text:
Soil microbe transplant could improve tree growth and remove more CO2
By Adam Vaughan
A site in Wales that is part of the tree-planting scheme run by The Carbon Community
The Carbon Community/Paul Box
The soil equivalent of a faecal microbiome transplant and the effect of sprinkling rock dust are to both be tested at scale in tree-planting schemes to see if they can turbocharge the amount of CO2 removed from the atmosphere.
In the past few weeks, UK charity The Carbon Community has planted 25,000 trees across 11.5 hectares of former farmland in Carmarthenshire, Wales. This forest will host a trailblazing experiment to see if and how the two approaches can accelerate carbon sequestration.
The first involved taking soil microbes and mycorrhizal fungi from a nearby established forest and using them to kickstart the saplings' growth, which has the potential to increase the amount of carbon that will be locked up in the trees' stems and the soil.
The second experiment is intended to speed up the natural rate at which rocks absorb carbon from the air, by taking basalt rock dust from a quarry around 30 kilometres away and adding it to soil during the planting, a process known as enhanced weathering.
Both measures will be applied to native broadleaf trees, including birch and oak, and to a conifer used for timber called the Sitka spruce.
The results could help inform reforestation projects globally including those led by the UK government, which needs to plant at least 30,000 hectares a year to meet its 2050 net zero target. Such nature-based solutions are seen as a vital tool for tackling climate change.
"Natural tree regeneration will take a very long time on sites like this," says Charles Nicholls at The Carbon Community, referring to the degraded nature of the soil on the former agricultural land. "If you look at both basalt and the microbiome injection, these are both natural processes that would happen anyway, but take decades. We are just trying to accelerate these natural processes."
Past research paints a mixed picture of their potential, says Colin Averill at ETH Zurich, Switzerland, who is one of the project's partners. Some studies show that manipulating the mycorrhizal communities in forests can increase tree growth and carbon removal by as much as 50-60 per cent but many other studies show no effect, he says. Averill is optimistic about the potential for a positive effect at the Welsh site, given the depleted nature of the soil there.
The first signs of the project's success or failure will be whether it outperforms average tree survival rates, which can be as high as 40 per cent in tree-planting schemes. That will be followed by data on carbon sequestration in around two years. Most of the trees will take 35 years to reach maturity, with the site's oaks taking longer still.
Sign up to our free Fix the Planet newsletter to get a dose of climate optimism delivered straight to your inbox, every Thursday


New York, NY – America Idol Season 8 contestant Allison Iraheta is set to release her debut album on 19 Recordings / Jive Records December 1. "Friday I'll Be Over U" the first single from her as yet untitled album, debuts on AOL Music (click here for music) at 11:00 AM ET/ 8:00 AM PT on Monday, October 5. The infectious pop rock song was written and produced by Swedish hitmaker Max Martin. "Friday I'll Be Over U" goes to radio Tuesday, October 6, and will be available for download on iTunes Tuesday, October 20.
Among the producers and writers on the forthcoming album are Max Martin (Britney, Pink, Kelly Clarkson), Howard Benson (Papa Roach, All American Rejects, Three Days Grace) and Kevin Rudolf (Lil Wayne, Cobra Starship).
Seventeen year old Southern California native Allison Iraheta made it to the Top 4 of the recently completed Season 8 of the FOX TV sensation American Idol. The vibrantly red-haired rocker was the youngest contestant ever (age 16) to make it into the Top 12. She had aspired to be on American Idol since its debut in 2002 when she was only 9. Early in the season Allison Iraheta caught the attention of Idol judges, with Kara DioGuardi commenting, "keep your eye on that girl!" One of her defining moments on the show was her performance of the heart-wrenching Bonnie Raitt classic "I Can't Make You Love Me" in the Top 8 round of performances.
Allison recently finished up the American Idols Live! Tour 2009 and is putting the final touches on her album.


Cloakroom basin 300 x 180 mm, in Ceramic, colour white, taphole right (or left), no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Dickwandiges, schmales Handwaschbecken aus Keramik, 360x180mm, Farbe weiß, Hahnloch rechts (wahlweise links), ohne Überlauf oder Ablagefläche, flaches Design, inklusive Befestigungsset, mit wahlweisem Zubehör wie angegeben.
Dünnwandiger, extravaganter Designerwaschtisch aus Keramik, 400x180mm, mit umlaufendem Rand und versenktem, flachem Haubenventil aus Keramik. Nur mit Hahnloch rechts lieferbar, inklusive Besfestigungsset, mit wahlweisem Zubehör wie angegeben.
Cloakroom basin 300 x 225 mm, in Ceramic, colour white, taphole right, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Originelle Handwaschbecken im Form einer Trillerpfeife, 390x230mm, aus Keramik, Farbe weiß, Hahnloch rechts (wahlweise links), ohne Überlauf. Der schmale "Balken" ermöglicht das Öffnen der Tür selbst in kleinsten Gäste-WC's, und dient gleichzeitig als Seifenablage. Inklusive Befestigungsset, mit wahlweisem Zubehör wie angegeben.
Besonders kleiner Waschtisch, mit Design-Effekt durch massive Wände und abgerundete Innenecken. Mit 80mm Hahnbank.
Cloakroom basin 340 x 290 mm, in Ceramic, colour white, central taphole, putdown space 80 mm, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Größeres Handwaschbecken aus Keramik, in rechteckiger Form, mit Ausbuchtung mittig, 440x250mm, Farbe weiß, Nur in der Version Hahnloch rechts, Ablage links lieferbar, ohne Überlauf, inklusive Befestigungsset, mit wahlweisem Zubehör wie angegeben.
Wash-fountain with 270 mm topmorent in 7 mm Ceramic, U-Shaped wall-bracket of polished stainless steel, no overflow, with taphole, including chromed spacer-ring and set of bolts.
Größerer Waschbrunnen, Ausführung wie BW 181, jedoch Keramikbecken mit 32 cm Durchmesser.
Cloakroom basin 500 x 145 mm, of mineral resin , colour white, taphole right(or left), large putdown space, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 480 x 165 mm, of Mineral resin , colour white, taphole right(or left), large putdown space, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 400 x 180 mm, in glossy resin , colour white, taphole right (or left), no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 350 x 200 mm, in glossy resin, colour white, taphole right, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 275 x 195 mm, in Glossy Mineral Resin , colour white, taphole right(or left), no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 415x207x210mm, in Mineral Resin, colour white, taphole right, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Cloakroom basin 370x225 mm, in Mineral Resin, colour white, taphole right, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessories as indicatet.
Accessories Paralux drain valve 40 mm, w/o stop effect, Design waste, mixer Artus-Slim, cold, water tap Triade.
Filigraner Mikro-Waschtisch aus BENESTONE, Hahnloch rechts, wahlweise links, kein Überlauf, Verfügbarer Stauraum links, verdeckter Ablauf, Zubehör wie angegeben.
Accessories Paralux drain vavle 40 mm, w/o stop effect, Design waste, mixer Artus-Slim, cold, water tap Triade.
Accessories Paralux drain valve 40mm, w/o stop effect Design waste, mixer Artus-Slim cold, water tap Triade.
Square-shaped Cloakroom basin 300 x 280 x 120 mm, with interated towel-bar, in white-mat solid surface BeneStone, concealed drain, no overflow, set of bolts included, accessoires as indicated.
Cloakroom washtable 400 x 250 mm of tempered frosted glass, with oval topmount basin, taphole right, no overflow,towelholders as supports, spacer-ring and set of bolts included,accessories as indicated.
Cloakroom washtable 400 x 250 mm, of tempered glass, colour as specified, cromed game of stainless steel, dubing as towel-bars, taphole side convertible, no overflow, 60 mm dome-valve and set of bolts included, accessories as specified.
Standard version Taphole side convertible, no overflow, 60 mm dome-valve and set of bolts included.
Cloakroom washtable 400 x 250 mm of tempered frosted glass, with topmount round 27 cm basin ,tapole right, no overflow, towel-holders as supports, spacer-ring and set of bolts included, accessories as indicated.
Wash-fountain with 270 mm round glass basin on u-shaped wall-bracket of polished stainless steel, no overflow, with taphole, including spacer-ring and set of bolts, accessoires as indicated.
Wash-fountain with 320 mm round glass basin on u-shaped wall-bracket of polished stainless steel, no overflow, with taphole, including spacer-ring and set of bolts, accessoires as indicated.
Schlankes Standventil mit einem Durchmesser von 28mm mit 3-Finger Griff, ohne Exzenter. Die Standventile mit 3/4 Zoll Anschluss, werden ohne Flexschläuche geliefert.


