It seems that Pat McCrory, governor of North Carolina who had signed into law HB2 preventing transgender people from using the bathrooms corresponding to their gender, was not re-elected. I am cautious at the moment because the results remain to be confirmed and there are only a few votes of difference between him and the Democrat candidate Roy Cooper.
It is finally confirmed, Salt Lake City has elected an openly lesbian mayor for the first time! Congratulations to Jackie Biskupski who won a historic victory here!
Hollande vs Aubry: Who Really Support Gay Marriage?
Whereas Jean-Louis Borlo, who supports gay marriage, announced that he would not be candidate to the presidential elections of 2012 in France, it would seem François Hollande, another candidate, is not so supporting gay marriage and adoption for gay and lesbian couples such as he said it.
How is this possible that New York Democrats did not choose Christine Quinn as candidate for Mayor even though, since the beginning, all the polls always showed that she would beat her adversaries and would become the first lesbian Mayor?
Following their elections as homecoming king and queen, Rebeca Arellano and Haileigh Adams are now facing homophobe mails.


Become a better B&W photographer – and let your camera help you with that.
Many modern mirrorless cameras offer great looking jpg color and film simulation modes straight out of the camera. But did you know that they can produce some of the best looking B&W images straight out of camera, too? I started my photography with a cheap plastic camera from a grab bag and a roll of B&W film in the late 70's. I must have been 5 or 6 years old at that time. I guess that is where my emotional attachment to B&W photography began. But when I started to also shoot with digital cameras in the 90's, I shot those … [Read more...] about Become a better B&W photographer – and let your camera help you with that.


Even though Anthony lives in a neighborhood with a lot of crime and gang violence, he usually manages to stay out of trouble. He plays football on his high school team and with the guidance and support of his coach, has kept his grades up and his eye on the future. But then an argument at practice spilled over to the classroom and Anthony was suspended for fighting. Forced to sit out the last two games of the season, Anthony retaliated by skipping school and hanging out with some guys in his neighborhood. Anthony's coach has called his parents to school for a meeting to talk about what they can do to make sure Anthony gets his life back on track.
(*) This fact sheet is based on a comprehensive review of the scientific literature, including computer searches of major bibliographic databases (e.g., PsycINFO, MEDLINE/PubMed, EBSCOhost) looking for epidemiological studies that evaluated what factors make boys more or less prone to certain outcomes. The literature search was limited to scholarly journal articles and government documents published in 2000 and later unless an article was a seminal piece in the field or contributed to tracking trends over time. The statistics provided are from the most recent year for which data were available. Where possible, data related specifically to boys are included, but when these data were not available, data on youth, ages 10 to 18, are provided.
What Factors Increase or Decrease Boys' Risk of Juvenile Delinquency?


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Patrick Wolf arrested in San Francisco
Laura Ferreiro Jun 9, 2009 11:44 pm BST
Singer says he was 'almost shot in the face'
Patrick Wolf was reportedly arrested last night (June 8) for spitting in a bouncer's face.
The singer, who was performing at Slim's in San Francisco as part of his US tour, Tweeted about the experience, and said he was almost shot in the face.
In a series of Twitter postings earlier today (June 9), Wolf wrote, "Was arrested by san fran police for spitting in a bouncer's face in protection of myself. Was almost shot in the face by a policeman. WTF? was told by the policeman "take your shitty ass music out of this city and if you ever step off that tour bus you will be *****"
"Feeling very thelma and louise right now.. must sleep… not allowed off the bus or i will be shot by a policeman. this country is insane!!! btw. apparently my spit DEFINITELY contains hiv, swine flu and hepatitis that is why my spit is a deadly weapon according to police here!"
Wolf is scheduled to continue his tour with a show at the Roxy Theatre in Los Angeles tonight.
–By our Los Angeles staff.
[url="/about"] Find out more about NME.[/url]

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


HARRISBURG – Two bills and one resolution sponsored PA House Health Committee Chairman Kathy Rapp (R-Warren/Crawford/Forest) are moving forward this week.
On Monday, Rapp's legislation to prohibit the sale of electronic cigarettes, e-cigars, JUULs and other related vaping products to minors unanimously passed the state House for the third consecutive legislative session and again moves on to the Senate for consideration.
Updated to reflect the latest terminology used in federal regulations, House Bill 97 would amend the Crimes Code by adding "electronic nicotine delivery systems" (ENDS) to the sections that currently make it illegal to sell tobacco products to minors and, for students, to use such tobacco products on school grounds. The penalties would be the same as the penalties that apply to the sale and use of tobacco products under current law.
Also on Monday, Rapp convened a House Health Committee meeting to advance her legislation that would require health insurers to cover treatment plans for Lyme disease or related tick-borne illnesses as prescribed by a patient's health care practitioner, regardless if the treatment plan includes short-term or long-term antibiotic treatment.
House Bill 629 now advances to the full House for consideration. Virtually identical legislation passed the House last session by a bipartisan, veto proof vote of 188-6.
Last and certainly not least, on Tuesday, Rapp's House Resolution 170 designating March 30 as "Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day" in Pennsylvania was unanimously adopted for the third consecutive year.


I have never been one to make New Year's resolutions. Actually, that's not true. I almost always make promises to eat healthier, drink less wine, and workout more, but I don't usually write those resolutions down since I know there's a (very) high degree of probability I won't follow through with any of them for more than a couple of months. I just feel like life should be spent LIVING, and while I enjoy leading a healthy lifestyle as much as I can, I simply cannot exist on kale salads and cucumber water, you know?
So rather than trying to turn myself into someone I'm not this year, I'm going to concentrate on becoming a better version of the person I already am. I feel like I'm old enough to embrace all of my imperfections, and while I still have moments when I wish I was born looking like a supermodel, being the mom of an impressionable 4-year-old has taught me to stop yearning to be someone else, and to start focusing on the person I am instead.
And since I know I'm not the only gal out there who is a better mom and wife when she looks and feels her best, I'm teaming up with the wonderful folks from goodnessknows to share 5 of my best New Year's resolutions for a better you.
For the last 4+ years, I have been surviving on 5-6 hours of sleep a night, and while I know it's in my best interest to hit the sack early so I'm not so grumpy and tired when my daughter wakes up at the crack of dawn, I really struggle to get myself into bed before midnight each night.
But when a trainer at my gym gave me a really hard time about my unhealthy sleep habits and explained all of the horrible effects sleep deprivation can have not only on my physical health, but also on my emotional well-being, I decided to heed her advice.
I started by getting an additional 30 minutes of sleep, and was so amazed at what a difference it made that I'm now going to bed a full 2+ hours earlier each night. I find I'm less moody, more patient, my productive, and better able to handle stress, and cannot fathom how I used to function on such little sleep!
A research group conducted a study in which they assessed feelings of fatigue in 2 groups of people. Both groups got the same amount of rest and exerted the same amount of energy throughout the study, but the Test Group was led to believe they were more well-rested than they really were.
The result was that everyone (or nearly everyone) in the Test Group reported lower feelings of fatigue and higher levels of alertness compared to those in the Control Group, which led the researchers to believe that our PERCEPTION of how tired we are plays a huge role in how we actually feel on a daily basis.
I had all but forgotten about that study, but when I found myself unable to shake a bad mood earlier this week, I was pleasantly surprised that by changing my perception of the situation that was making me grumpy, and focusing on all of the GOOG THINGS in my life that make me happy, I was able to lift myself out of my funk.
While my New Year's resolutions have often consisted of promises to spend more time at the gym, I'm trying a new approach this year. Rather than setting unrealistic goals to get in 3 spin classes, 2 runs, and a couple of weight classes each week, I've decided to take the advice of a trainer at my gym and focus on doing the exercises I enjoy instead. Her rationale is that if we make our workouts 'fun', they will be less of a chore and we will be more likely to make them a regular part of our routine.
So rather than sticking to a gruelling schedule that will inevitably set me up for failure, I have simply made a commitment to get in at least 4 good workouts each week, and I decide in the moment what that workout will consist of. I had actually intended on doing a spin class today, but while I was lacing up my runners, I made a spur-of-the-moment decision to hit the treadmill instead, and ran 10K in less than 55 minutes!
If I could change one thing about myself, it would be to stop worrying about the future. I find I spend so much time agonizing about what MIGHT happen tomorrow, next week, or next year that I often forget to enjoy what's happening right in front of me. And while I derive some comfort from anticipating what COULD happen so I can be prepared, experience has proven that it's extremely exhausting and unproductive to worry about the things I cannot control.
So rather than obsessing about the future, or dwelling on the past, I've been making a conscious effort to live in the moment, and my new mindset has made me a much better wife and mother. It took some practice and getting used to, but by focusing on the here and now, I find I am much better equipped to give 100% of myself to those I love, and I am a much happier person as a result.
While I cannot make promises to eat healthy 100% of the time, age and experience have taught me that the foods I consume have a direct impact on my mood and overall sense of well-being. For the most part, this keeps me extremely dedicated when it comes to maintaining a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, but if I've learned anything in the last 38 years of my life, it's the importance of indulging once in a while.
In the past, indulgences used to come in the form of cookies, cakes, and pies, and while I still appreciate those things every once in a while, I am more interested in finding healthy snacks I can enjoy on the regular that will satisfy my cravings without pumping me full of empty calories.
Which is why I love goodnessknows snack squares.
Have you ever heard of these gems?
Cranberry, almond, dark chocolate: Packed with roasted almonds and toasted rolled oats with a hint of natural sweetness, this combination leaves you feeling happily satisfied.
Apple, almond & peanut, dark chocolate: Crunchy peanuts, toasted almonds and tangy apples are the perfect combination for snack time, a treat post-meal or during your favorite indoor or outdoor activity.
Peach & cherry, almond, dark chocolate: Sweet peaches and cherries accompanied by wholesome toasted almonds and dark chocolate to create a satisfying crunch.
The cranberry, almond, and dark chocolate squares are my favorite, and with 3 grams of protein and less than 200 calories per serving, they make the perfect mid-afternoon snack to satisfy my chocolate cravings while also keeping my hunger pangs at bay until dinnertime.
Want more tips for making (and keeping!) healthier food and fitness resolutions this year? Check out this awesome infographic!
And if you found these New Year's Resolutions for a Better You helpful, please share them on Pinterest!


