Writers write always. Whether it's a blog post, journal entry, a letter to mom. As long as words are being put on paper it's writing. Now, I say that if you are trying to be a fiction writer then you need to be writing fiction everyday on top of the other compositions you may do but that's me.
Geek to Author is a slow go. Finding time to write is very difficult, especially with a full career, wife and 2 kids, coaching baseball, etc... but I see people do it all the time and they are writing books! Why can't I? Why can't you? I know the answer, commitment. Dedication. Failure to build a structured routine.
I came across a resources, several actually, that is specifically targeted for writing with a career. The common thread is ease into the routine but build into your day that you sit down and write. Period. I am going to share these writing exercises for everyone else as well as give an insight to my methods.
I haven't been blogging here much, but that's because I have been writing. Not putting anything out there for consumption yet, but I am writing. Short stories mostly but I have a very rough draft of 50,000 words toward a book. So I am doing it. The second part, editing my work, is where my analytical OCD is battling me. Tweaking the stories, expanding them, changing the dialogue instead of fixing the grammar and flows.
Each exercise I do I will start to publish them here. They are not ground breaking and most of them I tweak around to make them more creative and challenging for me. You don't have to follow them verbatim but use them in your own way for your daily writing. I have found it's very liberating and frees the mind to break away from your stories and structures and freestyle write about nonsensical topics as creative and in styles you may never use again. Experiment.
We only learn from failures.


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Search results for "France"
Naked Childhood (1968)
Handed over to foster care by his mother—who's unwilling to give up permanent custody—the now-adolescent François understands that nothing in life is permanent, and his increasingly erratic actions reflect this…
The Midwife (2017)
Claire is a midwife and has devoted her life to others. At a moment when she is preoccupied by the imminent closure of the maternity clinic where she works, her…
Country: Belgium, France
Caniba (2017)
Caniba is a fresco about flesh and desire. It reflects on the discomfiting significance of cannibalism in human existence through the prism of one Japanese man, Issei Sagawa, and his…
Vincere (2009)
The story of the descent into madness of Mussolini's secret first wife, Ida Dasler, who was seduced by his passion and vigour but blind to the fascist dictator's many flaws….
Country: France, Italy
Crash Test Aglaé (2017)
Aglaé, a young factory worker, has only one focus in life: her job at a car crash test site. When she learns that the factory is going to be relocated…
Monsieur Hire (1989)
A French man spies on a lovely younger woman across the way. When he's spotted by the woman shortly after being questioned by the police about a local murder, the…
Amer (2009)
Searing memories and carnal desires rule the mind of Ana, a young woman in thrall to her own fantasies whose visions and obsessions draw her toward deeper eroticism — and…
The Son's Room (2001)
A psychoanalyst and his family go through profound emotional trauma when their son dies in a scuba diving accident.
A Woman Is a Woman (1961)
Longing for a baby, a stripper pursues another man in order to make her boyfriend jealous.
The Panther Squad (1984)
An astronaut has been abducted by a group of environmental terrorists. The New Organization of Nations decides to send a lethal commando "The Panther Squad", composed of sexy female mercenaries…
Country: Belgium, France, Spain
Genre: Adventure, Crime, Science Fiction
Circumstance (2011)
A wealthy Iranian family struggles to contain a teenager's growing sexual rebellion and her brother's newfound conservatism.
Country: France, Iran, USA
Of Gods and Men (2010)
French drama based on the 1996 kidnapping and killing of seven monks in Algeria. A group of Trappist monks reside in the monastery of Tibhirine in Algeria, where they live…
The Kiosk (2020)
Alexandra came to help her mother, a newspaper sales woman, in a kiosk located in a wealthy area of Paris. From the discovery of the job to the intimacy built…
First Name: Carmen (1983)
The protagonist is Carmen X, a female member of a terrorist gang. She asks her uncle Jean, a washed-up film director if she can borrow his beachside house to make…
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, Romance
Magnet of Doom (1963)
A young boxer Michel Maudet is sacked by his manager after a series of match defeats and is forced to look for a new job. He is engaged as secretary…
Genre: Adventure, Crime, Drama
De Gaulle (2020)
Paris, June 1940. The de Gaulle couple is confronted with the military and political collapse of France. Charles de Gaulle joins London while Yvonne, his wife, finds herself with her…
Four Bags Full (1956)
Two unlikely companions must smuggle four suitcases filled with contraband pork across Nazi-occupied Paris.
The Eye of Silence (2016)
Being able to see in the dark is a bless, but in Beijing, it's a curse….
Country: China, France
Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Thriller
Daddy Longlegs (2009)
After months of living a solitary existence, Lenny, 34, picks up his kids from school. Every year he spends a couple of weeks with his sons Sage, 9, and Frey,…
The Giant (2019)
A teenager's small town life is changed forever when a series of murders begin on the same night that her missing boyfriend suddenly reappears.
Genre: Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Swords of Blood (1962)
In the 18th century, Louis de Bourguignon is working with the Malichot's gang, but their ways are too 'unethical' for him. He creates his own band, acting under the name…
Kill Skills (2016)
Skilled at killing, but not so skilled at living, Sammy Cohen, a French and London-based assassin, accidentally kills his fiancé, who happens to be the daughter of an Israeli gangster….
The French Detective (1975)
When political thugs murder an opponent's volunteer and also kill a cop, chief inspector Verjeat believes the politician who hired them is as guilty as the murderous goon. Verjeat's pursuit…
The Patriots (1994)
Ariel, a young French Jew, decides to leave his family to go to Israel and secretly become an agent of Mossad, the Israeli secret service. After years of training, his…
The Advocate (1993)
Black comedy about 15th-century Paris lawyer Richard Courtois (Firth) who decides to apply his trade in the country, only to find things stranger than he can imagine. His first case…
Genre: Comedy, Crime, Drama, History, Mystery, Romance, Thriller
Samuel Barber: Absolute Beauty (2017)
Known for his mournful "Adagio for Strings," Samuel Barber was never quite fashionable. This acclaimed film is a probing exploration of his music and melancholia. Performance, oral history, musicology, and…
Genre: Documentary, History, Music
Bigfoot Family (2020)
Bigfoot, Adam's father, wants to use his fame for a good cause. Protecting a large wildlife reserve in Alaska sounds like the perfect opportunity! When Bigfoot mysteriously disappears without a…
Close Encounters with Vilmos Zsigmond (2016)
A very special encounter between legendary American cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond and young French director Pierre Filmon. A personal journey with the brightest shadowmaker and his friends.
The Blue Room (2014)
A man and a woman, secretly in love, alone in a room. They desire each other, want each other, and even bite each other. In the afterglow, they share a…
Genre: 18+, Crime, Drama, Thriller
The Woman Next Door (1981)
Madame Jouve, the narrator, tells the tragedy of Bernard and Mathilde. Bernard was living happily with his wife Arlette and his son Thomas. One day, a couple, Philippe and Mathilde…
Shock Treatment (1973)
Hélène Masson visits her friend Gérôme Savignat in the isolated rejuvenation clinic owned by Dr. Devilers and his partner Dr. Berbard. But after a series of tragic events, Hélène goes…
And the Ship Sails On (1983)
In 1914, a cruise ship sets sail from Naples to spread the ashes of beloved opera singer Edmea Tetua near Erimo, the isle of her birth. During the voyage, the…
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Music
Young Ahmed (2019)
A Belgian teenager hatches a plot to kill his teacher after embracing an extremist interpretation of the Quran.
The Officer's Ward (2001)
The first days of WWI. Adrien, a young and handsome lieutenant, is wounded by a piece of shrapnel. He will spend the entire wartime at the Val-de-Grâce Hospital, in Paris….
Genre: Drama, Romance, War
Nadja in Paris (1964)
Nadja is a guest student, who stays at Cité Universitaire and visits the Sorbonne, while preparing a thesis on Proust; she also likes to stroll about Paris.
Rogue City (2020)
Caught in the crosshairs of police corruption and Marseille's warring gangs, a loyal cop must protect his squad by taking matters into his own hands.
South Terminal (2019)
In a Mediterranean country plunging into armed conflict, a doctor tries to do his duty against all odds, until the day his destiny is turned upside down…
Country: Algeria, France
32 Malasana Street (2020)
Inspired by real events, the story centers around a family in the 70s who settles in the Madrid neighborhood of Malasaña where their new house will become the worst of…
Country: France, Spain

