that for a variety of reasons, victims of childhood sexual abuse usually come forward long after legal remedies are available to them. The delay in reporting the crime is often a result of the overwhelming trauma experienced by the child.
Secret church documents that have been released through the litigation process reveal another reason why many of these offenders were never charged in a court of law. The bishops, aware that sexual abuse had taken place, chose not to report the crime to civil authorities. Instead they covered up the crime, and when the victim was finally able to muster up the courage to report the assault they found that the statute of limitations had expired.
Archbishop Weakland, in his memoir, A Pilgrim in a Pilgrim Church, declared "We all considered sexual abuse of minors as a moral evil, but had no understanding of its criminal nature". The criminal nature of child sexual assault has been recognized in legal systems throughout the world for centuries. Canon Lawyer, Patrick J. Wall, in his expert opinion submitted to the International Criminal Court last month, notes that the sexual abuse of children was considered a crime in the Catholic Church's own canon law as early as the fourth century.
There are few professions, whose members are given the responsibility to care for children, that are able to conceal their misdeeds due to the statutes of limitations laws. A doctor, teacher, social worker, or therapist who was known to have sexually assaulted a child, would be unable to retain their license to practice in their respective field.
These professions maintain a code of ethics which govern the behavior of its members. The profession does not allow individuals to retain their professional license if they have been found to have violated the profession's accepted code of conduct. When violations of professional conduct occur the complaint is reviewed by the occupations licensing board.
In the interest of public safety the findings of the licensing board are made available to the public. The Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services maintains a database where the decisions made by the board can be reviewed.
There currently is no such database in the state of Wisconsin where the public can confirm, if a member of the clergy, in any denomination, has assaulted a child. Wisconsin state representative Peggy Krusick and Wisconsin state senator Tim Carpenter had proposed legislation which would have created a statewide database of clergy sex offenders.
A priest, nun, brother, or deacon who was removed from ministry for sexually abusing a child, who has not been criminally charged, is afforded the opportunity to begin a new career. That career could possibly involve working with children and families. Employers and the public are left unaware of the danger that they pose to children.
This danger is especially acute when those clerics belong to a religious order. In the archdiocese of Milwaukee the names of religious order clerics who have harmed children are not published on the diocesan website. The religious orders themselves have decided not to publish the names of their offenders. These orders have a very large presence in the archdiocese, and include the Jesuits, the Capuchins, the Pallotines, the Franciscans, and the Carmelites.
Victim/survivors, Catholics, and the general public do not know the whereabouts of most of these individuals. They do not know where they are currently employed, if they are working with children, with vulnerable adults, or if they live next door to them. The public does not know if they are providing counseling, working at a day care center, or ministering to the faithful at a new church.
The continued concealment of the crimes of these individuals by church leaders continues to put children at risk today. Families with children and the community at large cannot protect themselves from potential sexual victimization as long as this information remains hidden away in the secret archives of the diocese.
Victim/Survivors have long asked; whose interest is served by keeping the identities of sexual abusers and their crimes secret? The answer is clearly that the interests of the abusers are given precedence over the safety and well being of children and their families.
As the bankruptcy process continues to unfold victim/survivors and their families will continue to call for the diocese to fully disclose, the names and the records, of all known offenders, including those who belong to religious orders. In the interest of protecting our children we need to know who they are, and if they are living near, or working with, children and other vulnerable individuals.


text:
*GameResourceBot has a nickname. It likes to be called "GRB", so we call it that most of the time.*

### CONTENTS
1. [About This Guide](#about-this-guide)
2. [Super-Special, Super-Important Note](#super-special-super-important-note)
3. [Getting Ready](#getting-ready)
4. [The Setup Process](#the-setup-process)
    (0) [Step 0. Start your web browser.](#step-0-start-your-web-browser-we-will-open-several-tabs-during-this-process-closing-them-is-not-really-our-style)
    (1) [Step 1. Discord - Create a new app.](#step-1-discord---create-a-new-app)
    (2) [Step 2. GitHub - Fork the code.](#step-2-github---fork-the-code-to-a-new-repository-on-your-account)
    (3) [Step 3. Heroku - Deploy the GRB app.](#step-3-heroku---deploy-the-grb-app)
    (4) [Step 4. Heroku - Configure for automatic updates.](#step-4-heroku---configure-for-automatic-updates-start-grb-configure-dynos)
    (5) [Step-5. Heroku - Verify your account.](#step-5-heroku---verify-your-account-to-spend-more-time-with-your-new-grb)
    (6) [Step 6. GitHub - Prepare for updates.](#step-6-github---configure-computer-for-source-code-updates)

## About This Guide
42. Lines--like this one--that start with numbers are actions. You must do these actions to set up GRB successfully.
    xii. Sometimes, numbers appear as lowercase Roman numerals. These also are actions required for successful setup.
        a. A couple of ordinary letters slipped in here, too. These are required actions, as well.

- Lines--like this one--starting with bullets (or with nothing at all!) contain additional information. This information could be:
	- critical information about how to complete a numbered line above it; or
	- explaining something above it, to help you understand what you're doing.
- Either way, it's definitely important!!

Finally, all the headers for the primary step numbers in this guide (the final seven lines of [CONTENTS](#contents)) use sentence case--that is, they are capitalised like any ordinary sentence would be. This will become an important clue for you later.