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On This Day (24 December 1904): Sunderland enjoy first-ever home league win over Newcastle!
It's a (red) and white Christmas as Sunderland take the spoils in the festive Wear-Tyne clash.
By SAFCMerch Dec 24, 2022, 6:00am GMT
The 1904-05 squad, as seen in Sunderland AFC: The Absolute Record
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The early Sunderland v Newcastle United league clashes were often a Yuletide fixture, and in 1899 and 1903 the Lads provided their fans with Christmas bonuses in the form of enjoyable derby day wins.
Both of those victories came on Tyneside, the second of which was played on Boxing Day. Christmas Eve was to be the date for the 1904 festive match though, and now it was the Wearsiders that were inviting the neighbours over.
Sunderland had not yet beaten Newcastle on home soil in a league match at this point, but that was about to change, and so we can now mark the 118th anniversary of a maiden Roker Park win over the old enemy.
The Magpies were sitting at the top of the Division One table when they set off for Wearside and would eventually win the league in 1904-05, but on this occasion, they were second best from the off. With less than a minute played Sunderland were ahead. While the visitors later drew level, they were never really able to cope with a rampant front line of Billy Hogg, Arthur Bridgett, Alf Common, Jimmy Gemmell and Harry Buckle.
Sunderland's opening scorer Dicky Jackson, as seen in Sunderland AFC: The Absolute Record The Players
Although their interplay and movement was a joy to watch, the opener came from a route one set piece. Attacking straight from kick-off, Sunderland quickly won a free kick that was sent into the box by Ephraim 'Dusty' Rhodes and headed in by Dicky Jackson under pressure. The reply came when Peter McWilliam's long-range effort from over by the Main Stand slipped past Ike Webb, but the Rokerites soon caught their opponents cold again and retook the lead almost immediately.
It was Buckle that scored who, after playing a lovely through ball to set up Hogg, was on hand to put away the rebound after Jimmy Lawrence had saved. A frantic spell was then rounded off when Bill Appleyard spurned the chance of a second equaliser for Newcastle, sending a penalty wide after they had also pushed forward straight from the restart.
After dominating possession and creating most of the chances Sunderland may have struggled to get themselves going again had they been pegged back once more, but they were instead able to continue dictating the tempo before making sure of the points with an hour gone.
The winner came from another dead ball, and after a corner had caused some confusion in the Newcastle defence Jackson was able to blast in his second.
Harry Buckle helped the Lads retake the lead, as seen in Sunderland AFC: The Absolute Record The Players
That wrapped up the Christmas scoring, but it was not for the want of trying.
Lawrence produced a series of saves as Sunderland attacked and United attempted to save some face, but even the most ardent of away supporters in the crowd would have been forced to acknowledge that they had witnessed a comfortable victory for the home team.
It was a much-needed boost for the Lads too, who had lost their previous three matches and were in the midst of an ongoing saga about alleged illegal payments.
The team was being overseen by caretaker boss Fred Dale, who had captained the club prior to it joining the league and had been put in temporary charge following the suspension of Alex Mackie.
The manager had been implicated in claims made by former defender Andy McCombie that he had been improperly gifted money by Sunderland officials. Just to up the ante, the full-back was now turning out for Newcastle. His presence back on Wearside meant this derby was even more highly charged than usual, and some sources attribute the first goal to the Scot after he'd gone up with Jackson to challenge for Rhodes' cross.
The current consensus however was that it wasn't an own goal, with Teessider Jackson thought to have made the big impact in the Wear-Tyne clash and getting things rolling in a 3-1 success that was repeated later in the season.
The return was once again played in the build-up to a religious holiday, taking place the day before Easter Sunday – a part of the year when, like Christmas, you might have to (through gritted teeth) mix with or have round people you wouldn't usually choose to spend time with.
At least on this day in 1904 the guests were sent on their way away empty-handed.
Football League Division One
Sunderland 3 (Jackson 1, 62, Buckle 30)
Newcastle United 1 (McWilliam 29)
Sunderland: Webb; Rhodes, Watson; Farquhar, Fullarton, Jackson; Hogg, Bridgett, Common, Gemmell, Buckle.
Roker Park, attendance c. 34,000

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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About Dave MacLeod
Dougald MacDonalda
And so it begins: Dave MacLeod casting off into the 30-plus-foot crux runout on his terrrifying Rhapsody (5.14c R/X), Dumbarton Rock, Scotland. Photo by Steven Gordon
The fall no man should take ... but that MacLeod took nine times. Photo by Steven Gordon
Over the past few years, this 29-year old, mild-mannered Scot has displayed a relish for unnerving feats on ice and rock, writing new legends into the history of 800-year-old Clan MacLeod, whose motto is "Hold fast!" In April 2006, MacLeod set the world on fire with his first ascent of Rhapsody, outside Glasgow. It's the hardest traditional route in the UK, the last bastion of dangerous rock climbing. At E11 7a, Rhapsody requires 5.14c climbing with 70-foot fall potential — MacLeod succeeded only after two years and numerous ankle-smashing rippers. He has free-soloed 5.14b and repeated E-desperates throughout the British Isles. He also has climbed 5.14c sport in Spain and established V13. And, highly unusual for a top rock climber, MacLeod excels at winter climbing: in 2005, he pioneered the hardest winter route in Scotland.	In fact, MacLeod may be the only climber in the world who has done the most difficult boulder problem, sport route, traditional route, and winter climb in his home country. Sure, Scotland is small, but so are Switzerland and Slovenia, each packed with great all-around climbers but none at the top of every game climbers play. And MacLeod isn't satisfied yet. He wants to complete a world-class route in each of these four disciplines... without leaving his cold, rainy home in northern Europe.
Dave MacLeod soloing Darwin Dixit (8c/5.14b) at Margalef, Spain. Photo by Claire MacLeod.
Raised in Glasgow, MacLeod discovered Dumbarton Rock, west of the city, soon after he started climbing, at age 14. A strategic site of fortresses dating back to the Dark Ages, Dumbarton's reddish-gray cliff rises about 225 feet above an urban wastescape at the junction of the rivers Leven and Clyde, sliced from an overgrown hillside like a glorified roadcut, surrounded by broken glass and rusting industrial debris. From an outsider's perspective, it's hard to imagine a worse place to develop into a world-class rock climber than Scotland. In this cold country of five million people, there are few great climbers to compete and collaborate with, at least compared to the hot English and Welsh scenes to the south.
Special thanks to Dave MacLeod's sponsors: Mountain Equipment, Gore Tex, Black Diamond and Scarpa
CLICK HERE for the FEATURE ARTICLE: Dumby Dave — Dave MacLeod and the dark art of RhapsodyBy Dougald MacDonaldClick Here for DAVE MACLEOD'S Blogs
Tell us what you think! Email to letters@climbing.com or Post a comment in our Forums — you could win Climbing's Letter of the Month and some choice gear!
Dave MacLeod - Pro Blogs
By Climbing
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Justia Dockets & Filings Ninth Circuit California Eastern District Hall v. Duffy Filing 15
Hall v. Duffy
FINDINGS and RECOMMENDATIONS signed by Magistrate Judge Allison Claire on 12/22/14 recommending that this action be dismissed without prejudice for failure to prosecute pursuant to Local Rule 110 and Fed. R. Civ. P. 41(b); and defendant's pending motion to dismiss 13 be denied as moot. Motion 13 referred to Judge John A. Mendez. Objections due within 21 days. (Plummer, M)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT 9 FOR THE EASTERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA 10 11 BRANDON HALL, 12 No. 2:14-cv-1234 JAM AC P Petitioner, 13 v. 14 BRIAN DUFFY, 15 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATION Respondent. 16 17 Petitioner is proceeding pro se and in forma pauperis with his petition for a writ of habeas 18 corpus, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 2254. On August 4, 2014, respondent filed a motion to dismiss 19 the petition. ECF No. 13. After petitioner failed to respond to the motion, the court, on 20 September 24, 2014, ordered petitioner to file an opposition or a statement of no opposition 21 within thirty days. ECF No. 14. The thirty days have expired, and plaintiff still has not filed any 22 response to the motion to dismiss. 23 IT IS HEREBY RECOMMENDED THAT: 24 1. 25 26 This action be DISMISSED, without prejudice, for failure to prosecute, pursuant to Local Rule 110 and Fed. R. Civ. P. 41(b); and 2. Defendant's pending motion to dismiss (ECF Nos. 13), be DENIED as moot. 27 28 1 1 These findings and recommendations are submitted to the United States District Judge 2 assigned to the case, pursuant to the provisions of 28 U.S.C. § 636(b)(l). Within twenty-one (21) 3 days after being served with these findings and recommendations, plaintiff may file written 4 objections with the court and serve a copy on all parties. Such a document should be captioned 5 "Objections to Magistrate Judge's Findings and Recommendations." Plaintiff is advised that 6 failure to file objections within the specified time may waive the right to appeal the District 7 Court's order. Martinez v. Ylst, 951 F.2d 1153 (9th Cir. 1991). 8 DATED: December 22, 2014 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 2


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14th Education Webinar | Administrative Detention: The Case Of Hisham Abu Hawash
Add This to Your Calendar
https://www.facebook.com/events/1008598320000911/?acontext=%7B%22ref%22%3A%2252%22%2C%22action_history%22%3A%22[%7B%5C%22surface%5C%22%3A%5C%22share_link%5C%22%2C%5C%22mechanism%5C%22%3A%5C%22share_link%5C%22%2C%5C%22extra_data%5C%22%3A%7B%5C%22invite_link_id%5C%22%3A269014241995078%7D%7D]%22%7D
American Muslims for Palestine
Hisham Abu Hawash has been imprisoned in Israel without charge for approximately 16 months. While under administrative detention, Abu Hawash went on hunger strike and only consumed water with a little sugar and salt. As a result, Abu Hawash's weight dropped from 175 pounds to 85 pounds. After 141 days of hunger-striking, Abu Hawash can finally go home to his family.
The Palestinian cry for justice is gaining momentum in the United States. For example, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) condemned Abu Hawash's detention and called on U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken to "demand an end to Israel's practice of holding Palestinians living under apartheid in detention without representation, fair trial, or even a shred of due process."
Today, there are some 500 Palestinian administrative detainees in Israeli prison. While the legacy of abuse of Palestinian detainees prevails, so does prisoner resistance to Israel's military occupation and overarching settler-colonial project.
Join us @ 5:00 PM EST on Friday, January 14th, for this important webinar where we will be hosting a live discussion on Facebook with our wonderful guests:
Yumna Patel: Freelance multimedia journalist and the Palestine News Director for Mondoweiss, based in Bethlehem, Palestine. Yumna has been reporting in Palestine for six years on stories that affect the everyday lives of Palestinians under occupation.
Shatha Hammad: A Palestinian freelance journalist. In June 2020 she won the New Voice award at the One World Media Awards for her reporting from the West Bank.
Muath Abu Alqumssan: A former political prisoner in Israel and advocate for the freedom of all Palestinian political prisoners.
#PalestineConnectsUs #FreeThemAll


Jacek Palkiewicz traeler, explorer & survival trainer.
Since his early years Jacek Palkiewicz was always interested in travelling. While growing up, the art of survival, which of later on he became a trainer, joined his interests. He is also a founder of first school of the art of survival in Europe. In his carrier as an explorer and traveler he made well over 100 expeditions, journeys and survival trainings.
He has travelled to different, sometimes very unfriendly and isolated parts of the world. Extreme conditions and challenges became his life. He has trained astronauts, Special Forces and commando units in art of survival. He travelled to places where in the past were living long gone ethnic groups and civilizations or to places where there was something left of them, still resisting influences of modern civilizations and life style.
Based on his travels, expeditions, discoveries and survival experiences he has wrote an impressive amount of books and guids.
Read about Jacek Palkiewicz's travels, expeditions and journeys. See where he has been, what did he explored and discovered. See parts of the world you may have never heard of. Join his adventures by checking out the expeditions listed below. Read Jacek Palkiewicz's descriptions, reportages and comments about each of the journeys and expeditions (all with photographs).
On this web page you will find only selected journeys and expeditions of Jacek Palkiewicz. Due to ongoing website update some of the expeditions might be temporary unavailable.
In 1996 Jacek Palkiewicz's expedition discovered the source of the Amazon river.
In 1975 he has crossed Atlantic Ocean alone in a life boat, in 44 days (his experiences from this achievement were used by NASA researchers).
In 1994 he was a leader of international ecological mission of cosmonauts in Siberia.
Photos from Palkiewicz expeditions, travels, meetings and more.
Books by Jacek Palkiewicz (published in Polish and other countries).


