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Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Steam Loco Dept Blog
Pokemon Perils
Pokemon Go has apparently taken the world by storm... well at least that portion of the world that is under 25 years of age (yes, I'm only 21, but mercifully I'm immune to this kind of stuff). Ordinarily, this wouldn't merit a mention on the steam loco dept's blog, but I'm advised by one of our younger members that Toddington Railway station is a "Pokestop". Please don't ask me what that means, as I haven't got clue number one.
Please, don't ask, I don't know.
I can say though that trying to catch Pokemon on our railway may well turn out to be very dangerous, caution is advised in this as indeed in all matters when visiting a heritage railway. Anything that distracts your attention, possibly causing you to step off the edge of a platform or stray onto the tracks etc won't end well. Issues regarding Pokemon and children trying to catch them on the tracks have already occurred on the "big railway".
Reports of the "Trainspotting Live" series of three programmes on BBC 4 led me to try and catch up with it on iPlayer, just to see if was as described by a number of reports that I had seen online. In the process, I stumbled upon this article in the online Radio Times, entitled "The Nine Most Scenic Spots for Trainspotting in the UK". Setting aside the issue of why 9 spots instead of 10, I mention this here, because Toddington came in at number 9 on the list. The choice of locations, is always going to be subjective, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" and all that, but it was gratifying that we appeared on the list. Just in case you couldn't be bothered to follow the link above, this is the complete list:
1) The Bluebell Railway
2) Glenfinnan Viaduct
3) Whitby North Yorkshire
4) North York Moors National Park
5) Porthmadog, North Wales
6) Llangollen Railway, North Wales
7) Exmoor National Park
8) Bath
9) Toddington, Gloucestershire
A few observations that I'd make would be that the majority are heritage railways (or in the case of number 3, a network rail line over which a heritage railway has running rights) rather than part of the national network. Heritage railways suffer a disadvantage for the average trainspotter in as much as they (galas and occasional incoming mainline rail tours excepted) largely tend to run locos from the same small pool each week, so you'd pretty quickly spot them all. From the ticking off of numbers in a book point of view, not ideal. If you did follow the link, all nine photos used (even the network rail locations) show a steam loco at work, except the photo of Toddington where you get to see our class 73 electro diesel very much in the background. This in spite of the fact that we are the only one with "steam" in our name.
I'm curious as to why just Toddington and not the whole line, Winchcombe station is rather beautiful in my view, and yes, although the GWSR doesn't own it, Gotherngton is a gem as well. The fact that the line is largely built on embankments and offers fine views of the Cotswold hills and in the distance the Malverns should not be overlooked either. I have no doubt that Broadway when it is completed will considerably enhance the beauty of the line as a whole. There are plenty of scenic locations on the West Coast Mainline (Scout Green, Beattock) or East Coast Mainline (Berwick Viaduct), but these are rather spoiled in my humble opinion by the overhead wires (call me a luddite if you will), a fate that is shortly to befall Sydney Gardens in Bath. Who knows, next time the Radio Times prepares such a list, that fact may just propel Toddington up to number 8.... Broadway when completed may change the entry from "Toddington" to the "GWSR" and push it higher still.
I have already said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but it has to be said that for this beholder at least, the Settle & Carlisle line, (Ribblehead Viaduct, Ais Gill & Arten Gill Viaduct are all delights), and the Dawlish - Teignmouth sea wall section of line in Devon is a magical place to visit. There omission is to me at least unaccountable. I'm sure that you will have a few favourites of your own as well. Chacun à son goût.
Whilst we're on the subect of Toddington, I ventured up there on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend:
Foremarke Hall heads off with the first train of the day on Saturday
More progress has been made with 3850's boiler, the regulator rod has now been removed.
3850's regulator rod, extricated from the boiler
There will be a few more containers arriving in the near future, one of which will be placed adjacent to the yard entrance. A number of items needed to be removed to make way for it, including 2874's cab.
It's a bit like musical chairs
The drop grate of 3850 required the finger bars removing, ten years inside the firebox had not left them in a state where they could be easily removed.
Eleanor & Sam encouraging the fingers to come off the actuating arm
The easiest solution to storing a number of the items that were in the way of the new container, was to stash them on top of some of the existing containers.
David prepares to receive a superheater element
Shifting 2874's cab roof was straight forward enough, with the employment of mechanical assistance.
Mark lifts the cab, David and Martin are grateful that it doesn't have to be shifted the hard way
It didn't end up going too far...
...it was soon joined by 3850's cab roof too.
Trevor has been with the GWSR, man & boy for 15 years, John (head of department) handed over his long service certificate
Trevor (l) and John
More progress has been noted on the concreting of road 6 in the shed, with sleepers now laid in place.
Road 6, soon to get a concrete floor.
The GWSR has quite a family of blogs these days, and I'm sure that you'll be well aware of the one that covers the recreation of Broadway station. The Steam Loco Dept has a hand in that process, as Ian and a small team of people are busy creating the steel work that will hold up the roof canopy.
Roof support
Can't wait to see it finished and assembled at Broadway
I spent Saturday afternoon out at Dinmore Manor LTD's private site, trying to catalogue the whereabouts and condition of the kit of parts that are being refurbished to bolt back onto 3850... when the time comes to stop taking bits off and start putting them back on again. It was described to me as being like a very large jigsaw puzzle, for which you don't have the picture on the box. A long list of photos of the pieces of that jigsaw puzzle is likely to have the same effect as the "Trainspotting Live" tv series broadcast last week, so I'll skip those. Instead, I'll wheel out a few photos of what might be classed as a fuzzy picture on the box, this being 3845 which is patiently waiting her turn in the restoration queue.
3845, still in ex-Barry Island Scrapyard condition...
...at least she still has a tender.
Thank you to John, Ralph, Richard & Rob for keeping me topped up with tea and pointing out where the parts could be found.
Well that was Saturday, moving on to Sunday, I had a firing turn on 7903, Foremarke Hall. As you may have noticed from my last blog post, I was out on Foremarke Hall last Monday for the first time since she came back into service after her heavy general overhaul. Unfortunately the turn only involved going as far as Winchcombe and back, this time round it would be for the usual full timetable.
Phil was on his best behaviour, he had even gone to the trouble of fetching out Foremarke Hall's lamps for me. Why should Phil be so keen? Well Sunday was the day that Phil was to be assessed as a driver.
Lamps, ready for action.
2807 was the other loco running on Sunday, as usual, the loco prep stopped for tea:
(l-r), Eleanor, George, Phil, Dave & Tina, trying to hide behind the step ladder
Fires were lit, locos cleaned & lubricated, the sun even put in an appearance
Eleanor cleans 7903's boiler barrel
7903 & 2807, preparing for action
Phil with the big red handle...
...setting off from shed
Soon enough we were out on the road and fulfilling the requirements of the red timetable as train one.
Inspector Irving, keeping a close eye on Phil
No drama at all, the timetable was fairly closely adhered to, the stops were all pretty much on the right point, the only thing out of the ordinary was that for some unexplained reason, one of our passengers wanted to photograph a teddy bear by 7903's namepleate
Well why not?
Crossing 2807 at Winchcombe
Fireman Brooks was travelling on the trains for a change, instead of shovelling coal to earn his passage. Seen here with Judy, his other half.
Chris & Judy.
It's not all about starting and stopping the loco safely, keeping to time and whistling in all the right places, the driver has to regularly check over the loco and make sure that all is well:
Topping up the oil
Unfortunately, I had to disappear off for a meeting after the first 2 round trips (it's not all swanning up and down the line on glamorous locos for the chairman of the gala committee you know). I informed Phil that his only hope of passing out was if he managed to run down at least 10 pokemon characters on the level crossing at Bishops Cleeve and handed over to Aaron who I had arranged to take over firing the last trip for me. For the time being, these are our 2 most recently qualified crew members. Aaron having passed out as a fireman last week. Many thanks Aaron.
Aaron (l) and Phil.
Needless to say, Phil was deemed to have reached the high standard required of a driver on the GWSR and passed.
Driver Grange (l) & Inspector Irving (Photo courtesy of Steve Oddy)
Congratulations Phil on passing out.
I suspect that Phil must have annoyed the roster clerk, as not only did he get lumbered with me for his exam, but he will also get me as his fireman on his second solo turn as a fully fledged driver in August.
And finally, with grateful thanks to Paul Begg of Action Cam Railways, whilst busy scribbling this blog, I have been keeping one eye on my tv screen, as a rather nice DVD, packed with footage from the recent "Swindon Built" gala arrived in the post this morning. Shot using a number of the popular "Go Pro" cameras mounted on the hand rails, under the running plate, from the lineside, using a drone and in one case from inside the cab, it shows our railway in a way that you won't have seen before. The footage from the handrail & brake vans going through Greet tunnel is particularly good. It is hoped that copies of this DVD will be available from the shop at Toddington station in the not too distant future.
Posted by GWSR Steam Loco Dept at 21:30 1 comment:
Lights.... Camera.... Action!
For a heritage railway, films can be something of a double edged sword. That "The Railway Children" has provided a significant boost to the standing (and indeed profitability) of the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway is undeniable. Likewise, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway has benefited immensely from the "Harry Potter" series of movies (Goathland being the fictional Hogwarts station) and less recently, the "Heartbeat" TV series. You can get it badly wrong though (just ask the Epping & Ongar Railway), but in general the extra publicity and attraction of visitors who may otherwise have never thought to travel on a heritage railway has to be a very good thing.
The GWSR has played host to a few film/TV productions in recent years, Dr Who & Nativity 3 spring to mind, as well as featuring a few times in Father Brown. On Monday, there was to be more filming for the next series of Father Brown, and I had been rostered as the fireman. A distinct bonus for me was that the locomotive selected for this duty was Foremarke Hall, my first turn on her since she returned to steam just in time for the gala.
My expectations of the day were roughly that the scenes (which would be shot at Winchcombe, AKA Kembleford) would be shot mostly in the train, or on the platform by the carriages, arrival/departing shots may show the loco briefly in the distance, the crew (Steve and myself) would out of shot in the cab of the allotted steam locomotive. I was a bit surprised to receive an email prior to the day of the shoot from the 2nd assistant director (how many are there?) who wanted to know my vital statistics for the benefit of the wardrobe department. Later there were more emails, requesting the crew to appear for "make-up, hair & wardrobe" in the overflow car park at Toddington at a time when we should have been preparing our loco. The email also stated that we should turn up clean shaven, not a particular problem for me, but it did cause my driver some concern. As it turned out, the bus rally on the day before had caused issues with the film crew getting their equipment on site, so we were off the hook altogether it seemed.