## ***SUPER-SPECIAL, SUPER-IMPORTANT NOTE***

During this process, you WILL encounter technical terms, both within this guide and without.
- If you are not a "techie", these terms will almost certainly be unfamiliar to you.
- Even if you are a "techie", these terms probably will be unfamiliar to you, unless you are a developer.
- Even if you are a developer, these terms may be unfamiliar to you, unless you have experience with Java and the required websites.

That's the bad news. Here's the good.
- This guide is here to help you. Do not be afraid.
- If you see an unfamiliar term in this guide, you can expect the next thing you read to explain that term.
- This guide is here to help you. Discard your fear.
- If you see an unfamiliar term on a website, you can expect the relevant section of this guide to explain that term.
- This guide is here to help you. Proceed with confidence.

If you already know all the technical terms you're going to encounter, then obviously you can skip the explanations mentioned above.
We're not going to tell you exactly which parts you can skip. You're the smart one here, so put on your big girl panties and figure it out yourself.

- If you feel scared at this point, that's bad. Stop reading now.
- If you feel nervous at this point, that's excellent. It means you're paying attention and don't want to screw up anything.
- If you feel bold at this point, that's good. Remember to set aside your assumptions and to follow these instructions exactly.

## Getting Ready
BEFORE YOU BEGIN, please understand what this setup requires.
- This setup process requires approximately one hour of your time, give or take 15 minutes.
	- Ensure you have sufficient time to devote to this process.
	- Rushing this process is an excellent way to screw it up, forcing you to start over.
	- Ensure you have sufficient time to devote to this process.
- Setting up and running GRB requires that you have accounts on these websites:
	- GitHub - This is where the source code lives. (The "source code" contains all the computer instructions that tell GRB what to do and how to do it.)
	- Heroku - This site will host the GRB application. (Each application needs a "host" that actually executes the source code.)
	- Discord, in the developer area - This is how you will get GRB to your guild.
- In addition to the accounts listed above, you must have the Manage Server permission on your Discord server.

If you do not have the Manage Server permission on your Discord server, you have the following options:
1. Request the Manage Server permission on your Discord server. Have your request granted.
2. Find someone else in your guild who has the Manage Server permission. Convince them to go through this process.
3. Forget about using GameResourceBot.

If you chose option #3, stop reading now.
If you chose option #2, stop reading and escort the individual you selected to this guide.

If you do not have these accounts already, you may create them during the setup process.
If you do not have these accounts and do not wish to create these accounts, you have the following options:
1. Change your mind. Create the accounts.
2. Find someone else in your guild who has the required accounts or is willing to create them. Convince them to go through this process.
3. Forget about using GameResourceBot.

If you chose option #3, stop reading now.
If you chose option #2, stop reading and escort the individual you selected to this guide.

If you're still reading, you want to make this happen. That, or someone else chose option #2 somewhere above, and they picked you. Congratulations. Either way, let's begin.

## The Setup Process
*NOTE: We begin with Step 0 because it's not really part of the setup process. It's actually one more piece of "getting ready" stuff, but it works better here than in the section above. Trust us; you'll see.*

#### Step 0. Start your web browser. We will OPEN several tabs during this process. Closing them is not really our style.
1. Tab #1 - Log in to [GitHub](https://www.github.com).
	1. If you do not already have an account on GitHub, create it now. Then leave the tab open.
No step-by-step instructions here. We assume you're bright enough to figure out a signup process for a website.
2. Tab #2 - Log in to [Heroku](https://www.heroku.com).
	1. If you do not already have an account on Heroku, create it now. Then leave the tab open.
Again, no step-by-step instructions, especially since we know you've done this before.
3. Tab #3 - Log in to the [developer area for Discord](https://discordapp.com/developers/applications/me).
Since you're setting up GRB to run on a Discord server, we will assume you already have an account on Discord.
You will use your existing Discord account, so there is no need to create one.
However, you probably aren't familiar with Discord's developer area.
	1. Go there now, and set up "My Apps".
No, there are no step-by-step instructions here, either. You got this.
4. Create a channel for GRB on your Discord server.
GRB will need a home, a place where you can upload screenshots, type commands, and view GRB's output.
	1. Use your normal method to access your guild's server on Discord. (web, desktop app, mobile app, whatever)
	2. Create a new text channel. Name the channel whatever you like. (The most common name people use is `#bot`. Go figure.)

#### Step 1. Discord - Create a new app.
Obviously, Discord is where we will interact with GRB and see all the cool things it can do.
Therefore, let's get things started by creating an app on Discord. We also need to create a bot user for the app, for obvious reasons.
In a later step, we'll tell Heroku how to talk with this app. In turn, Discord will use this app to direct your GRB to your server.
1. Tab #3
    1. Great big button on the right side: New App
        - Required: APP NAME
        - Optional: APP DESCRIPTION
            - In addition to describing GRB and its function, this is an excellent place to give credit to GRB's developer.
            - Recommended text: `Developed by Discord user BlackCraze#4294`
        - Optional: APP ICON
        - Ignore: everything else
    2. Blue button at the bottom: Create App
2. Now you should see: GREAT SUCCESS!
    1. If not, use whatever information the website gives you to solve the error.
3. Scroll down to section: Bot
    1. Blue button on the right: Create a Bot User
    2. Read the warning!
    3. Blue button: Yes, do it

We have an app. The app has a bot. GRB wants to move in to its new home, but it doesn't know where home is.
We must create a special link that will act like GPS for GRB.