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Rush Tribute Neil Peart In Animated Video 2020 In Review
Bruce Henne | 12-24-2020
Video still
(hennemusic) Rush Tribute Neil Peart In Animated Video was a top 20 story of June 2020: Rush pay tribute to late drummer and lyricist Neil Peart as a part of their animated music video for their 1980 classic, "The Spirit Of Radio."
The legendary rocker - who passed away on January 7 at the age of 67 after a three-and-a-half year battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer, Glioblastoma - is featured throughout the clip for the tune, as featured on the recently-released 40th anniversary reissue of the group's seventh album, "Permanent Waves."
Complete with references to milestones and influential broadcasters in FM rock radio history, the video closes with a personal tribute to the drummer: "In memory of our brother Neil Peart."
The "Permanent Waves" reissue presents the full album alongside a number of previously-unreleased live tracks; the package is available in multiple formats, including a 2-CD Deluxe Edition, a 3-LP Deluxe Edition, and a Deluxe Digital Edition. Watch the video here.
hennemusic is an official news provider for antiMusic.com. Copyright hennemusic - Excerpted here with permission.
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Latin, German, Greek, and Russian are synthetic languages. Nouns in Russian inflect for at least six cases, most of them descended from Proto-Indo-European cases, whose functions English translates using other strategies like prepositions, verbal voice, word order, and possessive 's instead.
Israeli Hebrew is much more analytic than Classical Hebrew "both with nouns and with verbs".
A related concept is the isolating language, which is about a low number of any type of morphemes per word, taking into account derivational morphemes as well. A purely isolating language would be analytic by necessity and lack inflectional morphemes by definition. However, the reverse is not necessarily true, and a language can have derivational morphemes but lack inflectional morphemes. For example, Mandarin Chinese has many compound words, giving it a moderately high ratio of morphemes per word, but since it has almost no inflectional affixes at all to convey grammatical relationships, it is a very analytic language.
English is not totally analytic in its nouns since it uses inflections for number (e.g., "one day, three days; one boy, four boys") and possession ("The boy's ball" vs. "The boy has a ball"). Mandarin Chinese, in contrast, has no inflections on its nouns: compare 一天 yī tiān "one day", 三天 sān tiān "three days" (literally "three day"); 一個男孩 yī ge nánhái "one boy" (lit. "one [entity of] male child"), 四個男孩 sì ge nánhái "four boys" (lit. "four [entity of] male child"). Instead, English is considered to be weakly inflected.
^ See pp. 50-51 in Zuckermann, Ghil'ad (2009), "Hybridity versus Revivability: Multiple Causation, Forms and Patterns", Journal of Language Contact, Varia 2, pp. 40-67.
^ Li, Charles and Thompson, Sandra A., Mandarin Chinese: A Functional Reference Grammar, University of California Press, 1981, p. 46.
^ "Grammar: Cases". people.umass.edu. Retrieved 2018-04-19.
^ Holm, John A. (1989). Pidgins and Creoles: References survey. Cambridge University Press. p. 338. Retrieved 19 May 2010.
^ Geerts, G.; Clyne, Michael G. (1992). Pluricentric languages: differing norms in different nations. Walter de Gruyter. p. 72. Retrieved 19 May 2010.


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SOJO Hotels' architecture: The harmony between Neo-Industrial design and regional culture
Kevin Le January 19, 2022 0
Vietnam will cut value-added tax to 8% from 10%
Vietnam records first cases of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus in the community
POPS Reaches Huge Milestone with 10,000 Enrolled Students
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One Mount garners two prestigious awards as it celebrates two years of remarkable growth
IBM and Mercedes develop "Stolen Vehicle Help" for Mercedes me service
Porsche reports Q3 2021 U.S. retail sales
Cutting-Edge Technology for Top Dentists
Exports of Vietnamese SMBs selling with Amazon have increased by 48% year over year
Cyber threat escalation: Group-IB presents report on trending crimes worldwide
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Insight into the podcast industry and why Times24H will attack this field
Home»Sport»Vietnamese agriculture aims for green growth – Environment – Vietnam News | Politics, Business, Economy, Society, Life, Sports
Vietnamese agriculture aims for green growth – Environment – Vietnam News | Politics, Business, Economy, Society, Life, Sports
Kevin Le December 2, 2021 No Comments3 Mins Read
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Representatives from MARD and the World Bank at the high-level policy seminar. — Photo nongnghiep.vn
HÀ NỘI — Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Lê Minh Hoan highlighted the need for Vietnamese agriculture to aim for "green values" created from "green transformation, green consumption, green economy".
He made the statement at a high-level policy seminar on Việt Nam's low-carbon green agricultural transformation, which was co-hosted by MARD and World Bank Vietnam on Tuesday.
According to the minister, the Vietnamese Government issued the National Green Growth Strategy for 2021-30, with a vision to 2050, on October 1, 2021. The MARD has been assigned to develop an efficient, sustainable and low-carbon commercial agriculture towards a circular and smart economy, climate resilience, and higher competitiveness for green agri-products, build new green and sustainable rural areas with models of climate resilient ecological/smart villages.
At the United Nations Summit in September 2021, President Nguyễn Xuân Phúc pledged to build the image of Vietnamese agriculture as a Transparent – Responsible – Sustainable food producer and supplier in the eyes of the international community. Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính also pledged at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in early November 2021 that Việt Nam would become a carbon-neutral country by 2050, he said.
MARD is drafting the Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy to 2030 with a vision to 2050, aiming at agricultural restructuring, developing the rural economy, linking with new rural development. The strategy is structured around three pillars, which are "Ecological agriculture", "Modern countryside", and "Smart farmers", completely supporting Việt Nam's future national strategic orientations, he said.
"It is essential to shift from agricultural production to agricultural economy; from the productivity- and output-driven approach to the value-centered approach through integrating different value systems into products; from resource leverage and extraction to enrichment in order to promote sustainable production; from self-sufficiency to integration with the flow of value chains and global development trends. In other words, it is important to shift from local to global perspectives; from extraction to enrichment; from short-term to long-term and sustainable thinking," he said.
Former minister of agriculture and rural development Cao Đức Phát said in terms of society, agriculture development must be inclusive, actively contributing to sustainable poverty reduction by providing job opportunities and high incomes for farmers, keeping workers in agriculture and rural areas, and expanding consumer welfare to maintain social stability in difficult circumstances.
The agricultural labour force will continue to decline rapidly, but innovation-based agriculture requires more skilled workers, he said, citing the fact that by 2030 and beyond, Việt Nam's agriculture will still be dominated by smallholder farmers, who do not work for subsistence farming, but increasingly large-scale commodity production. Nonetheless, most of the farms are too small to participate in the competitive international market on their own.
"They need to work in groups, in person or virtually. More businesses are needed to lead them to join domestic and international value chains," he said.
Kyle Kelhofer, International Finance Corporation's Senior Country Manager of Việt Nam, Cambodia and Laos, said: "Việt Nam's agriculture sector is at a turning point. The sector faces bright opportunities in both domestic and international markets, yet effectively competing in these will depend upon the ability of farmers and firms to deliver agricultural products with reliability, and with assurances relating to quality, safety, and sustainability."
"Transformation to a low-carbon, green and sustainable growth path will be key to making this happen," he said. — VNS
SportNews / Times24H
Phú Quốc Island welcomes nearly 1,000 foreign visitors after one month of reopening – Life & Style – Vietnam News | Politics, Business, Economy, Society, Life, Sports
© 2022 TIMES24H. Regn. No. 0316487598. All rights reserved


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Suspect in Double Murder in South Carolina Caught in Connecticut
Published Jan 30, 2018 at 2:47 PM
Connecticut State Police
A man charged with killing two people in South Carolina last week has been arrested after he was found at Windham Hospital in Willimantic, Connecticut.
Connecticut State Police said troopers arrested 20-year-old Jeremie David Tobey, of Aiken, South Carolina, late Monday afternoon as he was about to be discharged from the hospital.
Tobey was wanted on two counts of murder and one count of grand larceny, according to the Aiken County Sheriff's Office.
Aiken County Sheriff's Capt. Eric Abdullah said in a news release that Tobey is charged with shooting and killing 25-year-old Cody Diminovich and 38-year-old Pamela Lawson last Friday evening. Tobey is also charged with grand larceny for taking the couple's vehicle.
Police said Tobey fled from South Carolina to Connecticut in a stolen car and it was located in Willimantic.
Tobey is awaiting extradition to South Carolina to face the charges.
Copyright Associated Press / NECN


A woman and her daughter are raped and murdered by soldiers during a time of civil war. Afterwards, a series of samurai returning from the war through that area are found mysteriously dead with their throats torn out. The governor calls in a wild and fierce young hero, to quell what is evidently a ghost. He encounters the two beautiful women, in an eery, beautiful scene. After spiritual purification, he meets the demon in a thrilling fight.
In 12th-century Japan a woman and her 20-year-old daughter-in-law are raped and then slain by a band of samurai. Their hut is burned, and their blood attracts a black cat. Later the leader of the samurai band returns to the area and is mauled to death by a seductive woman who resembles his victim. Another samurai band, led by Raiko, comes to the area. Gintoki, the husband of the murdered young woman and the son of the older woman, is a member of this band, and Raiko orders him to get rid of the ghosts who have been preying on the samurai. Gintoki meets the spirit of his dead wife, and she takes him back to a hut where he also sees the spirit of his dead mother. The two women vanish, but the next day the young woman returns to her husband; despite her vow to murder the samurai, she and her husband make love and remain together for 7 days. She is banished from the spirits of hell, however, in return for her husband's life. Raiko again orders Gintoki to destroy the apparitions, and the next time he encounters his mother, Gintoki severs her arm. That night, the mother returns for the arm, and the next morning Gintoki lies dead as a black cat licks his wounds.
Color/B&W: Black and White Distributions Co: Toho International, Inc.