I had been a little concerned that the Sunday crew might not have noticed that Foremarke Hall was running on Monday, and filled the boiler, I needn't have worried, she was sat there waiting for me with 10 PSI on the pressure gauge and half a glass of water, perfect. The nearest thing to a problem was the lamp oil had moved, gone is the red drum of the stuff in the oil store, we now have a green container with a pump.
Only took a few seconds to work out where it had gone.
We had expected to set off from Toddington in time to arrive for 10:00 at Winchcombe. Andy, the Duty Ops Officer (DOO) let us know that they were filming something on the platform without us, and could we hold off for a bit... the sitting around and waiting started!
Steve... not quite clean shaven, before we departed Toddington
At what in the end turned out to be roughly the right time to set off for Winchcombe for a 10:00 arrival, we were given the nod that they were ready for us.
Passing Hayles halt, where a small team was about to commence work
No sooner had we arrived, than Mark Williams (AKA Father Brown) wandered up to the pointy end of the train for a look around. Mark is probably most famous for the role of Arthur Weaseley in the extremely popular "Harry Potter" series of films.
Mark Williams gets his hand on the big red handle
My daughters are both well past the age when their dad becomes something of an embarrassment to them. The natural order of things is that you go from being an essential person to have around, to being a taxi service and then finally, somebody they won't admit to knowing in front of their friends. Getting a selfie taken with "Arthur Weaseley" suddenly (though probably rather briefly) promotes you back to being cool again. I'll spare you the photo, but will admit that embarrassingly, I'd never taken a selfie before, and Mark Williams had to show me how to flip the camera on my phone round so that it took a picture of us rather than what was in front of us.
I thought that we had escaped the attentions of "make-up, hair and wardrobe", but they were not to be thwarted and were ready and waiting for us at Winchcombe, they pounced almost as soon as we set foot on the platform.
John gets a free hair trim.
I managed to elude both the hair (well what was the point) and make-up (heaven forfend) and in the end only got collared by the wardrobe department. As it turned out, both Steve's and my own usual footplate attire didn't meet up to the exacting standards required for filming; Steve's shirt was too white (half an hour on the footplate would have sorted that out) and my shirt was too vivid a shade of blue. We were both issued with dull grey ones for the day. Steve's tie was also the wrong shade and was replaced with a different one.
Steve having his tie changed by the wardrobe lady.
My red neckerchief passed muster, though it was ignominiously referred to as a "red rag". The British Railways logo on my grease top hat came in for some scrutiny too, as the BBC aren't allowed to show corporate logos. I argued the case that a nationalised industry that no longer exists couldn't possibly be a problem and won.
Winchcombe assumed yet another alias for the day:
Winchcombe, The North Pole Kembleford
The guards department was represented by four people, to guard on one of these turn outs, you have to have acquired some experience, so three guards were accompanying Paul to gain the relevant experience.
How many guards (and one DOO) does is take to change a light bulb?
Meanwhile, actors and behind the scenes crew scurried about, learning lines and setting up equipment. After some consultation, it was established that they didn't mind me reporting on this blog the activities of the day, as long as I didn't reveal the plot. There was absolutely no danger of that, as I had no idea what the plot was anyway. I also have no idea when it is being broadcast, these things usually have a substantial gestation period, I'll let you know when more is known... don't hold your breath.
Costume drama rehearsals taking place.
An interesting touch was that the "No Smoking" signs that we have on the carriage windows didn't fit in with the 1950's era setting for the Father Brown series, smoking was positively encouraged back then. A quantity of "First Class" stickers of the right shape, were strategically placed on the carriage windows to obscure them.
The entire train became first class
Mark Williams and just some of the guards
From a fireman's point of view, the day presented a number of challenges; first there would be lots of sitting around waiting whilst platform scenes were shot, keeping the loco from blowing off would be an issue, the noise would obviously disrupt filming. The second problem was that after a lengthy period of sitting around waiting, the fire would have died back considerably, and would need some time to get back to a state where it covered the grate again. I made a point of contacting the director when we arrived at Winchcombe and requesting half an hour's notice prior to shots that would require the loco to move. That worked out well as a strategy, the half hour usually turned out to be more like an hour, but everything worked out fine on that front.
A few atmospheric steam shots were also called for early on in the proceedings, curiously, they bought their own smoke generating unit, rather than rely on the rather more impressive one that Steve and I had brought along with us.
Fake smoke
There wasn't just fake smoke, in spite of the fact that we had brought no less than four real guards along with us, there was a fake guard too. One scene called for John (the actor guard) to converse briefly with the crew, before waving a green flag and sending us off. A little later on in the day, he asked me if he was doing everything as a guard was supposed to do. I said, "Well it's usual for the guard to get on the train once he has given the signal to set off". This caused some consternation for a while, but the scene was slight modified so that he did in fact get on board.
Steve & John chatting during one scene
The weather was a bit hit or miss, consisting of sunny intervals punctuated with occasional sharp down pours of rain. The vagaries of the Winchcombe weather were to some extent mitigated by the provision of some fake sunshine.
Fake sunshine generator.
Staying with fakes, a nice touch was this advert for a fictional "Gloucestershire Savings Bank" that was placed on the notice board... though surely it should have been a piggy bank, rather than an elephant. Never mind, I rather liked it anyway.
I wonder what interest rate they're offering!
I had been informed in advance by many veterans of crewing for film shoots, two vital pieces of information; one that there would be plenty of sitting around and waiting (I wasn't disappointed on that score) and secondly there would be plenty of food. Time marched on and hunger set in, Steve set off to discover what refreshments were available and returned bearing fruit, the BBC appears to be on some sort of health drive.
It will keep the doctor away I suppose
Steve with 2 of the stars of the show, Mark Williams & Foremarke Hall
At this point, the first of the days heavy showers kicked in, refuge was sought under the footbridge.
Mark Williams, Steve & several of the guards shelter under the footbridge
Thus far, all the scenes had been shot with a dry platform, now all of a sudden, there was an extremely damp platform, which would cause problems with the continuity of the scenes.
Film crew huddling under the station canopy.
The train pulling out of the station scenes caused some logistical issues. Normally, we wait until we get a green flag from the guard, acknowledge it, and if we have the signal and token/staff (where necessary), we set off. In this case, we had a guard actor showing a green flag (which I acknowledged), he then got on the train, and then after the real guard (out of camera shot) was happy that the train was safe to go, and had shown me a green flag and got on the train, we really could actually go. To complicate matters further, we were being briefed on the action along the platform by various members of the crew who in some cases were more than little keen to join us and blag a short ride on the footplate.
Steve describes how a steam loco works to the first of a number of visitors to the footplate
At about 2pm, when Steve & I had come to the conclusion that the fabled canteen wasn't going to put in an appearance, the director called "Cut" and then announced that it was time for lunch. A queue formed in the car park
The queue for the grub... and we were near the front.
No sooner had we obtained our lunch, than the heavens opened once more. The guards & I set off with haste into the nearest shelter... the signal box. One guard, who shall have to remain nameless, was keen to make sure that his wife didn't know that he had eaten this lot, as well as the sandwiches that he had brought with him (long since eaten) or he wouldn't be getting any dinner.
Lunch in the signal box.
All this film work is very tiring you know!
After lunch, we were in for a bit of a treat, there was to be a departing shot, featuring an octacopter drone flying along the platform taking footage of the departure as it went.
A very nice bit of kit indeed, I wouldn't say no!
I was amused to note that when I returned to Foremarke Hall, that a walkie talkie had been placed on the warming tray for us. Fortunately, it hadn't been there for very long and still worked OK. I moved it to a place of relative safety in the tool tunnel of the tender.
Not the best place for delicate electronic equipment!
We had a dummy run of a departure, pursued by the octacopter, before trying it for real.
Octacopter climbs into the air...
...and overtakes us as we set off...
...before returning to its operator
This time round, for the departure shots, we were joined by the series producer. My job was to wave at a woman & young lad as we passed them on the platform, then wave at a few more children wathcing from the road bridge.
Apparently her late father would have been very envious of her getting a ride on the footplate
The Octacopter test flight revealed a few things appearing in shot that didn't fit with the 1950's:
A large yellow bag gets hidden by camouflage netting
Doing numerous departure scenes, we obviously needed to return to the same start point each time for the next take. Steve used a pine cone on the opposite platform as a marker to judge when he was in the right place. Meanwhile, the real guard called us back under the guidance of the director stopping us where they wanted us to be. That rarely coincided with the pine cone, sometimes we were some considerable distance away.
The pine cone reference point.
Another rehearsal for a take goes into the can
The next thing to do was some arrival shots, which meant propelling the train behind the bracket signal beyond the Carriage & Wagon dept, then chuffing into the station from there. The signal that they were ready for us to set off, was appropriately enough that the signal for platform 1 would be pulled off.
Waiting for the signal to drop
The approach scene too was to be filmed using the drone, which would cross over from platform 2 to platform 1 ahead of the train.
After the first take, it was noticed that there was a proliferation of hoses and cables in the 6 foot, which spolied the scene, and which needed to be moved out of the way.
Carriage battery charging cables?
The cafe in platform 1, looked rather good, occupied by people in 1950's era attire.
Not sure that you'd get away with the fox stole these days though.
Foremarke Hall, enjoying the attention.
A little more food arrived later one, needless to say, the GWSR contingent weren't slow in getting to the front of the queue again.
A railway marches on its stomach.
More scenes to shoot
A few more going away shots followed that... one of the crew was keen to try his hand at shovelling coal.
A curious grip on the shovel, but it seemed to work, he hit the spot I asked him to.
Nothing more remained after that, but to take Foremarke Hall back to Toddington and put her to bed. I certainly had an excellent day, hopefully the film crew managed to get all the shots that they wanted to and enjoyed themselves in the process. Don't expect to see either me or any of the other GWSR volunteers in the finished programme, it took all day to shoot, but will probably condense down into less than a minute when edited and I have no doubt that I'll end up on the cutting room floor. It's a fairly safe bet that Foremarke Hall will make it through to the final cut though.