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Home / Economy / Feed-dependent industries urge more budget support for yellow corn production
Feed-dependent industries urge more budget support for yellow corn production
INDUSTRIES dependent on animal feed called on the government to raise its budget allocation for raising corn output, saying corn scarcity will have a follow-on effect on meat, fish, and poultry prices.
"There should be more funding for yellow corn production as it is the main ingredient for the feed of our main protein sources (such as) poultry, livestock, and aquaculture. The same reasoning goes for fruit and vegetables," United Broiler Raisers Association President Elias Jose M. Inciong said in a Viber message.
"Considering only the budget numbers, one can say the budget is still rice-centric after all these years and despite the funds from the Rice Tariffication Law. Rice is for the carbohydrate needs of our people," he added.
In the proposed 2023 budget, the Department of Agriculture (DA) will receive P102.15 billion, up 44%, according to a statement issued by Deputy Speaker and Batangas Rep. Ralph G. Recto on Sunday.
"It took a sitting President to concurrently serve as Agriculture Secretary for the DA to finally reap a budget increase," Mr. Recto said, referring to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.'s decision to appoint himself head of the DA.
Subsidies to the National Food Authority (NFA), Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA), National Irrigation Administration, Philippine Rice Research Institute, Philippine Fisheries Development Authority, National Tobacco Administration, Philippine Coconut Authority, National Dairy Authority will rise 33% to P62 billion, according to the budget bill currently with the House of Representatives.
The NFA received the biggest year-on-year increase of 71% to P12 billion, followed by the SRA, whose funding was raised 41% to P1 billion.
The National Rice Program had its allocation doubled to P30.5 billion. Of this total, P19.5 billion will fund fertilizer support.
Corn is to receive P5.2 billion, livestock P5 billion, and high-value crops P2 billion.
The DA will also be ramping up infrastructure spending, allotting P13.1 billion for farm-to-market roads and P29.5 billion for irrigation.
Mr. Inciong said that the government should consult more broadly with stakeholders in preparing budgets.
"There should be an Agriculture Fisheries Modernization Plan based on consultations with stakeholders. There is no plan based on genuine consultations. Also, there should be a National Information Network. This means a data and information system with clear stakeholder buy-in as to its reliability. We still do not have such a system," he added.
In a separate statement, Acting Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) Head David John Thaddeus P. Alba said that the budget increase will increase farm productivity.
"With the National Government's focus on food security, the budget increase can be used for research and development programs and support services for small farmers, especially for block farms," he said.
Mr. Alba also welcomed the increase in budget for fertilizer support.
"We hope that sugar farmers and all other agriculture industries will benefit from this earmarked program," Mr. Alba said, noting that fertilizer prices have tripled in the last three years.
"We are also hoping that the P2 billion allocation under the Sugar Industry Development Act will be given by next year as this has been cut down to a fourth for this year. For the sugar industry to be sustainable and attain self-sufficiency, we need to double our efforts and any budget increase will help ensure we can meet this if we get the much-needed help for the industry," he added.
Quezon Province First District Rep. Wilfrido Mark M. Enverga, who is also chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Food, welcomed the budget increase.
"We are happy that the agricultural sector is being given attention. It has long been neglected," he has said in a statement.
Mr. Enverga said that the newly appointed Agriculture Undersecretary, Domingo F. Panganiban, who briefed the committee, will effectively lobby for the agriculture sector's budgetary needs.
"I think it's also the key people within the agency that will be answering most of the questions so it's good that we hear the details from them," he said. — Luisa Maria Jacinta C. Jocson


Should you form your corporation in Pennsylvania? We've collected the relevant information that will help you make this decision.
In order to communicate to the public that your new business is incorporated, its official name will need to end with one of the following signifiers (or a relevant abbreviation): "incorporated", "Company", or "corporation." In addition, it is required that the name of your business is not intentionally misleading to consumers, for any reason. Your company's new name must also be completely unique, and not deceptively similar to any other organizations name or trademarks. There are also restrictions placed on using certain terms commonly used in the insurance, banking, and engineering industries. Do a FREE name search now.
Pennsylvania corporations must have at least one director listed in their incorporation documents.
Directors of corporations located in Pennsylvania can be of any age.
There are no residence restrictions imposed on the directors of C corporations in Pennsylvania. However, S corporations are only allowed to have directors located in the United States.
Pennsylvania does not require the names or addresses of directors to be disclosed in incorporation documents.
Pennsylvania requires the number of initial shares outstanding, and their par value, to be disclosed during the incorporation process. The number of outstanding shares does not affect initial state filing fees.
The state of Pennsylvania does not require officer information to be disclosed during the filing process.
All Pennsylvania corporations must have a registered agent on file, and submit their name and address (which cannot be a PO box). This agent is required to be accessible during standard business hours, and acts as the state's point of contact with the company. Learn more about registered agents in Pennsylvania.
All corporations in Pennsylvania must pay for a public notice of incorporation in two newspapers with distribution near the business's location. Proof of these publications should be held indefinitely.
Meeting minutes for all shareholder, incorporator, and director meetings.
All states have complex taxation requirements. For more information regarding taxes in Pennsylvania, it is advised that you visit the state's official business related website.
Corporations in Pennsylvania are not required to file an annual report. However, they will need to file a Corporate Tax Report with the state's Department of Revenue before April 16th of each month (or a month after federal taxes are due for corporations that don't use calendar year accounting systems). This tax report marks the date that a number of state-level taxes are due.
Pennsylvania requires an EIN (employee identification number) for all corporations that will have employees, and most banks will require one to open accounts. Pennsylvania does not require corporations to obtain state tax ID numbers. Learn more about EINs.
The business licenses and permits required in Pennsylvania vary wildly depending on the county or municipality in which your new corporation is located. If you would like to see more in-depth information on licenses and permits, please feel free to visit the content in our learning library that covers these topics. Learn more about business licenses and permits.
Need a Pennsylvania LLC instead? Click here.


text:
/*!
 * \file attach_op_resource_pass.cc
 * \brief Pass to attach resource to OpExecVector of the graph.
 */
#include <mxnet/resource.h>
#include <mxnet/op_attr_types.h>
#include "./exec_pass.h"

namespace mxnet {
namespace exec {

void AttachOpResources(const Graph& g,
                       const OpExecVector& op_execs,
                       size_t start_nid,
                       size_t end_nid) {
  static auto& fresource    = nnvm::Op::GetAttr<FResourceRequest>("FResourceRequest");
  static auto& fresource_ex = nnvm::Op::GetAttr<FResourceRequestEx>("FResourceRequestEx");
  const auto& vctx          = g.GetAttr<ContextVector>("context");
  const auto& vdispatch     = g.GetAttr<DispatchModeVector>("dispatch_mode");
  const auto& dev_masks     = g.GetAttr<DevMaskVector>("dev_mask");
  const auto& idx           = g.indexed_graph();
  // Use global resource pool for each executor for now.
  std::map<Context, Resource> cached_temp;
  // Resource allocation
  for (uint32_t nid = start_nid; nid < end_nid; ++nid) {
    const auto& inode = idx[nid];
    if (inode.source->is_variable())
      continue;
    const Context& ctx = vctx[nid];
    auto& requested    = op_execs[nid]->op_ctx.requested;
    requested.clear();
    const auto op         = inode.source->op();
    const bool rsc_req    = (fresource.count(op) != 0);
    const bool rsc_ex_req = (fresource_ex.count(op) != 0);
    if (rsc_req || rsc_ex_req) {
      auto reqs = rsc_ex_req ?
                      fresource_ex[op](inode.source->attrs, dev_masks[nid], vdispatch[nid]) :
                      fresource[op](inode.source->attrs);
      // Get the resource of temporal space.
      for (const ResourceRequest& req : reqs) {
        switch (req.type) {
          case ResourceRequest::kTempSpace: {
            // the scope is needed when there's new declaration of variable.
            if (cached_temp.count(ctx) != 0) {
              requested.push_back(cached_temp.at(ctx));
            } else {
              Resource r = ResourceManager::Get()->Request(ctx, req);
              requested.push_back(r);
              cached_temp[ctx] = r;
            }
            break;
          }
          case ResourceRequest::kRandom: {
            requested.push_back(ResourceManager::Get()->Request(ctx, req));
            break;
          }
          case ResourceRequest::kParallelRandom: {
            requested.push_back(ResourceManager::Get()->Request(ctx, req));
            break;
          }
#if MXNET_USE_CUDNN == 1
          case ResourceRequest::kCuDNNDropoutDesc: {
            requested.push_back(ResourceManager::Get()->Request(ctx, req));
            break;
          }
#endif  // MXNET_USE_CUDNN == 1
          default:
            LOG(FATAL) << "resource type " << req.type << " is not yet supported";
        }
      }
      CHECK(vdispatch[nid] != DispatchMode::kUndefined);
    }
    // extra resource requests for storage fallback
    if (vdispatch[nid] == DispatchMode::kFComputeFallback) {
      requested.push_back(ResourceManager::Get()->Request(ctx, ResourceRequest::kTempSpace));
    }
  }
}

void AttachOpResources(const Graph& g) {
  const auto& op_execs = g.GetAttr<OpExecVector>("op_execs");
  AttachOpResources(g, op_execs, 0, g.indexed_graph().num_nodes());
}

}  // namespace exec
}  // namespace mxnet

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Chinese govt thinktank proposes growth target of above 5% for 2022
By:Reuters
Updated: Dec 6, 2021, 10:06 UTC•2min read
BEIJING (Reuters) – China's economy is expected to grow around 5.3% in 2022, bringing the average annual growth rate forecast for 2020-2022 to 5.2%, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), a top government think tank, said on Monday.
BEIJING (Reuters) -China's top government thinktank on Monday recommended the government set an economic growth target of above 5% for next year as the economy slows due to the persistent COVID-19 cases and high commodity prices.
"A target of above 5% leaves a certain room of leeway, which is a relatively prudent call. It would also allow all parties to focus on promoting reforms and innovation and pushing for high-quality development," Li Xuesong, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), told reporters.
The world's second-largest economy is likely to grow around 5.3% in 2022, according to an annual blue book issued by CASS at the briefing, although the report cautioned that the forecast could be adjusted lower depending on the COVID-19 situation.
Advisers to the government will recommend that authorities set a 2022 gross domestic product target lower than the target set for 2021 of "above 6%", Reuters reported, amid growing headwinds from a property downturn, weakening exports and strict COVID-19 curbs that have impeded consumption. [nL4N2SM2GL]
The thinktank is also recommending the government set a target of around 5.5% for urban jobless rate and a target of around 3% for consumer inflation next year.
On policy recommendations, CASS suggests that monetary policy could be relaxed marginally next year to cope with the downward pressures and the central bank should guide interest rates lower to aid small firms grappling with high costs before the U.S. Federal Reserve moves to taper.
The economy is expected to have expanded by about 8% this year, according to CASS.
The thinktank also warned that the property downturn was likely to persist and weigh on the expenditures of local governments next year.
It urged the central government to proactively engineer a soft landing for the property sector, to avoid failed land auctions in big cities and to fend off risks of quickly falling property prices in smaller cities, the report said.
(Reporting by Stella Qiu and Ryan Woo; Editing by Jacqueline Wong and Angus MacSwan)
Can Crypto Really Beat Inflation?