The work patterns of European women from 1700 onwards fluctuate in relation to ideological, demographic, economic and familial changes. In A History of European Women's Work, Deborah Simonton draws together recent research and methodological developments to take an overview of trends in women's work across Europe from the so-called pre-industrial period to the present.
Taking the role of gender and class in defining women's labour as a central theme, Deborah Simonton compares and contrasts the pace of change between European countries, distinguishing between Europe-wide issues and local developments.


Honda All New Jazz Launched Today With New Features Specifications Images Price : Today in an event, Honda Motors has launched its Jazz as All New Jazz Edition 2015 with many more features and specifications. Japanese car maker Honda's premium hatchback Jazz today made a comeback in the Indian market with the company launching a third-generation version named as All New jazz of the model priced between Rs 5.3 lakh and Rs 8.59 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). Last time the company had sold over 23,000 units of the second generation Jazz in India. Globally, Honda has sold over 55 lakhs units of previous generation models of Jazz across the world, including the US and Japan. Now below get complete details of Honda All New Jazz.
The petrol variants of the car are priced between Rs 5.3 lakh and Rs 7.29 lakh, while the diesel versions are priced between Rs 6.49 and Rs 8.59 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Automatic variants of the car are priced in the range Rs 6.99 lakh to Rs 7.85 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
Asia Honda Motor Co President and Director Noriaki Abe said Jazz marked the company's re-entry into the premium hatchback segment in the country.
"Jazz has played a significant role in boosting our business globally and I am confident that it will replicate the same success in India," he added.
To keep the momentum going in the Indian market in the current fiscal by launching models in the "exciting segment", Abe said.
India is the first country where Jazz would be offered with a diesel power train engine.
The petrol variants, including the automatic version, sports 1.2 litre engine.
The 1.5 litre diesel engine, which powers the Amaze, Mobilio and City, would also be used in the new Jazz.
The look and feel of the all new JAZZ is stylish, vibrant and stunning. It has sporty exteriors with sleek head lamps, LED rear tail lamps, adjustable and fold-able outside mirrors, rear parking camera with multi views and chrome finish. I personally loved the ruby red color that gave me a splendid and edgy first impression.


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INSECTUAL: The Secret of the Black Butterfly
by Barbara Sala
Thrice betrayed: childhood, marriage, psychotherapy; punctuated with adventure in Congo.
"That's where they burn red-haired girls as witches," Maya's mother said as they stood staring at the heavy metal door of an ominous bunker on their way to kindergarten.
This streak of madness starts Maya's odyssey – from war and betrayal in Germany of the late 1940s to adventure in Africa in the 1960s.
Maya's trauma remains buried with her childhood in the Bavarian Alps, the family hideaway where they fled to get away from the bombing raids. She goes on a U.N. mission to the former tormented Belgian Congo, where she weds her glamorous Italian co-worker and gives birth to two children in the midst of the dangers of the Mulele revolution.
This fast-moving saga rolls across three continents, from war-torn Europe to Africa and then to North America. In Montreal in the 1980s, she undergoes psychotherapy to uncover the sting of angst embedded in her psyche.
From hypnosis arises the image of the black butterfly, symbol of her father. In the psychiatrist's office, the doctor's suggestion of friendly touching "dislodges the pebble that sets in motion an avalanche" – Maya's anatomy of a secret seduction.
This unusual picture book for adults uses the literary device of quotes pulled from the text to create a parallel universe of 80 drawings – each one an epiphany – that illustrate the gift of humour found in the transformative power of art and spirituality.
In 2015, INSECTUAL - The Secret of the Black Butterfly is published, with 75 drawings by the author. Extremely well written, this passionate journey through the narrow tunnel of blocked memory oscillates between the spiritual quest and a psychological thriller. Her heroine Maya's life is anything but trivial. From Nazi Germany to the civil war in the ex-Belgian Congo, where she worked for the United Nations in the '60s, until her arrival in Montreal in 1974, she lived a perpetual adventure, and married a handsome Italian with whom she had a boy and a girl. As I would do for a thriller, I will not reveal here the details of her difficult journey through her past, since she was careful to keep the suspense until the end.
- Elaine Audet, writer, poet, critic, co-publisher of www.sisyphe.org.
To say this book is totally unlike anything I've ever read before would be an understatement. I'm not sure how to even describe this book as SO much happens, and it seems to touch on so many elements, themes, and subjects, times and places. It is told in a stream-of consciousness manner mostly recounting past events (but told in present tense…). Gets pretty dark and twisted, and definitely for a mature audience only. But overall a very interesting, different type of book that is memorable, moving, and very well-written. (4-5 stars).
- Layla Messing, Indie Book Reviewers
"Insectual: The Secret of the Black Butterfly" by Barbara Sala starts off with some considerable backstory to set up the scene and ground the reader in the Maya's sexy world and perspective, which the author Barbara Sala does a wonderfully convincing job of creating as believable background for the plot to unfold. This book does touch on some pretty heavy subject matters and there should be trigger warnings for the abuse. A powerful, mind bending read that kept me captivated. And the editing was flawless (I notice these things). Adults only. (5 stars)
- Laura Clarke, Indie Book Reviewers
Well this book took me a while to read, but in the end I'd say it was worth it! I like how everything came together, and I enjoyed reading this unusual book! I think Barbara Sala writes VERY well… very descriptive and strong and we feel like we are there almost like watching a David Lynch movie or something. Overall an interesting, if not surreal novel that pushes the boundaries of typical literature. Warning – recommended for mature readers as has sensitive subject matter. (5 stars).
- Sherri Indie Book reviewers
"Insectual- The Secret of the Black Butterfly" is the first book I've read from this talented author Barbara Sala, but I hope it's not the last! The way this book was written is different from many I've read before, but it totally hooked me right from the beginning and kept my attention throughout. It was intelligent, weird, sad, dark, funny, deep, tragic… I thought the storyline and the character development to be very well done and thought out. I feel like this level of complexity could have easily ended up badly, but instead I darn near gobbled the whole book down in just a few evenings. There were some pretty shocking events that may upset some readers but I thought the author handled the sensitive subject matter well. This book will haunt me for a long time, but in a good way. Recommend for adults only. (4 stars)
- Karen « Reader girl » Indie Book Reviewers
This was one engaging tale that I couldn't put down! I did have to have some patience in the beginning until I felt that I was more caught up in the thrust of the story, but the author does a great job of explaining all the backstory and sub plots. I enjoyed the easy flow and inventive ideas and plot of "Insectual", and really liked the characters! Happy that they were not cliché, cardboard cutouts but relatable and real. I liked that I never quite knew where the story was going, and it was anything but predictable… my eyebrows shot up and my jaw dropped many times. It gets pretty intense, and I wasn't prepared for where the book went, but I feel like it is an important story that needs to be told. The author has a great way of writing, even if it took me awhile to get into the flow. Oh, and I loved the drawings at the beginning of each chapter! ( 4 stars).
- Essieharmon, Indie Book Reviewers
From the very beginning the story moved seamlessly from one page to the next, and was unpredictable enough to make me just *have* to see what would happen next. Not formulaic or cookie-cutter at all, even though there are plenty of "familiar elements" necessary for a psychological thriller, this one is very different from others, probably because of the historical element. I was impressed with this author's writing style and her attention to detail… I really felt transported to another time and place. The narrative is literary, almost poetic at times, even when discussing ugly events. Lots of metaphors, symbolism, and double-meanings, which I thought was really cool. Recommended for ages 18+ and I will look for more works from her in the future. (5 stars)
- Elisabeth Brown, Indie Book Reviewers
The title and cover art of INSECTUAL (The Secret of the Black Butterfly) by Barbara Sala intrigued me. It details the life of Maya – a German woman who describes intimacy and sex as 'the devil' – yet has no problems falling in love. After an unwanted pregnancy and abortion, Maya meets and marries Lorenzo, an Italian man who finds Maya enchanting. Due to complications with the birth of her second child with Lorenzo, Maya and the baby are rushed to the hospital. After the birth, she is secreted away just moments before her city comes under fire. When Maya and Lorenzo are finally reunited, Lorenzo confesses his infidelities in a drunken stupor.
Therapy is recommended to Maya in the hopes that it will fix her loathing of sexual acts. Shortly after her therapy sessions commence, Maya realizes that she does not want to stay married to an unfaithful husband. After divorcing Lorenzo, Maya spends many years in therapy, discovering her real inner demons lie with her father who had molested and raped her as a child – traumatic memories which Maya had buried over the years. Most of Barbara Sala's book INSECTUAL (The Secret of the Black Butterfly) consists of Maya's therapy sessions, her thoughts, her fears, her dreams and what she chooses to tell her therapist. It is very well written throughout and the illustrations at the beginning of each segment of the book are quite clever, painting a very clear picture of what Maya is book are quite clever, painting a very clear picture of what Maya is thinking. While the book was very difficult to read in some places due to the content, I am grateful to have read it, as it teaches one of the most incredible lessons a person can learn in life: forgiveness.
- Rosie Malezer, ReadersFavorite.com
This book tells the story of Maya's two lives – the first as a child and young woman in Central Europe and then the former Belgian Congo, the second as a woman in mid-life in North America who relives her life in psychotherapy. There she seeks to rid herself of the Black Butterfly, a disturbing insect-like presence that still haunts her dreams and her waking moments, even as a mature woman. Guided by her therapist, the meaning of her past and perhaps of her rage becomes clear although freedom, love and true security are harder to find. Maya was born in Nazi Germany two years before the outbreak of the Second World War. In the last year of the war her family moved to a remote chalet in Bavaria where she witnessed the arrival of the Allied troops. They were welcomed by her father – the emotional scars of family conflict and betrayal remained. Later she worked for the United Nations in the Congo, married, gave birth to two children, and was forced to flee as the war within that country escalated. She moved to the United States with her husband and children, spent some years in the Caribbean and settled finally in Montreal, Canada. This then is the story of several journeys across countries and continents as well as the story of a woman's journey back to the experiences which oppressed her and stood in the way of her happiness. It is also a story of renewal. Maya attributes her healing not only to psychotherapy but to spiritualism, her openness to the influence of African gods, and the power of Art. Each chapter recounts a brief episode in Maya's life, either from her early or later years. Each is illustrated with a drawing portraying actual or remembered psychic experiences. The writing describes the events, the drawings show the power of emotion unleashed in the telling. The writing is matter of fact, direct and at times starkly honest. I did not anticipate the ending. Names and details of specific incidents have been changed to protect the identity of others involved - because as the writer reminds us, "This is a story about events that happen to ordinary people." In life Barbara Sala is a naïve artist who has exhibited internationally. She has published three illustrated children's books and is now in her mid-70's.
- Catherine Watson, sociologist and writer, and member of the McGill Community for Lifelong Learning in Montreal
Born in Germany, Barbara Sala is a septuagenarian painter known internationally for her colourful, symbolic and naïve paintings. She has won several awards. When younger she lived on four continents. Today her home is in Montreal. She wrote two children's books: Celestine and the Magical Geranium and Village of the Heart.