4. To begin making our GPS, copy this link:
```
https://discordapp.com/oauth2/authorize?client_id=[ClientID]&scope=bot&permissions=66186303
```
5. Tab #4 - This one is new. Open it now.
 	1. Paste the link into Tab #4's address bar. DO NOT PRESS \[ENTER\]!!
 	2. Our link isn't quite ready to do its job yet. Look closely at it. Roughly in the centre of it is this text: \[ClientID\]
We need to replace that text--including the square brackets--with the Client ID of our new Discord app.
6. Tab #3
 	1. On the right side, scroll to the top.
 	2. Find the Client ID. It's an 18-digit number right at the top. You can't miss it.
 	3. Copy all the digits.
7. Tab #4
 	1. Delete "\[ClientID\]" from the link, and paste your number in the same spot.
 	2. NOW press \[Enter\].
 	3. When the page loads, select the correct Discord server from the drop-down list. Then authorise GRB.
 	4. We no longer need Tab #4. Shut it down, or let it ride. Your call.
8. Go to your guild's Discord server.
	- Hooray! GRB found its new home and has already moved in.
	- However, we can't interact with it yet. After moving and unpacking, GRB needs a nap.
	- If you added an APP ICON earlier, you will not see it yet. GRB will hang its pictures when it wakes up.
	- Unfortunately, the moving van did not bring GRB's brain. We will build its brain in Step 2.

#### Step 2. GitHub - Fork the code to a new repository on your account.
	https://github.com/BlackCraze/GameResourceBot

Our sleeping GRB needs a brain, a set of instructions for its duties. Those instructions are in the source code.
BlackCraze keeps the master source code on his account. For your GRB, you will need your own copy of the source code.
To accomplish this, you must duplicate the master source code to your account.
- Your copy of the source code is called a "repository".
- The process of duplicating the source code is called "forking". Each existing copy of the source code (other than the master copy that BlackCraze keeps) is called a "fork".
- A repository can contain original code (BlackCraze) or it can be a fork (you, and others before you).

1. Tab #1 - Same site, different page. Copy the link at the beginning of Step 2. Paste it into Tab #1 and go!
	1. In the top left corner of the browser window, verify this text is present: `BlackCraze / GameResourceBot`
	2. In the top right corner of the browser window, click the word "Fork" with the funny symbol next to it.
	3. Watch the magic happen.

We have a GRB. We have a brain. We do not have a battery pack to power the brain--yet.
We're done here. Moving on.

#### Step 3: Heroku - Deploy the GRB app.
	https://heroku.com/deploy?template=https://github.com/BlackCraze/GameResourceBot

Welcome to the host site, our battery pack.
Every application on the Web requires a host. The host has several functions.
- The source code is in plain text that humans can read. Computers can read it, too, but not very well. Computers read plain text extremely slowly, almost like a kindergartener learning to read.
- The host converts the plain text into the 1s and 0s that computers prefer. This conversion process is called "compiling".
- Compiling the source code is like welding the battery pack into the brain. The host puts the different parts together into a single unit that computers can read extremely quickly. This single unit **IS** the app, which is our GRB.
- After it compiles the source code, the host runs the GRB app. But we don't want to interact with GRB here. We want to go to GRB's new home, wake it up, and have a big housewarming party.
- Therefore, the host (Heroku) and GRB (at home, on Discord) send data back and forth to each other through the Internet.
- That is, they WILL. They can't yet, because they haven't met yet. Our task here is to introduce them to each other.

1. Tab #2 - Same site, different page. Copy the link at the beginning of Step 3. Paste it into Tab #2 and go!
	1. Create a name for GRB. Yes, again. This name is unique to Heroku. GRB will not use this name.
	2. Heroku will use this name to keep track of our GRB in Heroku's filing cabinet. For this reason, the name must be unique. Be creative. We cannot stress this enough. BE CREATIVE.
	3. Select a server region (USA or Europe).
2. Tab #3
	1. Scroll down to the section "Bot".
	2. Next to "Token" is a link that reads, "Click to reveal". Click it. It will reveal something.
	3. Now your token is revealed. This long string of random characters is your GRB's GPS address on Discord.
	4. Highlight all the characters in the token and copy it.
###### (This line does not exist. You are not reading this. Please move on.)
3. Tab #2
	1. Scroll down to the section "Config Vars".
	2. GRB will configure itself using these variables when it wakes up. Variables marked §§ can be changed on Discord later. (BUT not without consequences, which [this footnote](#footnote-for-step-3) discusses.)
		- CHANNEL - Enter the name of your GRB's channel on your Discord server, WITHOUT THE #
		- §§ DELETE_PICTURE_MESSAGE - If you change this to "on", GRB will delete a screenshot from the CHANNEL after it processes it. Otherwise, the screenshots stay put.
		- GRB_DISCORD_TOKEN - Paste your token into the box provided.
		- §§ LANGUAGE - This will be your GRB's default language.
			1. If some members of your guild have a primary language different from other members of your guild, select the language most of them use.
			2. The others can ~~deal with it~~ ~~learn everyone else's language~~ change their own language settings later.
				- de - Deutsch (German)
				- en - English
				- pt - Português (Portuguese)
				- More languages coming soon!
		- §§ OCR_RESULT - After it processes a screenshot, GRB will list the results so you can verify they are correct. If you change this to "off", it won't.
		- Ignore: everything else.
	3. Purple button: Deploy app

On the next screen, we will tell Heroku where to find the source code, so it can compile it.