In particular, the immunoglobulins IgM and IgG increase with an RSV infection.
What are the Clinical Indications for performing the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Test?
How is the Specimen Collected for Respiratory Syncytial Virus Test?
What is the Significance of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Test Result?
A positive Respiratory Syncytial Virus Test, specified by an elevated IgM and IgG, or the presence of RSV antigen, may indicate a respiratory syncytial virus infection.


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4 Critical Tests for a New Spacecraft That Will Clean Up Space Debris
A European mission will test whether nets and harpoons can capture and remove space junk
5 Great Tips To Learn How To Protect From Ransomware
Singapore tightens cyber defence guidelines for financial…
Photo: Equinox Graphics/Surrey Space Centre/University of Surrey
Illustration: Equinox Graphics/Surrey Space Centre/University of Surrey
Showtime: Prior to its April launch, a technician applied the finishing touches to the RemoveDebris spacecraft.
A spacecraft may soon be able to snare space junk by firing harpoons and nets. A European mission was expected to begin tests in late May of space-age versions of those ancient tools to clean up Earth's cluttered orbital lanes.
Space junk has already destroyed at least one satellite, damaged others, and periodically forces the crew aboard the International Space Station to take evasive action. There are more than half a million pieces of space debris larger than a marble and tens of thousands of significantly larger specimens left over from spent rocket boosters and defunct satellites. To head off future catastrophe, experts from NASA and the European Space Agency have proposed removing 5 to 10 large pieces of debris each year.
For the new mission, plainly called RemoveDebris, collaborators launched a 1-cubic-meter spacecraft to the space station in April. The spacecraft was scheduled to deploy from the space station in May to complete four tests of technologies, including a net and harpoon, that could be used to clear space debris.
"The net and harpoon are simple concepts but uniquely implemented for this application," said Guglielmo Aglietti, principal investigator and director of the Surrey Space Centre at the University of Surrey, in England.
Other researchers have proposed using lasers or electrified cables to nudge space junk into orbits that lead it to burn up in Earth's atmosphere. A Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency attempt to test an electrodynamic tether failed in 2017 because the tether was unable to unroll and deploy. Several other missions have tested passive removal, which involves aged satellites using their own boosters or deploying drag sails to force self-immolation.
Given that limited history of testing, the US $18.7 million RemoveDebris mission could prove instructive as a low-budget demonstration. The European Commission and the Surrey Space Centre are leading an international consortium backing the mission.
If successful, the project could inspire a follow-up mission that will try to capture an actual piece of space junk, said William Schonberg, an aerospace engineer at Missouri University of Science and Technology who is not involved in the effort. "Hopefully, we will not have a disaster that costs human lives before we have the combined will to do something," he said.
Go Fish: In one test, the spacecraft will toss out a net to snare a CubeSat.
Net Capture
For this test, the main spacecraft will release a CubeSat about the size of a bread loaf that will deploy and inflate a 1-meter balloon to make itself into a larger target. Once the CubeSat has drifted 6 meters away, the main spacecraft will launch a 5-meter-wide net at the target.
If all goes well, weighted masses on the net's edges will wrap it securely around the target. Motor-driven spools will tighten the neck of the net to prevent the CubeSat from escaping.
The entangled satellite will then be left to fall out of orbit and burn up in Earth's atmosphere. But future missions could also allow the spacecraft to reel in its netted prey.
Clean Patrol: The 100-kilogram RemoveDebris spacecraft must now prove its ability to capture space junk.
Vision-Based Navigation
Any space-debris removal will require the ability to accurately track floating bits of stuff. The mission's second test involves a vision-based navigation system that uses a pair of cameras and a lidar sensor to follow potential targets.
The two cameras will ride aboard the mother ship and perform two sets of observations. First, the cameras will observe the net-capture experiment involving the first CubeSat. Then the cameras will turn their focus onto a second CubeSat, equipped with four extendable solar panels, that will deploy from the main spacecraft. Eventually, that CubeSat will drift out of orbit and burn up in Earth's atmosphere.
Bull's-Eye: A tethered harpoon with a pointed tip zooms toward its target in this conceptual rendering.
Harpoon Capture
In the harpoon test, the spacecraft will not attempt to spear a tumbling target moving along its own trajectory. Instead, it will extend a long arm to hold a stationary target, about the size of a ping-pong paddle.
Once the target is in place at a distance of 1.5 meters, the spacecraft will fire a small harpoon that consists of a miniature projectile the size of a pen with a trailing tether. The tether will allow the spacecraft to reel in its target. It may sound simple, but it's a necessary step in demonstrating how well a harpoon could perform in real space conditions.
A Fiery Demise: In another test, the spacecraft will deploy a sail to gracefully descend and burn up in Earth's atmosphere.
Drag Sail
The final test will prevent the spacecraft itself from becoming yet another piece of space debris. This test involves raising a drag sail on the end of a mast that will extend to 1 meter and ensure that the sail doesn't entangle the spacecraft. Once the sail's mast is ready, a motor will raise carbon fiber booms that open the sail's membrane, which measures about 10 square meters. The drag sail will act as a large brake, making the main spacecraft leave orbit faster and bringing the mission to an end.
This article appears in the June 2018 print issue as "Fishing for Space Junk."
Hackers Use HTML Smuggling To Distribute Malware by E-mail
5 safety tips to follow while making digital payment transactions
How AI, Machine Learning, and Endpoint Security Overlap
11 Useful Security Tips for Securing Your AWS Environment


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Q: Access REST end point on an embedded device using WiFi direct from android I have an embedded device that exposes its functionalities via a RESTful Web service. I want to consume those Web services via my android device by connecting my mobile to the embedded device via Wifi? Is it possible to do so?
The possible use cases are transferring the control panel UI of the embedded device to the android and controlling it remotely. The UI is exposed as a REST endpoint.

A: If the chip you are using supports Wi-Fi Direct, you should search for its code yourself since I don't know about it really, but you can find documentation and examples of wifi direct here, and if it doesn't support it, there are two scenarios, one is that you want to make your android device a server and your chip a client, which leads you to use Nanohttpd in your android code to make a server, and the other one is to bring up a server on your chip and make your android device a client, which leads to using a library like loopj which saves lots of pain. so I guess that was all.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


As we move into Spring and Summer, installing gas logs for your fireplace may be the last thing on your mind. But here are three reasons why now is the perfect time to upgrade and start burning propane in your fireplace or your outdoor fire pit.
We've all heard of the four Cs of diamonds (clarity, cut, color and carat). Here are the three Cs for why you should move to burning gas now rather than waiting until fall.
Convenience. Burning gas and using gas logs give you instant flame with the flip of a switch. There's no chopping, storing, seasoning or sparks – something you must deal with when using wood. Sparks can be especially concerning whether your fire is indoors or outside. An errant spark could burn someone or ignite a rug or some other combustible material outside. Perhaps the greatest convenience of all about using gas logs is no mess! When you're done, the switch extinguishes the flame as quickly as it appeared and there are no ashes to clean up later.
Cleanliness. Gas logs burn more cleanly than wood, providing an environmental incentive. They eliminate soot, ash and grime, the byproducts of burning wood that require regular cleaning.
Confidence. Now is the time to switch to gas logs or update your existing logs. If you're working on an outdoor fireplace or fire pit, gas is a perfect option because of the cleanliness and convenience it offers. And even though we're just entering spring and summer after a long winter, now is the time to upgrade your indoor fireplace to gas as well. Don't be caught off guard at the first cold snap – which could happen in just five months! Install gas and gas logs now and be confident that your system will be ready to switch on when that first frost hits.
Phillips Energy installs and services a variety of gas log and fireplace styles to suit different tastes, budgets and construction requirements.
No chimney? No problem. There are various vent options available to suit your installation needs. Models and related accessories are offered from the leading comfort industry brands including Majestic, Kingsman, Napoleon, American Hearth, White Mountain Heart, Heatmaster, Vantage Heart, Valor, Skytech Remotes and RH Peterson.
All of the models sold by Phillips Energy burn propane, which can be conveniently delivered to your home on an automatic refill basis. Monthly billing is offered, as well as various pre-purchase plans that can help protect you against fuel price fluctuations.
Contact Phillips Energy today to fuel your life with propane and reap the rewards of convenience, cleanliness and confidence.


Your opportunity to own one of the most notable luxury estates in the South with incredible history. Recent architectural changes have made a functional use out of all 10,000 square feet. Original details balance harmoniously with modern amenities as it is completely energy efficient and a smart home. The Governor Dudley Mansion, built in 1825, was home to NC's 1st elected governor & also owned by Pembroke & Sarah Jones who many suggest coined the term keeping up with the Joneses. Step into the grand entry hall leading to the sunroom overlooking the grounds & views of the Cape Fear River. The Dudley features 3 main living floors & basement accessible from the main house w/ 3,700 sq ft of completed living areas. 5 bedrooms, formal dining & livingrm, den, wetbar, gourmet kitchen, library, Gentleman's smoking rm luxurious master suite, office and on the top floor is access to the rooftop's observation deck with 360 views. Original hardwood floors throughout the entire home. Home is located in the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington and at the start of the Wilmington River Walk.