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Charminar in Isfahan, Bukharan and Hyderabad
April 23, 2018 by safoora
Do you know about the Iranian town Isfahan's monuments?
Persians call Isfahan Nesf-e Jahan, or "Isfahan is half the world."
It flourished from 1050 to 1722, particularly in the 16th century under the Safavid dynasty, when it became the capital of Persia for the second time in its history.
Naqsh-e Jahan Square (also Imam Square, or Shah Square) and one of the largest city squares in the world.
Isfahan, the Iran's hidden jewel is the most beautiful city in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Well, it is interesting to know that there are commonalities between Hyderabad and Isfahan city in terms of as historical, heritage, culture and Islamic architecture.
The creator of Hyderabad and the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty King Mohammed Quli Qutb Shah though never quite visited Iran but was so enthralled and inspired by Isfahan city's monuments that he decided to build it's sister city in India.
This is how the idea of the design of Hyderabad, particularly Charminar, was born.
It is believed that Charminar, described as the symbol of Hyderabad across the world was surrounded by gardens on all sides, then known as Charbagh.
In fact, the topography of monumental Charminar itself owes its origin to 'Char Bagh' in Isfahan and the Charkaman's were served as each of the gates for entry to Charminar.
Photogenic little Char Minar or 'four minarets' mosque in Bukharan is more Indian in style than in Uzbekistan.
The long-gone mausoleum Char Minar built in 1807 and become one of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Categories Featured News, News Tags Charminar, Hyderabad Post navigation
Nanar row: Fadnavis hits back at Shiv Sena
Rajpal Yadav sentenced to jail, granted bail later


Showbiz Nation Live! Interview with "The Dog Whisperer" CESAR MILLAN from SHOWBIZ NATION LIVE! on Vimeo.
There's nothing like seeing Cesar Millan LIVE. Free from the limitations of TV, Internet, DVDs and the printed page, Cesar is truly the Pack Leader you've imagined. He is more animated, spontaneous and fun than you expect, connecting with the audience in a conversation about his values, principles and methods. Seen in person, his demonstrations come to life, his gift with dogs becomes more evident than ever. It's a remarkable, enlightening and moving experience.
CLICK HERE for more information and tour schedule.


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Chicago Nursing Home Injury Attorney Nursing Home Law Center LLC Home
Contact Illinois Nursing Home Neglect Lawyer Nursing Home Law Center LLC
Connecticut Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Connecticut Ratings & Safety Violation Information
Amberwoods of Farmington
Attorneys for Injured & Mistreated at Amberwoods of Farmington
Was your loved one mistreated while living in a Hartford County nursing facility? Are you concerned that they were the victims of abuse or neglect at the hands of caregivers or other residents? If so, contact the Connecticut Nursing Home Law Center Attorneys now for immediate legal help.
Our team of abuse prevention lawyers has represented many nursing home victims and can assist your family, too. We provide every client with a free initial consultation to discuss their case and determine the best legal options to proceed. Call now so we can begin working on your case today.
This nursing facility is a "for-profit" Medicare and Medicaid-participating home providing services to residents of Farmington and Hartford County, Connecticut. The 130-certified bed long-term care center is located at:
416 Colt Highway
Farmington, Connecticut 06032
In addition to providing around the clock skilled nursing care, Amberwoods of Farmington offers other services. Additional focused care includes short-term and long term care, and physical, occupational, and speech therapies.
Fined $12,678 for substandard care
Both the state of Connecticut and federal agencies penalize nursing homes by denying reimbursement payments from Medicare or imposing monetary fines anytime the facility is cited for a serious violation of established regulations and rules that harm or could harm residents.
Medicare has cited this facility for abuse. Medicare says that "every nursing home resident deserves to retain their basic human dignity and be treated with respect at all times. Abuse and neglect are never acceptable." Nursing homes "cited for abuse are required to take steps to protect their residents."
Within the last three years, federal investigators imposed a monetary fine against Amberwoods of Farmington for $12,678 on March 23, 2018, citing substandard care. This nursing facility received three complaints and self-reported three serious issues over the last three years that resulted in violation citations.
Additional information concerning the facility can be reviewed on the comprehensive Connecticut Department of Social Services Adult Protective Services Website.
Farmington Connecticut Nursing Home Safety Concerns
Our attorneys review data on every long-term and intermediate care facility on Medicare.com and the Connecticut Department of Public Health website.
According to Medicare, this facility maintains an overall rating of two out of five stars, including one out of five stars concerning health inspections, three out of five stars for staffing issues, and four out of five stars for quality measures.
Failure to Protect Every Resident from All Forms of Abuse Including Physical and Sexual Assault, Physical Punishment, and Neglect by Anybody – citation #F600 date May 21, 2018
The state investigators determined the nursing home "failed to ensure the resident was free from resident-to-resident abuse." The investigation involved a moderately cognitively impaired resident with "short-term and long-term memory problems" and was "always incontinent of bowel and bladder and had no falls," as documented in the resident's Quarterly MDS (Minimum Data Set) assessment.
The resident's psychiatric evaluation identified that the resident "had increased agitation for several weeks, had been grabbing the staff and not letting go, had been pacing the halls with an accelerated pace, and was difficult to redirect."
A Nurse's Note from March 9, 2018, during the 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM shift, identified that the resident "was up in the hallway pacing and was returned to bed but came back out, pacing and running in the hallway." The note says that the resident "was not easily redirected" and was given 'as needed' medication "for agitation at 1:38 AM."
A few hours later, at 3:45 AM, it was documented as a reportable event that the pacing resident "was observed squatting over [another resident's] torso, squeezing his/her cheeks. The residents were immediately separated and [the aggressive resident] was placed on one-on-one observation until sent to the emergency room for evaluation."
In a separate summary statement of deficiencies dated May 23, 2018, the facility "failed to ensure that a resident was free from abuse when another resident was not adequately supervised and threatened to harm the resident with a knife."
A review of the aggressive resident's clinical record identified that this resident "was found obtaining and holding knives, hitting the walls with a knife, and grabbing knives off the silverware cart" on four separate occasions between January 13, 2018 and January 31, 2018.
On both February 3, 2018 and February 4, 2018, the resident "was found again with knives or had a knife with towels wrapped around the handle and secured with electrical tape, with the sharp edge sticking out."
Neglected at Amberwoods of Farmington? Let Us Help You Today
Were you the victim of mistreatment, neglect, or abuse while living at Amberwoods of Farmington? Contact the Connecticut nursing home abuse prevention lawyers at Nursing Home Law Center at (800) 926-7565 for immediate legal intervention. We represent Hartford County victims of abuse and neglect in all areas, including Farmington.
Our legal team invites you to discuss your case with us today through an initial, free claim consultation. Also, we provide a 100% "No Win/No-Fee" Guarantee, meaning you will not owe us anything until after we have secured a monetary recovery for your family. All information you share with our law offices will remain confidential.
Attorney Nicholas E. Wocl
Licensed in Connecticut
Connecticut Cities
Amberwoods of Farmington Inspection Findings & Ratings, Farmington, CT :: Nursing Home Law Center