JBJ have released two group teaser images for their comeback.
They'll be releasing their final album called 'New Moon' on April 17. It will come in two unique versions. The two photos released show the six boys in the 'New Moon' version concept, posing against the beach.
Check out the teasers above and below while you wait for their return.


text:
Malthonica lenkoranica är en spindelart som beskrevs av Guseinov, Marusik och Koponen 2005. Malthonica lenkoranica ingår i släktet Malthonica och familjen trattspindlar.

Artens utbredningsområde är Azerbajdzjan. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.

Källor

Externa länkar

Trattspindlar
lenkoranica
Endemiska arter i Azerbajdzjan

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


Escaping Faery was only the beginning... The Gentry. The Fair Folk. The Fey. By whatever names we call them, they take people, or bargain with them. For whatever reason they go in most never come home again. And those that do often find that home isn't home anymore, for the strands of time flow differently between the worlds. Whether escaped or released or rescued, those that leave Faery are forever changed by it. A young Irish governess signs on for more than she expected, serving well and happily teaching three royal Fey children who never seem to grow up. Life is pleasant, if occasionally unpredictable. Until one afternoon in the woods changes all that forever and she makes the ultimate sacrifice for the lives of her charges. In the end it is her eyes and not her life she trades for their safety, but either way, her time in the Summerlands is over. The real world that she knew is a hundred years or more in the past, and a frightening place to one who can no longer see. A young Scottish Rugby player, born of an ancient line, is taken for a fey soldier, serving faithfully until war with the Unseelie Northerner brings an end to his service. The King has charged him with the safe transport of the newly blinded governess from the land of the Gryphon King to the worlds of men. It is a charge he takes seriously; but once there, her temper and a pair of striking green eyes make the task more difficult than it should be. Reentering the world at the Griffon's Rest, they find a community of their own kind, other humans out of Faery struggling to make their way in a world they no longer quite fit. But the Unseelie still lurk, if no where else but in the hearts of their faithful and life at the Rest is not always quite... restful.
The woman they called the 'lady of the mist' leaned on the parapet rail, drinking in the early morning air. She smiled softly as she watched the fey sun rise, wildly colouring the sky and beginning to burn off the morning fog. The two guards on the wall with her stood at opposite ends of the walk between two small towers and politely ignored her, keeping their watch in silence.
She was not what anyone would call 'beautiful'. She had an unremarkable Irish face. Her complexion alone was enviable, fair but with a light gilding from the sun. Her eyes were a faded silvery green, nothing at all striking about them. Her hair flowed down her back in waves of mousy brown and stopped just short of the bottom of her ribs, teased just now by the fresh dawn wind. Compared to the willowy elven women she dealt with daily she was short and thick, though, in truth, she was neither. Back home she was considered tall for a girl, but not rangy. Her attire was like everything else about her: modest, only hinting at the figure beneath the front laced bodice.
Her clothes were good elven plain cloth cut in old Celtic style. A full length, peasant skirt that just brushed the lower laces of her short boots in a rich evergreen that matched the bodice. Her white blouse was the finest thing on her, cobweb linen and embroidered at its high throat and wrists with some fey flowering vine hiding tiny owls and dragonflies picked out in white threads. The little princess had embroidered it for her with her own hands and it was precious to her.
The sky slowly eased out of its gaudy splendour and the sun began to dimple the forest floor through gem-like dewdrops. She cast her eye past the great oak and over the jewelled forest and decided that today was an excellent one for wood-lore. Reaching up, she gathered her hair and wound it into a bun at the nape of her neck, securing it with a twisted pin she pulled from a pocket. Satisfied, she turned and left the wall for the tower door, her boot heels clicking softly in her wake.
The two guards watched her go without turning. The senior of them smiled, taking a deep breath. The newer of the two actually turned his head to catch the last swirl of dark green skirt and black boot heel as the door closed behind her. "Bit of a starling, that one." He did not mean it as a compliment. "I think that's the least severe I've ever seen the Governess."
The older man's smile only half faded. "Aye, the only time you'll catch her with her hair down, in any sense. But I'd not write her off just because she can't hold a candle to fey women."
"Oh, she's country pretty, I guess," he interjected.
The other man brushed off his compatriot's rudeness. "Never be fooled by a pretty face, lad, nor a plain one either. Deep as a well, that one. Sure, you kin fall in and maybe drown," he shrugged, then his eye took on hungry glint, "but you'll ne'er die o' thirst, if ye ken."
Apparently the younger man did not 'ken', and shrugged, turning back to watching the sky and the wood before him.
She was every inch a governess as she entered the children's rooms. The suite began with a large, comfortable room that served as play room, sitting room, and schoolroom all in one. From this room radiated three smaller ones belonging, respectively, to: the Lion Prince- the eldest, and eleven by all appearances; the Eagle Princess- an introspective eight; and finally the youngest prince- a small, thoughtful boy of five. At her entrance, the three attendants straightening the room snapped to attention and ran into their respective charges' apartments to wake and dress them for the day.
She moved to arrange things on her desk and gather the materials she would need in the woods today for a lesson decent enough to justify the picnic she had requested in the kitchens. As a mortal girl serving governess to fey children, she had her hands full often. Human children can be playful and unconsciously cruel at times. But Fey children can be puckish; pulling pranks that are dangerous to any but themselves and twenty times more difficult to control. They had magics at their command she could not begin to fathom or reign in, but while she could not teach them how to use them, she taught them how to apply them responsibly. Over the first few decades, she had developed methods of disciplining them with disapproval, as she could not very well lay a hand on them. They were more than just fey, they were royal fey, gentry, and rare as water in the desert. And she loved them.
Though she had been just sixteen when she had accepted the position a century and a half ago, she looked barely over eighteen. The children... had not aged a day in all that time, in either appearance or manner. They learned, though, like all children. They soaked up all she could teach them like the sponges that children are and asked for more. She had exhausted her own skills and knowledge after the first decade and had been forced to continually educate herself to keep apace.
The keeper of the library had given her a marvellous bracelet to celebrate her first quarter century when it became obvious she was going to stay for the long haul. It allowed her to absorb in all the information she could on any given subject until she no longer needed it to teach them, and let it slip away again to make room for other things. It seemed that human minds can only hold so much, while fey ones are infinite wells so long as they are young. She found that the adult gentry seemed to lack the ability to take in new information if it was too complex. That, or remembering too much was hard. Oh, they could remember everything that happened to them personally, and sometimes gossip of people they knew, (especially where it affected themselves,) but remembering words of a new language that did not fascinate them, or, say: the pertinent facts of the process of experimentation... these things slipped from their minds like sand through an hourglass.
It was not long at all before the children began to filter in from their rooms. The youngest was first, trotting in with his fingers in his mouth and an arm around a huge, armoured teddy bear. He grinned broadly at the sight of her and ran over, pulling his fingers out of his mouth long enough to cry "Nan!" and throw his arms around her skirts. She bent to return the hug and laughed when Teddy winked at her and shrugged an apology when he was crushed against her as well. She gave his ear a tweak to straighten it and caressed him fondly before standing at the Princess's entrance.
The princess was far more formal than her brother. She curtsied when she saw that the governess had noticed her and chirruped a polite, "Morning, miss."
She noticed that, although she had not told the servants her plans for the day, they had nonetheless prepared them appropriately. The princess was in a heavier cloth than her usual embroidered silks, much the stuff her elders wore hunting, though still finer of cloth and cut than that of kings in the world of men. It was cut suitably for a day in the wood: a shorter skirt that was not over-full and stopped mid-shin, a pair of ruffled pantaloons beneath for modesty and soft leather boots with no heels. Even her heel-length fall of golden hair had been drawn back from her face. The intricate braids had been gathered and pinned up with flowers and one or two live butterflies so that they seemed to form a crown above her very sharply perceiving, steely eyes. It brought the length of it up to the middle of her back, which was practical.
Not far behind her was the eldest. His features were strikingly handsome and his hair fell about his face and shoulder like a rippling mane of red-gold no matter what was attempted to tame it. His eyes were a jewelled blue and his mischievous smile could charm frightened birds to his hands and maidens into swoons. He was outright dressed for hunting. He smiled at her as he reached out to slide a stray braid from his sister's shoulder. "Teacher," he purred.
Names were things of power here, and long ago she had accepted the loss of her own. She was merely what she was, even as the children were what they were. They were called by their titles, even as the King was called by his.
They watched her, waiting. They seemed to suspect something out of the ordinary was in the offing. She smiled, taking down a large book on wood-lore. "I thought that today would be a good one for a picnic..."
She braced herself just in time as the youngest threw himself at her legs again, then began dancing with his Teddy. She smiled indulgently. "Teddy can't come, darling.." The boy stopped, frowning. "Teddy will get dirty, for one, and he has been up all night watching you. He needs his rest."
The prince looked at his bear, only a little shorter than he. Teddy nodded solemnly and made a big deal of yawning. The prince sighed and hugged him. "Night-night, sleep tight," he said.
Teddy saluted the governess and marched back to the bedroom. The moment the door closed on him, the prince regained his excitement about the trip. "Where we going?"
She smiled. "A mile or so out. There's a nice glen near the river we haven't explored and there are plenty of berries and other things I need to teach you about."
The young Prince frowned. "I thought it was a picnic not a lesson."
The governess laughed. "No reason it can't be both. And if you ever go hunting and lose your party, then what I will teach you will help you survive until you find help or your way home. Besides, you should know every inch of your kingdom." She held the book out to the eldest, "Would you carry that for me, your highness?" He bowed and accepted the book, flashing her his winning smile.
The governess turned for the door, "Now, if we are ready, we just have to stop in at the kitchen for the basket and we can go."