It was a very pleasant day out with Foremarke Hall, rather like catching up with an old friend that you haven't seen for ages. It has come about that I'll have the pleasure of firing her again this coming Sunday, definitely something that I'm looking forward to.
And finally, I'm delighted to be able to report that Aaron passed out as a fireman on Saturday. A particularly impressive achievement as I believe that it was his first trip out on 35006 as a fireman. Congratulations Aaron.
Inspector Irving (l) and fireman Smith.
Posted by GWSR Steam Loco Dept at 16:49 5 comments:
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Our traditional Bonfire Night celebration will take place on the 3rd of November this year at Parkers Field situated on Rushley Road/Limb Lane. The gates will open at 6.30pm to allow everyone to get onto Parker's Field and browse the different stalls. We offer: hot & cold drinks, baked potatoes with different fillings, roasted chestnuts, treacle toffee, toffee apples, and our famous burgers & hotdogs. There will also be the chance to buy flash bands and novelties. Listen out for our own PA system – David Hayes entertains and gives us useful info as the night proceeds. The prices this year will remain the same as last year: £3 per ticket with under 5s free. A family ticket for 2 adults & 2 children under 10 years of age is £10. The fire will be lit at approx. 7.15pm. The HSBC display can be seen from about 7.30pm followed by our own display at approx. 7.45pm. Looking forward to seeing you all on the night.
All Setions will wear full uniform and a poppy as a sign of respect. The Parade will meet at The Meadway and march from there behind the band at 10.30am. The service will take place by the war memorial. The parade will march back to the Meadway for approx 11.15am.
We are delighted to announce that Kath Ruddiforth, manageress of the Dore Co-op and all her staff, have recognised the community work done by 267th Dore Scout Group and have appointed it as one of their preferred local charities. The Community Fund is open from 12th of November 2018 until the 27th of October 2019. They supported the Group's ambition to purchase a defibrillator machine for use of the Scouts and the Village. It's located on the front of the Scout HQ situated on Rushley Road. In addition, the funding has enabled us to buy safety equipment (high visibility jackets, climbing helmets, First Aid items etc), and supported the running and maintenance of the Scout HQ in Dore. See details above on how you can support us.
Our Annual Gala will take place on Saturday the 13th of July this year. Check full details on the Gala page.


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Follow Your Team
Duke Blue Devils News
by Brian Geisinger Thursday April 22, 2021
Quick Numbers: Mark Williams ready for big sophomore season at Duke
duke basketball
Duke guard Jordan Goldwire (14) celebrates with teammate center Mark Williams (15) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Louisville in the second round of the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament in Greensboro, N.C., Wednesday, March 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Mark Williams, one of the breakout stars for Duke basketball, will return for his sophomore season. After a strong finish to the 2020-21 season, there was some speculation that Williams would at least test the NBA Draft process.
However, the 7-footer announced on Twitter than he plans to be back at Cameron Indoor Stadium for the 2021-22 season.
While expected, the decision from Williams comes at an important time for the Blue Devils. Over the last six weeks, Duke has seen two other freshman bigs — Jaemyn Brakefield and, more recently, Henry Coleman — enter the transfer portal.
After an All-ACC sophomore season, Matthew Hurt is headed to the NBA Draft. Hurt's decision wasn't much of a surprise, either. But Hurt toggled between the 4 and the 5 for Duke last season. While frontcourt reinforcements will arrive in the form of 5-star forward Paolo Banchero and Marquette transfer Theo John, Williams serves as the likely candidate to man the center position.
year 2, let's work.😈 pic.twitter.com/4Lgfpxhwa3
— Mark Williams (@MarkWi1liams) April 22, 2021
Williams, however, is more than just a stabilizing force. There's a lot of ability here; Williams is on the verge of turning into a real NBA prospect. Given how he finished his rookie season, playing with newfound confidence and impact, there's much to be intrigued by with Duke's frontcourt rotation.
Freshman Rewind: Mark Williams
During the 2020-21 season, Williams appeared in 23 games (15 starts); he averaged 7.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. (Per 40 minutes: 11.8 rebounds, 3.7 blocks, 1.5 steals, 4.7 FTA)
Over the final 10 games (10 starts), though, Williams saw his playing time and production rise: 24 minutes, 13.0 points (70 FG%), 6.3 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 1.1 steals per game. Williams played fewer than 19 minutes in only one of these games: 7 minutes vs. Virginia and Jay Huff's pick-and-pop gravity.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-PNR-Dunk-Strong-LOU.mp4
With Williams on the floor over that last stretch of 10 games (241 minutes), Duke outscored opponents by 65 points, according to Pivot Analysis. In those minutes, Duke scored at an efficient clip on offense: 1.22 points per possession.
During the final 10 games, Duke posted a net rating of +17.2 points per 100 possession with Williams on the court.
On offense, Williams functions primarily as a vertical threat and paint finisher. He rolls hard to the basket out of pick-and-roll or works the baseline/dunker spot as a cutter. However, there are some ball skills, too. Williams isn't exactly a playmaker, but there are face-up passing flashes. He even showed some quick processing skills as a passer in Duke's continuity ball screen offense or high-low game.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-Spot-up-Pass-Hurt-Cut-MIAMI.mp4
Williams can handle the ball some has a DHO target as well, while also having the presence of mind to hold his screen before diving to the rim. Williams is huge and needs to leverage his size as a way to help create advantage in the half court.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-PNR-Dunk-DHO-BC.mp4
Interior post-to-post passing isn't the best indicator of overall passing acumen, but those little bits of passing should come in handy next when Williams shares the frontcourt with 5-star power forward Paolo Banchero, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Quick Thoughts: Areas of Improvement
There's still a lot of work to be done. Williams improved as a post-up scorer (52.9 FG%), but he's still raw down on the low block. Williams will rarely post-up when he eventually lands in the NBA; however, Duke will likely feature post action with Williams next season.
On the defensive side of the floor, Williams is obviously a monster presence around the basket. He brings tremendous size and reach to the table, which account for why he's such a terror on this half of the court.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-Post-Defense-Block-PNR-Show-Recover-LOU.mp4
Williams moves pretty well, although he's not exactly the quickest leaper. With his size, Williams has margin for error built-in as a rim protector. But can he speed up his load time when it comes to closing ground and contesting shots at the rim?
When Williams is on the floor, Duke defends ball screens in drop or ice coverage. For the most part, this more conservative approach can work really well. Of course, it's vulnerable to certain offenses and player types. There's a reason he played just a handful of minutes during the win over Virginia: Huff's shooting gravity is a real threat vs. the drop in pick-and-pop actions.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-PNR-Defense-Drop-Pop-Contest-3PA-CLEM.mp4
Williams was left most exposed when Duke asked him to drop but stay high — around the level of the screener. Working against spread offenses, this requires Williams to cover too much ground, or work in space against ACC-level guards.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-PNR-Defense-Drop-High-Open-3-ND.mp4
Some of this can be corrected by simply recognizing actions and taking better initial position.
On this possession vs. Miami, Jordan Goldwire works to ice the screen — forcing Isaiah Wong to stay on one side of the floor. To successfully pull this off, though, Goldwire needs Williams to be back, deeper. In theory, when Goldwire forces Wong to his right hand, he should send him into Williams. However, Williams comes up too high and is too far to the right of Nysier Brooks, the screener.
https://accsports.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Mark-Williams-PNR-Defense-Drop-Ice-Bad-Position-PU2-Wong-MIAMI.mp4
This allows Wong to get to his midrange pull-up game.
It'll be interesting to see how Duke looks to defend ball screens next season. A young roster with a drop center could prove tricky against offenses with good ball handlers and stretch big men.
The deeper the drop, the better for Williams, though. If tasked with covering less ground and just walling off the paint for Duke's defense, Williams could be interior offense an absolute bear for opponents.
Post Stats
Williams posted monster efficiency numbers: in the paint and on the glass, on both sides of the floor
14.4 percent offensive rebound rate
No. 3 in the ACC — behind Day'Ron Sharpe and Armando Bacot
20 percent defensive rebound rate
1 of 14 ACC players with 20 percent or better defensive rebound rate
9.6 percent block rate
No. 3 in the ACC — behind Jay Huff and Manny Bates
66.2 2P%
No. 4 in the ACC — behind Nikola Djogo, Nate Laszewski and Jay Huff
Williams: 1 of 6 ACC players to play in at least 30 percent of his team's minutes and record a box plus-minus (BPM) of 8+
The other 5 guys: Matthew Hurt, Jay Huff, Sam Hauser, Armando Bacot, Anthony Polite
Going back to the 2007-08 season, Williams is 1 of 10 ACC freshmen to play in at least 30 percent of his team's minutes and record a BPM of 8+ (8 of the 10 played for Duke)
The other 9 guys: Zion Williamson, Marvin Bagley III, Wendell Carter Jr., Vernon Carey Jr., Tyus Jones, Jahlil Okafor, Justise Winslow, De'Andre Hunter, Jonathan Isaac
Of this list: 8 of the 9 players would go on to become first round picks in the NBA Draft, including 7 lottery picks (top 14 selections. Carey is the only second-round pick on the list, and he was drafted 32nd overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2020
Williams: 1 of 8 Division I players this season with 30+ dunks (34), 7.5 percent block rate, 10 percent offensive rebound rate, 20 percent defensive rebound rate
He's joined here by Charles Bassey (Western Kentucky) and Neemias Queta (Utah State) — two of the top center prospects for the 2021 NBA Draft
Read More on Mark Williams and Duke Basketball
Blue Devils land 4-star 2021 point guard Jaylen Blakes
With AJ Griffin, it's reasonable to ask: Does Duke have two Top-5 picks?
Mike Krzyzewski out vs. Wake Forest, non-COVID related illness
Coach K vs. The ACC: Wake Forest, CP3 vs. JJ, Justin Gray as the Masked Man and a 2019 buzzer-beater
Duke DBs Jalen Alexander, Nate Thompson enter transfer portal
More Duke Insider and Recruiting News
RIVAL WATCH

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


A spate of recent crashes in Virginia has once again asked questions about older drivers on our roads.
Now a bill introduced by State Sen. Jef McWalters would require older drivers to test more often to renew their licenses.