FREDERICTON – With New Brunswick continuing to rank among the highest in Canada for obesity and among the lowest for fruit and vegetable consumption, the province's doctors are calling on New Brunswickers to join them in setting an ambitious goal – making New Brunswick one of the top three healthiest provinces in 10 years.
The initiative focuses on community and environmental supports such as walking trails, food preparation education and affordable, nutritious food. It acknowledges the role that an individual's surroundings play in influencing their health.
Kicking off the conversation is the Medical Society's Forum on Healthy Weights, which brings together key stakeholders for a discussion about how the province's population can be supported to achieve their best health. Taking place today in Fredericton, the Forum features a presentation from Senator Kelvin Ogilvie, Chair of the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology that authored the "Obesity in Canada" report earlier this year. He is joined by Stephen Horsman, Minister of Social Development; Stéphane Robichaud, CEO of the New Brunswick Health Council; and Andrew Holloway, Coordinator of the province's Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Coalition (HEPAC).
The Forum plays a key role in aligning ideas and promoting collaboration between government representatives, health advocates, provincial organizations, and other professionals. It will produce a set of recommendations for government that will help the province reach the goal of making New Brunswick one of the top three healthiest provinces in Canada in ten years.


A reproduction antique circumpolar map. Includes classic star charts and signs of the zodiak.
A reproduction antique circumpolar map. Includes star charts and signs of the zodiak. Printed on fine matte paper.
Besjana Orbis Geographica 2 12"x36"
A richly detailed antique map of the eastern and western hemispheres.
Besjana Orbis Geographica 2 18"x54" Mat.
A richly detailed antique map of the eastern and western hemispheres. Printed on fine matte paper.
Cartographia 3 Antique map 20"x20"
This antique wall map features the world broken into eastern and western hemispheres.
Flags of the World 36" x 24"
A small-sized reproduction of a richly illustrated antique map of both hemispheres, dating from 1630.
A reproduction of a richly illustrated antique map of both hemispheres, dating from 1630.
INFLATE DARK BLUE 16601 TOPO 16"
This undersized reproduction antique map of the world features insets of different projections.
This popular laminated wall map of the world is produced by the experts at Michelin. In French.
This popular paper wall map of the world is produced by the experts at Michelin. In French.
This wall map of the world is produced by the experts at Michelin. In French. Mounted on foam core, in a vinyl frame.
Map of the World antique 36"x 24"
Map of the World II Antique 16"X20"
A reproduction of a richly illustrated antique map of both hemispheres, with astrological information.
World map antique 36"x 24"
Look at the world from a new perspective with this Laminated wall map. Small size.
This National Geographic wall map features vivid colours that bring the world to life. Mounted in an aluminum frame.
World Explorer Executive NG 20"x32"
Package comes with 120 self adhesive world flag decals. Each Size: 1" x 1.5".
Modern cartography and elegant earth tones make a fashionably retro view of the world.
World Map CCCMaps Laminated 38"x59"
World Map CCCMaps Laminated Size 38"x 59"
Rand McNally brings us this up-to-date map of the world with an antique finish. Commanding and impressive. Laminated.
BIRD'S EYE VIEW CARTOON STYLE MAP, LAMINATED, 27"X18"
A staff favourite, this world political wall map features major highways. Includes flags. Mounted in an aluminum frame.
A staff favourite, this world political wall map features major highways. Includes flags. Laminated.
World Map 12701 Michelin Paper 40"x57"
This wall map features National Geographic style and bright, vivid colours that bring the world to life.
This huge wall map features National Geographic style and bright, vivid colours that bring the world to life.
This earth-toned wall map of the world by National Geographic is very popular. Mounted in an aluminum frame.
This earth-toned wall map of the world by National Geographic is very popular. Mounted on pressed medite.
This earth-toned wall map of the world, by National Geographic, is one of our most popular products.
This earth-toned wall map of the world by National Geographic is very popular. Mounted in a vinyl frame.
This earth-toned wall map of the world by National Geographic is very popular. Mounted in a wooden-style frame.
This huge earth-toned wall map of the world, by National Geographic, never fails to make a statement.
World NG Executive WALLPAPER 76"X 110"
For the ultimate map-worshipper, this ten-foot earth-toned behemoth will be the centerpiece of any room.
This map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Laminated.
This map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Paper.
This huge map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Mounted in an aluminum frame.
This huge map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Laminated.
This huge map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Paper.
This huge map of the world by National Geographic is beautifully designed and accurate. Mounted in a vinyl frame.
For the ultimate map-worshipper, this baby-blue ten-foot behemoth will be the envy of all your friends.
World Outstanding LARGE 54"X40" Laminat.
World Outstanding SMALL 21x28 Vinyl Fr.
Rand McNally brings us this up-to-date map of the world with an antique finish. Mounted on pressed medite.
Rand McNally brings us this up-to-date map of the world with an antique finish. Mounted in an aluminum frame.
Rand McNally brings us this up-to-date map of the world with an antique finish. Mounted in a vinyl frame.


TALC n. A species of magnesian earth, consisting of broad flat smooth lamins or plates, unctuous to the touch, of a shining luster, translucent, and often transparent. By the action of fire, the lamins open a little, the fragment swells, and the extremities are with difficulty fused into a white enamel. When rubbed with resin, talck acquires positive electricity. Its prevailing colors are white, apple-green and yellow.
Of this mineral, Jameson's sixth subspecies of rhomboidal mica, there are two kinds, common and indurated.
A soft mineral of a soapy feel and a greenish, whitish, or grayish color, usually occurring in foliated masses. It is hydrous silicate of magnesia. Steatite, or soapstone, is a compact granular variety.
Indurated talc, an impure, slaty talc, with a nearly compact texture, and greater hardness than common talc; -- called also talc slate.
TALC noun A species of magnesian earth, consisting of broad flat smooth lamins or plates, unctuous to the touch, of a shining luster, translucent, and often transparent. By the action of fire, the lamins open a little, the fragment swells, and the extremities are with difficulty fused into a white enamel. When rubbed with resin, talck acquires positive electricity. Its prevailing colors are white, apple-green and yellow.
'AFTER-ENDEAV'OR, n. An endeavor after the first or former effort.


text:
Russia, Edward Snowden swears allegiance and takes the passport
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Edward Snowden has pledged his allegiance to the Russian Federation in exchange for handing over his passport, which he has been missing for almost 10 years. Nine years have passed since her avalanche of revelations of top secret documents about intrusions into private life by intelligence agencies around the world and his escape abroad. Two years ago he obtained permanent residency in Russia and three months ago he became a Russian citizen. Now the last step for the computer expert and former NSA consultant. On December 1 – but the news leaked the next day – he swore allegiance to Russia. A goal that was probably not what Snowden would have chosen when in 2013 he decided to violate his professional instructions and declassify thousands of top secret documents.
Soon after resigning as NSA contractor in Hawaii, the then 30-year-old Snowden flew to Hong Kong, from where he made his disclosures in late May. Shortly followed by an arrest warrant issued on June 21, 2013 by the US Department of Justice for violation of the law on espionage and theft of government property, Snowden embarked for Moscow: a simple stopover to Cuba and then Ecuador, at the which he wanted to seek asylum. But his journey stopped at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport, where agents took away his passport, which the US government had meanwhile cancelled. He remained in a sort of limbo for over a month, before the Russian authorities granted him – also in an anti-American function – a residence permit with the right to asylum for a year, which then became two, and so on.
What does Snowden do now
Whether or not it was his new homeland of choice, Russia has become his de facto prison: he has rebuilt his life, conscious of being a pawn in a political game that the war in Ukraine has then intensified. Like Julian Assange, Snowden has become a hero of free information for some, a traitor and a coward for others. And the symbolic battles of him continued. In 2016 he was appointed president of the Freedom of the Press Foundation, a San Francisco NGO dedicated to protecting freedom of speech and the protection of journalists. In 2019, he presented his autobiographical book Permenent Record online, which shaped his revelations about covert surveillance and individual freedom, published by New York-based Metropolitan Books. As an aspiring Russian citizen, he continued to work in IT and married Lindsay Mills with whom he had two children. In an October 2018 interview, he said: 'In Russia, I can't say I'm safe. But the real question is, is this important? I didn't come forward to be safe. Russia – he said – is not my home. , is my place of exile".
The revelations that shook the world
The revelations of the 'whistleblower' Snowden, who said he had thus finally freed his conscience, after years of fighting for it as an intelligence officer, opened a Pandora's box on the many and varied facets of global surveillance programs, without national borders. Things that in 2013 were only the subject of conjecture and little or nothing was publicly known about. He brought into play not only the NSA, for which he worked, but also the intelligence alliance of the Five Eyes (between the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand) and various telecommunications companies, accused of undue intrusion into lives of people, for lawful and unlawful reasons, in any case without permission. Snowden made his revelations to a pool of journalists and his stories appeared in the Guardian, Washington Post and other newspapers. The number of secret files published remains uncertain, but it is estimated that there are up to 200,000 for the United States alone and more than 1.5 million in total.
Secret Team 355, cast of the film with Jessica Chastain and Penelope Cruz from today at the cinema PHOTO
Ukrainian war, protests in Russia: over 800 arrests, 9 journalists arrested. PHOTO
Russia-Ukraine war, the reactions of the entertainment world
Who is Sofia Jirau, the first model with Down syndrome who walked the runway for Victoria's Secret
Bonaccini, the challenge from Florence: "In five years, the Democratic Party will be back in government of the country"
"Guns down, wages up": the march against war and high living costs in Rome
Italiaonline: "Virgilio and Libero's emails are all accessible"
Sabato De Sarno is the new creative director of Gucci
Libero mail and Virgilio today, Italiaonline: "Mailboxes now accessible"
Cremonese-Inter 1-2, Nerazzurri comeback with brace from Lautaro