4. Find the second section: "Deployment method". Click the GitHub button.
5. Ideally, Heroku will sense that you are logged in to GitHub and find you automatically. If it does not, it will ask for your GitHub username and password.
6. Purple button: Connect to GitHub
	- This allows Heroku to grab the source code from your repository.
	- Then Heroku will display a box labelled: Search for a repository to connect to. Inside this box is your GitHub username.
7. Purple button on the right: Search
Then Heroku will display the full name of your GitHub repository.
8. White button on the right: Connect
9. At the bottom, find the section "Deploy a GitHub branch". Select "master".
10. Grey button on the right: Deploy Branch
11. Watch the magic happen.

You are doing GREAT work! Relax for a moment. Take a deep breath or two. The most difficult part is done.
We're almost there. Only some minor configuration left to go.

#### Step 4: Heroku - Configure for automatic updates. Start GRB. Configure dynos.
We created a home for GRB on Discord.
On GitHub, we made our own copy of GRB's source code.
Heroku compiled the source code and deployed the GRB app--brain, battery pack, and all.
GRB and Heroku have made formal introductions and are ready to begin sending data back and forth. All they need is for you to say, "Go!"

And you will, very soon. But first, we have a bit of unfinished business to complete.
- Occasionally, BlackCraze updates the master source code with new features, bug fixes, and other things.
- After that happens, you will need to update your GitHub repository with the new source code.
- After THAT happens, Heroku must retrieve the new source code, compile it, and redeploy the GRB app.
- Here's the cool part: Heroku can do all of that automatically, without any human interaction.

1. Tab #2
	1. To make the coolness happen, move your eyes slightly up the screen to the section "Automatic deploys".
	2. "Enable automatic deploys from GitHub" - Select "master".
	3. Grey button in the middle: Enable Automatic Deploys

The unfinished business is now finished business.

And now, we start GRB!

2. Scroll to the top of the browser window. Click the tab: "Resources".
	- The first section is "Free Dynos".
		- Dynos are like small plastic containers in a refrigerator.
		- All the different apps on Heroku are like food in the containers.
		- The dynos protect the apps from external things that can cause problems, and from each other.
		- Dynos come in two main categories: Free and Not Free. GRB LOVES the Free ones!
    - On the far right side of "Free Dynos", from right to left, are: pencil icon, zero money, on/off switch.
    - The on/off switch is off. We need to switch it on, but we can't because it's greyed out.

3. Click the pencil icon to un-grey the on/off switch.
4. Click the switch to turn it on.
5. Purple button: Confirm

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\***

YOU DID IT!! Your GRB is now awake and waiting for you to tour its new home.

6. Use your normal method to access your guild's server on Discord.
7. Verify that GRB is online. If you added an APP ICON earlier, it should be visible now.

**\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\***

The setup of GameResourceBot is complete.
Go get a beer, a glass of wine, some apple juice, or whatever tasty beverage you prefer.
Take a break. You earned it.
After your break, come back here and continue reading. The information below is brief, useful, and important.

#### Step 5: Heroku - Verify your account to spend more time with your new GRB.
- Accounts that use free dynos are allowed up to 550 hours of free dynos each month.
- That amount of time is enough to run GRB during Deep Town's weekend events.
- That amount of time is NOT enough to run GRB 24/7.

- IF YOU WISH, you may verify your Heroku account by placing a credit card or debit card on file with them.
	- Your card will never be charged unless you add something that costs money. YOU WILL KNOW if this happens.
	- Verified accounts that use free dynos are allowed up to 1,000 hours of free dynos each month.
	- That amount of time is enough to run GRB 24/7, with more than 25% left over.

The best place to get more information about this is directly from Heroku.

	https://devcenter.heroku.com/articles/account-verification

#### Step 6: GitHub - Configure computer for source code updates.
This section's title is misleading.
This section contains no instructions at all.

This section is a reminder.
Step 4 mentioned a separate guide titled "Updating GameResourceBot". The instructions you need to complete Step 6 are not here, but in that guide.
The guide is available in three different flavours, for different operating systems.
For more details, please see ["Updating GameResourceBot"](./README.md#updating-gameresourcebot).
***OR*** go directly to the set of instructions for your computer's operating system:
- [MS Windows](./UPDATE-MSWin.md)
- [MacOS](./UPDATE-MacOS.md) - ***COMING SOON***
- [Linux](./UPDATE-Linux.md) - ***COMING SOON***

This section also is a warning.
The NOT FIRST time you need to synchronise your forked repository with BlackCraze's master repository, you can accomplish the task in two minutes or less.

OK, to be honest, the FIRST time you do this, you still can accomplish the task in two minutes or less.
The bad news: Before you reach the Promised Land of Two-Minute Synchronisation, you must tread through another setup process.
The good news: That setup process is *much* shorter than this one.

[Back to top](#setting-up-gameresourcebot---long-version)

[Back to main `README` file](./README.md)

###### Footnote for Step 3
The Config Vars on Heroku are large and in charge. (That's why they're in ALL CAPS.)
As mentioned in Step 3, a few of the Config Vars can be changed on Discord.
But everybody needs a break occasionally, and GRB is no different.

Sometimes, GRB takes a break, meaning it reboots. This could be because:
- you updated the source code to give it new features (Later. [Much later.](./README.md#updating-gameresourcebot)); or
- you commanded it to shutdown and restart; or
- it jolly well felt like it. So there.