The Virginian-Pilot reports on how the bill would lower the age to 75 from 80 for mandatory license renewal in person in Virginia. It would require anybody aged 75 or older to renew every five years rather than the current eight-year mandate.
This is a significant issue because the number of elderly drivers is increasing rapidly in Virginia and across the country, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It says the number of licensed drivers aged 65 and higher jumped 21 percent from 2003 to 2012.
Alarmingly the number of elderly people killed in traffic crashes has also increased. In 2012, 5,560 people over 65 perished in crashes, the NHTSA states.
Recently I reported on the tragic death of Keairra Diggs, a young mother who died in a head-on collision caused by an 87-year-old man in Suffolk. The elderly driver later died from his injuries.
In May, 2013 about 60 people were injured in western Virginia when an elderly driver drove his car into a group of hikers.
As I explained in a recent video, there may well be a good case for Virginia to tighten up its laws related to older drivers. If you have been hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle accident in Virginia through the fault of an older driver or any other driver call our Hampton, VA auto accident attorneys at 757.455.0077 or see Cooperhurley.com.


On Sunday, 16th September, the inaugural Ryde Brick Fair was held at Ryde East Public School. The event was the first of its kind for the local area, and the excitement was evident with over 2000 people visiting the show throughout the day. Katrina Verinder, Ryde East Public School Principal, recognised the social benefits of the fair.
"The Ryde Brick Fair is an opportunity for the whole community to come together to share in their common interest in creating and designing with LEGO." Ms Verinder said.
Displays were provided by more than 20 members of SydLUG, Sydney's only registered LEGO User Group, and included a giant city layout with working trains and moving theme park rides. The event also saw the public debut of one builder's massive robot, a Japanese Gundam. The event aimed to raise money for essential resources for the school, and Ryde East Public's P & C President, Chris, was impressed with how well the event went.
"We were so happy with the exhibits. Every adult, child (and childish adult!) was in awe of the detail and creativity displayed in all the work displayed. All the SydLUG exhibitors were very professional, engaged with the audience well and we look forward to hosting them again in the future," said Chris.
In addition to viewing the displays, fair attendees were able to purchase delicious food such as pulled pork and coleslaw rolls and a variety of home-baked goodies from the cake stall. Children were able to race remote control LEGO racing cars, build a creation of their own at the free building tables or have fun on the jumping castle. Students of the school participated in a building competition in the lead up to the show and the winners were presented with their awards and their creations displayed, on the day.
Photo opportunities abounded with various cosplayers roaming the grounds on the day, from superheroes and villains to Star Wars characters. Kids and grownups alike were excited to snap a selfie with a passing "celebrity".
SydLUG is looking forward to returning to Ryde East Public School for an event in the future.


text:
Q: Angular 9 Application not loading in IE11 I am facing an issue where my app is not loading in IE 11 after adding ngx-treeview.
I am getting the following error(SCRIPT1002: Syntax error),
Script Error
Error point in vendor.js
I am not sure how to resolve this issue. The application runs fine in chrome and firefox but in IE11 I only see Loading... .  I couldn't find browser compatibility on the library github page. Should I give up on using this library or there is a way to fix this issue.
The package.json file is
  "scripts": {
    "ng": "ng",
    "start": "ng serve --extract-css",
    "build": "ng build --extract-css",
    "build:ssr": "npm run build -- --app=ssr --output-hashing=media",
    "test": "ng test",
    "lint": "ng lint",
    "e2e": "ng e2e",
    "postinstall": "ngcc"
  },
  "private": true,
  "dependencies": {
    "@angular-slider/ngx-slider": "^2.0.3",
    "@angular/animations": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/common": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/compiler": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/core": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/forms": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/platform-browser": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/platform-browser-dynamic": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/platform-server": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/router": "^9.1.13",
    "@fortawesome/fontawesome-free": "^5.15.3",
    "@ng-select/ng-select": "4.0.4",
    "angular-polyfills": "^1.0.1",
    "aspnet-prerendering": "^3.0.1",
    "bootstrap": "^4.6.0",
    "btoa": "^1.2.1",
    "classlist.js": "^1.1.20150312",
    "console-polyfill": "^0.3.0",
    "core-js": "^2.4.1",
    "hidden-attribute-polyfill": "^0.1.0",
    "ie9-oninput-polyfill": "^1.1.1",
    "jquery": "^3.4.1",
    "ngx-bootstrap": "^6.2.0",
    "ngx-infinite-scroll": "^9.1.0",
    "ngx-treeview": "^10.0.2",
    "node-sass": "^4.14.1",
    "responsive-toolkit": "^2.6.3",
    "rxjs": "^6.6.3",
    "rxjs-compat": "^6.0.0-rc.0",
    "tslib": "^1.10.0",
    "web-animations-js": "^2.3.2",
    "zone.js": "~0.10.2"
  },
  "devDependencies": {
    "@angular-devkit/build-angular": "~0.901.13",
    "@angular/cli": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/compiler-cli": "^9.1.13",
    "@angular/language-service": "^9.1.13",
    "@types/jasmine": "~2.8.3",
    "@types/jasminewd2": "~2.0.2",
    "@types/node": "^12.11.1",
    "codelyzer": "^5.1.2",
    "jasmine-core": "~2.8.0",
    "jasmine-spec-reporter": "~4.2.1",
    "karma": "~2.0.0",
    "karma-chrome-launcher": "~2.2.0",
    "karma-coverage-istanbul-reporter": "^1.2.1",
    "karma-jasmine": "~1.1.0",
    "karma-jasmine-html-reporter": "^0.2.2",
    "protractor": "~5.1.2",
    "ts-node": "~4.1.0",
    "tslint": "~5.9.1",
    "typescript": "~3.8.3"
  },
  "optionalDependencies": {}
}}```

and tsconfig.json is

```{
  "compileOnSave": false,
  "compilerOptions": {
    "downlevelIteration": true,
    "importHelpers": true,
    "outDir": "./dist/out-tsc",
    "sourceMap": true,
    "declaration": false,
    "moduleResolution": "node",
    "emitDecoratorMetadata": true,
    "experimentalDecorators": true,
    "target": "es5",
    "typeRoots": [
      "node_modules/@types"
    ],
    "lib": [
      "es2017",
      "dom"
    ],
    "module": "esnext",
    "baseUrl": "./"
  }
}

A: *

*In browserslist file, modify not IE 9-11 to IE 9-11

*In tsconfig.json file, modify "target": "es2015"to "target": "es5"

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
I got smacked upside the head this morning by the worst possible virus. I thought I had severe vertigo, I couldn't stand. Throwing up helped to reset my life force somehow. So unfortunately I'm totally laid low. By a lifeform only a few microns long.
Viruses are good examples of how life relies like all objects on contradictoriness at a deep level. I virus is like a Henkin sentence that tells your genome to look it up in its inventory. While you're busy doing that you're inadvertently copying the virus.
Your body becomes a photocopier for a document called "I cannot be copied on this copy machine." When the number of copies reaches a certain threshold, death is imminent.


Would you know how to respond if you recognized someone you know may be thinking about suicide? Our challenge is to challenge anyone and everyone to start a national conversation about the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide. Learn the warning signs, challenge the people you know to learn them as well. Challenge your co-workers, school, social club, friends, or family to join you! Share iwontbesilent.com or wewontbesilent.com. Use the #IWONTBESILENT or #WEWONTBESILENT on all of your social media accounts. Change your social media profile picture to one of you holding a #IWONTBESILENT or #WEWONTBESILENT sign. You can also make one with our online generator. Suicide is PREVENTABLE! With your help, we can save more lives.
#IWONTBESILENT IS THE JASON FOUNDATION'S CHALLENGE TO EVERYONE TO RAISE THE NATIONAL CONVERSATION ABOUT THE "SILENT EPIDEMIC" OF YOUTH SUICIDE.
The unfortunate news is that suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death in our nation for ages 10-24. We challenge you to not be silent anymore and learn the warning signs, challenge the people you know to learn them as well. We want to start a national conversation about the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide.	Taking a few short minutes to challenge the people you know will help take some of the "silence" away from the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide.
Would you know how to respond if you recognized someone you know may be thinking about suicide? We lose approximately 100 young people each week to this tragedy that can be prevented. The Jason Foundation believes that education is the key to prevention. Our nation should be familiar with the warning signs associated with suicide, suicide facts & statistics, and how to find help for at-risk youth. Together, we can save lives! You may even save your friend, your neighbor's child, a relative, or even your own son or daughter.
Challenge your co-workers, school, social club, friends, or family to join you! Share iwontbesilent.com or wewontbesilent.com. Use the #iwontbesilent or #wewontbesilent on all of your social media accounts. Change your social media profile picture to one of you holding a #IWONTBESILENT or #WEWONTBESILENT sign. You can also make one with our online generator. Suicide is PREVENTABLE! With your help, we can save more lives.
Jason was my youngest son. He was an average 16-year old. He got mostly B's on his report card, and he loved sports; especially football. He was active in his youth group and he had a lot of friends. Jason was the one who was always up for going places and trying new things. From all appearances…my son loved life.
But on July 16th in 1997, everything changed. My son, Jason became a statistic of the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide. I will never hug my son again, but I can and will work alongside you…perhaps to save your friend, your neighbor's child, a relative or even your own son or daughter. Most people are not aware that suicide is now the 2nd leading cause of death for our youth ages 10-24 only surpassed by "unintentional injuries." Unfortunately, it was not until after his tragic death that I learned about the "Silent Epidemic" of youth suicide. Please challenge your friends to learn the warning signs.
Print your own sign and make a picture now!
We want to see your #IWONTBESILENT photos! Make sure you send them to us so we can share them on our social media pages.
You may be the first and last person to see these signs in a young person.
Would you know how to respond if you recognized your friend may be thinking about suicide?
Download our FREE "A Friend Asks" App now by clicking HERE. It is available for both Android and Apple phones.
If you are experiencing a crisis, call 911 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Here you will find a complete user guide, ensuring you hold a problem free event.
Have access to a printer with large paper capabilities? These posters are for you!
These posters are meant to be printed on standard size paper.
Print this tri-fold on regular 8.5x11 computer paper for best results.
Print these signs on regular 8.5x11 computer paper for best results.