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text:
5 things for PR pros to know on Wednesday morning
December 05, 2018 by Frank Washkuch
Markets closed; FWV takes stake in NY firm; An 'epic failure of corporate governance.'
Today is a national day of mourning for former President George H.W. Bush. There will be no trading on the New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq, and no updates of the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500. Industry trade groups have recommended that bond markets also shut down on Wednesday, according to MarketWatch.
Fresh agency news this morning: Raleigh, North Carolina-based French/West/Vaughan has acquired half of boutique fashion agency AMP3 PR. Staffers from both shops in New York will move into a new office space under the AMP3 PR brand at the start of 2019. The combined team will be led by AMP3 cofounders Alyson Roy and Dion Roy, who will report to FWV CEO Rick French and EVP and principal Natalie Best.
An 'epic failure of corporate governance.' A report by The New York Times found that CBS executives, employees, and lawyers were aware of sexual misconduct allegations against former CEO Les Moonves but did little about them. Former communications director Gil Schwartz drafted a resignation letter for Moonves after learning of a serious allegation, but the letter was not sent to CBS' board, according to the Times.
Facebook employees aren't as happy on the job as they used to be. The company lost its No. 1 position on Glassdoor's best places to work list, dropping six spots, as it finishes out a crisis-filled year. Google dropped three spots, and Amazon failed to make the list. Apple and Microsoft both made gains, according to CNBC.
There are going to be a lot of these announcements in the next few months. Former Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is set to announce his decision on running for president. Spoiler alert: he's not running, according to Politico. Patrick stoked speculation by ramping up political activity this fall.
Agency M&A
Purple Strategies names Jennifer Kohl as senior director
SKDKnickerbocker targeted by Russian hackers
Customer engagement platform Astute acquires Socialbakers


JD & Stephen watch and review episode 76 of Dragon Ball Super. Most of the enemies that Goku and Krilin have fought against are staring them in the face. How is this possible?! If they work together they should be able to defeat them. But, Krillin is scared! The more energy they use, the stronger their enemies become. What can be done?! Can Krillin motivate himself to fight again? Listen and find out on this episode of DragonBallerZ. Thanks for listening, subscribe and leave us a review. Follow us on Twitter: JD: https://twitter.com/nthcastmetal Stephen: https://twitter.com/stephenthebrit Send us an email: [email protected] Check out our website: www.dragonballerz.com Support us on our Patreon: www.patreon.com/dragonballerz See you next week for Episode 69!


Weapons Procurement (DGA) since December 1st, 2014.
information data and the command and controls systems.
the year ending December 31, 2018.
multilateral programs, forums and authorities (NATO, European Commission, EDA).
Hautes Etudes de l'Armement" (Center for Advanced Defense Studies, 2004-2005).
undertakes extensive ongoing research and development programs.
and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.


This is a powerful healing and delicious drink with medicinal mushrooms, lauric acid, turmeric, cinnamon, raw honey and ginger.
This is basically just a mushroom variation of my Golden Milk Recipe. Golden milk itself is quite supportive to the immune system, but if you top it with medical mushrooms, the drink becomes an even more powerful guard against viruses, bacteria and even stress.
The best way to digest mushrooms is if they are cooked in some way. In this way, the beneficial substances in the mushroom become more bioavailable for the body.
These mushrooms are not particularly dominant in flavor, hence they are easy to add to both tea, coffee, soups and other hot drinks without disturbing taste.
Unless you buy the ready made coconut milk, you'll have to start by making this delicious homemade version.


Which pupils need a personal education plan? All looked after children (LAC) should have a personal education plan (PEP). You will find information on who is responsible for initiating PEPs, the role of the virtual school head (VSH), what PEPs should contain and arrangements for reviewing them.
'Momo': what is it and should we be worried?


Becca Haley, a young woman from Fairmont, W.Va., was pursuing her doctoral degree in "green chemistry" at the University of Cincinnati. Like most graduate students, her funds were limited.
Haley's grandmother, Cynthia Woodward of Fairmont, suggested she apply for financial assistance — a Scholar Award from an organization named the P.E.O. Sisterhood. The application was submitted, and Haley was awarded $15,000 from P.E.O. to finish her education.
Her $15,000 award was a tiny segment of the money given to women across the United States and Canada, including international students pursuing degrees that will improve the lives of those in their homelands. Since 1907, more than 105,000 women have benefited from more than $321 million in P.E.O. funds.
P.E.O., an acronym for Philanthropic Educational Organization, has six programs to benefit women students: low-interest educational loan funds; international peace scholarships for international students; program for continuing education grants for women returning to school after a break in their education; scholar awards for PhD-level candidates; and STAR scholarships for high school seniors entering college. In addition, P.E.O. owns and supports Cottey College in Missouri, an independent all-women's college that grants degrees in liberal arts and sciences.
Nearly all the money for P.E.O.'s loans, scholarships, awards and grants comes from the fund-raising efforts of local chapters in towns throughout the United States and Canada.
There are approximately 1,000 members in 27 local chapters across West Virginia. Weirton, Wheeling, Bridgeport, Buckhannon, Charleston, Elkins, Fairmont, Huntington, Lewisburg, Martinsburg, Morgantown, New Martinsville, Parkersburg and Philippi have one or more chapters. West Virginia's local chapters convened in 1962 at Buckhannon to form a state chapter.
The P.E.O. Sisterhood was founded on Jan. 21, 1869, by seven women students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. The 225,000-member organization will celebrate its 150th year anniversary during the 2019 Convention of International Chapter in Des Moines.
For information, visit the website peointernational.org.


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Singapore – Case Commentary on Guy Neale and others v. Nine Squares
March 7, 2014 January 31, 2018 by mirandah
In Guy Neale and others v. Nine Squares [2013] SGHC 249, the Singapore High Court dismissed a trade mark invalidation suit and confirmed the requisite attributes for the establishment of goodwill in Singapore.
The Plaintiffs in that case comprises fourindividuals and two companies which carry on business as a partnership operating the restaurant, bar and club business known as "Ku De Ta" in Bali, Indonesia. The "KU DE TA" trademark was registered in Indonesia on March 20, 2001.
The Defendant is the registered owner of two trademarks in Singapore bearing the name "KU DE TA" (the SG marks). The 5th Plaintiff was a shareholder of the Defendant and was involved in its activities. He was made a party as the 5th Plaintiff because the action was brought by the "partnership" of which he was a party to. However, he gave evidence on behalf of the Defendant.
The 1st SG mark was registered on February 16, 2004, in Class 43 (restaurants, etc) as a trademark in Singapore. The 2nd SG mark was registered on June 30, 2009, as a trademark in Singapore to protect Ku De Ta-branded apparel, jewellery and music. The Plaintiffs instituted proceedings against the Defendant for:
a declaration that the SG marks are held on trust for the Plaintiffs and should accordingly be transferred to the Plaintiffs; or
an invalidation of the SG marks on the grounds of, inter alia, passing-off, breach of fiduciary duties, registration of the SG marks in bad faith and usurpation of corporate opportunity.
At the outset, the High Court found that it was indeed conceivable for the Indonesian trademark to be owned legally and beneficially from parties different from those that legally/beneficially owned the SG marks. In this connection, the High Court agreed with the Plaintiffs that the name and the goodwill would be the most valuable asset of the partnership; and that from the outset, the parties had agreed that the name and goodwill would belong to the partnership.
Be that as it may, the High Court found that there was no creation of an express trust as the Plaintiffs did not establish the requisite certainty of intention, that there was no usurpation of corporate opportunity and that there were no breaches of fiduciary duties.
With respect to ascertaining whether the applications to register the SG marks were made in bad faith, the High Court reiterated that an application for the registration of a trademark would be made in bad faith if the defendant's conduct in applying for the registration of the trademark fell short of the normally accepted standards of commercial behaviour; and if the defendant subjectively knew of facts which would have made an ordinary honest person realize that what the defendant was doing would be regarded as breaching those standards.
To establish goodwill in Singapore, the Plaintiffs have to show the presence of actual or potential customers in Singapore at the material time. Indeed, the Plaintiffs' grounds for invalidating the SG marks have a common denominator – the Plaintiffs must show that their "KU DE TA" trade mark was an earlier trademark within the meaning of the Trade Marks Act (Cap. 332).
In respect of the 1st SG mark, while the international publicity of Ku De Ta cannot be discounted in considering whether the trademarks were well known in Singapore, such publicity cannot be as relevant and significant as the publicity and advertising conducted in Singapore. Indeed, the ultimate inquiry is whether the trademark is well known in Singapore. Online travel guides and newspaper articles from other jurisdictions are of limited assistance unless there is proof of their distribution in Singapore or that they were read by Singapore residents. Mere publication of a book in Singapore does not imply that it was distributed here at all. In the circumstances, the court found that the evidence did not show on a balance of probabilities that Ku De Ta enjoyed goodwill in Singapore as at February 16, 2004.
In respect of the 2nd SG mark, the Plaintiffs submitted that Ku De Ta Bali enjoyed goodwill in Singapore when the Defendant applied to register the 2nd SG mark on June 30, 2009. In this respect, the High Court agreed that it was likely for Ku De Ta Bali (as a restaurant operating in Bali) to be well-known to the relevant sector of the Singapore public as well. However, the High Court noted that the 2nd SG mark was registered to only protect Ku De Ta-branded apparel, jewellery and music. In the circumstances, while the High Court was prepared to find some goodwill in Singapore as at June 30, 2009, for Ku De Ta as a restaurant, the High Court found that the evidence did not support the finding of goodwill as at that date for Ku De Ta-branded apparel, jewellery or music.
By reason of the above, the Plaintiffs' claims vis-á-vis invalidation of the trade marks and the tort of passing-off also failed.
Amended Singapore Patent Law in a Nutshell
Enforcement Powers in Philippines


Nikon announced Capture NX 1.1 today, its robust image editing software that is now updated for the latest operating systems on both Mac and Windows.
Capture NX 1.1 is also optimized for Windows Vista, plus Nikon has updated the user interface making this program a great choice for photographers who shoot Nikon Raw, or for anyone who wants a robust image editor for their Tiffs and Jpegs. You can download a 30-day trial from the Nikon USA site.