VANOS (abbr. from German variable Nockenwellensteuerung) is an automobile variable valve timing technology developed by BMW, first introduced in 1992 on the BMW M50 engine used in the 5 Series.
VANOS is a combined hydraulic and mechanical camshaft control device managed by the car's DME engine management system which serves to vary the timing of the valves by moving the position of the camshafts in relation to the drive gear.
The VANOS system is based on an adjustment mechanism that can modify the position of the intake camshaft versus the crankshaft. Double-VANOS adds an adjustment of the intake and outlet camshafts.
VANOS operates on the intake camshaft in accordance with engine speed and accelerator pedal position. At the lower end of the engine-speed scale, the intake valves are opened later, which improves idling quality and smoothness. At moderate engine speeds, the intake valves open much earlier, which boosts torque and permits exhaust gas re-circulation inside the combustion chambers, reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Finally, at high engine speeds, intake valve opening is once again delayed, so that full power can be developed.
VANOS significantly enhances emission management, increases output and torque, and offers better idling quality and fuel economy.
If your VANOS is worn or noisy, you will experience a lack of low-end power and poor performance. We can rebuild your VANOS to resolve engine performance problems that are due to a malfunctioning or stuck VANOS- restoring power and performance for a fraction of the cost of replacing it with a factory refurbished unit; just give us a call or schedule an appointment online.


From their first day children will begin to learn phonics through the Read, Write, Inc programme. More information about this can be found on the literacy subject area page. There are also teacher-directed maths sessions each day, these usually starts off as a short 10 minute session but soon build up to an hour, with children being taught in small focus groups. Children also have a taught session of PE and RE each week. The rest of the curriculum is taught through Learning Challenge topics during Child Initiated time.
An activity is child-initiated when the child engages in it by choice using the resources that are available, or when a child takes ownership of an activity provided by adults by changing its focus.
Adults may capitalise on these interests by providing further resources and by engaging in the activity with the child/children to observe and assess the learning that is taking place.
A teacher/adult-led activity has a specific focus and is planned by the adult to encourage a particular aspect of learning, to discuss a particular topic or to provide an opportunity to learn a particular skill. The adult may introduce the material, skill or idea, initiate the activity, and may direct elements of the learning. However, once introduced the activity may provide an opportunity for children to practise on their own to modify it.


One of those 1,001 is thrown out (it is the combination 11-12-13-14) and the others are assigned to each of the teams.
(**) If the Blues win one of the lottery picks (and thus move into the top 10) they can retain this pick and send Philadelphia next year's 1st round pick. Otherwise this pick goes to the Flyers.
While last year the Isles' odds were 99:1, their odds are slightly better than 16:1 that they will win the lottery with either their pick or the pick they acquired from Calgary in the Travis Hamonic deal.
For the second time, the first three picks are determined via lottery so if you want to dream, the Isles have a remotely small chance of ending up with the first two picks.
The Isles have won the lottery twice, moving from 4th to 1st in 2000 (DiPietro) and retaining the first pick in 2009 (Tavares).
Last year, the Devils (5th seed) won the lottery, and then selected Nico Hischier; the Flyers moved from 13th to 2nd and chose Nolan Patrick; Dallas moved up from 8th to 3rd and picked Finnish defenseman Miro Heiskanen. (The Isles enter this year's lottery with the 10th and 12th seeds).
So what are the Isles' lucky numbers? Here are the combinations that will win the lottery for the Isles.
Each lottery ball appears in exactly 286 combinations (although the 11-12-13-14 combination would be thrown out).
The number 1 is the most common winning number for the Isles, appearing 22 times; number 9 is the least common, appearing only 10 times.
The lottery losers will be revealed between 7:30 and 8:00 on Saturday (NBCSN); the winning three teams will be revealed during the second intermission of that night's San Jose - Vegas game (NBC).
Thomas Hickey and Anthony Beauvillier scored 2:32 apart in the second period to overcome a 1-0 Ranger lead and Jaroslav Halak made 34 saves as the Islanders closed out the home season by defeating the Rangers 2-1 before a crowd of 14,152 at Barclays Center.
The win allowed the Islanders to finish with an above-NHL .500 record on home-ice (19-18-4) as they swept the season series from the Rangers for the second time in three seasons. The Isles are 6-0-0 in Brooklyn all-time against the Blueshirts.
Isles are 19-30-8 since December 1st … Anthony Beauvillier's goal gives the Isles five players with at least 21 goals for the first time since 1993-94. Since New Year's Day, Beauvillier leads the team in goals (17), including goals in the last five games... Beauvillier is the 25th NHL player to have a 5-game goal streak this season (and the first Islander)…Anders Lee was held goalless for the fourth straight game as he remains at 39 goals; Lee was originally credited with the Isles' first goal but it was changed after replays showed the puck went in off a Ranger …The Isles went 0-2 on the power play. The power play is operating at 23.0%; the Isles will finish the season having converted 20% of their power plays over a full season for the first time since 1993-94 (20.1%); however the penalty kill remains at 73.5%, which would be the worst in club history (73.6% in 1988-89) and the lowest by any NHL team since Ottawa killed 73.3% in 1993-94… The Isles are 5-12-4 in their last 21 games; they have recorded consecutive wins for the first time since mid-February.… Mathew Barzal's assist tied him with John Tavares for the club lead in points with 8; he also tied Vladimir Malakhov's club rookie record with his 10th point against the Rangers. Barzal is the only NYR opponent with ten points against them this season. …Thomas Hickey's goal gave him a career-high 24 points… The Isles have allowed 290 goals, most since Philadelphia allowed 297 in 2006-07…Kevin Hayes' goal gave the Rangers two centers with 25+ goals for the first time since Mark Messier and Wayne Gretzky did so in 1996-97…The Isles improve to 25-13-7 all-time in home finales, including 5-1-0 against the Rangers.
In addition to their own picks, the Isles own Calgary's first two picks in the upcoming entry draft. At the end of play Thursday, the Isles held the 10th pick and 12th pick heading into the upcoming draft lottery, giving them a 6% chance of winning the lottery.
Mathew Barzal and Anthony Beauvillier have now both reached the 21-goal mark. They are the first duo in Islander history to each 21 games in the same season, prior to reaching their 21st birthday. Toronto is the only team in the NHL to have two players with 21 goals at that young of an age.
Mathew Barzal is the third highest-scoring rookie in Islander history; he has a team-leading 61 assists and 83 points and needs two assists on Saturday to tie Bryan Trottier's franchise record.
Barzal will join Denis Potvin as the only rookies to ever lead the Isles in assists; he is tied with John Tavares for the club lead in points. Billy Harris, Potvin, Trent Hunter (tied) and John Tavares are the only rookies to ever lead the Isles in points.
He is also one of only four rookies since 2000-01 with at least 83 points.
Mathew Barzal has 61 assists; it's the highest total by an Islander since Pierre Turgeon had 74 helpers in 1992-93, which is the most by an Islander in the Post-Cup era.
The Isles are 23-10-5 when they score first and are 11-27-5 when they allow the opening goal.
The Islanders are 34-37-10 overall; 19-18-4 at home and 15-19-6 on the road.
Rangers is 34-38-9 overall; 21-16-4 at home and 13-21-5 on the road.
The Isles are 13-13-2 in Division games and 21-24-8 in games versus other divisions. The Isles are 21-27-3 against the East and 13-10-7 against the West.
The Isles are 19-18-4 at home; they are 11-14-0 against the East and 7-4-4 against the West. However, after opening the season 8-0-2 on home ice, the Isles went 11-18-2 in their last 31 games in Brooklyn.
Jaroslav Halak made 34 saves to improve to 20-26-6 on the season and 18-7-0 (with a .929 save percentage) in his career against the Rangers. Halak went 4-0-0 against the Rangers this season.
Ondrej Pavelec made 20 saves but falls to 4-9-1 on the season and 4-9-3 in his career against the Isles.
The Isles were 0-2 on the power play in 2:49 of PP time; Rangers was 1-4 on the power play in 6:22 of PP time.
The Isles are 20-16-3 when they score at least one power play goal and 14-21-7 when they do not. The Isles are 19-26-3 when they allow at least one power play goal and 15-11-7 when they do not.
The Isles are 31-15-5 when they score at least three goals (including shootout winners) and are 3-22-5 when they do not.
The Isles are 15-11-10 in games decided by a single goal including 6-11 in regulation. They are 6-7 in games decided in overtime and are 3-3 in shootouts. The Isles are 4-4 in games in which an empty-net goal turns a 1 goal game into a 2-goal game.
•	The Isles are 22-26-9 when both teams are rested.
Anders Lee led Isles forwards with 18:20 of ice-time.
Isles 23, Rangers 23 (50%).
Chris Wagner won 5 of 8 for the Isles; Filip Chytil won 7 of11 for Rangers.
Face-offs by period: 1st period 8/13; 2nd period 8/18; 3rd period 7/15.
Face-offs by strength: Even strength: 20/37, Power play 0/2, Penalty kill 3/7.
The Isles blocked 17 shots (Brandon Davidson-3).
The Isles are 30-36-9 in night games and 4-1-1 in matinees.
Anders Lee 117, Brock Nelson 94, Mathew Barzal/John Tavares 81.
The opponents have not challenged an Islander goal due to an offside this season.
The Isles win the season series four games to none (and eight points to one).
The Isles are 11-1-0 in their last 12 games against the Rangers.
Bridgeport is 35-27-5-3 heading into a 3-in-3 weekend that begins on Friday in Wilkes-Barre.
Travis St. Denis leads the team in both goals (23) and points (44). Christopher Gibson is 18-11-3 in the nets with 4 shutouts.
The Sound Tigers have six games remaining; they will be played in two three-in-three weekends. This weekend, following Friday's game at Wilkes-Barre, the Sound Tigers will host Providence on Saturday and host the baby Penguins on Sunday.
The Isles will close out the 2017-18 season as they make their first visit to Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
The teams have split a pair of games in Brooklyn this season, including a memorable come-from-behind 7-6 win on February 9th.
Congratulations to Stan Fischler, who worked his final NHL game only 27,540 days after attending his first NHL game. Most people know him as "The Maven"; "The Mensch" would have worked just as nicely.
The first NHL game our friend and colleague Stan Fischler saw occurred 30 years earlier. With Stan retiring tonight after a truly remarkable career, I thought you might enjoy reliving that game, played at the old Garden on 8th Avenue and West 50th Street.
This box score is a treasure trove of fun .. with a funny Isles tie.
The Rangers beat the Blackhawks 5-3 that night... in overtime. (Overtime was a 10-minute period, with no sudden death).
Bryan Hextall, Sr., who 31 months earlier had scored the overtime goal to win the 1940 Stanley Cup for the Blueshirts, scored the first overtime goal.
Hextall then assisted on HHOFer Lynn Patrick's overtime tally; the final goal of the first NHL game Stan saw was scored at a Bobby Nystrom-like 7:11 of overtime.
The Ranger netminder that night -- the (in)famous Steve "The Puck Goes-insky" Buzinski. Two nights earlier Buzinski had allowed Rocket Richard's first NHL goal.
The story I read said that Stan was most excited to see the Bentley brothers that night -- sure enough Doug Bentley scored twice for Chicago and Max assisted on Doug's first goal.