These stickers are meant to be printed with Avery 5160 (or equivalent) label sheets.
Click the download button below to download all of our materials with one click!
Thanks for reaching out to us. We'll reach back out to you shortly!


 . : Welcome to Sitalsasthi Yatra, Sambalpur : .
Sitalsasthi - is observed on the basis of the marriage of Gouri and Shankar - as depicted in the Siba Puran. When Tarakasura the king of Narakapura was causing terror and devastation all over (Swarga, Martiya and Patala) all the Devatas approached Lord Vishnu to find out a solution. Lord Vishnu was undone; as Lord Bramha has bestowed a boon that Tarakasura can only be killed by the son of Siba. Tarakasura knew it well that after the death of his first wife, Sati, Siba was left bereft, withdrew from the world and roamed in the wilderness living a life of austerity and would never have a son; further Siba was in deep meditation. Lord Vishnu suggested all the Devatas to approach Ma Mahasakti and request her to take birth as Parbati. On the request of all the devatas Ma Mahasakti reincarnate herself as Sati (Parbati) born as the daughter of Himalaya and grew into a supremely beautiful young woman. Narada told many stories of Lard Siba to Parbati and persuaded her to seek Siba in marriage. Parbati set in meditation, but even after ages passed Siba's dhyna could not be broken. Again all the Devatas approached Lord Vishnu to solve the problem. Suggested by Lord Vishnu, Kamadeva took his bow and threw kamabana at Siba. Siba wakes up – open his third eye – and burnt Kama as a punishment; since then Kama took the shape of Ananga. Whatever it is Parbati's meditation was fulfilled.
Before the marriage Siba wanted to test Parbati, to know how deeply she wants him. He incarnates himself as a batu brahmana and told Parbati that, Oh! Parbati, you are young and beautiful, why do you choose to marry an old fellow who lives in smasana, wears tree bark - snakes as ornaments. I know that Maheswara you want to marry, a half naked fellow, looks ugly, no one for sure knows his kula-gotra, and how could you ever be happy with such a nomad. Listening to the suggestion of the batu-brahman she got angry, and told Oh! Brahmana, ever after reading so much shastras you are still ignorant about Siba, how foolish you are? I am not bothered whether he is old or young, ugly or handsome I am not marring him of his handsomeness, I am attracted towards him for his knowledge. I will not accept any one else other than him in marriage.
Satisfied with all his test, Siba appeared in his divine self. On the Jesta Suklapakhya Panchami they got married. Kartilaya was born and later killed Tarakasura, and all beings lived happily ever after.
Sambalpur has earned the name as the Saiba tirtha and Sakti Pitha from the ancient time. The marriage of Siba and Parvati is celebrated as Sitalsasthi for several years from now. It represents the union of Siba and Mahasakti. No one for sure knows when actually it started. However, from the records it is known that for the last 300 years it is been observed.
Historical Evidence: King Ajit Singh son of Chatra Sai of the Chowhan dynasty (1695-1766) ruled Sambalpur, in a very peaceful manner. It was possible only for his strong religious faith. As he was a Vaisnava in his believe and faith, used to spend much time at Puri. He wanted to establish Sambalpur as a religious place. In the ancient time Saiba upask Brahmins were not there in this part. King Ajit Singh requested some Brahmin family from Puri to settle at Ajitpur Sasan (present day Sasan). This created displeasure amongst the tribal and other brahamana and people of other castes residing in the area. To create harmony amongst the tribal and other castes he establishes several temples in the area. Ajit Singh understood that Sambalpur was famous as a Saktipitha in the ancient time, and the union of Siba and Sakti were worshipped. Dewan Daxina Ray suggested the king to establish and contribute generously to the temples of the Astha Sambhu in the area. The temple at Huma the abode of Lord Vimaleswar the chief amongst the deities of the 'Asta Sambhu' was already built by King Baliar Singh; later Ajit Singh built seven other temples for the Sambhus. (Kedarnath of Ambabhona, Biswanatha of Deogaon, Balunkeswar of Gaisama, Mandhata of Maneswar, Swapneswar of Sorna, Bisweswara of Soranda and Nilakanteswar of Nilji).
Keeping in view the famous Ratha Jatra of Puri, Ajit Singh started the Sitalsasthi Jatra the marriage of Hara and Parbati in Sambalpur on the Jesta Suklapakhya Panchami. The God and Goddess are married like human beings.Thal Utha (Begining), Patarpendi (Nirbandha), Guagunda (Invitation), Ganthla Khula are observed religiously. As during the Ratha Jatra – Jagannath is treated as a Ganadevata, likewise manner Lord Siba and Devi Parbati are also treated as Ganadevata.
A family act as the father and mother of Devi Parbati, and offer the hands of Devi Parbati in marriage with Lord Siba. Since Lord Siba is 'Sayam Bu' no one act as his father and mother. However, according to the Sambhudhar paddhati and Basudev paddhati marriage between Lord Siba and Devi Parbati are observed. Where, the parent represents Himalaya, Dadhichi for Parvati and Ugrakhanta and Nilakhanta for Lord Siba.
Lord Siba starts his marriage procession along with other Gods and Goddesses from his temple. Hanuman and Nrusingha takes charge and leads the procession to the bride's residence. The family of the Goddesses welcome the barat procession (as we do in our marriages). The idols are kept in a beautifully decorated palanquin, the father and mother and other relatives of Devi Parbati performs the Kanyadana and the marriage is solemnised. The next day the procession returns back to the temple (Mandir Pravesh) with Devi Parbati, folkdance, folk music, different forms of other dances and music different medhas are the main attraction of this procession. People from all over join in large numbers in the procession. For two days Sambalpur turns into swarga, a devastali.
Kings are gone, kingdom vanishes still Sitalsasthi Jatra is celebrated till date with all its glory. Earlier only Jhaurapada and Nandapada were celebrating Sitalsasthi, since 1972 Mudipada has also joined the festival. After that Joint Coordination Committe formed. In this festival Different committees are formed; the administration, police and other department were also involved to see that the festival is observed in a peaceful manner.


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text:
A Few Simple Words
A blog on writing, travel, and personal thoughts.
Hint Fiction
Week Two of NaNoWriMo
Week One of NaNoWriMo
It's NaNoWriMo Season
What I Learned Freelance Writing
The Fear of Failure
Twas the Night Before NaNoWriMo
NaNoWriMo Prep- I'm Trying Something New
Why My Fig Tree Died
What I'm Reading… Kenyon Review
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
P.S. I Still Love You by Jenny Han
Ashfall by Mike Mullin
The Raven Boys Series by Maggie Stiefvater
Five Benefits to Reading More
How Twitter Helped Me Professionally and Personally
The Elevator Speech for the College Student: The Skill Every College Student Needs to Master
5 Goals For The Next 5 Years
When You Start A Blog
A Home Not Defined By Four Walls
Peace & Rain & Ocean
What The Eiffel Tower Is Really Like
The Moment That Makes You Remember
Down the Rabbit Hole of Art
The Best of Paris Sights
Food of France
Random Facts of Paris
Traveling Hurts
Paris the Prequel
Crown of Midnight is #2 in the Throne of Glass series. While Thrown of Glass was about Celaena winning the title of Champion of the King, Crown of Midnight follows what happens when she has to start doing the king's dirty work for him. Dispatching the Kings enemy's is just a small portion of what's going on in this book.
To read my review of Throne of Glass, click here.
Evil is lurking in the castle again and Celaena begins to receive more pressure to get involved in the resistance and to solve the mystery of the cloaked figure in the hallway.
What is the King hiding? How is he so powerful?
Celaena just wants to get through these years of service and finally have a nice, simple life, far, far, away from the castle but it doesn't seem that it's her destiny. Unfortunately, the harder she fights to stay out of the fray, the more the people around her get hurt.
In Throne of Glass it's pretty easy to predict what the course of the book is going to look like. No one is really surprised that Celaena wins Champion of the King or that she starts to have feelings for both Dorian and Chaol.
In Crown of Midnight I feel like the series takes the reader on a lot more twists and turns. There's still the things you would expect to see from the series but there's a long journey taken from the beginning of the book to the end.
What I really like about this series is that the author has a great sense of pacing. I like that I learn enough about Celaena to be interested in her background but there's still so much, as a reader, that I don't know yet. I can tell by reading the series that she's planned out the series and things in the first book are directly linked to this book. It all flows smoothly, which is really great to read.
I love that I have a good grasp of the world but there's still so much left to learn.
Roland gave her a courtier's smile. "And what sort of work do you do for my uncle?"
Dorian shifted on his feet and Chaol went very still, but Celaena returned Roland's smile and said, "I bury the king's opponents where nobody will ever find them."
― Sarah J. Maas, Crown of Midnight
I also discovered that there's several prequel novellas to this series. Again, I love this series because I can tell the author has really done a lot of planning, world building, and back story.
Evenually I hope to read all the prequel's and finish up this series.
Until then, check out more of my reviews!
book review, books, Reading
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Biked down to the river last night to see the Lawrence firework show. Great spot to watch the show.
After work walk with Winnebago. #lfk #gardens #sheltie
Boulevardia! #boulevardia #lovelytheband💋 #thegrislyhand #thephantastics #thegreetingcommittee


text:
COEXISTING WITH CORONAVIRUS !? – Guest Author Satish Bhatnagar, Ph.D.
admin | January 30, 2021
Depending upon whom you listen to, the Coronavirus or COVID-19 has been now in the US air for a year. Like all other pandemics in world history, this too would peter out after one more year. At the same time, if this pandemic gives rise to a new economy over the dying embers of certain sections of the old economy, then it would be a world beyond my speculation. For the last 3-4 weeks, the powers-to-be in this global 'pandemic industry' have been carefully preparing the people to live withRead More
Pure Indian Cuisine Liquor and Other Licenses Suspended Due to Reported Shooting and Other Violations. Raja Mittal Failed to Fully Cooperate with Police.