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Recreation Advocate
The OutdoorWire family websites feature news and information affecting outdoor recreation opportunities and access to public lands.
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Navy Applies to BLM to Expand Fallon Range Training Complex
Federal BLM
BLM Segregates 600,000 Acres While Navy Studies Extension, Expansion
RENO, Nevada – The U.S. Navy has applied to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to continue to use the site of the Fallon Range Training Complex and to expand it to include more than 600,000 acres of additional public land. As a result of the Navy's withdrawal application, the BLM has segregated the proposed expansion area from appropriation under the public land laws. The two- year segregation is obligatory while the Navy prepares an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on its expansion and extension proposals for the Fallon site about 65 miles east of Reno.
The Navy published a Federal Register notice on August 26 stating that it would conduct the EIS on both renewing the existing public land withdrawal, which covers 202,859 acres, and the withdrawal and reservation for military use of another 604,789 acres of public land to expand the existing range. The Navy's authorization to use its existing acreage expires in 2021. Based on the environmental analysis, the Secretary of the Interior will make a recommendation to Congress on the proposed withdrawals. However, Congress, not the Secretary, will make the final decision on both the requested extension and proposed expansion.
As a first step in the EIS process, the Navy will hold seven public meetings on the proposed extension and expansion of the Fallon Range Training Complex. The BLM, the Federal Aviation Administration, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will participate as cooperating agencies in the preparation of the EIS. During the EIS, the Navy will consider existing uses of the lands. For instance, the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service manage some of the lands. In addition, the Pony Express National Historic Trail, managed by the BLM and the National Park Service, runs through both the existing and proposed expansion areas. An expanded Fallon Range Training Complex would also overlap with portions of the Stillwater Range Wilderness Study Area (WSA), the Job Peak WSA, and the Clan Alpine Mountains WSA, which are all managed by the BLM. The U.S. Navy expansion would also overlap sage grouse habitat, the current Vegas to Reno Off-Highway Race course, numerous right-of-way corridors, and several grazing allotments. Current authorized uses of the lands can continue during the segregation.
The two-year segregation removes the expansion lands from all forms of appropriation under the public land laws, including the mining laws, the mineral leasing laws, and the geothermal leasing laws. Valid existing rights at the time of the segregation will be honored. The action is require under section 204(b)(1) of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976. Much of the existing Fallon Range footprint is already withdrawn from these laws.
The entire Federal Register Notice for the Notice of Application for Withdrawal Extension and Withdrawal Expansion is available here.
While the Navy will accept comments on its EIS, the BLM will accept comments on the requested withdrawal actions through the following methods:
• E-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Fax: (775) 885-6147
• Mail: BLM Carson City District, Attn: NAS Fallon FRTC, 5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701
The following is a schedule of the Navy's public meetings on the proposed withdrawals:
• Fallon Convention Center, Fallon, 3-7 p.m. October 3;
• Pershing County Community Center, Lovelock, 11a.m.-1 p.m. October 4;
• Evelyn Mount Northeast Community Center, Reno, 5-7 p.m. October 4;
• Emma Nevada Town Hall, Austin, 5-7 p.m. October 5;
• Eureka Elementary School, Eureka, 5-7p.m. October 6;
• Hawthorne Convention Center, Hawthorne, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. October 7; and
• Gabbs School Gymnasium, Gabbs, 5-7 p.m. October 7.
Navy Studies Extension BLM Navy Nevada
BLM Issues Guidance for Implementing Greater Sage-...
Dissecting a Court Ruling
Advocating access to public lands carries a responsibility to be part of the solution for managing the public lands. As a strong proponent for participation to make a difference, I am a full time advocate for recreation and the Managing Editor of the OutdoorWire family websites.
4x4Wire.com is dedicated to four wheel drive recreation featuring technical articles and information to promote, protect, and provide outdoor recreation opportunities. 4x4Voice.com focuses on California issues. MUIRNet.net is focused on environmental, administrative and legislative news and information. OutdoorWire.com is Access and Landuse Central with an overall index to the contents of the family of websites.
Thursday, 20 January 2022 Reloading - My Observations
Tuesday, 17 August 2021 JK Check Engine Light - P0300
Thursday, 10 June 2021 Reverting Back to Obama-era WOTUS Rule Hurts Rural America
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Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands is a popular tourist destination. There are many options for active vacationers who want to hike, golf, dive, sail, and snorkel. There are also numerous beaches and opportunities for shopping. Here are just seven of the most popular activities on Grand Cayman.
One of the best activities for nature lovers. The 200-year-old gravel path winds through a mangrove swamp and a two-million-year-old wooded area in the midst of some of the island's rarest plant life. The Cayman Islands National Trust preserves the trail as a flat, beginners' hike. Guided tours are available. The trail is located about 15 miles east of George Town. It takes two to three hours to hike the Mastic Trail on a guided tour, or you can go on your own at your own pace. Hikers are advised to get a map of the trail if they go it alone.
This beach has been considered one of the finest in the Caribbean for several years. The crescent-shaped shoreline and soft coral sands make it a popular destination, and many of Grand Cayman's top resorts are located here. The area features numerous casual beach bars and restaurants. There is also a playground and public restrooms and showers. The waters are clean and perfect for swimmers and first-time snorkelers. This is a public beach so it's often crowded.
This is probably the most popular attraction in the Cayman Islands. Located in Grand Cayman's North Sound area, some travelers call it a tourist trap, but that is part of what makes it a must-see. While it is called a "city," it is really a shallow sandbar where visitors can interact with and feed the Atlantic South Stingrays that live here. It offers a great opportunity to see these interesting creatures up close, and there is no danger as long as some basic rules are followed. Stingray City is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. It also features glass-bottom boats that provide great views of the marine life. Several companies provide dive tours to the area.
A little way south of Seven Mile Beach is Eden Rock and Devil's Grotto, two of the most popular diving spots on Grand Cayman. These attractions are some 46 feet below the surface of the water and offer underwater mazes that offer close-up views of tarpon, silversides, parrotfish, and barracuda. Both beginners and intermediate snorkelers can enjoy this location. Sponsored shore and boat dives are available from tour operators.
This 330-foot-long Russian frigate was sunk deliberately off Cayman Brac to create an artificial reef. The reef is now encrusted with coral and sponges and gives homes to thousands of fish, including groupers, scorpionfish, and green moray eels. The ship itself is mostly intact and is located some 200 yards from shore in depths from 30 to 100 feet below the water's surface. The site is appropriate for divers at all experience levels.
When Christopher Columbus visited Grand Cayman, he found so many turtles that he named the place Las Tortugas. Over the centuries, however, the population of green sea turtles has diminished to such a degree that they are an endangered species. The Cayman Turtle Farm works to change all that by providing island restaurants with the turtle meat they want without allowing them to hunt wild turtles to get it. The farm also educates the public about these creatures and offers close-up experiences with the turtles' way of life. Visitors can choose either a dry or wet tour of the farm that includes snorkeling in its artificial lagoon. A highlight of the visit is being able to hold baby sea turtles in hand. There are over 7,000 green sea turtles in every stage of development, so there is plenty to see.
This area looks exactly like its name, so what's going on? Many cruise ship visitors visit here, and it's very popular with tourists overall. The "hell" refers to a large open space with clusters of short, black limestone formations. While visitors can't walk on the formations, there are two platforms available that give views over the space. The venue has a gift shop and a post office where mail can be sent with a "From Hell" postmark. Visitors are warned that the "Hell" attraction is always crowded.


As I wrote almost two decades ago with that Wellcraft Scarab 33 AVS test (still on our sites), these exciting dayboats are all about going fast offshore and in absolute control.
Pedigree, performance and poise mean the boats maintain composure across the rough stuff. This new 35 Scarab Offshore Sport has a race-bred deep-vee hull with 23 degrees of deadrise match impressively to a triple rack of 350hp Mercs on the transom.


text:
__author__ = 'IRSEN'
# -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
import mysql.connector
from model.group import Group
from model.contact import Contact

class DbFixture:

    def __init__(self, host, name, user, password):
        self.host = host
        self.name = name
        self.user = user
        self.password = password
        self.connection = mysql.connector.connect(host=host, database=name, user=user, password=password)
        self.connection.autocommit = True  # отключаем кеширование в бд

    def get_group_list(self):
        list=[]
        cursor = self.connection.cursor()
        try:
            cursor.execute("select group_id, group_name, group_header, group_footer from group_list")
            for row in cursor:
                (id, name, header, footer) = row
                list.append(Group(id=str(id), name=name, header=header, footer=footer))
        finally:
            cursor.close()
        return list

    def get_contact_list(self):
        list=[]
        cursor = self.connection.cursor()
        try:
            cursor.execute('''select id, firstname, lastname, address, home, mobile, work, phone2, email, email2, email3
                            from addressbook where deprecated="0000-00-00 00:00:00"''')
            for row in cursor:
                (id, firstname, lastname, address, home, mobile, work, phone2, email, email2, email3) = row
                list.append(Contact(id=str(id), firstname=firstname, lastname=lastname, address=address,
                                    homephone=home, mobilephone=mobile, workphone=work, secondaryphone=phone2,
                                    email=email, email2=email2, email3=email3))
        finally:
            cursor.close()
        return list

    def destroy(self):
        self.connection.close()

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


USD POLL : Which anthology shows are your favorite?
POLL : What did you think of Channel Zero: The Dream Door - Season Finale?
POLL : What did you think of Channel Zero: The Dream Door - Season Premiere?
POLL : What did you think of Channel Zero: Butcher's Block - Season Finale?
Channel Zero - Butcher's Block - The Red Door - Review: Would You Rather Lose Your Mind Or Give It Away?
Channel Zero - Butcher's Block - Alice In Slaughterland - Review: "I've Got A Dead Peach In My Basement And It Ain't Gonna Keep!"
25th Oct 2016 S01E03 - Want to See Something Cool?