A collection with over 1500 varieties of roses that also form a labyrinth.
Located 30 minutes from Milan, the Castle is nestled in a beautiful hilly landscape and combines the elegance of an exclusive location with the green of the rural setting.
The castle has refined elegant indoor and outdoor spaces including a spectacular dining room and a 10,000 square meter garden with various gazebos, garden furniture and relaxation areas.


Os invitamos a participar en el encuentro internacional de jóvenes SAY YES TO CHANGE que tendrá lugar en Murska Sabota (Eslovenia) del 21 al 28 de febrero de 2015. Habrán participantes de Eslovenia, Francia, República Checa, Rumanía, Italia y España.
The youth exchange titled "Say Yes to Change" will bring together 42 young people from Slovenia, France, Romania, Czech Republic, Italy, and Spain to discuss about the topic of reduction, reusability and recycling of waste and rubbish.
Together, participants will come up with creative and innovative strategies to reduce, reuse and recycle waste and rubbish. The young people will not only try to change the image of rubbish & waste in a society, but will also aim to give rubbish new positive meaning. This topic is particularly important in some of the partner countries where waste management and generally environmental problems are a big issue. Recycling is not very widespread and it does not have the same social meaning across all the EU countries. This youth exchange aims to tackle this problem among young people and promote recycling.
During the exchange the participants will learn and discuss traditional ways of thinking about rubbish and how the rubbish is recycled, reused and reduced. They will take pictures of rubbish that describe its traditional image. This will be followed by creative workshops that will come up with new meanings and uses of rubbish. Some of the workshops will aim to produce practical and artistic artefacts out of the rubbish. Those will be photographed and compared with the traditional uses. To spread the new understanding of what rubbish is and could be, the participants will spend a day in the city.
The exchange will prepare participants to be active European citizens who understand their rights and duties and can be in charge of green societal change. It will develop their creativity and sense of entrepreneurship, will prepare them to take part in discussions about political and social matters, broaden their understanding of green matters as well as inspire them to organise community events. It will also develop their intercultural skills and will give them better understanding of other European countries' cultures.
– Reflection groups: There will be times every day to prepare the Youth Pass and reflect about the daily activities, skills, attitudes and knowledge.
– Evaluations: time every morning for a short evaluation about the previous day (feelings, activities, stuff, etc.) We will plan enough time for a final evaluation in order to know how the full experience was and prepare the Youth Pass.
– Intercultural dinner after the first day activity. Every team should bring some typical food or/and drink specialties from their Country. Consider that we are 42 participants and everyone will be happy to taste all of it!
We will run informative workshops that will reinforce participants' knowledge about how and how long materials take to decompose & what recycling, reducing and reusing traditionally mean. We will also have a session on European citizenship that will include a brief overview of EU's environmental policy that will later be discussed by participants.
We will have a series of discussion. First of all we will ask the participants to reflect on traditional ways of thinking about rubbish and recycling, reducing, reusing. Secondly, we will ask their opinion about how social change takes place and what is the role of citizens in bringing the change back home. Thirdly, we will encourage them to discuss the image of rubbish and protection of environment with local citizens during a visit to a city. Fourthly, we will ask them to discuss and share recycling schemes used by their communities and whether they think they are working.
strategies developed will be made into photos and pictures so we could share them easily with wider society.
Young people would work in mixed, international groups and it will be their task to deal with it and prepare some presentation. Through these activities we want to make young people think more about topics they consider as usual and to try to come up with a possible solution. We also want to make young people to be able to talk and express their opinion.
Serán seleccionados 6 participantes de entre 18 y 30 años, y un líder de grupo. Los participantes deben de tener un nivel de inglés para poder comunicarse con otros participantes. Como se harán actividades en grupo los participantes deben ser responsables para la total participación en todas las actividades y asistir a todas las actividades que se organicen. Buscamos jóvenes que respeten otras culturas y nacionalidades y estén preparados para participar activamente durante todo el evento.
El programa cubre alojamiento, comidas, actividades y gastos de viaje. El máximo de gastos de viaje que podrá reembolsarse a los participantes españoles es de 170 euros para ida y vuelta.
Existe una tasa de participación de 30 euros a pagar a los organizadores en Eslovenia. Desde nuestra organización no pondremos ninguna tasa de participación en este proyecto.
El reembolso de los gastos de viaje se hará presentando tickets originales, facturas, tarjetas de embarque, etc. Es recomendable hacer el checking online para tener un documento pdf que permita presentarlo allí, y de este modo ser reembolsados en persona.
Los participantes serán alojados en el Castillo Dvorec Rakican. Estarán incluidos desayuno, comida y cena.
Envíanos un email a infolibertasinternational@gmail.com con tu CV y tu muestra de interés.


With fruits and vegetables, there are numerous factors you should consider when making a selection at the grocery store. The advice below will help you choose the freshest and most flavourful pears, potatoes and more.
When shopping for produce, look for firm, brightly coloured and blemish-free exteriors. Avoid wrinkled, cracked or broken skin or peel, as well as produce with dry, brittle stems.
When buying fruit, choose pieces that feel heavy for their size.
When purchasing packaged fruit, avoid packages with juice leaks – this can be a sign that the package's contents are damaged or growing mould.
Avocados: Skin colour isn't an indication of ripeness. Only Hass avocados change colour from dark green to purplish-black. It's ripe if it feels soft when pressed near the stem end.
Melons: A clean, sunken scar indicates that the stem was pulled from a ripe melon. The more intense the smell, the riper the fruit.
Papaya: Papaya ripens from the bottom up towards the stem. Look for colour at least halfway up the fruit.
Peaches and nectarines: Look for the characteristic red blush with a creamy or gold undertone and a good aroma. Avoid green or hard fruit: once picked, it lacks flavour and usually shrivels and toughens rather than ripens.
Pears: Tree-ripened fruit can have a mushy texture. Pears should be picked early and allowed to ripen in storage.
Pineapples: Some varieties stay green longer than others, so skin colour is not a reliable guide to ripeness. Go for a fragrant aroma.
Potatoes: Avoid those with peeling skin, green spots or with shoots growing from their eyes.
Sweet corn: Choose corn with the husk on – a bright-green husk is best; a dry and yellowed husk indicates age.
Watermelon: If the melon is ripe, the rind should have a cream or yellowish under-colour and the seeds will rattle when you shake it.
Quick tip: Carry cooler bags in the trunk of your car to ensure produce doesn't deteriorate on the way home. Include some ice packs, too – they will help keep a low, even temperature inside the bag.
The tastiest meals start with the freshest ingredients, so follow these tips to ensure that you are bringing home the best produce from the grocery store.


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Where to stay in Tanzania
Lemala Nanyukie Camp
Camp Highlights
Lemala Nanyukie is located just a 60-minute drive from the airstrip in the park's central region.
The wooden deck has sunken seating and a stunning corner plunge pool with views across the Serengeti.
Only two major camps sit in this area so your game drives will feel very private.
Newly opened in 2018.
With a Kenyan father, Indian grandparents, and a Portuguese surname, travel is in my blood. I am enthralled by Africa and would happily talk about this diverse continent's wildlife, cultures, and experiences all day, every day.
Lemala Nanyukie Camp Overview
Opened in 2018, Lemala Nanyukie matches the same outstanding standards as the other properties in Lemala's luxury collection. Meaning 'endless plains' in the Maasai language, the Serengeti is one of the world's most celebrated wilderness areas. Lemala Nanyukie is located just a 60-minute drive from the airstrip in the park's central region. It's both accessible and exclusive in its own area in the eastern Serengeti. This area was closed to the public for over 10 years during a cheetah repopulation initiative. Now it's open, only two major camps sit in this area so your game drives will feel very private. And after its successful project, it's one of the best areas for big cats – cheetah in particular. The camp sits on a grassy savannah dotted with rocky kopjes and shaded by ancient giant acacia trees. Lemala Nanyukie is open year-round, and safari activities like game drives and walks will be accompanied by Lemala's highly experienced guides. Guests here can expect a light contemporary decor with warmth introduced by textured accessories, luxurious upholstery, and wooden furnishings. The wooden deck has sunken seating and a stunning corner plunge pool with views across the Serengeti.