The Pure Indian Cuisine restaurant was closed briefly by the Clark County Business License department due to the shooting near Pure premises and other licensing-related violations. The restaurant was informed by the Clark County Business Licensing Department of immediate suspension/revocation of licenses related to Hookah Services (revoked), Liquor – Supper Clubs (revoked), Food Services – Restaurant (suspended), and Incidental Activity Permit (suspended). The areas of violations cited by the business license department included… Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) reported shooting near Pure premises was related to customers in and aroundRead More
Business News One Comment » Print this News
Milan Chatterjee Appointed to the American Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists' National Board of Governors
Milan Chatterjee, Esq. was appointed to the American Association of Jewish Lawyers & Jurists's ("AAJLJ") National Board of Governors at their Annual Meeting, while receiving additional charge as Vice President of the Western Region. Nevada Lieutenant Governor Kate Marshall, Attorney General Aaron Ford, and Supreme Court Justice Elissa Cadish were present at Milan's appointment, along with his parents Saroj and Nirmalya Chatterjee. Milan will oversee the governance of AAJLJ's national organization, while expanding the organization's footprint in Western Region states. He will continue serving as Founding President of AAJLJ's NevadaRead More
Business News, Community News 2 Comments » Print this News
Athar Hassebullah Named Executive Director of ACLU Nevada
For the first time in the organization's 55-year history, the executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada is a person of color. Las Vegas attorney Athar Haseebullah, 33, took over last week at the organization's central valley office, right down the street from his childhood home. Haseebullah is a practicing Muslim whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from Pakistan; his tenure began seven months after then-Executive Director Tod Story departed. Story announced in June that he planned to "pursue other opportunities" after serving for more than sevenRead More
President Biden Re-opened the Door – Guest Author Nirmalya Chatterjee
You feel a long, dark winter has suddenly made way to a beautiful sunny spring morning. The cycle of nature is working. So is democracy. It has worked to bring back what was lost. President Biden has opened that closed door – very firmly yet gently. The door to the truth, unity, respect, the world, the science, and the nation's 'soul'. It feels like the events of the last few weeks are from a distant past. A swift transition to what we all are used to. It seemed like AmericaRead More
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Red Carpet Opening Celebrations of Las Vegas Produced Movie, A Rising Eagle – Story of Anuradha Das
Las Vegas Indian community is invited to the red carpet opening celebrations of A Rising Eagle, a locally shot and produced movie staring Anuradha Das. The movie is a real-life experience of Anuradha's life journey from disastrous marriage at a young age, unpredictable storming challenges including depression, suicide attempts, two divorces to implausible professional success as an independent motivational speaker and an indie actress. The 40-minute short movie is shot in Vegas and some of the members of the Indian community, specifically Fatima, Aarti, Chetna, and Yogi were innately involved in the logistics toRead More
REMEMBERING A LAS VEGAS PIONEER
Pioneer is a person who blazes a new trail in any aspect of life. A pioneer may look as being alone, live lonely and outwardly appear lonesome, but inwardly he/she is possessed, rather pregnant with bubbling ideas. He is restless to deliver it out to the world. Settlers follow a trail blazer once a new ground is broken. This line of thinking has been hovering over my mind since January 10, 2021 when I heard of the death of Ronan (Ranendra Nath Ghatak). Two days ago, after visiting his wifeRead More
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Obituary – Ranendra Nath "RON" Ghatak
Ranendra Nath "Ron" Ghatak, a longtime resident of Las Vegas since 1977, passed away suddenly on January 10, 2021. He was 72. Born in India, Ghatak received his degree in Diesel and Automotive Engineering from the University of Calcutta. A brilliant student, he continued his education at the University of Munich, graduating with a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. He had a lifelong interest in research and continued to accumulate engineering credits and expertise at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He had an outstanding career, serving as the ResearchRead More
How the Country Will Overcome President Trump's Last Act! – Guest Author Nirmalya Chatterjee
admin | January 8, 2021
The history will not be able to forgive President Trump for violating the oath of his office of protecting the people and democracy of the United States. As he reaches almost the end of his road, he has resorted to inciting a shocking mob violence by his supporters at the US Capitol while the Congress was engaged inside the building in its constitutional duty of formalizing the results of the Presidential election and a peaceful transfer of government. The whole world saw an act of massive 'domestic terrorism' at oneRead More
Upset Hindus urge France distillery to withdraw Lord Ganesh gin & apologize
Upset Hindus are urging La Bouëxière (Brittany, France) based Distillerie Awen Nature to apologize and withdraw its Gin Ganesh, named after Hindu deity; calling it highly inappropriate. Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, said that inappropriate usage of sacred Hindu symbols or deities or concepts or icons for commercial or other agenda was not okay as it hurt the devotees. Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, indicated that Lord Ganesh was highly revered in Hinduism and he was meant to be worshippedRead More
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Entries from December 2010 ↓
Rammstein Concert at Madison Square Garden: Rammgut
December 13th, 2010 — Music, NYC
Saturday night, December 11, I went to a Rammstein concert at Madison Square Garden, my ticket purchased by the best wife ever, Wifely. At the Garden, for about 2.5 hours, the band wonderfully bulldozed my ears. The full set list's at the end of this post.
To get to the concert, I took the D-line from my friends Janna and Julie's apartment in the Bronx, then walked a few blocks through Manhattan. A hand-holding, formally-dressed teenage couple arrived at about the same time I did, also threading their way through the assortment of headbangers in fishnet stockings and/or leather jackets & the like. The couple showed an elderly usher their tickets. "No," he told them, "you don't want a Rammstein concert." He gestured. "You want that over there, the stage play."
I went in.
Nice view! Freebie iPhone pic by me.
Luckily, I (purposefully) missed the opening act, some obnoxious group called Combichrist. I sat (with a great view! How awesome is Wifely???) next to a guy named Kirk, with whom I talked for a while; his girlfriend goes to NYU, he studies education in Pennsylvania.
I wondered if the techs soundchecking the guitars were going to play the main Sweet Leaf riff (the Black Sabbath song title refers to especially tasty tea), or if the tradition of using that riff for metal soundchecks was just an American thing. Well, Rammstein's soundcheck was really short, which was sort of surprising — just a kick drum check and a power chord check. I have to say the kick drum sounded incredible reverberating around Madison Square Garden.
The lights blacked out suddenly, and after a Spinal Tap-worthy smashing of an artificial wall, the band came onstage for the night's first song, "Rammlied" ("Ram-song"). The lyrics start with (and frequently repeat) the word "Rammstein" (Ram-stone), which the crowd loudly screamed, fists pumping and heads a-bang, as a very emphatic spondee. I was definitely among the fist-pumpers, for once at a concert where I wasn't so self-conscious. When the German verses begun, the largely American audience's fists lowered, their heads rose, and their faces searched one another, puzzled as to how to proceed. Then the chorus came back (Ramm-! -stein!) and the crowd resumed its chant. Any German the crowd managed seemed mostly mumbled until a familiar-enough word crossed by. This was amusing. For all we knew, Till Lindemann, singing mostly in German, could have been cursing us out the whole time!
Here's what the music sounded like — seriously! Did I not tell you Rammstein plays Bavarian folk music?
During "Ich tu dir Weh" I saw, through the scrim of pot smoke pouched above the bottom floor, a man dressed head-to-toe as Santa Claus, moshing in the pit as intensely as anyone else. Like the band themselves, most Rammstein fans above their teenage years do have a sense of humor about this music and its subculture.
The concert ended with Till enunciating very slowly and very carefully, something like: "We are Rammstein. We thank you very, very much, America." The closing song was "Engel" ("Angel"), and we walked out to a piano rendition of it, which was quite spooky and nicely fit my sudden sadness at the concert ending. I was so happy, though. On the way back to the Bronx on the D, my ears were, like, deaf, so on my headphones I listened to Patty Griffin, not coincidentally among Wifely's favorite music.
By the way, before the concert, some guy standing by the elevators handed out what looked like playbills to passersby, some of whom happened to accept them. On the back, I noticed, MSG Entertainment, apparently Rammstein's management — whom as a ticket-holder I have no relationshp with — asserts the following (though in all caps, and among other things) as part of a "license" (their word) that they granted:
No smoking, alcohol, drugs, weapons, laser pens, food, bottles or cans allowed. By your use of this ticket, you consent to a reasonable search for prohibit items and you agree that you will not transmit or aid in transmitting any description, account, picture or reproduction of the event to which this ticket admits you.
Apparently in Germany they don't have the saying "Any publicity is good publicity." And besides, just because some moistened bink lobbed a playbill at me doesn't make me a licensee.
Here's the NYT review.
For a disturbing, if overblown, take on Rammstein, try this essay by Claire Berlinski: Rammstein's Rage. (FYI, at times the essay mis-translates in a way that misleadingly bolsters its points; but, it's still worth a read.)
Set List (English):
Rammlied (Ram-song)
B******** (a meaningless neologism)
Waidmanns Heil (Hunters' Salute)
Weißes Fleisch (White Flesh)
Feuer Frei (Fire at Will!)
Wiener Blut (Viennese Blood)
Frühling in Paris (Spring in Paris)
Ich tu dir Weh (I Hurt You)
Du Riechst So Gut (You Smell so Good)
Benzin (Petrol)
Links 2, 3, 4 (Left 2 3 4)
Du Hast (You Have)
[a song the title of which I'll not post here]
Sonne (Sun)
Haifisch (Shark)
Ich Will (I Want)
Engel (Angel)
THANK YOU WIFELY!!!
Saturday night, December 11, I went to a Rammstein concert at Madison Square Garden, my ticket purchased by the best wife ever, Wifely. At the Garden, for about 2.5 hours,...


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start_test Filters do not rewrite blacklisted JavaScript files.
URL=$TEST_ROOT/blacklist/blacklist.html?PageSpeedFilters=extend_cache,rewrite_javascript,trim_urls
fetch_until -save $URL 'grep -c .js.pagespeed.' 4
FETCHED=$FETCH_UNTIL_OUTFILE
check grep -q "<script src=\".*normal\.js\.pagespeed\..*\.js\">" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\"js_tinyMCE\.js\"></script>" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\"tiny_mce\.js\"></script>" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\"tinymce\.js\"></script>" $FETCHED
check grep -q \
  "<script src=\"scriptaculous\.js?load=effects,builder\"></script>" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\".*jquery.*\.js\.pagespeed\..*\.js\">" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\".*ckeditor\.js\">" $FETCHED
check grep -q "<script src=\".*swfobject\.js\.pagespeed\..*\.js\">" $FETCHED
check grep -q \
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


The peer review is open between June 1, 2018, and June 25, 2018.