Hope Research Institute is an independent, multi-specialty clinical research site that focuses on multiple therapeutic areas. HOPE is proud to boast many affiliations from small private practices to large multi-center facilities of experienced Valley physicians with excellent reputations, both in an inpatient or outpatient setting.
Each researcher at Hope Research Institute has been certified in Good Clinical Practices (GCP), ensuring that each study is conducted according to protocol and with strict adherence to all federal regulations.
Hope Research Institute works with investigative sites across the country, providing a wide selection of therapeutic expertise, geographic location, and a diverse patient population. HOPE works closely with each investigative site to guarantee excellence in clinical research.
Hope Research Institute is an exclusive partner for clinical research at Scottsdale Liberty Hospital, previously Freedom Pain Hospital. As the first and only pain specialty hospital in the nation, this partnership moves both entities to the forefront of pain research.


text:
Local 10 News Saturday @ 6AM
The latest local, regional and national news events of the morning are presented by the Local 10 News Team along with updated sports, weather and traffic.
STEELE CHAMBERS
No. 2 Ohio State holds off Terps 43-30, Michigan next
Dallan Hayden scored three touchdowns in the second half of No. 2 Ohio State's 43-30 victory over Maryland to set up a monumental matchup of unbeatens next weekend between the Buckeyes and rival Michigan.
Fields throws 5 TD passes, No. 3 Ohio State beats Rutgers
Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields throws a pass against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, in Columbus, Ohio. Fields threw two touchdown passes to Chris Olave, with Jameson Williams, Garrett Wilson and Jeremy Ruckert also recipients of scoring passes. Wilson caught six passes for 104 yards for Ohio State, and Fields completed passes to nine receivers. They battled Ohio State but couldn't climb out of the hole they dug early. Ohio State: The Buckeyes were sloppy and got stuck in the mud at times, but Fields can make things happen.


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Q: Duplicate value in XMLAGG and RTRIM SQL Query The Below query brings in duplicate values
SELECT maxuser.userid,
       person.displayname,
       maxuser.status,
       sod_Report.severity,
       sod_Report.scenario,
       RTRIM(XMLAGG(Xmlelement(E,groupuser.groupname,',').EXTRACT('//text()')   ORDER BY groupuser.groupname).GetClobVal(),',') groupname
FROM   maxuser
       INNER JOIN person
               ON maxuser.userid = person.personid
       LEFT OUTER JOIN maximo.groupuser
                    ON maxuser.userid = groupuser.userid
                       AND maxuser.userid = person.personid
       LEFT OUTER JOIN sod_report
                    ON sod_report.userid = maxuser.userid
                       AND sod_report.userid = person.personid
WHERE  1 = 1
       AND (( maxuser.userid LIKE '%XX%' ))
GROUP  BY maxuser.userid,
          person.displayname,
          maxuser.status,
          sod_Report.severity,
          sod_Report.scenario

The output is coming as below
USERID  DISPLAYNAME  GROUPNAME
 XXXX    Test User   A1,A1,B1,B1,C1,C1

Expected output
USERID  DISPLAYNAME  GROUPNAME
XXXX    Test User    A1,B1,C1

I have to use RTRIM and XMLAGG since the output of GROUPNAME should be displayed in single line separated by commas. This is for Oracle database , Please advise.

A: Demo
Add an additional step before the aggregation, that uses ROW_NUMBER.
create table groupuser (groupname varchar2(100));

insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('A1');
insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('A1');
insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('B1');
insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('B1');
insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('C1');
insert into groupuser (groupname) values ('C1');

select  listagg (case when rn=1 then groupname end,',') within group (order by groupname)

from   (select  groupname
               ,row_number () over (partition by groupname order by null) as rn

        from    groupuser
        )
;

select  rtrim(xmlagg(case when rn=1 then xmlelement(e,groupname,',').extract('//text()') end order by groupname).getclobval(),',')

    from   (select  groupname
                   ,row_number () over (partition by groupname order by null) as rn

            from    groupuser
            )
    ;

SELECT userid,
       displayname,
       status,
       severity,
       scenario,
       RTRIM(XMLAGG(Xmlelement(E,groupname,',').EXTRACT('//text()')   ORDER BY groupname).GetClobVal(),',') groupname

FROM (
        SELECT maxuser.userid,
               person.displayname,
               maxuser.status,
               sod_Report.severity,
               sod_Report.scenario,
               groupuser.groupname,
               row_number () over (partition by groupuser.groupname order by null) as rn

        FROM   maxuser
               INNER JOIN person
                       ON maxuser.userid = person.personid
               LEFT OUTER JOIN maximo.groupuser
                            ON maxuser.userid = groupuser.userid
                               AND maxuser.userid = person.personid
               LEFT OUTER JOIN sod_report
                            ON sod_report.userid = maxuser.userid
                               AND sod_report.userid = person.personid
        WHERE  1 = 1
               AND (( maxuser.userid LIKE '%XX%' ))
    ) t

GROUP BY userid,
       displayname,
       status,
       severity,
       scenario
;

A: You can use regular expression
select rtrim(regexp_replace('A1,A1,B1,B1,C1,C1','(\w+)(,(\1))+,?','\1,'),',') from dual

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


People need razor blades for a vast range of uses despite their age and gender. Since they cannot be shared to prevent the spread of infections spread through contact of blood, most people find themselves spending so much on the purchase of the items due to the poor choices they make. To avoid falling victims of people who buy the razors only to find it useless after the first or second use, therefore, prompting them to make another purchase. This article aims at explaining some of the essential tips and guidelines that should be put into consideration when choosing the products in the market to ensure that they end up with high-quality choices that can not only last for long but also deliver satisfactorily as well.
Just like any other products in the market today, razor blades also come in a vast range of sharpness depending on their quality and thickness. It is upon the client to select what they prefer whether they want the sharpest or the medium ones. Contrary to what most people believe, however, sharper is not the best. Most users have found out with the time that razor blades with medium sharpness are the best and most effective and it is essential to always remember so during the selection and purchase process.
It is another essential element to keep in mind when choosing the brands and models of the razor blades in the market today. While the level of performance varies from one brand to another just like any other products, several factors may contribute to the same as well. The safety of the selected razor blade, the shaving cream or soap in use as well as the thickness of the beard are among the leading factors that affect the performance of the tool. It is therefore essential to put all the relevant factors in mind when determining the performance of the blade. It is also true to remember that no specific formula can be used to calculate the suitability and appropriateness of the razor especially for a short time span and one, therefore, has to apply trial and error until they get their perfect match. Read more at https://rockwellrazors.com.
It is also vital to go for the blades such as rockwell safety razor that last the longest to help one to save as much money as they can. Depending on the number of applications, most razors last as long as 4-5 shaves on average and anything that lasts once or twice may not be cost effective. Get more here: https://www.huffingtonpost.com/amar-hussain/everything-guys-need-to-k_b_10346318.html.