The point is, whenever GRB restarts, it always needs to know what its Config Vars are, and it always asks Heroku for this information. If you changed one or more of them on Discord before GRB rebooted, it will have no memory of this. (In that respect, restarting is like a really bad hangover. You know you need to remember what your buddy told you last night, but there's no way it's going to happen.)

Therefore, if you do change one of the Config Vars on Discord later, think about whether you need that change to be permanent or not. If you do, then you'll probably want to return to Heroku and update that Config Var to match your changing need. If you don't, then don't say we didn't warn you.

[Back to spot where you left off](#this-line-does-not-exist-you-are-not-reading-this-please-move-on)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


In exactly two weeks, the MIAA Division 1A "Super Eight" committee will gather at MIAA headquarters in Franklin to vote on who the best eight high school baseball teams in Massachusetts are.
Despite the overall uncooperative weather this spring, the Super Eight picture has slowly started to take shape, with many teams starting to make their case as the regular season begins to slowly wind down. So, without a further ado, SuiteSports is excited to unveil its first Super Eight Projection, which we will be updated every Monday until selection day on May 29th (so, basically just next Monday).
Here is how we see the Super Eight field shaping up at this time. For our complete MIAA baseball Top 25, click here.
Overview: Outside of a 1-0 hiccup in nine innings at Xaverian and a 6-5 loss to Nashoba, St. John's (Shrewsbury) has clearly been the best team in Massachusetts to date. The Pioneers have a top of the line rotation led by ace Ian Seymour, with a multitude of other guys who can go multiple innings now that sophomore Nick McDonald has stepped up. They also have a potent lineup that includes catcher Jack Gardner and first baseman Sean Burke. As long as the Pioneers can at least split with St. John's Prep and take care of business in their other non-league games, they should be in good shape to grab one of the top two spots.
Overview: Central Catholic's starting staff has continued to excel over the last couple of weeks, failing to give up more than three runs over their last six games. Sam Lara and Steve Hajjar lead the rotation, while Dominic Keegan provides steadiness and offensive firepower from behind the plate. The Raiders have taken care of business in their league to date, defeating Lowell twice as well as North Andover. A Monday night test against Methuen gives the Raiders a chance to pad an already solid resume.
Overview: Forgive the Eagles for losing three consecutive games, considering all three were within their own conference, two were on the road, and they all came just after losing star infielder Mike Yarin for the season. The Prep has proven once again this season that their lineup is a force to be reckoned with, averaging over seven runs a game in non-league contests. Dan Frey and Andrew Selima pace the aforementioned Eagles' lineup, while Casey Bussone and Zach Begin spearhead the rotation. A split against St. John's (Shrewsbury) would go a long way to securing a top four spot.
Overview: Methuen has surged both in the Merrimack Valley Conference as well as the rankings thanks to six consecutive wins including over Lowell and North Andover, coupled with a win over Central Massachusetts power Leominster earlier in the season. First year coach Bill Blackwell has overseen a Rangers' pitching staff that has given up one run or less in five of their last six games. Brandon O'Shea and Jordan Perdomo headline the rotation that can go up against anyone in a nine-inning tournament. The Rangers still have two big league games against Central Catholic and a road game at Lowell, before rounding out their schedule against Nashoba to prove that they belong in the field.
Overview: What a season it has been for Lynn Classical to date. Owners of 14 straight wins to start the season, the Rams have been dominant in nearly every aspect of the game. They have shown the ability to score runs when necessary, putting up double digits four times so far on the season. Their pitching, however, has also been steady, with that never being more evident than A.J. Luciano's complete game shutdown this past Wednesday against Danvers. In addition, the Rams also hold a key win over league rival Peabody and another over Beverly. If Lynn Classical is able to survive a test at Reading on May 19th, it would be almost impossible to keep them out.
Overview: Braintree once again showed this past weekend why they are the two-time defending Super Eight champions. With their backs up against the wall and on the verge of falling out of the conversation, the Wamps reeled off consecutive wins against Bay State Conference rival Newton North and Peabody. Jack Andrews has emerged a solid number two starter to coincide with Kyle Gray, while Alex Kennedy and his over .400 batting average paces the lineup.
Braintree still likely needs to prove its worth in a second contest against Newton North, as well as one versus Walpole if they hope to secure a spot in the field.
Overview: BC High receives the seven spot in our projected field currently due to them holding a Catholic Conference title, a solid rotation highlighted by a 5-0 Mike Vasil, and a terrific strength of schedule. After holding a 4-5 record to begin the season, the Eagles rattled off four straight wins, including one over rival St. John's Prep to claim the conference championship before falling to Malden Catholic this past Wednesday.
Still, the Eagles have a long way to go if they hope to appear in the Super Eight for a third consecutive season. At worst, a 4-2 record against the likes of Lincoln-Sudbury, Chelmsford, Newton North, Acton-Boxboro, Silver Lake, and St. John's (Shrewsbury) the rest of the way is a must.
Overview: Pope Francis made history last year becoming the first team from Western Massachusetts to be selected to the Super Eight, and now Taconic is hoping to follow suit. The Braves have won 12 straight to start the season and have shown a willingness to test the waters in Eastern Massachusetts, knocking off Division 4 power St. John Paul II as well as Nauset. Out west, meanwhile, the Braves have dominated the competition, defeating their opponents by a combined score of 108-12. Questions do linger, however, about their respective strength of schedule.
Upcoming contests against rival Pittsfield as well as Westfield could very well decide the postseason fate of the Braves.