After reading the proposed policies, please answer each question, and enter your comments on the review forms in the spaces provided. Please indicate the line number on the statement relating to your comment.
Please direct any questions to Diane Paul, ASHA Director, Clinical Issues in Speech-Language Pathology, and Committee Ex Officio, at dpaul@asha.org.
The members of the committee look forward to your comments.
Comments are due by June 25, 2018.


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Qatar 3:2 Korea – Porous defense puts World Cup dreams in limbo
June 13, 2017 Tim Lee *South Korean National Football Team 12
Another away game, another shock defeat. Korea's gradual regression under Uli Stielike continues, with a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Qatar. Korea fail to extend their lead over Uzbekistan and the gap between the two nations for the final direct qualifying spot remains at 1 point. Despite a starting lineup light on physicality and high on fan favorites (Hwang Heechan starting up top with Lee Jaesung playing as a central midfielder), Stielike's defensive picks were woeful once more, and it seems very likely that Uli Stielike will be sacked by the end of the week by the KFA.
Jinseok Yang will be here later to recap the encounter properly, but for now, content yourselves with these highlights:
About Tim Lee	321 Articles
The maple syrup guzzling kimchijjigae craving Korean-Canadian, eh?
KNT Nervous as Qatar & Doha's Summer Heat Await — Qatar vs South Korea, The Preview
Reports: Uli Stielike to be sacked
wow smh. i am disappointed.
Our match against Uzbekistan is an away game too. we lost our away games against China, Iran and now Qatar. we drew with Syria at the away game. And we will likely lose to Iran at home. sigh…
Korea good luck…
hopefully Korea wins their matches against Uzbekistan and Iran.
Glen Jung
I actually think some people that pay attention to the KMNT are secretly hoping they flame out & miss out on the WC. It might be the only way the KFA would be forced to look at what ails their program, why they can't produce good scorers/defenders/def mids, what they really need to do to be competitive against good or top teams. Why do I say that? Because since 2002, the KMNT have been very lucky in being drawn into 3 fairly easy groups the last 3 WCs. They only advanced to the R16 in 2010, by the skin of their teeth. In those WCs they only won against Togo in 2006 (where players were threatening their own FA the entire tournament because of lack of bonus compensation) & Greece in 2010 who were awful. Making the last 3 WCs has been a total mirage for what this program is. It's an average program, you could make a case it's below average. Australia, for example, deserve a mulligan because they got absolutely shafted in 2010/2014 by being seeded into 2 groups of death in 2 straight world cups. Can you imagine the current KMNT in a group of death? They might allow 4 or more goals per game, judging from last night's performance. Qualifying by thinnest of margins against Uzbekistan, China or whatever will do not do much IMO to developing a globally respected & competitive program. Falling hard on their ass may provide an opportunity to truly reflect.
Jae (이재혁) (@ArmchairRegista)
Wrote this last March after the China loss.
http://www.taegukwarriors.com/why-i-hope-korea-fails-to-qualify-for-russia-2018/
That's a good post Jae, and I agree that blowing it up does not necessarily guarantee anything, but it's clear the status quo is actually putting the KMNT more behind competitive or elite programs. It would take time, but it would be worth the risk to shake things up & be open to new ideas. Really examining the 2 year military requirement, what on earth can be done to develop capable CBs & holding MFs to give the team a chance to keep the ball out of the net? I don't know if it's culturally possible to develop highly technical players like they do in Europe or S.America. A more realistic approach could be the way Atletico Madrid play, concentrate on closing passing and shooting lanes, block shots & defense first? Something has to give, things have to change as you wrote.
Sogatov
I am a fan of the national team of Russia and Ukraine, two teams that lose almost all the time and have often missed qualifications. What I can tell you is that failure to qualify does nothing but demolish confidence. If the team does not bounce back after the failure, people will just believe that the team has become weak. This is what happened after the fall of the Soviet Union. Russia in the 1990s was strong but it has always failed in its competitions. Instead of reacting as it should have, the federation did nothing but accept that Russia was no longer a strong team. So Russia continued to be a nil team with this new thought anchored. What I mean is that it is not always by failing that your federation will react correctly. The consequences can be disastrous if your team does not rectify the results afterwards. If Korea qualifie, it means that they remain one of the best teams in Asia ! This is what you shouldn't forget. I wish you not to lose that best Asian team status forever as Russia and Ukraine did by agreeing to evolve into mediocrity after having been strong teams!
I'm sorry for my bad english.
No worries, I understand what you're saying perfectly. Yes, what you describe very much could happen. Fans/media/people in the business must ask themselves what they really want from the KNT. Is WC qualification the aim? Just get in and it's okay if we get smashed and go home after group stage like in 2014. Right now, the answer to that question seems to be "yes". And if so, okay then. We'll keep on going the way we are. If the answer is "no", and people want more, then it's time to start thinking what real steps will be taken to get there.
JtotheK
It was super disappointing to lose like that against Qatar. Players just didn't perform in the 1st half. I think LKH was our best player today. He brought energy and physicality and made a good cross for the HHC goal. This match shows that we need experienced veterans who don't get overwhelmed when losing 0-1. KSY aside from the goal was pretty ineffective. Expected more from him as captain. Also he's pretty slow pace. I know there isn't anyone better than him in that position, but he sometimes stifles the progression. Kwak Tae-Hwi shouldn't start in the future. Had a horrible game. KNT needs a new CB pairing asap. HKY bench as well. I hope Lee Chong-Yung returns to the K League and gets in better form. Ji Dong-Won was invisible and is definitely not the answer. HHC scored a good goal but shows his inexperience and is inconsistent at finishing. I hope next manager brings in experienced veterans like Park Chu-Young or Lee Dong-Gook to be a locker room influence to the forwards. Also maybe it's time for Paik Seung-Ho.
I think Stielike will be fired. All over korean news and netizens are pretty furious. If so, who is the next coach? Choi Yong-Soo just got fired from Jiangsu so he's available. Shin Tae-Yong maybe, but do you really want to risk his promising career like HMB if he struggles at WC2018 with less than 1 year to prepare? Hwang Sun-Hong? Really don't want another HMB situation happen to a young promising coach. Time and patience is necessary to build a good team.
No doubt. I wouldn't hire STY for the job just yet. He should stay as the u20 and olympics team manager for a few years and then be considered. I wonder if Jurgen Klinsmann is available after leaving the US national team.
Stielike needs to go….I say bring in foreign coach with experience, someone who doesn't give an F, and someone who will have the players trust/respect.
Reports: Uli Stielike to be sacked – Tavern of the Taeguk Warriors
Korean Women's Football Federation
ROK football Korea forum


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Home › Research Grant
We are proud to announce that on the 15th February 2005, the BTS Committee – after having spent some months debating a discussion paper – passed a motion, which authorised the setting up of the British Tarantula Society Overseas Research Grant. This essentially means that the BTS will now fund an annual research grant of £500 (approximately $900), which will be aimed specifically at overseas researchers from second and third world countries.
The primary role of the BTS Overseas Research Grant is to fund and encourage research into the taxonomy, distribution, behaviour, morphology and the conservation of the Theraphosidae in developing countries. Proposals for research projects will be considered for other mygalomorph spider families and other arachnid groups such as the order Scorpiones – if a relevant theraphosid project is not forthcoming.
It is the intention of the BTS Committee that the BTS Overseas Research Grant will encourage both the undertaking of original research and scientific papers (which, can be published in an academic journal of the authors choice) and the writing of original and well-researched popular scientific articles. These will be aimed at both educating and entertaining the BTS Membership and it is intended that they will be viewed in both the BTS Journal and in an unabridged format, with copious photographs on the BTS Website. This of course means that the successful applicant will be expected to not only write a scientific paper for an academic journal but also publish a series of ongoing popular articles with photographs and possibly video footage, which can be showcased on the BTS Website and hopefully, allow the membership to witness and observe active field research. The BTS Committee believe that this new and exciting concept in awarding research grants, will enable the societies membership – which is of course paying for the research grant – to share in the excitement of the field research that it funding and have some sense of inclusion in the project as a whole. The BTS Committee would also remind its membership that the setting up of the BTS Overseas Research Grant also honours the long-term objectives of the society – to encourage the research and conservation of the Theraphosidae as laid down in its founding charter and constitution. It is also hoped that if a given research project particularly appeals to the membership, then it will be possible for individual members of the BTS to raise additional funds privately to assist in topping up the original grant or purchasing a specific piece of equipment. Whatever, for the first time in the history of research grants, the membership of a society will be able to observe the undertaking of the project that they are funding? The research project will of course be completely independent. You may watch but not interfere!
The BTS Overseas Research Grant is aimed specifically at overseas researchers attached to universities, colleges, zoos, and museum departments, government wildlife departments and independent grant aided research and conservation agencies in developing countries. All applicants will be expected to have achieved a minimum of a basic degree status or be enrolled on a degree course. References, both departmental and from independent sources will be actively sought. For specific projects – applications from a first world university will be considered but not prioritised – depending on the number and quality of the submissions from targeted applicants in developing countries.
Aims & Objectives of the Fund
(1) The aims and objectives of the BTS Overseas Research Grant is to both fund and encourage research into the taxonomy, distribution, behaviour, morphology, breeding and the conservation of the Theraphosidae. Particular interest will be taken in field research projects that are undertaken by researchers from second and third world countries. Proposals for research projects will be considered for other mygalomorph families and other arachnid groups such as the order Scorpiones – if a relevant theraphosid spider project is not forthcoming that year.
(2) To encourage the production of original research that can be published in an English language, peer group reviewed scientific journal of the author/authors choice.
(3) To encourage the writing of original and well-researched popular scientific articles aimed at both educating and entertaining the membership of the BTS. The intention is that these articles will appear in an abridged form in the BTS Journal and in a longer, fully illustrated and more immediate format on the BTS Website. It is also intended that in time it will be possible to video aspects of the project and utilise Internet technology to undertake interviews with the researcher for the benefit of the BTS membership.
(4) To change how the BTS is perceived in the international scientific community and raise the status of the society in relation to the study and conservation of the Theraphosidae.
(5) To honour the Societies stated long term goals and objectives – to encourage research and the conservation of the Theraphosidae – as laid down in its founding charter and original constitution.
(6) The long-term objective of the BTS Overseas Research Grant will be to have the Society fund the researcher to present his paper at the BTS February lectures.