text:
batmanbournecinemadark knightfightfilmindiana jonesjim carreyjokerliar liarmightiermovienaked gunpenpencilshaun of the deadswordthe faculty
The pen is mightier than the sword
Picture this: you're in a fight, possibly to the death, and you're on the brink of losing. You're scrabbling around to find purchase on something, anything to give you an advantage. Your fingers grasp a thin object. Dimly, through the red mist, you realise the tides are turning, your luck is in; for you have come into your possession a weapon mightier than most in the world of movies: the humble pen.
Many a movie fight has conveniently been won this way. I suppose this is typical of the cinematic world because we all know, in real life, you can never find a bloody pen when you want one. And the chances of one finding your questing fingers during a fight are next to nil.
But then, maybe that's why it works. Fate is a cruel mistress and likes to throw us a lifeline when we least expect it. Anyway, moving on. To celebrate the pen (and pencil), let's look at movie scenes where this unassuming little object has briefly taken the limelight.
The Bourne Identity (2002)
Guy flies through the window with a machine gun then comes at you with a knife, what do you do? Calmly grab a pen and dispatch him, that's what. Jason Bourne, still absent memory, demonstrates how lethal a biro can really be. Pen vs. knife? The knife stood no chance.
Liar Liar (1997)
'The colour of the pen that I hold in my hand is…ROYAL BLUE!' Jim Carrey at his overacting best in the late '90s, as a lawyer condemned to tell the truth as the result of a birthday wish made by his son. Silly, but entertaining stuff.
The Naked Gun (1988)
The Japanese fighting fish; beautiful, graceful and elegant. Quickly gets skewered with a rare Samurai pen by Lieutenant Frank Drebin, Police Squad! The pen in question being unbreakable, impervious to everything but water. Pure comedy gold.
'You've got red on you.' Shaun's pen leaks on his shirt early on in the film: a portent of things to come and an observant nod to the mindless and banal comments people say every day. Here's a little compilation from the film. Ah, zombie-filled memories.
"Give me one reason why I shouldn't have my boy here pull your head off? 'How about a magic trick?'" Quite simply one of the best character entrances to a film in recent years. Heath Ledger's Joker took us all by surprise. He begins with a simple pencil…
Another entry for the Joker, this time Jack Nicholson's flamboyant portrayal. Here he sports a wonderful feather quill pen, used to chilling effect to spear someone in the throat. Was Heath Ledger's version in The Dark Knight an update of this scene? Both dark and compelling with a macabre sense of humour.
The Faculty (1998)
Always considered this film, directed by Robert Rodriguez, a bit of a guilty pleasure. With slightly cringing lines like 'Aliens are taking over the fucking school' and Famke Janssen asking for something 'cherry flavoured'. This pen-related scene sees Josh Hartnett's character stab his teacher in the eye, then watch in horror as he visibly dissolves.
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)
You're Dr. Jones (Sean Connery) and you're trapped in the body of a steel beast, otherwise known as a tank. You spot a chance to escape and end up grappling with the nearest Nazi soldier. Victory comes in the form of a squirting ink pen, leading your companion, Marcus Brody, to exclaim 'The pen is mightier than the sword!'
Goldeneye (1995)
Click, click, spin, click, spin, spin…BOOM! The old exploding pen trick. A classic Bond scene, building to an explosive finish. Pierce Brosnan's Bond held captive, watching a programmer attempt to break a guidance code before Sean Bean's bad guy rocket plummets back to earth. Little does he know he holds an explosive pen in his hand.
bournedamongilroygovermentgreengrasslegacymemoryrennerspytreadstoneultimatumweisz
Bourne again? Jeremy Renner and his green pills – Tony Gilroy's legacy
Does it strike you as funny that of two films that are currently out at the cinema – one a remake, one a sequel of sorts – both are to do with memory loss?
I am, of course, talking about the Total Recall and the Bourne Legacy, the latter of which I saw recently and want to discuss.
First things first, I am a fan of Jeremy Renner and Rachel Weisz, the former for the Hurt Locker and The Town, and the latter for just being Mrs Daniel Craig. Seriously, there's a lot of films which were significantly lifted by her presence; About a Boy, The Fountain, Enemy at the Gates, Runaway Jury and, yes, even The Mummy (seriously, she makes Brendan Fraser bearable).
In terms of the Bourne Legacy, Renner was solid as a spy, you believed he could do the things he did. Particularly his Alaska section, which reminded me slightly of Into the Wild, with Emile Hirsch, just with more explosions and less depressing deaths. He fought like Bourne and was just as resourceful, however he just didn't seem as accessible as Damon. Maybe it's easier to identify with a man trying to regain his memory and make sense of his situation, whereas Renner's Aaron Cross is in full possession of his memory, and is primarily trying to shake his dependency on drugs (which we'll discuss more in a bit).
Perhaps in contrast to Cross's cold, calm nature, Weisz is the emotional warmth of the film. Beautiful, intelligent, and a Doctor – I once read an article where she was voted the woman that men would most like to marry – too bad James Bond beat us to it!
As far as the link between this film and the preceding trilogy, the last two of which Paul Greengrass directed, you can see how they've tried to expand the world of shady goverment agencies with 'assets' placed across the globe in multiple, sinister programmes/experiments. It's a nice link, but I don't think it goes far enough.
Perhaps too much time was spent on Renner's character hanging out the in the wilderness, then racing across from the US to Manila in search of medication. I wonder if there would have been more mileage in exploring how Aaron Cross came to be in the programme? Treadstone or Blackbriar or whichever one he was in. This was touched on in the film, but it would have been very interesting to explore further.
There was a scene where he was all beaten up, with cuts all over his face, talking to some figure out of shot. Did he go through the same process as Bourne? Sticking with the memory theme could have been intriguing. The trick is to keep it grounded in the real world. Paul Greengrass did an excellent job of this, particularly with stunts and fight scenes. I think, perhaps, Tony Gilroy let it become too 'Hollywood' and too detached. You got a sense that Bourne was always vulnerable. In contrast, Aaron Cross seemed too 'action man', holding his guns up to his chest, shooting round corners etc – too showy – like he could do almost anything, up to the point when he gets shot, then finally seems human. Let's not forget, in the original trilogy Bourne kills someone with a biro, that's realism!
I suppose what frustrated me was Bourne had a solid cause – recover his memory and expose Treadstone. Cross just didn't seem to have a clear plan beyond wanting off his medication. There's even a scene where says to Weisz's character that if she doesnt know what to do next, he'll find the next guy that does and ask him. It almost felt like script meetings Gilroy and his team must have had. Does someone know where this story is going beyond Cross getting off his medication? Will he go after Treadstone and the rest? Will he settle down with Weisz somewhere in Asia, only rousing himself to exact revenge after she gets murdered? No, wait, that's the plot of the second film. Will the audience stick with us whilst we compare notes?
Perhaps I am being too harsh. Greengrass and Damon set the bar extremely high with Ultimatum and Supremacy. So much so that you only notice when the next Director comes along and tries to pick up the baton. In some ways I hope they get another crack at it, but it really needs a firm direction and killer script. Now Cross is off his medication, what next? Would it be the ultimate if Greengrass and Damon returned and teamed up with Renner? The ultimate Ultimatum if you will. Is that Gilroy's hope? Like an Avengers film, but set in the Bourne world, hmmm.
Anyway, I've written more than I intended and my imagination is getting carried away as usual. What do you guys think of Bourne Legacy? Is it worthy of a follow up film? Or two? Should Gilroy try and get Greengrass back in the driving seat? Would Damon and Renner make a good team? So many questions. Right, where did I put my green pills…
Comment August 30, 2012 June 17, 2013 michaelpiggott
anton corbijnbournedusk till dawngeorge clooneyhannaocean's eleventakenthe americanviolante placido
Clooney and Lake Como – the lacklustre American
For this post I'd like to review a film I watched recently that's been on DVD for a little while, The American, starring George Clooney. Nothing new you might say, but I like to think my take on it is fresh, or at least personal to me, so here goes.
Question: you're an up and coming director (Anton Corbijn), how do you get a A-list actor to appear in your film? Answer: show him the script (where not a great deal happens) and explain the film takes place a stone's throw from his Italian home at Lake Como. Seal the deal by introducing him to the actress he'll be opposite for much of the film, the achingly beautiful Violante Placido. Then you're in business!
Ok, maybe I am being a little cynical. I am sure the fact the film was set in Italy didn't influence Clooney one bit. That said, the sort of minimalist, gritty, European feel to the film was a good way to set the tone. It was a sort of brooding, reflective version of a Bourne film, i.e. an assassin type laying low trying to figure out who is trying to kill him, versus assassin type running around Europe trying to get his memory back, whilst trying to figure out who is trying to kill him.
Make no mistake, I am not saying The American compares to the Bourne films in any way, other than a similarity in terms of setting the scene and the European feel. It also shares similar DNA with Hanna, the Joe Wright directed piece that was a sort of modern version of Leon. Actually, come to think of it, a lot of films have followed where Bourne has led, in terms of European setting with short, sharp Krav-maga esque fight sequences. Taken, with Liam Neeson is another example. Although I am moving off the point here, back to The American.
Did Clooney convince as an assassin who had lost his edge? I would say on occasion. Maybe he was let down by the script. In general, just not much happened, it was all fairly slow paced. Maybe that was the idea. Keep it slow and sleepy then hit the audience with bursts of action, like Clooney chasing an assassin who has caught up with him on a moped – you cannot get more Italian than that!
I suppose, even for a film where an assassin was meant to be in hiding/laying low, most of us want to see more ruthless, assassin type behaviour. The aforementioned scene with the moped chase was short but sweet in that respect. Clooney chasing a hitman who has failed to whack him, shooting out his tyres forcing him to crash, then throttling him. It was quite bad-ass and reminded me of a scene in Out of Sight, where he has to prove he can handle himself in prison, smacking Don Cheadle's heavy enforcer in the face with a book. Similarly, Dusk till Dawn, one of his breakout films, introduced him with more edge, moving away from any heartthrob ER days, less Ocean's Eleven smugness, more tattoos up his neck and tough attitude.
So, to sum up, I think The American is worth a watch if you've got a spare evening, but it's not vintage Clooney, and it's not a vintage assassin film either. Maybe a solid 3 out 5 stars. Watchable, but just not that engaging. If you want shots of pretty, picturesque Italian towns and the super sexy Violante Placido, then it's worth a viewing!
1 Comment August 10, 2012 June 17, 2013 michaelpiggott