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Home / Posts tagged "louisa"
Tag: louisa
Posted on October 10, 2012 April 8, 2013
The Cobb: Lyme Regis
Landscape and Property
devon, louisa, lyme, make, regis, Wentworth
There was too much wind to make the high part of the new Cobb pleasant for the ladies, and they agreed to get down the steps to the lower, and all were contented to pass quietly and carefully down the steep flight, excepting Louisa; she must be jumped down them by Captain Wentworth. In all their walks, he had had to jump her from the stiles; the sensation was delightful to her. The hardness of the pavement for her feet, made him less willing upon the present occasion; he did it, however. She was safely down, and instantly, to show her enjoyment, ran up the steps to be jumped down again. He advised her against it, thought the jar too great; but no, he reasoned and talked in vain, she smiled and said, "I am determined I will:" he put out his hands; she was too precipitate by half a second, she fell on the pavement on the Lower Cobb, and was taken up lifeless!
Persuasion, Chapter 12
Lyme Regis is a coastal town in West Dorset, England, situated 25 miles west of Dorchester and 25 miles (40 km) east of Exeter. The town lies in Lyme Bay, on the English Channel coast at the Dorset–Devon border. It is nicknamed "The Pearl of Dorset." The town is noted for the fossils found in the cliffs and beaches, which are part of the Heritage Coast—known commercially as the Jurassic Coast—a World Heritage Site.
Jane Austen visited Lyme Regis three times in 1803 and 1804, staying for several weeks in the summer of 1804. The dramatic events in Persuasion led to a flow of fans to the town: the poet Tennyson is said to have gone straight to the Cobb on his arrival, saying, "Show me the exact spot where Louisa Musgrove fell!"
The steps called "Granny's Teeth"…steep indeed, and the most plausible spot for Lousia's fall.
The first written mention of the Cobb (the harbour wall) is in a 1328 document describing it as having been damaged by storms. The structure was made of oak piles driven into the seabed with boulders stacked between them. The boulders were floated into place tied between empty barrels.
Photo of the Cobb by by Jim Linwood
The Cobb was of economic importance to the town and surrounding area, allowing it to develop as both a major port and a shipbuilding centre from the 13th century onwards. Shipbuilding was particularly significant between 1780 and 1850 with around 100 ships launched including a 12-gun Royal Navy brig called HMS Snap. The wall of the Cobb provided both a breakwater to protect the town from storms and an artificial harbour.
Well-sited for trade with France, the port's most prosperous period was from the 16th century until the end of the 18th century, and as recently as 1780 it was larger than Liverpool. The town's importance as a port declined in the 19th century because it was unable to handle the increase in ship sizes.
It was in the Cobb harbour, after the great storm of 1824, that Captain Sir Richard Spencer RN carried out his pioneering lifeboat design work.
Captain Wentworth and the Musgroves walk the Cobb in search of Captain Harville, Persuasion, 1995.
A 1685 account describes it as being made of boulders simply heaped up on each other: "an immense mass of stone, of a shape of a demi-lune, with a bar in the middle of the concave: no one stone that lies there was ever touched with a tool or bedded in any sort of cement, but all the pebbles of the see are piled up, and held by their bearings only, and the surge plays in and out through the interstices of the stone in a wonderful manner."
The Cobb has been destroyed or severely damaged by storms several times; it was swept away in 1377 which led to the destruction of 50 boats and 80 houses. The southern arm was added in the 1690s, and rebuilt in 1793 following its destruction in a storm the previous year. This is thought to be the first time that mortar was used in the Cobb's construction. The Cobb was reconstructed in 1820 using Portland Admiralty Roach, a type of Portland stone.
From Wikipedia. The Free Encyclopedia.


is fairax still perceived as a market hedge?
Maybe it's my imagination, but it's usually down when the markets up and vice versa.
I would say so.... They stayed fully hedged most part of this bull-market.
1- I suppose you can say it independently more than verifies the carrying values, but I would like to see a higher level of recurrent earnings, which of course is held back by investment performance.
2- I also wonder about the Allied World deal. Please bear in mind I live in Australia where we have our own special global insurance take on lousy investing, crazed acquisition, under reserving and perennial earnings disappointment called QBE which trades at 1.8x TBV.
-One can argue that the long term thinking associated with lumpiness of earnings is a positive. Do you agree?
-Another differentiator has been the "investment performance". IMO, to invest in FFH now, you need to factor in a macro component or you need to rely on their investment team to make the calls. That may be one of the reasons explaining the relative confusion about their current status as a market hedge. I am slowly coming to the conclusion that they just modified their hedge to a less costly one. Are you saying that FFH would carry a higher valuation if it would become more traditional in terms of investment style?
The last insurance acquisitions have been significant and quite satisfactory IMO. I have come to the conclusion, at this point, that 2017 Q3 and Q4 results are not significant enough to think that AWH was a bad acquisition. What makes you wonder about the Allied deal?
Taking a long term view with a market share perspective listing relevant competitors (N.A. 2017).
There is still ample room to grow float.
Was there a catalyst I am missing for today's rise in FFH share price? Another insurer's results? Fairfax announcement / filing?
Fairfax Financial increased its holding of CenturyLink CTL in Q1 by 29 %.
It is now the 7th largest position in the portfolio of FFH with 2,3% of the portfolio.
Although the price went up already from its low of 13,16 to 19 $ now, i think its still cheap and a great valueinvestment, flanked by a 11,7 % dividend yield.
Apparently, Prem is on BNN Bloomberg interviewed by Amanda Lang at 1pm Toronto time. I am not sure if I will have time to watch it, hopefully I can watch it online at a later time.
I feel like although he is right he may be shooting himself in the foot long term by commenting on China's political system.
Prem stated that the recent toys r us Canadian locations were more successful than the US locations. Does anyone on the board have recent experience with the toys r us stores in Canada?
Thoughts on the fixed income side of the portfolios.
Fixed income spreads are very low along the spectrum in the context of a high supply of debt but a stronger appetite for spread, in still a low risk-free rate environment.
IMO, insurance companies are reaching for yield and FFH is well positioned to benefit.
The first link is about the junk exposure. Insurance firms have increased exposure to high yield debt and the comparison year used in the references should be 2008 and not 2009. In 2008, high yield debt issue dried up and the reasons why high yield exposures increased in 2009 were: 1-many issues were downgraded with investment grade issues becoming junk on the books and 2-despite the widely publicized issues with AIG, financial guarantee insurance firms and mortgage-backed securities, the high yield debt market recovered remarkably well despite the relative severity of the recession and liquidity issues in certain areas. P+C firms' exposure in high yield debt is skewed to lower quality along the spectrum and has a significant component in leveraged loans which IMO now reflects higher risk as most of these loans are covenant-lite and comparatively probably riskier than the typical high yield security. Exposure is diversified and 2017 was a "good" year but, cyclically, widening spreads tend to be periodically strongly correlated (unlike the spike limited to oil and gas in 2015-6). Interesting to note that, in the high yield space, Fairfax has become involved with Toys"R"Us only after chapter 11.
The second link describes a significant exposure to the lower end of investment grade. Most of it is corporate. The authors don't seem to be concerned but the exposure has increased considerably as we go through quite an unusually benign (and levered) period.
In terms of sentiment, which is kind of hard to assess, I just finished reading the 2017 annual report of Unico. Unico (UNAM) is a very small P+C insurer. I am a minority shareholder holding 1 share but some here may be interested to know that Bigliari (through The Lion Fund) owns 9,9% of shares outstanding. The reason I bring this up is that the company used to run investment portfolios in-house, based on a very very conservative profile. Starting this year, investment guidelines allow to reach for yield.
I think that the increased exposure to high yield debt (and high yield debt to be) is significant in the P+C insurance industry. This may go on for a while but reaching for yield is pro-cyclical. I very much like how Fairfax positioned the cash and fixed income side of their portfolios. I also happen to think that long exposure to credit default swaps especially to high yield debt at this point would make sense given that premiums now are very low and given potential time-weighted scenarios where spreads could widen considerably and in a correlated manner.


Video screenshot: Steve Aoki feat. Linkin Park - "Darker Than Blood"
EDM artist Steve Aoki along with Linkin Park's Mike Shinoda save the world from a terrible viral fate in a new video.
The musical collaboration was first released in April, lifted from Aoki's May album "Neon Future II," and sees Shinoda and Aoki researching the cure to a virus that has ravaged the globe.
Eventually they find a cure, successfully tested on a 5-year-old patient who appears to share a name and a shoulder tattoo with Aoki himself.
It's directed by Dan Packer, who steered videos for the Aoki and Will. I. Am. track "Born to Get Wild," Aoki and Machine Gune Kelly single "Free the Madness," and the Moxie and Steve Aoki tune "I Love It When You Cry."