Entitlement and Application Requirements
(1) The BTS Overseas Research Grant is aimed primarily at indigenous overseas researchers attached to universities, museum departments, zoos, and government wildlife departments and independent grant aided research and conservation agencies in developing countries. The Society will also consider western students/researchers attached to an overseas institution and if there are not sufficient suitable overseas applicants, will consider a western student/researcher undertaking theraphosid field research in a first world country.
(2) Applicants will be expected to have achieved degree status or be in the process of undertaking a recognised degree course. Students with first degrees and Masters will be expected to submit references from a PhD supervisor or head of department stating that permission has been obtained to undertake the proposed project and that the project will be supervised by the department in question. Staff attached to non-university institutions will be expected to provide a reference from the director of the institution and the applicant's departmental manager. Qualified freelance researchers will be considered but they will need to produce a reference from an academic institution and have at least one relevant peer group reviewed publication to their name.
(3) All applicants will be expected to submit with their references, a curriculum vitae and an informative outline of their proposed research project, with a time frame and costing. The Committee would also view favourably the submission of examples of published and unpublished papers and if appropriate term essays and extracts from a completed thesis. Applicants will be also expected to submit good quality photographs of themselves, the research habitat and the subject matter of the project. It should be noted that poor quality images could damage the applicant's chances of success. The Chairman would remind all applicants that they will be expected to submit ongoing photographs of their project, which it is intended will be viewed by the society's membership on the BTS Website.
(4) The successful applicant will be expected to write a research paper that can be submitted for publication to a peer group reviewed English language Journal of the author's choice. A complete or abridged version of this paper will also be published in the BTS Journal. Over the course of the project, the author will also be expected to contribute a minimum of two popular natural history articles, with photographs and possibly even digital video footage propounding the research project as it unfolds and develops. The articles will be expected to be informative and not less than 4000 words. The articles and photographs will also be used on the BTS Website to act as a showcase for future BTS sponsored research projects and may be used in BTS publications.
The Application Procedure.
(1) To apply for a BTS Overseas Research Grant the applicant should type out and submit to the Chairman of the BTS an informative outline of the research project, a time frame and an estimate of the expected costs of the proposed research. The application should also include photographs to support the proposal, curriculum vitae, peer group reviewed papers if applicable or examples/extracts of a college project or thesis if the researcher is a student. The applicant will be also expected to submit references – please include telephone numbers – from heads of departments, institutions or western universities if applicable. If English is a second language the applicant will need to demonstrate to the BTS Committee that he/she is capable of effectively communicating in English.
(2) The BTS Research Grant will be issued annually and submissions will be voted upon at the December meeting of the BTS Committee. All applicants should have their proposals submitted by October 25th of any given year. Failure to meet this deadline will probably mean that the applicant will be asked to resubmit their proposal, for the following year. The Committees decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into on the subject.
(3) The £500 will be paid into the applicant's bank account in mid January, after all of the submitted references, have been investigated. The inclusion of e-mail and telephone numbers will speed up this process.
(4) All applications should be sent to – The British Tarantula Society Committee, c/o Head Office
By Email angehale@thebts.co.uk
BTS Overseas Research Grant- 3 Shepham Lane, Polegate, East Sussex, BN26 6LZ.


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Silver Cross Main stage
About the main stage
Our main stage is proudly sponsored by the iconic British nursey brand, Silver Cross. The Silver Cross stage is located in the main exhibition hall and is one of the dominant focal points of The Modern Family Show. The visual impact of the huge LED TV wall behind the stage means all content can be broadcast across the ground floor exhibition space. Content on this stage is informal, yet still educational and true to the format of the show – delivering a casual chat show vibe by our guest speakers and your hosts.
No need to book tickets for this stage.
10:15 - 10:45 MY SURROGACY JOURNEY - SURROGACY SUPPORT services in the uk & north america - Michael Johnson-Ellis
Michael Johnson-Ellis has been a UK Surrogacy and Fertility Treatment advocate since 2015, when he and his husband (Wes) embarked on their first journey with their daughter (Talulah) who was born in 2016, and their son Duke born in August 2019.
Michael has also campaigned for law reform and successfully changed NHS policy related to adhering to Gov.UK guidance.
My Surrogacy Journey (www.mysurrogacyjourney.com) is the latest not for profit Surrogacy organisation designed to support everyone on a fertility journey via Surrogacy. Offering tailored membership and innovative benefits to Intended Parents, Surrogates and Known Egg Donors. My Surrogacy Journey is literally changing the landscape when it comes to surrogacy support.
Michael's presentation will showcase all that My Surrogacy Journey can offer on your route to parenthood, whether you choose UK Surrogacy or you opt for a US or Canadian route – they have it all covered. Hear why they are quickly gaining a reputation as The New Face of Surrogacy.
11:00 - 11:30 A PREGNANT MAN VS. THE WORLD - TRYSTAN REESE
Trystan Reese is an established thought leader, educator, speaker, and founder of Collaborate Consulting, which provides customized training in diversity, equity and inclusion for individuals, organizations and communities interested in social justice. A professionally trained anti-racism facilitator, he has been organizing with the trans community for nearly two decades. He is 2021 Lambda Literary Fellow and has been featured in The Moth, People and Buzz Feed . He is married to his partner Biff and they live in Portland, Oregan with their three kids: Lucas, Hailey and Leo. They are very happy.
11:45 - 12:15 FENOMATCH - FACIAL MATCHINg - Sergio Gonzalez
When the biotechnologist Sergio Gonzalez discovered the work that is done in fertility, he knew that it was his area to specialize in. Trained as an embryologist, his personal strengths are crucial to carry out his job. He describes himself as empathic and overturned with people. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, he truly believes that everybody deserves a family, no matter the gender, sexuality or any other question.
Although terms such as "facial matching" and "facial recognition" tend to be confused, the truth is that they are different techniques that do not serve the same purpose. We will explain how modern families can specifically benefit from facial matching techniques in the selection of gamete donors and how artificial intelligence can help them.
12:30 - 13:00 P3 - BIRDS & THE BEES of modern families - Michael Newton
P3 believes that family is family – irrespective of sexual orientation or family make-up, and that at the heart of every family is love. Love doesn't discriminate. We represent non-traditional and under- represented families (both LGBT+ and non-).
The session will involve a panel and information covering topics such as adoption and fostering, surrogacy, donor insemination, co-parenting, financial and legal considerations. The purpose of the session is to allow you to hear first-hand from LGBTQ+ parents and industry professionals, and to freely ask the direct questions that may help shape the decisions on how to create your own families.
Michael is the International Manager for event technology company, Cvent, a motivational diversity speaker for TLC Lions and operates as the CEO of the P3 Network. P3 is a UK based not-for profit that provides support, advice, advocacy and role models for non-traditional and LGBT+ families. P3 currently supports almost 3,500 families and prospective families across the UK, and have worked with around 100 leading Global businesses, government agencies and regulatory bodies to help those organisations create more inclusive work environments.
Main stage speakers & Topics
13:15 - 13:45 REMAKING THE HUMAN BODY
The project "Remaking the Human Body: Biomedical Imaging Technologies, Professional and Lay Visions" investigates the introduction of new visual technologies in IVF and their consequences for professionals and patients. This is a large qualitative, social science research project that analyses different points of view in the field of IVF and foster a deeper mutual understanding among people with differing perspectives, concerns and experience. The project is based at Queen Mary University of London and is funded by the Wellcome Trust.
14:15 - 14:45 ADOPTION UK - An introduction to the process and what to expect on the journey to parenthood through adoption - Rob Langley-swain
Rob Langley-Swain is a dad to two boys through adoption. He and his husband adopted 7 years ago and Rob currently works as Director of Membership for Adoption UK – the national charity supporting adoptive families.
In this seminar Rob will talk through the adoption process, from finding the right agency, to thinking about what kind of child or children you may be able to welcome in to your home. As well as considering the highs and lows and hurdles you may need to overcome. Rob will use his personal experience as an adopter, as well as his professional knowledge working for the UK's biggest Adoption support charity.
15:00 - 15:30 IGENOMIX - GENETIC SCREENING; why its important - Bill Evans
Igenomix is a leading global provider of reproductive genetic testing, helping intended parents succeed in their fertility journey and have a healthy child. Bill Evans leads the genetic counselling team and business development at Igenomix UK, and he is keen to provide everyone with a better understanding of genetics, particularly in the context of a fertility journey.
Almost all of us are carriers of a genetic disorder without knowing it. It is only when we have children that – depending on the genes of the other biological parent – we discover that we are at risk of having a child with a condition such as cystic fibrosis or Tay-Sachs disease. Carrier genetic testing can provide you with the information you need to understand these risks ahead of time.
15:45 - 16:15 SOME FAMILIES live - LOTTIE Jeffs & STU Oakley
Some Families is hosted by Lotte Jeffs & Stu Oakley
Lotte's a mum of one, via donor conception. She's an award winning journalist, previously Editor-in-Chief and Deputy Editor at ELLE and a columnist at The Times, The Guardian and The Telegraph.
Stu's a dad of three via adoption. As a film publicist, he's worked on some of the biggest film franchises of all time including Star Wars, Harry Potter, Frozen & Jurassic World.
The Some Families Podcast launched as the UK's first LGBTQ+ parenting podcast in February 2020 and filled a gap in the market. It was created to break down queer parenting myths, share funny, emotional, and true stories from the LGBTQ+ community. Lotte & Stu Talk about the past two seasons, they'll discuss some of the stories that resonated with them personally and follow up on previous guests' journeys
16:30 - 17:00 EXSEED - The exciting new world of at-home diagnostics and the importance of male fertility testing - Morten G. Ulsted
Morten G. Ulsted is CEO & Co-Founder of ExSeed Health. ExSeed is a MedTec/Software company specializing in male reproductive health and has been ranked #20 on the Global "Disrupt 100" index of innovative companies. Morten has extensive prior experience in the healthcare industry across several disease areas and is passionate about democratizing access to healthcare.
This talk will address the recent advances in healthcare which allow convenient and accurate home testing in a number of areas. Special focus will be on male fertility, which is a contributing factor in 40% of infertility, and insights will be shared on how to test, what the results mean, and not least how to improve overall fertility potential along with general health.