The 2018 Major League Baseball season is past the midway point, and it's become clear which teams are poised to be playing, or competing to play in October. At the same time, those teams have holes on their roster that will need to be addressed at some point between now and the postseason. Here is every contender's biggest need as the MLB trade deadline approaches.
The Boston Red Sox have the best record in baseball, but their starting rotation presents questions marks in potential postseason play. Chris Sale has faded late in seasons in years past, Rick Porcello has been unreliable in October (Porcello owns a career 5.47 postseason ERA), and David Price has become an utter enigma. The Red Sox need those three to show up in the postseason, but chances are only two of the three will do as such; president Dave Dombrowksi needs to insure that the Red Sox have other options to start in a five or seven-game series.
The New York Yankees have one of the best starting pitchers in the game in Luis Severino, but outside of the 24-year-old righty, manager Aaron Boone's rotation is worrisome. Masahiro Tanaka is on the disabled list, Sonny Gray has been getting rocked (Gray owns a 5.85 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in 2018), C.C. Sabathia is 37, and the Yankees have shuffled a number of arms throughout the backend of their rotation. There will be very few, if any, surefire aces available via trade, but general manager Brian Cashman must acquire a top-of-the-rotation starter to help the Yankees match up with other AL powerhouses.
The Cleveland Indians have one of the best starting rotations in baseball, and their lineup is beginning to wake up, but their bullpen has been unreliable so far this season. The tag team of Andrew Miller and Cody Allen (who are both unrestricted free agents after this season) has been shaky and injury prone, while highly regarded lefty Tyler Olson owns an abysmal 7.27 ERA. What was once their greatest asset has become the Indians' Achilles heel, and if they don't make any moves to address it, the pen will come back to haunt manager Terry Francona and the Indians.
The Houston Astros haven't skipped a beat since winning the 2017 World Series, but to repeat as champs, or, at the very least, get back to the Fall Classic, they will need to upgrade at closer. Ken Giles continues to be shaky in the late innings and inserted fear into manager A.J. Hinch throughout the 2017 postseason too. He can man a late-inning role, but locking down the ninth inning has proved to be a daunting task for Giles in recent memory and this season, as he currently owns a 4.11 ERA; the Astros need a top-flight closer.
The Seattle Mariners are en route to breaking the biggest playoff drought in North American sports, but a collapse is not out of the picture, nor are they guaranteed to be in the AL Wild Card Game — meaning Seattle has to upgrade their biggest weakness: center field. With Robinson Cano suspended, Dee Gordon is playing second base, leaving the Mariners with a bit of a hole in center. Adding a fourth outfielder, or a starting center fielder, would help complete their lineup and defensive depth chart.
The Oakland Athletics have been one of the more captivating storylines of the 2018 season. They're 10 games above .500 and are beating some of the best teams in the game. But the A's are still in third place in the American League West and are 6.5 games behind the Mariners for the second AL Wild Card. At the same time, if they can acquire a middle of the rotation arm, the A's could potentially give the Mariners a run for their money. Sure, they've received some successful outings from their starters, but the A's haven't had a consistent five players starting this season. By adding a proven arm, they can seriously get into the mix to play in the win-or-go-home playoff.
The Philadelphia Phillies have a great starting rotation and an improving lineup, but their bullpen has been subpar, at best. They've struggled to close out games, whether it be with Hector Neris, or simply getting into the ninth inning with a lead. And considering that they're right in the thick of playoff contention, there's nothing more frustrating for a team than enduring struggles in the backend of their pen. The Phillies must shore up that facet of their ballclub, or it could haunt them when it matters most.
The Atlanta Braves have begone with the rebuild and are a legitimate National League playoff threat. Their young lineup is firing on all cylinders, and their starting rotation is coming into its own, but the Braves were 20th in bullpen ERA going into Sunday afternoon (4.17). Arodys Vizcaino has been reliable as the team's closer, but the Braves pen, as a whole, has been an area of concern. To make themselves a more well-rounded force, the Braves need to add depth to their bullpen.
Outside of Max Scherzer, the Washington Nationals rotation has been inconsistent this season. Tanner Roark has been hit hard, Gio Gonzalez isn't pitching deep into games, Stephen Strasburg is on the disabled list, and the luster has worn off for Jeremy Hellickson. Washington is five games back of the Phillies for first place, and they have the talent to make a run for the division, but their starting rotation is becoming an area of concern. Besides Scherzer and a healthy Strasburg, the Nats don't have anyone they can trust in a postseason outing; they need to add a veteran arm.
The Milwaukee Brewers are hungry to win the National League Central, but even if they do, they don't have a bonafide ace, so to speak, in their rotation. And while there may not be such an arm available on the trade market, the Brewers must, at the very least, deepen their rotation. Luckily for the Brewers, they have arguably the best bullpen in the game and a lineup that is firing on all cylinders to make up for their rotation's mediocrity. Milwaukee cannot afford to collapse for a second consecutive season. Acquiring a respectable starter helps them avoid that abyss and improves their chances in potential October play.
The Chicago Cubs don't have the best roster in baseball, but they don't necessarily have a glaring weakness. At the same time, if there's one area of concern for manager Joe Maddon and friends, it's Yu Darvish — who owns a 4.95 ERA. The right-hander has struggled to stay healthy, been shaky in the starts he's made, and given his current status, the Cubs could feel uncomfortable starting him in a playoff game. They already have one of the game's best rotations, but it would pay dividends for president Theo Epstein to acquire a flex pitcher who can spot start and serve as a long reliever.
The St. Louis Cardinals have been one of the more streaky teams in baseball this season, but nevertheless, they are in the Wild Card mix. And to bolster their chances of making a playoff push, they need a fourth outfielder. Dexter Fowler has been hitting beneath .200 for the majority of the year, Tommy Pham has cooled off at the plate, and the Cardinals went into Sunday afternoon 20th in runs scored (382). They have some proven bats, but the Cardinals offense and outfield production will need improvement if they aspire to make the National League pennant race more competitive.
The Arizona Diamondbacks starting rotation, when at full strength, is one of the best in the game with Zack Greinke, Patrick Corbin, Zack Godley, and Robbie Ray. Plus, their bullpen is amongst baseball's elite. However, the D-Backs went into Sunday afternoon 28th in batting average (.232) and aren't getting an overwhelming amount of production at the plate from middle infielders Nick Ahmed and Ketel Marte. The D-Backs are currently in first place in the National League West, but if they stand pat, the competition around them could grow tighter, and they could be playing in the NL Wild Card game for a second consecutive season — which they'd like to avoid.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are playing like the team baseball has become accustomed to in recent memory. Their rotation is one of the best in the game with Clayton Kershaw now healthy, and their lineup is made up of proven commodities. But the Dodgers continue to receive below-average production at the plate from their middle infielders. Logan Forsythe is hitting just .202, and while he is a power threat, Enrique Hernandez is also not hitting for average. The Dodgers are getting back on track, but they need a middle infield upgrade — at second, in particular.
Coors Field is the last place any pitcher wants to take the hill, but the Colorado Rockies need to stop having a defeated attitude when it comes to adding starting pitching. They have one of the most feared offenses in the game, headlined by Nolan Arenado, Charlie Blackmon, and DJ LeMahieu. Jon Gray was recently sent down to Triple-A, and the Rockies went into Sunday afternoon 26th in team ERA (4.77). The NL is no sure thing this year, and Colorado is by no means out of the playoff picture, but if they don't address their starting rotation at the deadline, their playoff chances will diminish.
The San Francisco Giants have some proven commodities in their outfield such as Andrew McCutchen and Hunter Pence, but they need another body. Outside of Gorkys Hernandez, the Giants outfield has been underwhelming at the plate. And with little to no room to upgrade in their infield, and one of the better rotations in the game — when healthy — the Giants are limited in what they can do. But what they can do is add depth to their outfield.