Framingham, MA- On Tuesday, Mayor Yvonne M. Spicer and her staff attended a packed meeting of the Council on Aging to hear from concerned Framingham residents regarding the potential decision to relocate the Department of Health to the Callahan Center on an interim basis. Over the course of two hours, Mayor Spicer and her team heard comments and questions about the potential decision.
"I'd like to thank the residents of Framingham for their thoughtful input and questions," said Mayor Yvonne Spicer. "I decided it was important to take in your feedback. I want to say that 'I heard you.' There has been no final decision made regarding the relocation of the Health Department, and my team continues to explore every option."
As many of the comments and questions were not addressed in real time at the meeting, below are answers to the some of the comments/questions from Tuesday's Council on Aging meeting.
1. Will the proposed changes to the Callahan Center jeopardize future accreditation?
The intent is not to disrupt programming or change the mission and purpose of the Callahan Center and therefore would not to jeopardize future accreditation. The intent of the potential decision was twofold - find an interim home for the Health Department and build synergy between the Callahan Center and the Health Department.
2. Is the former Marian High School an option?
Unfortunately no. The building is not handicapped accessible. If the City used even a portion of the building, we would be obligated to make significant improvements to many areas to make it accessible. Additionally, the layout is configured as a school with large rooms and wide hallways, which would require the City to pay for large amounts of space that we do not need or use in a productive manner.
3. What about the Perini Building?
Unfortunately, the only portion of the building that is available for the Health Department is not handicapped accessible. Currently there are 3,000 available square feet in the back of the building, and the rear entrance is not accessible. Moreover, the available office space cannot be accessed by going through the front of the building.
4. How do you answer the people when we were all under the understanding that Callahan Center was given to the older adult population?
When the $1 million donation was given to assist in the purchase of the building for a senior center, there was a negotiation between the town leaders at the time and the contributor. The agreement, which is documented in the minutes of the Board of Selectmen meeting and voted at the Annual Town meeting it states that the Callahan Center would primarily be used as a senior center as a condition of the donation. However, the Town reserved its rights to have other uses in the building so long as it continued to be used primarily as a senior center. The Town/City has also invested several millions of dollars into the purchase of the building and has expended hundreds of thousands of dollars in the building's ongoing maintenance, in addition the installation of a new roof and new HVAC system. Given that the amount of space being proposed to be used by the Health Department was only 11% of the total space, that the Health Department also provides services directly to older adults and that no programs were being eliminated as part of the move, the City determined that it met the requirements of the agreement.
5. I don't understand that if you have to put money into renovating space here and renovating permanent space. Isn't that wasteful? Wouldn't you be better find the permanent place first?
We agree that we want to spend our tax money wisely to solve the immediate issue of finding an interim home for the Health Department being dislocated due to the Fuller School Building project, as we work to develop a comprehensive strategy for all of our City-owned buildings. Any improvements made to the Callahan Center to support the Health Department, such as improving the internet access in the building, would stay with the Callahan Center when the Health Department was located to a new permanent location. This is why locating the Health Department in an existing municipal building was more desirable than leasing non-municipal space, as we would lose our investment when the Health Department would be moved to a more permanent space. Part of the vision of investing in a City-owned facility is that the investment was going to positively impact one of our own buildings.
6. Can't you work out something with the (Fuller School) construction company to start later?
The Fuller School Construction schedule is negotiated and agreed to not only with the contractor but also the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) that is contributing a significant portion of funding for the project. It would require renegotiating with the MSBA for new schedule. Given the complexity of doing so, the impact to getting the foundation work completed before next winter and the potential of exponential cost increases to delay the project, changing the Fuller School construction schedule is not feasible.
7. Did we look at the Woodrow Wilson or Juniper Hill schools?
There is no space available.
8. What about Nobscot chapel?
Through and RFP, it was awarded it to developer.
9. What about the brick building in Nobscot Plaza?
The building is not for lease. Plus, the location is not readily available by public transportation.
10. Has there been an impact assessment of the Health department moving in?
There was not a formal study.
11. What is so sacred about leaving that school? Why can't the Health department stay there?
The area where the Health Department is located at the Fuller School will become a construction zone s in June, eliminating all parking and making it unsafe for employees or residents. Also, the other side of the school is not handicap accessible, and it would not be worth the expense to make any improvements on a building that is soon to be torn down.
12. What about SMOC? They have multiple properties and are non-tax paying. Why can't we talk with SMOC?
There is no available space.
13. Did we reach out to MWRTA?
We did not. In previous visits to the MWRTA main building, it was obvious that they would have very limited, if any, amount of space for the Health Department.
14. Can we put the Health Department in trailers or modular units?
We would have to find space to locate these trailers. The trailers would have to meet accessibility requirements and be connected to utilities such as water, sewer and electricity. All of this would create a more expensive option.
15. Will you reimburse the monies raised by the heritage gift shop help fund the Callahan Center?
No. The funds raised by the Heritage Gift Shop are used for programs above and beyond those the City already funds through the annual budget. It is our understanding, the Heritage Gift shop was scheduled to be relocated. If the Health Department were to move into the Callahan Center, it would have accelerated the schedule. The City was prepared to make other improvements to the Callahan Center to make sure all current programs that were impacted by the Health Department would continue. The goal was to not eliminate any existing programs and to make improvements to the building to ensure any programs that were relocated within the building would continue.
16. What about St. Stephen's? It is a usable space. And it has a parking lot.
The space is currently rented to the Boys and Girls Club, and the second floor is not ADA compliant.
17. What about Cushing Hospital?
The Parks and Recreation Division runs programs out of these spaces, it is not large enough and cost for fit up is extensive.
18. You did not contact City Council or the Callahan. You should have started in December when you found out. Why didn't you bring City Council and Callahan Center?
It wasn't until a construction phase schedule for the Fuller School was determined that we confirmed a date for the Health Department's departure from its current location. That schedule was accelerated when it was decided by the Fuller Building Construction Committee to use that space for the contractors during the construction of the new school. From that time, the administration started to look for options. There were several options considered, many of the same that have been raised by residents. The City vetted the various options and came to the determination that the only two viable options was either the Callahan Center or City Hall. Both were challenging, and it was determined that the Callahan Center was a better option and would have the added benefit of creating additional health programs beneficial to older adults. There was a meeting involving several city staff that determined that the Callahan Center was the better option, and we were finalizing plans and intended to brief the Council on Aging and Callahan Center staff before letting the City Council know and announcing the decision publicly. In fact, the Mayor and her team were already scheduled to attend the Council on Aging meeting when the issue went public.
19. Have you assessed the infectious disease risk of mixing immuno-compromised population with people who are symptomatic?
The clinic operated by the Health Department is not an acute care site nor a doctor's office. Clients of the health clinic are going there for a variety of public health nursing services and not for treatment of any infectious disease.
20. What is the infectious disease risk?
The infectious disease risk for visitors of the Callahan Center is no difference than any other public space. Clients of the health clinic are going there for a variety of public health nursing services and not for treatment of any infectious disease.
21. What about using Nevins Hall and setting it up with partitions for the Health Department?
This space already has programs and events scheduled, and the HIPPA law would be violated due to a lack of privacy and security. There are also building codes that would need to be met for converting the space as office space, creating additional costs to make this a viable option.
22. What about 135 Newbury St. (next to Christa McAuliffe Charter School)?
Cost and procurement were prohibitive.
23. What about a mobile health clinic that can travel to different parts of the City?
Cost and usability were prohibitive.


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washingtonpost.com > Politics > The Fed Page
Official Says Law Doesn't Cover Gays
Special counsel Scott J. Bloch told a Senate subcommittee: "The courts have specifically rejected sexual orientation as a class protection." (By Lois Raimondo -- The Washington Post)
By Christopher Lee
Special counsel Scott J. Bloch told a Senate panel yesterday that he lacks the legal authority to enforce the Bush administration's ban on discrimination against federal employees based on sexual orientation.
If a federal manager fires, reassigns or takes some other action against an employee simply because that employee is gay, there is nothing in federal law that would permit the Office of Special Counsel to protect the worker, Bloch testified before the Senate Homeland Security and Government Affairs subcommittee on oversight of government management, the federal workforce and the District of Columbia.
"We are limited by our enforcement statutes as Congress gives them," Bloch said, responding to a question from Sen. Carl M. Levin (D-Mich.). "The courts have specifically rejected sexual orientation as a class protection."
Bloch made his remarks in a nearly two-hour hearing into his controversial 17-month tenure as head of the independent federal agency charged with safeguarding the federal merit system and protecting whistle-blowers from retaliation.
Since taking office in January 2004, the Bush appointee has been accused of failing to enforce a long-standing policy against bias in the federal workplace based on sexual orientation, unnecessarily reorganizing the OSC to try to run off internal critics, and arbitrarily dismissing some personnel complaints and whistle-blower disclosures in an effort to claim reductions in backlogs.
He has denied such allegations and argued that he has made the agency more efficient at processing cases and, at the same time, more receptive to whistle-blowers and federal workers who have suffered unfair treatment.
The controversies -- especially last year's flap over sexual orientation discrimination -- have brought unflattering attention to an agency that typically has worked outside the limelight. In April 2004, the White House took the unusual step of clarifying its position on protections for gay men and lesbians in government workplaces, protections observed for three decades.
"Longstanding federal policy prohibits discrimination against federal employees based on sexual orientation," the White House said in a statement. "President Bush expects federal agencies to enforce this policy and to ensure that all federal employees are protected from unfair discrimination at work."
Levin reminded Bloch of that policy yesterday. "That is not something that you believe is binding on you?" he asked.
"It is binding on me," Bloch said, "but it is not something I can prosecute in my agency. . . . I am limited by the enforcement statutes that you give me."
Federal civil rights laws ban employment discrimination on the basis of race, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability and political affiliation. Sexual orientation is not among these "protected classes."
When Levin asked if Bloch would recommend that Congress clarify the law so that protections for federal employees extend to sexual orientation, Bloch declined to take a position.
Later, OSC spokeswoman Cathy Deeds said the agency does accept claims alleging discrimination based on sexual orientation and evaluate them to see if some other standard applies, such as a prohibition on taking action against an employee for his or her off-duty conduct.
Senate panel members of both parties admonished Bloch for his handling this year of an internal reorganization in which 12 career employees were told that they would be involuntarily transferred to new assignments in Dallas; Oakland, Calif.; and a soon-to-opened field office in Detroit. Bloch initially gave the workers 10 days to accept the moves or be terminated, and he extended the deadline only after receiving complaints from some lawmakers. Several employee advocacy groups accused Bloch of targeting workers who had been critical of his management style -- allegations Bloch strongly denied.
Subcommittee Chairman George V. Voinovich (R-Ohio), ranking minority member Daniel K. Akaka (D-Hawaii) and panel member Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.) said that Bloch had been insensitive and that the OSC should be a model agency in its treatment of federal employees.
"I hope that because of this incident you've learned something in terms of taking a little more time in doing it," Voinovich told Bloch.
"Yes, Senator," Bloch said. "I'm learning new things every day."