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Mayor of London says the city remains open
According to the Office for National Statistics International Passenger Survey, London received a record 3.8 million visits from overseas travellers in the first three months of this year, an increase of seven per cent, when compared to the same period in 2015.
Spending by international travellers during this period, which included cultural highlights like Lumiere London, a unique light festival which lit up the West End and Kings Cross, was over £2.2billion, an increase of four per cent compared to the same period last year.
Tourism chiefs say there has never been a better time for overseas visitors to visit the capital with hotels, attractions and shops offering great value due to the weakened pound.
The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: "Yet again we have seen a rise in the number of visitors to London, which underlines how important our world-renowned art, culture, sport, architecture and history is to the capital.
"My message is clear: London is open and welcomes visitors from every corner of the globe."
However, despite the weakened pound, it is too early predict the impact of the Brexit vote.
Tourism is worth £36 billion to the London economy every year and creates jobs for tens of thousands of people in the capital.
The UK has also has had a record-breaking first quarter echoing the growth seen annually from inbound tourism with a record 36.1 million visits last year. Last year London attracted record numbers of international tourists welcoming a record 18.6 million.
According to the London Attractions Monitor, a survey of over 50 of the city's major tourist attractions, visits remained steady at 13.2million during the first quarter of this year compared to the same period last year.
2016 has already celebrated some momentous occasions, including the Queen's 90th Birthday and Shakespeare 400.
London has a jam-packed cultural calendar of exhibitions, events and performances including, EXHIBITIONISM at the Saatchi Gallery, the sold-out stage production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, the much anticipated Groundhog Day part directed by songwriter Tim Minchin and also Romeo and Juliet starring Game of Thrones star Richard Madden.
A major new extension at Tate Modern has been hailed as the most important new cultural building in the UK since the British Library in 1998 – the new extension will provide even more space to display world-class exhibitions.
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Charlotte Knowles Designers Want to See Rihanna Wear Their Brand Next 2021
No Comments on Charlotte Knowles Designers Want to See Rihanna Wear Their Brand Next 2021Posted in Lifestyle By Randhir SinghPosted on 29/12/2020 07/08/2021
Courtesy of Charlotte Knowles.
Even if the name Charlotte Knowles isn't instantly recognizable to you, you've probably seen the label's structured corsets, bodycon tops, and dresses with flashes of revealing cut-outs, or otherwise, its more utilitarian 90s-meets-70s mesh leggings, on everyone from Grimes to Bella Hadid and Kylie Jenner.
When it comes to what the London-based brand represents, femininity is at the top of the list, and Knowles's pieces often mold to the body, to highlight the female form. When it comes to composing a collection, bodycon dresses in all odd shades of tie-dye and awkward prints are equally as important as elasticised sheer blouses or shearling jackets trimmed in neon green.
Knowles graduated from Central Saint Martins in 2017, and previously interned at Alexander McQueen, Acne Studios, Helmut Lang, and Gareth Pugh. But she began designing at the age of 13, when her mom first bought her a sewing machine. Along with her partner, Alexandre Arsenault, she has steadily built up a brand that celebrates the female gaze and is unafraid to position lingerie-inspired pieces as outerwear.
8 Things To Know Before Buying a Watch According to Collectors 2021
For spring 2021, Knowles and Arsenault showed a collection full of impactful sheer printed pieces as well as decidedly directional outerwear, inspired by their teenage years spent watching MTV. The duo also collaborated with Harley Weir on a film.
"We kind of became friends, and then never had the budget to be like, okay, let's work with her and she can do whatever she wants us to do," explains Knowles. In the video, models turn round and round, the camera inching into zoomed-in portraits of various parts of the body and face, in an almost distorted, psychedelic haze. We caught up with Knowles and Arsenault, who gave their Style Notes interview while working on their upcoming fall 2021 collection.
Why focus on corsetry and underwear-inspired pieces?
Charlotte Knowles: It's always been kind of core to the brand, stemming from my graduate collection. There's just this innate intimacy associated with underwear and those sorts of pieces. It was this archaic idea of femininity and privacy and intimacy, and we felt that today, with Instagram and everything, we like to question this idea of intimacy and, what is femininity? How can we take it outside?
How can we take the idea of underwear into something else and use the detail and the language, and turn it into other things? There are always really intricate parts to underwear as well: it's almost utilitarian because it's so functional; everything has a function, made for a reason in a really beautiful way.
It's all the things that we really love—product design, product development. There's something so peaceful about these kinds of objects. And I think that's something that Alex and I have always been fascinated with. With underwear and lingerie, there are so many interesting finishings and things that you can explore and evolve into more of a ready-to-wear piece.
Miss Universe Canada 2020 Winner Nova Stevens on Modelling & Activism
You just did jeans for the first time for spring 2021. How else is the brand expanding?
Charlotte Knowles: Every season, we've been entering into new things. I think that the brand is so much more than that. Recently we've been developing bags and working on some jewelry. I think that we want to expand into outerwear, because we've seen a good response with the last few seasons with leathers. And also, more dresses and a bit more of a complete range.
Where do you find inspiration?
Charlotte Knowles: We always find references from all over the place. We spend quite a lot of time researching. I think mainly it's because we're two people thinking about it and we live together, do everything together. So it's a constant discussion of what next season could be. We find one thing and then we're like, what if next season was like this? It's a constant discussion of us finding things.
Alexandre Arsenault: It's us continuously discussing, finding, and being interested in things and just trying to see different facets [within] the kind of universe that we're trying to build. It's never thematic, it's more how we imagine the universe and that moment in time.
Is there a person or label who has most shaped your sense of design?
Charlotte Knowles: For me, there are a lot of brands from the Nineties that were quite massive which I always got really inspired by. Obviously Prada and also Jean Paul Gaultier, who I feel like is sometimes underrated. There's just so much crazy Jean Paul Gaultier from that era that I'm obsessed with.
Alexandre Arsenault: I grew up with McQueen because I grew up in Montreal. My perspective on fashion is very much built on forums of nerds obsessing with clothes and construction.
21 Stylish Musicians We Want to See More of in 2021
So many celebrities have worn your pieces—who have you been the most excited about?
Charlotte Knowles: Both of us really love Grimes, so that was a big moment for me because I listen to her [music]. What's nice about Grimes is that she was in touch personally. I feel like the ones that we were the most excited about were always the ones that were actually in touch with personally, where I felt like there was a genuine interest in the brand. Also, Bella just looks really amazing. She really suits the clothes and the style.
Who would you love to see wearing your clothes? Charlotte Knowles Designers Want to See Rihanna Wear Their Brand Next
Charlotte Knowles: Rihanna. We know that she is interested in the brand and has been buying the clothes for a really long time—almost since the third season. But we've never seen her wear anything. It would be quite a moment to see RiRi in full CK.
How would you describe the Charlotte Knowles brand in three words?
Charlotte Knowles: I think "power" is always important. I would say "sexy," "dangerous," "power," "future." And maybe "subversive" a bit as well. If we do tailoring, there's always something about it that causes a bit of an edge. There'll be some weird cut-outs in an unexpected place, just like a slit through the skin.
Do you have a style icon?
Charlotte Knowles: Georgia Pendlebury, our stylist. She's been with us since the beginning. She just always looks incredible and she just finds the most incredible pieces. She's quite an inspiring person. If I'm designing something, I'll always ask myself, hey, would I wear it, and would Georgia wear it?
Alexandre Arsenault: I envision culture and subcultures around us more than actual style icons. We're much more inspired by the girl right next to us, or even the girls on Instagram—people who buy our clothes and wear them with things that we wouldn't expect. And that inspires us much more than, like, looking at Madonna, for example.
What's your go-to outfit? Do you wear your own pieces?
Charlotte Knowles: I usually wear at least one of the mesh pieces every day. I'm always wearing mesh leggings with a big sweater, but then if we're going out, which obviously hasn't happened for a year, I'll wear a corset. I have quite the collection now.
What piece are you most proud of?
Charlotte Knowles: There are usually one or two pieces every season I'm proud of. There's this one shearling jacket we did for spring that I really love, which I also wear all the time. We did some corsets for spring 2021 with really tiny boning. They're quite minimal looking, I just really love them.
What's the best fashion advice you ever received?
Alexandre Arsenault: The best is the most difficult to actually put in place: don't compare yourself. Not everyone's going to be successful at the same time and at the same rates because you don't know what goes on financially or anything else. Especially when you're just starting—you feel like there is only space for one brand and like you're trying to fight for that space. You're comparing yourself to everyone and getting depressed. You have to understand that everyone has a different path and maybe in three seasons, you're going to be ahead of that other person. And then in five seasons, she's going to be ahead. There's no single path.
Charlotte Knowles Designers Want to See Rihanna Wear Their Brand Next
What's your most prized possession? Charlotte Knowles Designers Want to See Rihanna Wear Their Brand Next
Charlotte Knowles: Our cats. We have two big ragdoll cats, two little sisters.
What are some past cultural or style moments that really influenced you?
Charlotte Knowles: MTV moments, and musicians that I grew up listening to and watching—anything that you would see in our teen years. That's obviously what's informed where we are today. There's definitely a Nineties trend over the last couple of seasons, which I think we push to a different level.
What was your first major fashion purchase?
Alexandre Arsenault: Either some kind of Hedi Slimane gloves or something stupid that probably cost me like a hundred quid. I probably saved money for like three weeks to get it.
Charlotte Knowles: I got a couple things from Prada. I got this knitted playsuit, which is really amazing. That was probably the first big thing.
What's next for the brand?
Charlotte Knowles: We're trying to figure out a structure moving forward, how to expand organically, reach more people. It's all kind of boring business things because we're almost at the point where we need to hire someone else because it's becoming a bit too much to handle. And for other things, we're just working on fall/winter 2021 and trying to see what the future holds.
The 6 Best 2021 Hair Colour Trends and Ideas To Try Now
A Deep Dive Into Comme des Garçons' Most Unexpected Scents 2021


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Q: Rails 3.2 chain renderers to render a .css.erb.scss view I want to be able to to have a view file called my.css.erb.scss in which the ERB is handled and then the SCSS is compiled.
So for example this file:
h1 { color: <%= 'red' %>; }

Would result in:
h1 { color: red; }

Currently the only solution I've found to work is a bit of a fudge and I don't like it (and it's proving difficult to render via this method in specs):
lib/renders.rb:
ActionController.add_renderer :css do |template,options|
    string = render_to_string template, options
    css = Sass::Engine.new(string, :syntax => :scss).render
    self.content_type ||= Mime::CSS
    self.response_body = css
end

Then in the controller I need to do this:
respond_to do |format|
    format.css { render :css => params[:action] }
end