text:
Tue, 12 Nov 2019 0:00
aired from: May 2000
to: Jun 2000
cancelled/ended 6 eps, 4 unaired ABC (US) 30 min animated
Jeff Anderson as the voice of Randal Graves
Jason Mewes as the voice of Jay
Brian O'Halloran as the voice of Dante Hicks
Kevin Smith as the voice of Silent Bob
Continuation of the adventures of the characters from the 1994 film, slackers in part-time jobs at a convenience store.
1.     1-1                 14 Dec 02   Leonardo Leonardo Returns and Dante Has an Important Decision to Make
2.     1-2                 07 Jun 00   The Clipshow Wherein Dante and Randal are Locked in the Freezer and Remember Some of the Great Moments in Their Lives
3.     1-3                 14 Dec 02   Leonardo is Caught in the Grip of an Outbreak of Randal's Imagination and Patrick Swayze Either Does or Doesn't Work in the New Pet Store
4.     1-4                 31 May 00   A Dissertation on the American Justice System by People Who Have Never Been Inside a Courtroom, Let Alone Know Anything About the Law, but Have Seen Way Too Many Legal Thrillers
5.     1-5                 14 Dec 02   Dante and Randal and Jay and Silent Bob and a Bunch
6.     1-6                 14 Dec 02   The Last Episode Ever
The unaired episodes were released on DVD in February 2001 and eventually shown on TV on Comedy Central in December 2002.
The list from TVmaze has the episodes in production order, as they appear on the DVD, whereas the list from TV.com has them in airdate order.