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Greater Greenville Tennis Ladder!
July 1st, 2020 - September 30th, 2020
We are so excited to announce a new tennis opportunity that will bring fun, competition, and growth to your game. Whether you have just recently started playing tennis or have been playing in an established ladder/league for years, the Greater Greenville Tennis Ladders will bring competition and flexibility to your tennis routine with several unique dynamics including a ladder that places you against other players with similar skill sets to yours, with plenty of opportunities to improve and advance in your group.
You set the time, date, and location of when you want to play. Want to play on Wednesday at 7:00 in Greenville or Saturday at 12:00 in Mauldin? Set-up a challenge, the first person to accept the challenge is your opponent. It's that easy. The same goes for doubles. Set-up a challenge and the first three people that sign up, play.
The more you play, the higher your ranking. In the Great Greenville Tennis Ladders, you earn points for setting up a challenge, for playing a match, for winning a set, there are several different ways to earn points. The key is the more you play, the quicker you earn points and move up the ranking.
Greater Greenville Tennis Ladders
TennisRungs is very excited to partner with Steve Thompson to bring social and competitive tennis ladders to the greater Greenville, SC area.
Greater Greenville Tennis Ladders was created to allow tennis players to find and have access to far more players at their skill level. Their goal is to help tennis players make new friendships in their local area for life, in a friendly yet competitive environment, without the stress of being in a league or tournament.
Current Ladders
Women's Singles
Women's Doubles
The cost is only $30 for early signup, per Ladder, per Season. After a Ladder has started, the cost is just $35. We start new ladders four times per year: Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Each Season lasts approximately three months. You can play as much as you like. If you want to play three times a week, go right ahead. If you're traveling for a week, no big deal, get back to playing once you return home
For singles matches, players are to bring NEW balls to the match. The winner takes home the new unopened can of balls.
For doubles, the player proposing the match brings the balls.
Playing in a Greater Greenville Tennis Ladder does not affect your NTRP ranking. We use the ranking system to help keep our ladders even. You can self-rate if you do not have a current ranking.
A Greater Greenville Tennis Ladder is structured so that you can easily schedule your matches when it's convenient for you. It is an individual ladder, very flexible with time and location. Playing on a League you are part of a team that plays a certain day and time. Playing in a Tournament is very similar.
Each Season runs on average, three months long. The Greater Greenville Tennis Ladder runs four seasons per year with a playoff for the top four players in each Ladder, every Season. Play as much as you like during each Season!
Can I withdraw and get a refund once the ladder has started? Expand
No, we do not give refunds once the ladder has started.
What if there are not enough players on a Ladder at the start of a season? Expand
Greater Greenville Tennis Ladders will, as a last resort, merge ladders in the rare instance there are not enough players in a ladder, at the start of a season.
Ladder Ambassador
Hello, my name is Steve Thompson. I've been a Tennis Pro since 1974. I am a former Pro from Hilton Head, SC. I've coached some of the Top Juniors in the country over the years. I've also taught many adults, as well.
One of the most challenging things for me as a Pro, was finding other people for my students to play tennis with. Now, with the creation of our Tennis Ladders, we've solved that problem for any and all local tennis players in the area. (Whether you're just beginning or are a seasoned pro. Whether you're 4, 94, or, any age in between, we have a tennis ladder for you.)
Remember, the more people that sign up, the more players there will be for you to play tennis with, so be sure to tell your friends and get them to sign up too. I look forward to seeing you on the courts!


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What To Watch For In Tito Mboweni's First Budget Speech
Finance Minister, Tito Mboweni, delivers his first Budget Speech on 20 February at a difficult time for the South African economy. Even though President Cyril Ramaphosa has done much to restore business confidence in his first year in office, GDP growth remains weak, government finances are in relatively poor shape, and renewed load shedding is hurting business confidence.
Judging from his Medium-Term Budget Policy Statement in October last year, I expect Minister Mboweni — backed by the team in the National Treasury—to deliver a relatively cautious budget. Much of the focus will be on refinancing the state-owned enterprises and putting them back on to a sustainable footing.
We probably won't see much in the way of radical thinking since the room for manoeuvre is so limited. Click each header below for an indepth video on the upcoming topics.
National Health Insurance (NHI)
Renewal of the country's public healthcare system with a mandatory health insurance fund and free healthcare at the point of need has been the ANC government's policy for years, but progress has been slow to date. There isn't much money in the country's coffers to fund something as ambitious as NHI, yet the government will want to show that it is advancing the concept ahead of the elections.
With an NHI bill to be tabled in Parliament soon, we could learn more about how NHI will be funded in this year's Budget Speech — it's still not clear whether we will pay for it through payroll taxes, VAT increases or other fundraising measures. As an initial step, we could see medical aid tax credits reduced (or at least not adjusted for inflation) to free up some funding for the NHI.
The Employment Tax Incentive (ETI)
The ETI Act came into effect on 1 January 2014; as a fan of this incentive, I was delighted that President Ramaphosa announced that it will be extended for 10 years another decade in his state of the nation address. However, I have also long argued that the scheme is not performing to its true potential because it is so complex for payroll managers to administer.
The introduction of the national minimum wage adds even more complexity— until and unless the ETI Act is amended, SARS is of the opinion that the National Minimum Wage will not qualify as a "wage regulating measure". I hope the Budget Speech will announce steps to align the ETI with the national minimum wage and take other measures to simplify administration.
Tax hikes
I don't expect any major increases to corporate or personal income tax this year since the taxpayer doesn't have much more to give. I think the top 45% rate will remain unchanged, while tax bracket creep relief (to compensate for inflation) will be limited to lower income earners. It seems unlikely that the Minister will increase VAT again this year, given last year's increase.
That means the Minister is likely to look at 'moral' taxes (sin and sugar taxes) to raise more money; we can expect another steep increase in the fuel levy. Perhaps we'll also hear about efforts to improve SARS' revenue collection after several years of under-performance. The agency seems ripe for a turnaround strategy, with high-powered team looking for a permanent chief to take the reins at SARS.
Follow us on @SageGroupZA on 20 February 2019 for LIVE expert insights from the annual Budget Speech.
For more information about Sage's annual tax seminars, please visit:https://get.sage.com/PRL_19Q1_C4L_ZA_EVCU_NPS_AnnualPayrollTaxSeminar2019


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Home News Meta's Cryptocurrency Project Diem is Shutting Down
Meta's Cryptocurrency Project Diem is Shutting Down
Diem announced its sell-off to Silvergate, a cryptocurrency bank.
Diem, the cryptocurrency project of Meta is now officially closing it's doors for good. Diem announced its sell-off to Silvergate, a cryptocurrency bank.
The deal, which is worth $200 million, will let Silvergate have ownership of Diem's all network assets. What Silvergate is planning to do with this isn't known yet, but Diem's demise is reasoned with the harsh regulatory challenges it faced since its inception.
Demise of Diem
Diem started off as Libra in mid-2019, with a good aim though. Introducing a global payment system that's based on blockchain with easy-to-use digital wallets. This can cover the people in remote areas where banking isn't available, so help them use online payment with convenience.
But, this project was blocked by regulators since its inception in various means. One among them is the privacy issue since it's backed by Meta (formerly Facebook). Also, letting a global platform of that scale form a payment system will make it grow even bigger, making it harder for regulators to trust it.
Thus, they're hammering the project from the very beginning. Announcing the official shutdown of Diem, Stuart Levey, the project CEO said in a press release as they're winding up only after it's "clear from our dialogue with federal regulators that the project could not move ahead."
All the partners of Diem, like eBay, PayPal, Mastercard, Visa, and Stripe have exited earlier after observing the political thrust against the project.
Though it's now shutting down, Silvergate, the cryptocurrency bank that was earlier a partner with Diem, may make plans to revive it. Buying the Diem's network assets for $200 million was seen as a good move by Silvergate investors, as the company's stock rose to over 12% on Monday when the deal was announced.
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avinash ambalgi, 16 Aug 2014which one is good???? xperia m2 or moto g??????They have the same processor same graphoc card.I bought the Xperia m2 because I was happier with the 8mp camera but it's not holding good. The shooting and the 1080p video is not good! Same with the moto g, but for faster updates, HD screen, stock android go for the moto g!
which one is good???? xperia m2 or moto g??????
grem, 08 Aug 2014Have had this phone since Saturday, loving it but I find it becomes hot very quickly, has any... morefacing the same issue i.e getting heated at the ear piece very quickly and not able to talk ..
i suggest not to go for this phone..
guys i dont know why my phone is hanging.??
please give me ur opinion, wheather i buy (or) not.
Friend you should go for this phone because the phone is outstanding and camera preet good also display is awesome so don't go for another product.
grem, 08 Aug 2014Have had this phone since Saturday, loving it but I find it becomes hot very quickly, has any... moreYup... It heats up when using FLASH LED, WIFI, internet, some times games too...!!