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Batman likely a major character in new DC Rorschach series
By Michael Doran
It's the "detective you think it is" according to writer Tom King
(Image credit: Jae Lee (DC))
It looks like Batman may be an important character in writer Tom King and artist Jorge Fornés' 12-issue Rorschach series (opens in new tab) debuting in October.
In a new interview with the creative team appearing Friday in the publisher's DC Connect #3, its new self-published catalog featuring its October 2020 solicitations (opens in new tab), King seems to imply but stops outright from directly confirming Gotham City's Dark Knight plays a key role.
(Image credit: DC)
Set 35 years after the end of the original Watchmen (opens in new tab) limited series (and Rorschach's death at the hands of Dr. Manhattan), the new Black Label series opens in a world that doesn't trust superheroes but celebrates Rorschach as "a cultural icon" due to his actions in Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons' original story.
"So what does it mean when Rorschach reappears as an assassin trying to kill a candidate running against President Robert Redford?" reads DC's solicit copy for issue #1. "Who is the man behind the mask, and why is he acting this way? It's up to one detective to uncover the true identity of this would-be killer—and it will take him into a web of conspiracies involving alien invasions, disgraced do-gooders, mystic visions, and yes, comic books."
Asked by DC marketing services specialist (and former Newsarama staff writer) Albert Ching in DC Connect to share details about a couple of new characters mentioned in the solicitation text - "a young woman partnering with Rorschach, and a detective investigating the mystery," King replies, "the detective is who you think he is."
That leaves two distinct possibilities, with Batman being the most significant and likely of them.
In addition to Batman significantly upping the profile of the year-long series and being DC's preeminent detective, King of course recently completed a long run writing Batman, which included time spent collaborating with Jorge Fornés. After the surprise end to his run last year, King was also supposed to continue writing Batman in the Batman/Catwoman series with artist Clay Mann (opens in new tab) announced for a January 2020 debut, but that series has yet to appear on DC's schedule.
Batman also now has a history with the Watchman characters as a major player in Geoff Johns and Gary Frank's Doomsday Clock (opens in new tab) series, as well as 'The Button' crossover arc in Tom King's Batman run.
The other less likely possibility but worth mentioning until DC officially confirms the detective's identity is the Question - the enigmatic Steve Ditko-created character who along with other superheroes that originated at Charlton Comics served as analogs-Moore's inspirations for the original Watchmen cast.
Somewhat strangely, a "young woman partnering with Rorschach" actually isn't mentioned in the solicit copy, either in DC Connect #3 or the version released to the comic book press last week (opens in new tab). But King addresses her anyway.
"This is the young woman's first appearance," he replies. "She's going to be very important to a lot of things moving forward."
Check out a gallery of the preview pages from Rorschach #1 DC released last week.
Michael Doran
I'm not just the Newsarama founder and editor-in-chief, I'm also a reader. And that reference is just a little bit older than the beginning of my Newsarama journey. I founded what would become the comic book news site in 1996, and except for a brief sojourn at Marvel Comics as its marketing and communications manager in 2003, I've been writing about new comic book titles, creative changes, and occasionally offering my perspective on important industry events and developments for the 25 years since. Despite many changes to Newsarama, my passion for the medium of comic books and the characters makes the last quarter-century (it's crazy to see that in writing) time spent doing what I love most.


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Drapes of Democracy: Commemorating 75 Years of Independence
At midnight, on the 15th of August, India received its Independence. The tryst with this destiny was fraught with rebellions, blood, famines, world wars and most importantly, stealing away our identity as a country of intricate artistry. India was always the country of precious gems, fine muslin, vibrant silks, poetry, literature, and much more. From fine Kashmiri pashmina shawls with delicate embroidery, delicate gotta-patti on Rajputi poshaks, the Banarasi work on Kadhwa Silk, the bold Chanderi, the nine-yard Nauvari saree and the luxurious Kanjivaram silk, India is a testament to talent, hard work, patience and an appreciation of beauty. This frangibility is only one of the few examples of the exquisiteness and chutzpah in our country for centuries. There is indeed so much to learn and be proud of, Indian artistry is an education within itself, and there is strength in becoming a part of this culture.
From sarees to lehengas and dupattas, the Indian wear for women is all about maximalism; even the humble khadi boasts about its handspun goodness. There is indulgence in even the minimalist items we create; however, it's the drapers of elegance that we must talk about today, for they have taken our culture on a global platform and given it an identity of grace, strength, and empowerment. Indian history is a testament to the shakti, the feminine power that reigns supreme over us, protects our heritage, and promotes it on the most illustrious platforms. Our Goddesses are venerated with sarees, and these drapes are then worn by women to be blessed with auspiciousness. The Indian women are an example of strength, and during significant parts of our history, they've eloquently expressed and elucidated their goals and agendas.
Savitribai Jyotirao Phule
It's a crime not to start with the pioneer of India's feminist women; we're talking about Savitribai Jyotirao Phule. Phule was not only a prolific writer but an educationist who demanded equal rights for everyone irrespective of caste and gender. She worked arduously towards abolishing discrimination and pushed for women's rights. Draped in simplicity, this saree-clad woman went on to create schools for women. Despite getting married at the tender age of nine, she went on to be educated and even enrolled in teaching training programs. Her training as a teacher and headmistress gave her the power to open her schools along with her husband, Jyotirao Phule. Despite much resistance from society, they went to create a revolutionary path for women; the understanding of giving women the right to progress creates a strong foundation for our country. Educating the girl child is still a challenge to this day. However, pioneers like Savitribai Phule remain an inspiration.
Bhikaiji Rustom Cama
Yet another revolutionary is Bhikaiji Rustom Cama. Madam Cama was born into an affluent Parsi family and was married to Rustom Cama, one of the leading ladies of India's independence movement. She wore her signature Parsi saree with a full-sleeve blouse and is often credited with designing the first flag of India, and her accolades don't stop here. She was an ardent supporter of gender equality, heavily influenced by the Suffragette movement, and spoke heavily about women's rights.
Lata Mangeshkhar
Fondly known as the Nightingale of India, Lata Mangeshkar is the jewel of our country. Always dressed in her beautiful sarees and two long braids, she was known for her simplicity and was yet born with a buttery voice that filled the hearts of many. Her accolades are so many that words fall short but to remember and commemorate her contributions, she was awarded the Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan and Padma Bhushan, amongst many others, including the Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honour conferred by France.
No one wears a saree as regally as Bhanurekha Ganesan, better known as Rekha. Her shimmering and luxurious silk sarees and accompanying jewellery are an inspiration for most of us. A woman with unparalleled talent and beauty, Rekha is one of the greatest movie stars of all time. From movies like Umrao Jaan, Do Anjaane, Khoobsurat and Ghar, Rekha has reinvented herself for each role, maintaining her confidence and esteem in each of them. With an envious wardrobe consisting of some of the most beautiful handwoven and carefully loomed sarees, Rekha is truly extraordinaire.
Maharani Gayatri Devi
If someone put chiffons and the shoulder-wrapped pallu on the map, it has to be Maharani Gayatri Devi. She was the Maharani Consort of Jaipur and later the Rajmata. Her grace, style and charisma are known all around the world. Maharani Gayatri Devi is the reason why chiffon sarees became popular in India; she was one of the best-dressed members of royalty and, to this day, continues to inspire women all across the country. Apart from her work in the court of Jaipur, she was also active in politics and played an essential role during the Emergency.
The saree is a popular garment in our country; while often associated with brides and glamour, the women above are a testament to making the saree an integral part of their identities. Each state represents a different work; whether it's embroidery or a type of fabric, such is the diversity of a saree. However, behind these sarees and the iconic women who wear them are the weavers working tirelessly to create these weaves. India is where our grandmothers and mothers pass things down to the generation, including sarees, lehengas and dupattas. Working their perfect magic, our weavers are the backbone of our country, and their talents have put India on the world map. Whether it's khadi or a luxurious Banarasi, the range of talent our artisans possesses is worth an applaud. Just like they weave thread to thread, our country is weaved with love, history, heritage and, of course, the contributions made by our powerful women.
The 75th Independence of our nation is a proud moment. We are proof that a populous and diverse nation can come together to uphold democracy and all of its fundamental rights and duties.
Author: Uma Shekhawat
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