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I know I almost missed the boat (the S.S. grilling season). While this recipe came out at the beginning of summer (and despite its absolute simplicity), I was not able to make the recipe until now. I have always used wooden skewers, and this recipe requires metal skewers. I ordered the $7 Norpro 12″ skewers as recommended by Cook's Illustrated.
The results were very-evenly-cooked, medium-rare steaks (in 2-1/2 hours). The intense heat from the chimney starter gave a beautiful char on the outside, and an even pink all the way through. No grey band. Unfortunately, I did not take a picture of the perfect evenness from top to bottom of the steak. Here are other people pictures of grey band, versus an even medium rare that you can expect with this recipe. 5-stars.
My steaks took 2 full hours in the oven to come up to 120-degrees. Because the oven is so low, it is easy to perfectly cook the steaks. But if you want medium steaks; be prepared to wait up to an extra 30 minutes.
Kosher salt is always recommended for when sprinkling on meat, because the flakes adhere better to the mean that the granules of regular granules of table salt. Also, because it is less dense it is easier to get an even coating of salt.
As you can see from my photos; I made 3 sets of steaks instead of the 2 called for in the recipe. But because the grilling time is so quick; there are no adjustments necessary.
Start time 4:00 PM. Ready at 6:15 PM.
Remove 1/2 cube of butter from refrigerator and allow to soften on counter-top for an hour; or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds.
Mix together the ingredients for the compound butter and refrigerate.
Cut away the fat cap from the steaks; to prevent flare-ups. Set a rack to the middle of your oven and pre-heat to 200-degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil (for easy cleanup) and set a wire rack on top.
Cut each steak in half crosswise; creating four 8-ounce steaks. Cut 1/16″-deep slits on both sides of steaks every 1/4″; creating a crosshatch.
Sprinkle both sides of each steak with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (2 teaspoons total). Lay steak halves flat on counter and pass two 12″ metal skewers horizontally through the steaks; spacing them 1-1/2″ apart, Be sure to leave 1/4″ space between steak halves. Set the steaks on the rack you prepared is Step 1. Repeat skewering process with the remaining steaks.
Tent the skewered steaks with aluminum foil (still on wire rack); allowing to rest while you light to coals in the next step.
Ignite a large chimney starter halfway filled with charcoal briquettes (3 quarts). After about 15 minutes when the top-most coals are completely covered in fine grey ash. Reserve the foil and pat the steaks dry with paper towels.
Use tongs to place one set of steaks directly over chimney; resting the skewers on rim of chimney; suspending the meat over the coals (see photo below). Cook for 1 minute per side until both sides are well browned. Return the first set of steaks to wire rack in sheet, season with pepper, and tent with reserved foil. Repeat the charring process with second set of skewered steaks.
Remove skewers from steaks and serve with compound butter.
I never trust Chris Kimball when it comes to spicy food. His Yankee palate just doesn't understand the flavors of southwestern cooking. True to form, today's recipe is not nearly hot enough; zero-alarm chili. Also in the back of my mind is that Many of Chris Kimball's chili recipes turn out to be very expensive (see this $26, 3-star chili). Plus my kids are just as happy with cheap, ground beef chili; So no reason to spend 3-times as much.
As unlikely as it seems; Chris Kimball reaches a happy medium with this recipe; rich flavor of freshly ground chiles, but easy to eat (just 1/4″-chunks ). Plus it uses $3/lb ground beef. Of course, while not hot enough (next time I will add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper), there is a lot of delicious complexity here. Definitely worth making; 4-stars, but I could easily see a hotter version almost reaching the maximum 5-stars.
It can sometimes be hard to find whole chiles, so I recommend buying them beforehand so you don't have to run to multiple supermarkets. This recipe calls for Ancho chiles (in California they are called Pasillo; which are dried poblano peppers), but you can substitute guajillo which are hotter.
Chris Kimball says that this chili can be made up to 3 days in advance. I recommend re-heating on the stove-top rather than the microwave, for better flavor. Just add a little water to maintain the desired consistency.
Cost: $11. (not including garnishes).
Start time 3:00 PM. Ready at 6:15 PM.
Additional garnishes: diced avocado, sour cream, and shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese, tortilla chips and/or steamed white rice.
Set a rack to lower-middle of your oven and pre-heat to 275-degrees. In a medium-sized bowl, add beef, 2 tablespoons water, 1-1/2 teaspoons salt, and 3/4-teaspoon baking soda. Toss until thoroughly combined, and set aside for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, remove the stems for the chiles and tear then into 1″-sized pieces. Set a Dutch oven set over medium-high burner; Add chiles and toast for 4 to 6 minutes until they become fragrant, stirring frequently. If the chiles begin to smoke, then reduce the burner. Allow to cool in the bowl of a food processor.
Add tortilla chips, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, oregano, thyme, and 2 teaspoons pepper to bowl food processor. Process for 2 minutes until it becomes finely ground. Empty spices into a small bowl. Process the tomatoes with their juice in the food processor for 30 seconds until smooth.
Dice your onion and peel your garlic.
Add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil to the empty Dutch oven, set over medium-high burner. Add diced onion at cook for 4 to 6 minutes until softened; stir occasionally. Press garlic directly into pot and cook for just 1 minutes. Add beef mixture from Step 1. Cook beef for 12 to 14 minutes; breaking up meat into 1/4″-pieces as it cooks. The beef should begin to brown and a fond should begin to form on the bottom of the Dutch oven. Add spice mixture from Step 3 and continue to cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes; to bloom the spices.
Add 2 cups of water, 2 teaspoons sugar, tomato puree, and pinto beans and their liquid. Bring up to a boil, and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Cover with lid, move to pre-heated oven. Cook for 1-1/2 to 2 hours until the meat is tender and chili has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking.
Uncover chili and let it sit for 10-minutes. Meanwhile, prepare any of your garnishes.
After 10 minutes stir to re-incorporate any fat that has risen to the top and add 2 tablespoons cider vinegar.
Adjust seasoning with salt to taste. Serve, passing separately the lime wedges, cilantro, chopped onion and other garnishes.
With my two sons back in school, I've dusted off my various Sandwich Breads recipe and I've updated it to reflect my ever-changing bread requirements. Happily, I now have new standing mixer, which lets me build gluten the old-fashioned way (by kneading). Kneading speeds the process of gluten development so much, that I can comfortable make a sturdy loaf in just 2 hours. Also, I replaced by broken kitchen scale with this cheap $12 scale. While I loved the functionality of my old $50 Oxo kitchen scale, I decided not to replace it because of it's apparent fragility (it broke after a very small fall).
Small 12-hour loaf without standing mixer.
Large 12-hour loaf with standing mixer.
Bulk Instant (Rapid Rise) Yeast. ($3/lb here). Enough for 72 loaves of sandwich bread.
Bread made without any preservatives goes stale relatively fast. I make this bread sans preservatives and is still good after 3 days; mostly my bread only needs to last 3 days. If you want it to last all week; e.g. to bake this bread on Sunday and have it stay fresh through Friday's lunch. I found a list of natural preservatives that can use in sandwich bread. I sometimes use granulated lecithin (which I bought online).
Do not cut your loaf before it has cooled to room temperature (about 80-degrees). I recommend a full 3 hours of cooling time. I have sliced my bread after 2 hour, and the next morning woke to see condensation in the bag. If you ever see moister in the bag; put it into a new bag to prevent mold.
Starting to bake the loaf at higher temperatures during the first 7 minutes (in Step 8) gives great "oven spring" so you don't get a dense loaf. But reducing the temperature after 7 minutes you will also ensure that the crust doesn't get too dark by the time the loaf reached an internal temperature of 200-to-205-degrees.
I made two loaves this week because my Monday loaf turned out so lopsided; which my kids and I have dubbed Quasimodo. The loaf started out fine, but because the weather has been cold I let the loaf rise on my stove-top (while the oven pre-heated to 425-degrees). Unfortunately, half the loaf was too close to the oven vent and the loaf rose unevenly. It didn't look too bad, until the oven spring kicked in and ended up extremely lopsided (in person the loaf looked even more lopsided than the photo).
Adjust an oven rack to low-middle position. and pre-heat oven to 200-degrees, then immediately turn it off. You will use the residual heat of the oven to speed the first rise in a cool kitchen.
Add water and milk to a Pyrex measuring cup (at least 2 cup capacity); heat in microwave for 1m until mixture reaches 105-degrees. Mix in yeast, sugar, granulated lecithin and olive oil; allow to hydrate for 5 minutes.
While the yeast hydrates, add the dry ingredients to the bowl of standing mixer fitted with dough hook.
Turn on standing mixer to lowest speed and slowly add liquid; use a rubber spatula to scrape out anything left at the bottom of the measuring cup. After the dough has come together, increase speed to 4 on KitchenAid mixer (medium-low on other models). Continue mixing for 10 minutes. The dough will become smooth, add a little more flour or water if necessary.
Gently turn the dough out onto a lightly-floured work surface. Gently press the dough into a rectangle so that it corresponds to the length of your loaf pan. Spray top of dough with tap water and roll up into a tight log. Move dough into pan and softly press so that it touches all four sides of the pan. Spray top with dough with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the dough from deflating in Step 10.
Cover loosely with plastic wrap (realizing that the loaf will grow above the top of the pan). Place it in a warm spot in your kitchen for between 20 minutes to 30 minutes; until the dough has doubled in size and does not readily spring back when you poke it with your finger.
About 20 minutes prior to baking, begin pre-heating your oven to 425-degrees.
Carefully remove plastic wrap, spray the loaf three times with tap water from a spray bottle, and place loaf pan in 425-degree oven. Set kitchen timer for 23 minutes corresponding to the total cooking time. After 7 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 375-degrees and turn loaf 180-degrees. Bake uncovered for 8 additional minutes until the top crust reaches your desired color. Tent with aluminum foil to keep the loaf top from over browning; baking for remaining 8 to 10 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the loaf will reads 205-degrees when the loaf is done. Carefully remove bread from pan, and allow to cool on a wire rack for 3 hour before slicing (ensure that loaf is no warmer than 80-degrees).
During my googling I noticed that many recipes call for Toasted Sesame oil; something not included by Chris Kimball. But he hit the nail on the head when he calls for broiling the fish 8-inches from the broiler element. A distance that allows for the fish to both caramelize and cook evenly at the same time.
I made the version for only two people, because my older son won't eat seafood. But the main recipe is for 4 people.
While Chris Kimball says that the fish needs as little as 6 hours to marinate, I would suggest going for a full 24 hours to marinate. Even with 24 hours that flavors are subtle; given that the traditional recipes take up to 3 days.
Because fish is so delicate, it's important to use fillets of similar thickness so that they cook evenly. It is recommended to buy a large center-cut fillet (between 1-1/2 and 2 pounds, if serving 4) and cut into equal pieces.
Any shade of miso can be used: yellow, red, or brown types can. But the recipe calls for the sweet, fruity flavor of white miso.
In a medium bowl, add miso, sugar, sake, and mirin. Whisk together until sugar and miso dissolve; the mixture will be thick.
Dip each fish fillet into the mixture to cover all sides of flesh (you can skip the skin). Set in a baking dish with the skin-side downwards, and empty any extra mixture over the fish. Cover with plastic wrap and put in refrigerator for 24 hours (bare minimum of 6 hours).
Set an oven rack so that it is 8-inches from the broiler element. Pre-heat broiler.
Put a wire rack in a rimmed baking sheet, cover rack with aluminum foil. Use your fingers to scrape away the miso mixture from the fish, and move skin-side down on to the foil. Be sure to leave 1″ between the pieces of fish.
Broil salmon for 10 to 14 minutes; rotate 180-degrees after 6 minutes. The fish will be ready when the center of the fish reads 125-degrees on an instant read thermometer.
Serve passing with lemon wedges.
The chilly mornings have gotten me in the mood for soup (after a long summer soup hiatus). So I made a batch of this Broccoli-Cheese Soup. Preparing the broccoli took me almost 30 minutes; mostly because the recipe asks me to peel the stalks. However, I am now wondering if I misunderstood the extent to which the recipe requires me to peel the stalks (further discussed under issues section below). What I believe is an error in the original recipe, makes me believe that I overcooked the broccoli (See Issue #1 below). The overcooking gave the broccoli a slightly off taste. I can only give the soup 3-1/2 stars; though the soup has potential and I will try again.
There was an error in the original recipe (I believe that Chris Kimball wanted me to reduce burner from medium-high so as to maintain a simmer; not the full boil over medium-high burner). In Step 6, the recipe says to "increase heat to medium-high"; but it was already on high from Step 2. I overcooked my broccoli; giving it a slightly off flavor.
Peeling the Stalks. The recipe simply says: "stems trimmed, peeled, and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices." Unfortunately the instructions were unclear. I wasn't understanding if I had to break each stalk of the main trunk and peeling each branch individually. This was a lot of work! I would recommend leaving the entire stalk as one piece and only peel away the outer skin that is accessible.
When trimming the stalk; discard any leaves or blemishes. I would also recommend slicing off the bottom inch of the stem. Slice the remaining stem into the 1/4-inch disks.
When removing the crowns, slice straight through the broccoli stem as close to the crown as you can get.
Start time 5:00 PM. Ready at 6:15 PM.
Prepare the broccoli by removing the florets and roughly chopping into 1″-pieces. Trim away and leaves and remove the bottom inch of the stem. Peel the stalk and cut into 1/4″-thick slices. Also roughly chop 1 onion.
Set a large Dutch oven over medium-high burner. Add butter and when the foaming subsides, add broccoli (florets and stems), chopped onion, pressed garlic, dry mustard, pinch of cayenne, and 1 teaspoon salt.
Cook for 6 minutes; stirring frequently.
Add 1 cup water and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda. Bring liquid up to a simmer, cover with lid, and cook from 20 minutes until the broccoli becomes very soft. Stir once during cooking.
While the broccoli cooks; grate your cheeses.
Add 2 cups chicken broth and 2 cups water. Increase burner to medium-high.
Once the soup begins to simmer, stir in spinach and cook for 1 minute until wilted.
Carefully empty half of soup into jar of a blender (I used a bowl with a lip in order to spill less), add cheddar and Parmesan to blender. Process for 1 minute until smooth. Empty soup from blender to medium bowl (or pot if empty). Repeat the blender with the remaining soup.
Return soup to Dutch oven and set over medium burner. Bring up to a simmer. Adjust the consistency of soup with up to 1 cup of water. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
Serve, passing extra grated parmesan separately.
It's been a month since we got back from our vacation, and it has taken a while to assemble this post. Of course, the main reason we came to South Africa was to go on safari; to see rare and exotic animals that you can only see here in Africa. We spent a week inside Kruger and were not disappointed, seeing all of the Big 5. Giraffe, elephant, zebra, buffalo and hippopotamus. We even saw the rarest of all; African Wild Dog.
We saw many, many elephant. There is currently an overpopulation of elephant in Kruger.
Leopards are elusive and usually spend their days sleeping in trees. We were lucky to have seen three.
We were very lucky and saw over 20 Rhinoceros; including one while we were on a bush hike (with armed rangers).
Even in my previous trip to Africa, I had never see Cheetah in the wild. We saw 5 cheetah; including two that walked just a few feet from our cars. It's all just dumb luck; being in the right place at the right time.
Kruger National Park is about the size of New Jersey, but when you consider the adjoined parks and private game reserves the actual size doubles. What is different about Kruger than other places in Africa is that you can go on safari on your own; without guides and in your own vehicle (with just your family members). There is a common misconception that people think they should go with a guide because they know where the animals are. While guides are good at spotting animals in the distance, the excitement comes from seeing animals close up. The truth is that it's all just plain luck; there is no secret spot where certain animals spend their day. Every day we went out we never knew what we would see; but we always saw something new.
It wasn't until about 3 days into the park that we saw zebra.
Hyena are nocturnal. So we had to wake up at 5AM to see them as they walked back to their dens. We saw 3 over the course of our week inside the park.
I didn't realize ostrich were from Africa; until of coarse we saw some.
Buffalo are part of the Big 5; and often travel in huge herds.
Here are some of the miscellaneous animals we also saw.
What is unique about Kruger is that the network of dirt roads allows you to safari on your own.
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