I've tried adding an registering a renderer via the ActionView::Template::Handler module method with a .call method but I couldn't get the ERB to render then.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Press release Friday August 17th, 2018
The aid sector must do more to keep local staff safe in conflict zones, says Christian Aid ahead of World Humanitarian Day.
Governments, UN agencies and aid organisations must unlock extra funds to help protect local humanitarian workers from death and injury when serving in conflict zones, Christian Aid has said.
The charity is urging global donors to give grassroots organisations the means to reduce security threats facing staff who risk their lives in humanitarian service within their own countries and communities. This call comes ahead of the United Nations' annual World Humanitarian Day, this Sunday.
2018 has seen fatal attacks on Christian Aid partners in South Sudan and Gaza. In the wider sector, at least 313 aid workers were victims of violent attacks in 2017, according to new global figures published this week.
Christian Aid's Senior Adviser for Humanitarian Policy and Advocacy, Jane Backhurst, said: "This year's World Humanitarian Day highlights the need for concrete steps to protect all civilians caught up in violence: this includes aid workers.
"At Christian Aid, we are committed to delivering our relief operations through our local partners. They are usually the first to respond to conflicts in their countries, and are therefore vital to ensuring emergency aid gets to people who most need it.
"These staff are embedded in populations affected by crisis: their proximity gives them more humanitarian access, but it also leaves them more vulnerable to deadly acts of violence. From South Sudan to Afghanistan, Gaza to Nigeria, our partners risk their lives daily to provide life-saving assistance to their fellow citizens in insecure contexts. We are incredibly grateful for their sacrifice and service."
In April, a staff member from Christian Aid's local partner UNIDO was shot and killed near Leer in South Sudan, where they had been working in a health facility. Approximately 100 aid workers have been killed in the country since December 2013, predominantly South Sudanese nationals.
In June, 21-year-old Razan al-Najjar, a volunteer medic for Christian Aid's partner the Palestinian Medical Relief Society (PMRS), was killed on duty in Gaza. Razan was shot by Israeli Forces as she gave medical assistance to injured protesters. In the two months prior, 30 PMRS paramedics were injured throughout the Gaza Strip, while assisting civilians hurt during protests to end the nearly 12-year closure of Gaza.
Last month, in Afghanistan, a suicide bomb was detonated just 15-20 metres from where two Christian Aid workers were standing. They survived the explosion.
Jane Backhurst said: "Local aid workers move between having 'humanitarian status' when on duty to having 'civilian status' when off-duty. Whether humanitarian worker or civilian, they should have additional protection under international humanitarian law: in reality they are the majority of frontline responders – not western NGOs – and they are first in the line of danger. That's why we need to prioritise their safety and security.
"This means ensuring donors invest more funds in the core, everyday activities of local and national NGOs. Rather than providing one-off grants on a crisis-by-crisis basis, we must commit to investing in their long-term operations. Without this, they will struggle to generate adequate financial resources to keep their local humanitarian staff safe: for instance, through security training, security and logistics advisers, or corporate security systems that work properly."
In May 2016 at the World Humanitarian Summit, over 30 of the biggest donors and aid agencies agreed to change the way humanitarian emergencies are financed, and to provide at least 25% of global humanitarian funding to local and national responders, by 2020.
The summit also agreed to 'respect, support and strengthen local leadership and capacity in crises', as part of a strategy known as the 'localisation agenda'. It saw international NGOs signing a 'Charter for Change' pledge to alter how they work with local and national aid agencies. Although there has been some progress, it has been slow.
"Unlocking more core funds for local and national NGOs is not only vital to safeguarding the lives of in-country humanitarian staff, but also to making the 'localisation agenda' a reality in line with Charter for Change," Jane Backhurst said.
Extra funding is also needed to enable local agencies to provide mental health, counselling and wellbeing support for frontline staff operating in stressful, insecure and often traumatic environments, according to Christian Aid.
Aid workers are among the thousands of civilians killed by extremist armed groups or armed forces in the Nigeria and the Lake Chad region since 2009. Earlier this year one such attack claimed the lives of three Nigerian UN workers in Borno state, where Christian Aid is delivering emergency supplies in camps for displaced people.
Christian Aid is committed to investing in reducing the risks facing its humanitarian staff in Borno state. Its Country Security Advisor in Nigeria, Raymond Ohanagorom, said: "Some of the threats that have been affecting aid workers, either directly or indirectly, include: person-borne, vehicle-borne and road-planted Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attacks; ambush; armed robbery attacks; abduction; carjacking; violent demonstrations and cross-fire attacks."
Aid workers' efforts are also being hampered by security forces' restrictions on accessing certain areas, Mr Ohanagorom added. Despite the severity of the situation in Nigeria and the Lake Chad region, humanitarian access remains inadequate 18 months on from a global summit designed to address the crisis, and just weeks before its follow-up conference in Berlin on 3-4 September.
1. Christian Aid is among the Charter for Change signatories who have this week issued a joint statement calling for better protection for local and national NGO staff.
For further information please contact Tomilola Ajayi on tajayi@christian-aid.org or 07850 242950
aid worker conflict emergencies humanitarian localisation security World Humanitarian Day
Christian Aid welcomes UN Human Rights Council move to include voices of people displaced by...
Christian Aid welcomes UN Human Rights Council move to include voices of people displaced by violence and conflict
Millions caught in Nigeria's hidden horror, warns Christian Aid
Christian Aid condemns South Sudan aid worker killings, after death of partner staff
Christian Aid condemns the killing of partner volunteer in Gaza – statement
Christian Aid calls for faster progress to put affected communities at centre of humanitarian system at...
Christian Aid calls for faster progress to put affected communities at centre of humanitarian system at crunch New York meeting


Rainbow hair just got a diabetes-inducing upgrade. Ladies, give a warm welcome to macaron hair or, as it's alternatively known, candy unicorn hair.
The trend incorporates seven "candy unicorn" colors: purple, silver, mint green, pink, peach, yellow and blue.
Shelley Gregory, the stylist and colorist behind the style, says the look was inspired by the cult favorite macaron and pastry shop Ladurée.
"Everything from the crown molding and the way they display the macarons — it sticks with you," Gregory told Cosmopolitan. "It's kind of like Disneyland, where it's magic. I wanted that feeling when you look at this hair."
Personally, I'm down for multi-colored locks. This take on pastel hair, however, looks high maintenance as f*ck.
Also, with all those colors, you'd probably be in the salon all through lunch and way past your Chipotle dinner.
Then again, I've always wanted to resemble my favorite dessert without the commitment of covering my naked body with crumbled macaron bits.
Doesn't this make you hungry?
This hair is one way to satisfy that sugar craving.
Never thought we'd be into the wet macaron look.
You can even add glitter roots for that full-on Rainbow Dash look.
Doesn't this remind you of Funfetti bagels?


There is still a high risk of terrorism and kidnap of foreigners in Algeria. Your Governments Foreign Office website should be consulted before you consider self driving in Algeria. UK FCO advice on driving is -If you want to drive a car you will need to obtain a local permit. Do not use public transport other than taxis recommended by your hotel. Overland travel outside major cities should be avoided at night, as buses and other vehicles have been attacked, sometimes at illegal vehicle checkpoints. It is advisable to travel in a convoy of at least two to three vehicles. Sustained small-scale attacks, including bombings, illegal roadblocks and kidnapping occur in many rural parts of the country.
I rented a car during 14 days! the best way to visit the country.
(No experience with bus. Train was also good: we did Oran to Algier).
-NO need of International License: my Spain/European was perfect!
-Don't forget "marriage certificate" if you travel with your couple to avoid a problem in several severe hotels…other case they want a room for each person (and of course, to pay both!).
-Very difficult to obtain a car in Algier capital: no cars, old ones, etc…even some cars very old and spoiled.
-Motorways (east-side in the country, and several 4 ways,…always free, and good conditions.
-other roads, good in general, but some surprises (rims choped, some pits, etc).
-Security: No problem. "militarized country", Controls quite often, every few km, with walls in the road, police,…Almost never they ask for your papers. NO PICTURES allowed, remember!! Going through the desert, you need "gendarmeria" taking care of you. To arrive to Timimoun, 1 hour of papers, and police with us during 150 km (4×4 in front and behind us). Kind and gentle. Just for your security, they say.
-Driving people is a bit anarchic, but not terrible. You can do it. Be prudent, and of course only during day light. Motorway: 120 km/h. Other roads, 90, 80, …But take care of "police dormant", dangerous…!
-Petrol: so cheap! Just 23 da /liter (official: 23 cents of euro; if you change euros in the street, just 16 cent of euro). I bought a bottle of 10 liters, to avoid problems. It helped me going Timimoun (Sahara). The gas station in the middle way was closed.! In general, you have enough petrol stations, but some ones are closed, or dont have your type of essence. Full your tank when you have only the half. Tips are not necessary…but you can give the 4-10 dinars of the change. Salaries, sure, very low.
-I drived 4.500 km with any inconvenience. No experience about to go to Tamanrasset. Sure is better to fly there (2000 km + 2000 return! desert…monotony).
Hertz are the only big rental company operating in Algeria.Sixt feature the country on their website but it doesn't seem to allow you to make a reservation. Algeria also features on Car Rental broker sites such as Argus Car Hire.
Minimum age for renting is 25. Cars can't be taken out of Algeria.


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Justice League Vs Teen Titans - Zavvi UK Exclusive Limited Edition Steelbook (Limited to 1000 Copies)
Batman Forever 4K Ultra HD Ultimate Collector's Edition with Steelbook
Batman & Robin Ultimate Collectors Edition 4K Ultra HD Steelbook (includes Blu-ray)
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy - Limited Edition 4K Ultra HD Steelbook Collection (UK Version)
Frustrated and disillusioned about his work alongside the Justice League, Robin is forced into a new position with a younger super team, the Teen Titans. Readily welcomed aboard, he is immediately intrigued by the mysterious Raven and the unnatural force that looms over them - her father, Trigon - a deceptive being powerful enough to destroy Metropolis by pitting the mighty Justice League against the Teen Titans. With loyalties on the line and lives in the balance, the super hero showdown will pit Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and Cyborg against the likes of Beast Boy, Starfire, Blue Beetle and Nightwing. Only true teamwork will end the threat in this all-new DC Universe adventure!
1.78:1 Widescreen
Number of Discs:
Dubbing Languages:
Stuart Allan
Jason O'Mara
Jerry O'Connell
Christopher Gorham
Subtitle Languages:
Theatrical Release Year: