text:
I am one or two books behind on Sue Grafton's Kinsey Milhone series, but I plan to finish it - just one more letter to go after this newest - Y is for Yesterday. The US cover is on the left and the UK cover is on the right. The US cover continues the look that the previous books have had - very plain with the letter taking center focus. The UK cover is a little more interesting with the car and the (surprise!) running girl. Yellow is used for both 'Y's. Hmm, I appreciated the continuity of the US cover, but I think I actually prefer the UK cover this week. Which cover do you prefer? Have you been following this series?
Cover Reveal - Things to Do When It's Raining - Marissa Stapley
I'm looking forward to reading Marissa Stapley's new book - Things to Do When It's Raining. The book releases in February 2018, but the cover is being revealed today!
From Simon and Schuster Canada:
"When secrets tear love apart, can the truth mend it?
Mae Summers and Gabe Broadbent grew up together in the idyllic Summers' Inn, perched at the edge the St. Lawrence River. Mae was orphaned at the age of six and Gabe needed protection from his alcoholic father, so both were raised under one roof by Mae's grandparents, Lily and George. A childhood friendship quickly developed into a first love—a love that was suddenly broken by Gabe's unexpected departure. Mae grew up and got over her heartbreak, and started a life for herself in New York City.
After more than a decade, Mae and Gabe find themselves pulled back to Alexandria Bay by separate forces. Hoping to find solace within the Summers' Inn, Mae instead finds her grandparents in the midst of decline and their past unravelling around her. A lifetime of secrets that implicate Gabe and Mae's family reveal a version of the past that will forever change Mae's future.
From the bestselling author of Mating for Life comes a poignant generational story about family and secrets. With honesty and heart, Marissa Stapley reminds us of the redemptive power of love and forgiveness, and that, ultimately, family is a choice."
"Marissa Stapley, bestselling author of Mating for Life, is a newspaper journalist and a National Magazine Award–nominated magazine writer. Her book reviews appear regularly in the Toronto Star and she writes a commercial fiction review column, Shelf Love, for The Globe and Mail. She has also taught creative writing at the University of Toronto and editing at Centennial College." She lives in Toronto with her family. Visit her at MarissaStapley.com or follow her on Twitter @marissastapley.
Labels: Canadian author, cover reveal, Simon and Schuster Canada
Film on Friday #52
HBO Home Entertainment released Season one of Divorce, starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Thomas Haden Church last month.
What's it about? "Divorce centers on Frances, who after more than a decade of marriage and two children, has suddenly begun to reassess her life and her strained relationship with her husband Robert."
I love HBO series, I've enjoyed Parker in many previous roles and Haden Church is a perennial favourite of mine. So, I should have loved Divorce, right? But I just didn't.
Parker earned a Golden Globe nomination, Best Actress in a Comedy for Divorce. But Parker didn't earn my laughs or sympathy, this time round. Instead I found her to be unlikable, selfish, self serving and surprised when things don't go her way. Haden Church steals the show in my opinion. His bumbling confusion, bewilderment at what is happening and his dogged initial efforts to make things right do put me firmly on his side. His delivery and actions do fill the 'comedy' tag of the show. Molly Shannon adds her manic sense of humor for some over the top scenes that did have me laughing.
Marriage and relationships are exposed and explored through each character's observations and many of them ring true. But in the end, I found the whole thing rather sad and could only watch an episode at a time, rather than my usual series bingeing. I finished it but won't be watching Season Two.
Check out the trailer below for a sample of Divorce....
Labels: Film on Friday, HBO
Fierce Kingdom - Gin Phillips
So, you've heard readers say, "I couldn't put the book down"....but honestly, I truly couldn't put down Gin Phillips' new thriller Fierce Kingdom!
Her premise is terrifying......Joan and her four year old son Lincoln are amongst the stragglers leaving the zoo late one day. They're on their way to the exit when Joan hears 'popping' sounds. It's only when she sees the first dead body that she realizes that there is a killer on the prowl within the confines of the zoo. And he's walking on two legs carrying a gun.....
Okay, the idea alone is scary enough, but the fact that I have visited the zoo with my young grandson made it even more real. Recent newspaper headlines make it a plausible and appalling scenario.
Phillips' descriptions of Joan's love for Lincoln has been described by the publisher as primal - an apt and realistic picture of fierce mother love. Their interactions and Lincoln's imagination and questions all ring so true. Joan's ferocious desire to ensure her son survives this horrific situation had me on the edge of my seat for all 288 pages and the three hours that the novel takes place in.
Joan and Lincoln often visit the zoo - she knows the layout and will use that knowledge to try and evade the killer. But how do you keep a four year old quiet? Transmit the danger without terrifying him? What decisions does she have to make to ensure his survival? The killer is also given a voice with some chapters dedicated to his thinking and reasoning. His actions are frightening enough, but the impetus for his actions is downright terrifying - again taken from real life events. There are others hiding as well and we also hear a bit from them.
Fast paced, breakneck action will keep you turning pages 'til the wee hours. The tension and the fierce love between Joan and Lincoln will leave you breathless (and hugging the little ones in your life a little bit tighter). An excellent read for those who love thrillers and suspense. I dare you to try and put it down....I can see this novel as a movie as well.
Read an excerpt of Fierce Kingdom. You can connect with Gin Phillips on her website.
Labels: page turner, Penguin Random House Canada, Random House Canada, thriller
What book caught my eye this week as it passed over the library counter and under my scanner? One for the crafty cat lover in the crowd......
Crafting for Cat Ladies by Kat Roberts.
From the publisher, Lark Crafts:
"For cat-crazy crafters, these 35 unique projects are absolutely purr-fect. Sweet and trendy, creative and fun to make, the crafts are divided into four sections—accessories, apparel, home, and party. Projects range from a kitty clutch wallet and cat embroidered jeans to kitty-shaped coasters and cat-themed plates. Each project includes easy-to-follow step-by-step photography as well as an overview of the tools and materials used in the book and all necessary templates."
Giveaway - June is Audiobook Month! (JIAM)
June is Audiobook Month! I'm today's stop on the month long APA tour celebrating listening to books!
I listen to at least two books at a time - while still reading print copies. Why, you ask? Audiobooks are an experience for me - I feel more drawn into the story by listening to it. Listening to the story come alive with interpretation, inflection and more makes it an intimate experience.
Two at a time? Yes, my commute to work is about 75 minutes each day, back and forth - that enough time for one disc and bit of the next one. I've been asked if I can concentrate on the story while still paying attention to my drive. The answer is yes, it's no different than having a conversation with a passenger. And for those time, I do need to concentrate, it's easy to hit the off button. The other time I listen is before falling asleep. I usually listen on my MP3 player or my iPhone. Both have a timer, so it's easy to set it to 30 or 60 minutes for auto shut-off. And if I'm quilting or sewing, I like to listen as well.
Here are a few of my favorites:
Bird Box, written by Josh Malerman and read by Cassandra Campbell. Just try listening to this one in the dark. Scary! (my review)
Any of Louse Penny's Inspector Gamache series! How the Light Gets In is read by Ralph Cosham. (my review)
These are two of my favourite trilogies - I've actually read the books and then listened to them as well! Justin Cronin's The Passage read by Scott Brick. (one of my fave readers!)
The Bone Tree by Greg Iles and read by Robert Petkoff.
See what others have to say about audiobooks (and more giveaways) on the JIAM tour. Full schedule can be found here. 30 days, 30 bloggers! #loveaudiobooks
To help celebrate JIAM, I have a wonderful giveaway today for those of you who already love love audiobooks and for those of you who'd like to give them a try! I've got a set of earbuds and a voucher for three audiobook downloads on Audiobooks.com. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below. This one's short and sweet - Ends July 1, open to US only.
Labels: APA, audiobooks, giveaway
The Cafe by the Sea - Jenny Colgan
I love Jenny Colgan's books - they're the perfect 'feel-good' read. Her latest North American release is The Cafe by the Sea.
What makes Colgan's books such a delight to read? Her characters first and foremost. There's always a fun female lead facing decisions, both professionally and personally. This time 'round it's Flora, born on the remote Scottish island of Mure. When her mother died, Flora fled to London to pursue her career. Three years on she hasn't returned, even for a visit. But when her boss (yes she does have a crush on him - this is another integral part of Colgan's books - the romantic will they, won't they component) sends her there for work, she is forced to confront her past - and look to her future. (Another few pieces of the feel-good read - conflict and heart-string tugging.)
Flora is a perfect lead - fun, quirky and very likable. The supporting cast also endears themselves to the reader - Flora's loud and noisy family, the townsfolk - and two other possible romantic entanglements......
The grief and loss Flora is experiencing over her mother's death is very well written. Anyone who has suffered such a loss will find themselves shedding a tear or two. But there's lots of joy as well - rediscovering that place we call 'home' and finding your own passion - the thing you were meant to do. The title gives you a pretty broad hint of what Flora's passion might be. Colgan's description of the joy of food and baking was, well, mouthwatering! The descriptions of Mure are vivid, bring the imaginary isle to life - and had me wanting to visit. And who doesn't love a good romantic tale - the meandering path to true love - all the while knowing that yes, there's a happy ending. But sad for the reader when the end is reached. More please!
The Cafe by the Sea is the perfect summer (okay, really anytime) read - engaging, touching, joyful, romantic, humourous and more. Loved it! Read an excerpt of The Cafe by the Sea.
You can connect with Jenny Colgan on her website, like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter. (And I have to say that I look forward to reading the note from the author at the beginning of Colgan's books - her warmth and wit shine through and add a personal note to the novels.)
(Note that this is the same novel as the British titled The Summer Seaside Kitchen.)
Labels: British author, chick lit plus, feel good read, HarperCollins, summer beach read, William Morrow
Shari Lapena's first book, The Couple Next Door, was a
bestseller. Her second book, A Stranger in the House is due out in August of this year. The US cover is on the left and the UK cover is on the right. Blue background, white font and a window is used in both covers. But very different pictures. I'm not a fan of the US shot at all. Women on covers is getting very tired for me. And it's just kind of static. The blowing curtain and looking out from inside on the UK cover appeals to me more. And the tagline gives us a bit more. Any plans to read A Stranger in the House? Which cover do you prefer? You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World.
The Child - Fiona Barton
Fiona Barton's second novel, The Child, releases on Tuesday, June 27/17. I figure if I give you a heads up today, you too can spend a day on the beach next weekend devouring it - I did!
Barton is a former journalist. Her first book, The Widow, (my 5 star review) took inspiration from real life, trials and newspaper stories, as does the lead character in The Child.
Kate, a reporter, sees this story " 'Baby's Body Found.' Two small sentences told how an infant's skeleton had been unearthed on a building site..." And she wonders "Who is the baby? How did it die? Who would bury a baby?"
What a great premise - I too want to know the answers. Kate is not the only person to see the news story. The Child is told from four alternating points of view - that of Kate and three other women. Each of those three has a reason to hope - or fear - their own ties to the little skeleton. I love multiple point of view books - the reader is privy to the information that each character is holding - or hiding. And we can only hold our breath as (in this case) Kate gets closer and closer to the truth. Now, that being said, I thought I had fit the pieces together about halfway through the book. But, as one character also says..."I don't know what to think anymore. Everything is wrong. I've got everything wrong." I was quite happy to not have guessed!
The Child is a character driven novel of suspense. Kate is a wonderful lead. I wonder if there are bits of Barton's own journalistic days woven into her character? The details of the investigation and newsroom ring very true. The other three women are just as well drawn - their connections to the child are quite poignant, shocking and in one case absolutely infuriating. I'm deliberately being obtuse - The Child is a story you need unfold and discover as the pieces are slowly put together. Although I will say this - motherhood is a prominent theme and thread that ties the four stories together. "Disturbing the surface had triggered an eruption of unexpected secrets."
The Child was an absolutely addicting pager turner for this reader! Definitely recommended. Read an excerpt of The Child.
"Fiona Barton trains and works with journalists all over the world. Previously, she was a senior writer at the Daily Mail, news editor at the Daily Telegraph, and chief reporter at the Mail on Sunday, where she won Reporter of the Year at the British Press Awards. Born in Cambridge, England, she currently lives in southwest France." You can connect with Fiona Barton on her website, like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
Labels: British author, British setting, loved it, mystery, Random House, suspense
What book caught my eye this week as it passed over the library counter and under my scanner? I love old......
For the Love of Old: Living with Chipped, Frayed, Tarnished, Faded, Tattered, Worn and Weathered Things That Bring Comfort, Character and Joy to the Places We Call Home by Mary Randolph Carter.
From the publisher, Rizzoli:
"This stunning volume focuses on the qualities of the old things in our homes (the patina of an old table, pewter dulled by age, old floorboards that creak) and how to live with and incorporate them into our personal aesthetic. Divided into chapters by the qualities of old—peeling, dried, tarnished, faded, chipped, frayed, rusty, and mossy—this unique book not only pays tribute to furniture, textiles, china, silver and other accessories with these qualities but also shows us how best to preserve, adapt, and arrange them. Lavishly illustrated with beautiful photographs that highlight the warm colors and rich textures of wood and paint, cloth and leather, For the Love of Old also includes ideas and recipes for saving old items from the junk pile, preserving and caring for the old things you have, giving newer things a lived-in feel, and bringing an enduring personality to every home."
Giveaway - Beach House for Rent - Mary Alice Monroe
Today is release day for Mary Alice Monroe's newest book - Beach House for Rent. And I have a copy to give away to one lucky reader!
What's it about? From the publisher, Gallery Books:
"New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe returns to her beloved Isle of Palms to tell the poignant, charming story of two women, one summer, and one very special beach house.
When Cara Rutledge rents out her quaint beach house on Isle of Palms to Heather Wyatt for the entire summer, it's a win-win by any standard: Cara's generating income necessary to keep husband Brett's ecotourism boat business afloat, and anxiety-prone Heather, an young artist who's been given a commission to paint birds on postage stamps, has a quiet space in which to work and tend to her pet canaries uninterrupted.
It isn't long, however, before both women's idyllic summers are altered irrevocably: the alluring shorebirds—and the man who rescues them—begin to draw Heather out of the shell she's cultivated toward a world of adventure, and maybe even love; at the same time, Cara's life reels with sudden tragedy, and she wishes only to return to the beach house that had once been her port amidst life's storms. When Heather refuses to budge from her newfound sanctuary, so begins the unlikeliest of rooming situations. While they start out as strangers, as everything around the women falls apart they learn that the only thing they can really rely on is each other.
And, like the migrating shorebirds that come to the island for the summer, these two women of different generations must rediscover their unique strengths so by summer's end they, too, can take flight in ways they never imagined possible." Read an excerpt of Beach House for Rent.
"While Beach House for Rent was written as a stand-alone novel, it is the final installment of Monroe's successful Beach House series, which began with The Beach House (2002), and is now being adapted to a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie by the Hallmark Channel, starring three-time Golden Globe nominee Andie MacDowell, who is also an executive producer."
"Mary Alice Monroe is the award-winning, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of twenty novels (A Lowcountry Wedding, A Lowcountry Christmas, The Summer Girls, The Summer Wind, The Summer's End, The Beach House, Beach House Memories), and was recently named a 2018 inductee into the South Carolina Academy of Writers Literary Hall of Fame. She is an active conservationist and lives in the lowcountry of South Carolina. "You can connect with Mary Alice Monroe on her website, like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
And if you'd like to read Beach House for Rent, I have a copy to giveaway to one lucky reader! Open to continental US only, no PO boxes please. Ends July 2/17. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below.
Labels: contemporary women's fiction, giveaway, Tandem Literary
Golden Prey - John Sandford
I've been a fan of John Sandford's Lucas Davenport series from the very first book. The latest is Golden Prey - the 27th entry!
Sandford has moved Davenport's professional (and personal) life along over the years. This latest entry has Davenport taking a deputy position with the US Marshals. This is a great development - Lucas can look at cases across the country. And even better - he can pick and choose the cases he wants to work - thanks to his political connections.
In Golden Prey, he decides to hunt down a felon named Garvin Poole. Poole has stolen from a drug cartel - and killed a child who just happened to be present. Davenport wants him for the murder and the cartel wants their money back. The cartel has sent an odd, but deadly, pair of killers after him. Who will find him first? The cops or the killers?
Ahh, there's nothing like settling in for the latest tale from a character you've come to love over the years. This locale and job change keeps the series fresh. The case is unusual and the 'bad guys' are very unique. The plotting is fast paced with lots of action. The dialogue is just as quick - and I love the acerbic, biting tone. And no 'Prey' book is complete without a reference to Virgil Flowers - it's always fun to come across it. Another excellent entry - I'll be watching for book twenty-eight.
I chose to listen to Golden Prey. The reader is Richard Ferrone, who has the most wonderful gravelly voice. It embodies the mental image I've created for Davenport. Ferrone has created voices for other characters that fit as well - the killers in this case are quite funny. Ferrone is an expressive reader and interprets Sandford's work well, capturing the sarcastic, biting humour of the dialogue. Listen to an excerpt of Golden Prey.
Labels: audiobook, police procedural, series
Michael Connelly has a new book coming in July that's the first in a new series featuring Detective Renée Ballard. And yes, its on my TBR list. So, two very similar looks this week - a picture of a woman superimposed over a cityscape shot. The US shot puts her more in control, while the UK could be interpreted either way - running to or from danger. Blue and yellow on both covers. So.....I'm not really a fan of either cover this week. But, if forced to choose, I would go with the US cover. Any plans to read The Late Show? Which cover do you prefer? You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World.
The Beach House Cookbook - Mary Kay Andrews - Review AND Giveaway
Oh, it wouldn't be summer without a new book from Mary Kay Andrews! This year she's put together a cookbook with all of her favourite recipes! The title? The Beach House Cookbook: Easy, Breezy Recipes with a Southern Accent. And I have a copy to giveaway to one lucky reader!
Andrews loves to cook and entertain at her beach house. In the preface, Andrews says...."The whole point of this book? You can do it too. You don't have to have a beach house to have that same easygoing atmosphere. The recipes that follow are designed to let you be creative in the kitchen, yet still spend time relaxing with family and guests."
There are full menus (Drinks, appetizers, mains, sides and desserts) put together for many occasions - or just pick and choose the recipes that appeal to you. None of Mary Kay's recipes call for 'obscure or hard to find ingredients.' Some also use pre-made ingredients such as pie shells, boxed pudding and ice cream sandwiches. (That last one was fun and easy - decadent but oh so good!) And if you don't have an ingredient - improvise!
One of the recipes I've tried so far is Edna's Deviled Eggs - never would I have thought to add pickle juice! It added a real zip to the eggs - DH loved it. And I know he'll love Pig Candy - sweetened bacon! I enjoyed the Blueberry Muffins - and found they froze well. Savannah Spinach Squares look really good - a simple appetizer. Same goes for Frozen Key Lime Pie Pops!
There are wonderful stories behind every recipe. The ingredients are easy to see at a glance as they are printed in red. The instructions are clear and easy to follow.Interspersed amongst the recipes are beautiful full colour pictures - of the food, but also the ideas you can use to decorate your table.There are some of Mary Kay's thrifting treasures pictured as well. The Beach House Cookbook is perfect for laid-back, casual summer entertaining! You can connect with Mary Kay Andrews on her website, like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
And if you'd like a copy of The Beach House Cookbook, enter to win a copy using the Rafflecopter form below. Open to US only, no PO boxes please. Ends Jun 30/17.
Labels: cookbook, giveaway, Macmillan Books, non fiction, Southern, St. Martin's Press, Tandem Literary
What book caught my eye this week as it passed over the library counter and under my scanner? A fun title for a self help book this week...
How to Be Miserable: 40 Strategies You Already Use by Randy J. Paterson.
From New Harbinger Publications:
"In How to Be Miserable, psychologist Randy Paterson outlines 40 specific behaviors and habits, which—if followed—are sure to lead to a lifetime of unhappiness. On the other hand, if you do the opposite, you may yet join the ranks of happy people everywhere!
There are stacks upon stacks of self-help books that will promise you love, happiness, and a fabulous life. But how can you pinpoint the exact behaviors that cause you to be miserable in the first place? Sometimes when we're depressed, or just sad or unhappy, our instincts tell us to do the opposite of what we should—such as focusing on the negative, dwelling on what we can't change, isolating ourselves from friends and loved ones, eating junk food, or overindulging in alcohol. Sound familiar?
This tongue-in-cheek guide will help you identify the behaviors that make you unhappy and discover how you—and only you—are holding yourself back from a life of contentment. You'll learn to spot the tried-and-true traps that increase feelings of dissatisfaction, foster a lack of motivation, and detract from our quality of life—as well as ways to avoid them.
So, get ready to live the life you want (or not?) This fun, irreverent guide will light the way."
Giveaway - Last Girl Seen - Nina Laurin
Nina Laurin's debut novel, Girl Last Seen, releases on June 20/17 - and I have a copy to giveaway to one lucky reader!
"Two missing girls. Thirteen years apart.
Olivia Shaw has been missing since last Tuesday. She was last seen outside the entrance of her elementary school in Hunts Point wearing a white spring jacket, blue jeans, and pink boots.
I force myself to look at the face in the photo, into her slightly smudged features, and I can't bring myself to move. Olivia Shaw could be my mirror image, rewound to thirteen years ago.
If you have any knowledge of Olivia Shaw's whereabouts or any relevant information, please contact...
I've spent a long time peering into the faces of girls on missing posters, wondering which one replaced me in that basement. But they were never quite the right age, the right look, the right circumstances. Until Olivia Shaw, missing for one week tomorrow.
Whoever stole me was never found. But since I was taken, there hasn't been another girl.
And now there is." Read an excerpt of Girl Last Seen.
Nina Laurin studied Creative Writing at Concordia University, in Montreal where she currently lives. She has published speculative short stories in various e-zines and anthologies over the years and her narrative nonfiction piece, "On Happiness" is soon to be published in the local literary journal Cosmonauts Avenue." You can connect with Nina on her website and follow her on Twitter.
And if Girl Last Seen sounds like a book you'd like to read, enter to win a copy using the Rafflecopter form below! Open to US and Canada, no PO boxes please. Ends June 24/17.
Labels: giveaway, Grand Central Publishing, Hachette Book group, suspense
Girl Last Seen - Nina Laurin
Girl Last Seen is Nina Laurin's debut novel.
Ella Santos was taken when she was ten years old. Three years later, she's found stumbling down a road in the rain. Escaped? Released?
Ten years later Ella is living under an assumed name (Laine) when she sees a missing poster for a ten year old named Olivia. She somehow believes that the same man who took her has taken this girl as well. So do the cops. They bring Laine in to see if she can remember anything more......
Laurin has taken a popular premise and put her own spin on it.
For me, however, Girl Last Seen read like a YA novel, rather than an adult psychological thriller. But some of the details, scenarios and language would not be suitable for a YA aged reader.
The focus of Girl Last Seen is not so much on the investigation as it is on the romantic/attraction/sexual interest between the investigative Detective and Laine. The police procedural details are almost non-existent and those that are there are far removed from reality.
Laurin paints a clear picture of a walking wounded protagonist - one severely abused. Which is why I can't figure out why Laurin would have her working in a 'gentleman's club'. She is a sympathetic character though - I liked her. Not so much the cop - his behaviour was just too far-flung to be believable and I just didn't buy his 'caring.'
Laurin drops several bombshells into her plot that do surprise the reader and propel her plot forward. I read right to the end, curious as to where Girl Last Seen would finish up. Although Girl Last Seen wasn't turn out to be quite what I expected when I read the description, it was a quick and easy read for the hammock. Read an excerpt of Girl Last Seen.
Labels: Canadian author, Canadian Book Challenge 10, Grand Central Publishing, Hachette Book group, suspense
Magpie Murders - Anthony Horowitz
Anthony Horowitz's latest release - Magpie Murders - is well, simply brilliant! The writing is so very, very clever. Mystery fans - this is a must-read for you - especially if you love Agatha Christie style mysteries!
An unnamed narrator warns the reader about Magpie Murders in the first few pages..."As far as I'm concerned, you can't beat a good whodunnit: the twists and turns, the clues and red herring,s and then finally, the satisfaction of having everything explained to you in a way that makes you kick yourself because you hadn't seen it from the start. That was what I was expecting when I began. But Magpie Murders wasn't like that. It wasn't like that at all. I hope I don't need to spell it out any more. Unlike me, you have been warned."
Well, who could resist such a warning? Not I! I settled in with delicious anticipation - and was rewarded. You see, Horowitz has written a novel within a novel. Our narrator starts reading a period murder mystery set in the 1950's in Britain. "...the golden age of British whodunnits with a country house setting, a complicated murder, a cast of suitably eccentric characters and a detective who arrived as an outsider." That outsider is Private Investigator Atticus Pünd. (Who will call Hercule Poirot to mind) This book kept me enthralled for over two hundred pages - then we go back to our narrator on page four. (who turns out to be the author's editor) And discover that there is a mystery to be solved in the present day. But we're left on tenterhooks, awaiting the reveal of the final whodunnit of the 1950's book.
Confused? Don't be - the novel reads seamlessly and is so very, very addictive. I've tried to say much without giving too much away. Suffice it to say, that Magpie Murders is highly recommended - easily one of my favourite reads this year. Read an excerpt of Magpie Murders.
I received this book from HarperCollins Canada in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Labels: absolutely recommended, British author, British setting, crime/detective fiction, HarperCollins Canada, mystery, period piece
Maker Lab with DK Canada
Makerspaces. Have you heard the term before? I'm going to give you the library definition, as that's where my interests lie.
"A library makerspace is an area and/or service that offers library patrons an opportunity to create intellectual and physical materials using resources such as computers, 3-D printers, audio and video capture and editing tools, and traditional arts and crafts supplies. In the field of library science, makerspaces are classified as a type of library service offered by librarians to patrons."
Maker Lab - 28 Super Cool Projects: Build * Invent * Create * Discover by Jack Challoner looked like a great place to find some new ideas!
Maker Lab is divided into four sections: Food For Thought, Around the Home, Water World and The Great Outdoors.
Experiment! I remember making a version of Slime with my son when he was younger. Ingredients needed - everything you already have at home. Invisible ink - ah, yes - my son wanted to be a spy when he was younger. Do you know the science behind Baked Alaska? This one would be great to try - and eat. There's some more food based ideas as well. But my fave is using a lemon as a battery. This is one we've actually tried in the library. Making a kaleidoscope from a few beads, some paper, plastic wrap and a cardboard tube - easy and fascinating. How about a balloon rocket car from used water bottles? Summer is the perfect time to try the water ideas - a waterwheel or soap powered boat. Make your own bath fizzies! But I have to say my personal favourite was Sun Prints. I'm going to make a few myself for some wall artwork at home.
What I liked - full colour shot of each idea - one that will appeal to young maker. Clear concise instructions accompanied by pictures. The time needed to complete and the difficulty level are noted for each. Most of the ideas can be executed using items you already have. And the few you would have to purchase are very inexpensive. And this I really like - the science of how and why it works. Creating and discovering can be a group activity or one you do at home with your children. And the bonus is that they'll start coming up with their own ideas and experiments. There's also a glossary at the with definitions for many of the terms used in the book. Learning can be fun! See for yourself - here's an excerpt of Maker Lab.
Discover all the great STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) titles that DK carries! And remember, creativity isn't just for kids.
Labels: children, DK Canada, juvenile non fiction, science based
You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover # 162
Haylen Beck is the pseudonym for an award winning crime author. I'm really looking forward to this forthcoming suspense novel. The US cover is on the left and the UK cover is on the right. Okay, so deserted roads on both covers. It's hard to see the terrain on the US cover, but the road is on the woods on the UK cover. One road is paved and the other isn't. Headlights on both covers - one coming and one going. differing views makes you wonder if the danger is coming towards the character or if the character is running from the danger. I'm going to go with the US cover this week - I like the darker look and the winding road shot a bit better. The off kilter lettering also appeals to me more. Any plans to read Here and Gone? Which cover do you prefer? You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World.
The Last Hack - Christopher Brookmyre
The Last Hack is the 8th book in Christopher Brookmyre's Jack Parlabane series. This was the first time I've read a book by this author.
Nineteen year old Sam Morpeth's mother is in jail, leaving her as the sole caregiver for her challenged sister. With that, her university plans are out the window. To look at her, you'd never know that Sam is a hacker - a really good hacker. After all - "There are no women on the Internet." But, after her group causes chaos by hacking into a prominent institution, it turns out that someone has discovered who 'Buzzkill' really is. That someone has decided to blackmail Sam - 'do as I say or I'll reveal who you are - and then where would your sister be.' What does the blackmailer want? The impossible - to steal a prototype from a seemingly impenetrable company.
Sam knows she can't pull it off on her own - so she reveals her real life persona to Parlabane who has used her hacker skills in his investigative journalism. She 'convinces' Jack that he needs to work with her......or....
Sam was a great lead character - I liked the duality of her persona - online and offline. Brookmyre has taken the time to flesh this character out and make her believable. As mentioned, this is my first introduction to Jack Parlabane. He's sketchy, driven, resourceful, talented and although he's not necessarily likeable, I really liked him as a lead.
"The phrase 'veteran reporter' has already been used, which he is not delighted about, but he is sufficiently familiar with the terms 'disgraced reporter' and 'former reporter' to make his peace with it."
The interactions between the two worked well and the underlying secondary plotline brought a personal note to the novel.
I'm not much of a 'techie', so some of what they were up to went over my head. (Although I did pick up some security tips along the way!) Brookmyre never bogs down the plot or pace with too much technical detail. That plot is fairly involved and fast moving. We are presented with many choices along the way as to who is the blackmailer and my guess changed many times. What is scary is that Brookmyre's imaginings are probably not that far removed from reality.
I have a weakness for 'heist' movies and The Last Hack is at it's heart, a quintessential heist novel. And a darn good one. I can see this one as a movie as well. Read an excerpt of The Last Hack.
Labels: Atlantic Monthly Press, heist, mystery, series
Giveaway - Small Hours - Jennifer Kitses
Jennifer Kitses' debut novel, Small Hours, releases on June 13/17 - and I have two copies to give away to two lucky readers!
"In a story that unfolds over the course of a single day, a husband and wife try to outrun the secrets that threaten their marriage, sending their lives spiraling out of control.
On the edge of the economic downturn, Helen and Tom fled New York for what they'd hoped would be a fresh start: a small home in a former mill town, where they could raise their twin daughters away from the pressures of the city. But two years later, their fragile equilibrium has hit a breaking point. One September morning, Helen begins to lose control. Exhausted from juggling ambitions, frustrations, and unrealistic expectations, she snaps — and finds herself drawn into a violent conflict with two local teenagers. Unaware of her danger, in a Manhattan office seventy miles away, Tom is facing a crisis of his own at his high-pressure newsroom job — and struggling to hide a second, secret life.
The hours tick by ruthlessly as Helen and Tom fight to bury the mistakes and lies that are rising ever faster to the surface. Searing and suspenseful, Small Hours is both a powerful story about how one misstep can derail a life and a moving portrait of a couple's search for a new path forward." Read an excerpt of Small Hours.
"Jennifer Kitses is a graduate of the creative writing program at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. She also attended Columbia Journalism School, and has worked as a reporter for Bloomberg News and as an editor for several universities. Her writing has appeared in The New York Observer and in Akashic Books' online series, Mondays Are Murder. She lives with her family in New York." You can connect with Jennifer Kitses on her website, like her on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.
And if you'd like to read Small Hours, I have two copies to give away to two lucky readers. Enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Open to US and Canada, no PO boxes please. Ends June 17/17.
Labels: debut author, debut novel, giveaway, Grand Central Publishing, Hachette Book group
Over the Counter # 369
What books caught my eye this week as they passed over the library counter and under my scanner? Can-do this week - in more than one way....
First up is The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure Hardcover – Mar 1 2016
by Caroline Paul, illustrated by Wendy MacNaughton.
From the publisher, Bloomsbury:
"Why should girls miss out on the joy of adventure? They can jump off rocks, swing on ropes, and climb trees just as well as boys can. But girls often allow fear to stand in their way.
In the New York Times bestselling The Gutsy Girl, author Caroline Paul emboldens girls to seek out a life of exhilaration. Once a young scaredy-cat herself, Caroline decided that fear got in the way of the life she wanted--of excitement, confidence, self-reliance, friendship, and fun. She has since flown planes, rafted big rivers, climbed tall mountains, and fought fires as one of the first female firefighters in San Francisco. In The Gutsy Girl, she shares her greatest escapades as well as those of other girls and women from throughout history, and offers engaging activities such as confidence-building stances, compass-making, positive self-talk, and using crickets to estimate outside temperatures. Each section includes a place for girls to "journal" their adventures, thus encouraging a new generation to develop a zest for challenges and a healthy relationship to risk. The Gutsy Girl is Lean In for young girls, a book about the glorious things that happen when you unshackle from fear and open up to exhilaration. It is fully illustrated and enlivened throughout by bestselling illustrator Wendy MacNaughton's whimsical pen-and-ink drawings.
The New York Times bestselling "book of the year for daredevils, doers, and dreamers of all ages."--Cheryl Strayed"
Next up is You Can Knit That : Foolproof Instructions for Fabulous Sweaters by Amy Herzog, photography by Karen Pearson.
From Harry Abrams Books:
"When knitting superstar Amy Herzog gets complimented on her hand-knit sweaters, the compliments are often followed by "but I could never knit that." Now, you can! You Can Knit That is a clear, simple reference book and pattern collection that gives knitters the sweater-making confidence they need. Whether you're knitting a sweater for the first time or seeking to expand your skills to knit sweaters in styles you've never tried before, this essential guide starts with basic sweater know-how and moves into instructions for knitting six must-have sweater styles—vests, all-in-one construction, drop shoulders, raglans, yokes, and set-in sleeves. Each chapter offers a less-intimidating "mini" sweater sized for a child and a selection of adult women's patterns in 12 sizes—24 sweater patterns in all, each building on the next, to ensure success with even the most complicated sweaters."
Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore - Matthew Sullivan
Debut novels are such fun to read - there's no preconceived notion of what the author's work is like and the contents are a surprise just waiting to be discovered. That's how I felt about Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore - Matthew Sullivan's debut novel. I loved it - and it's one you're going to want to get your hands on.
Lydia Smith lives a quiet life, working as a bookseller at The Bright Ideas Bookstore. She is quite happy with her quiet life. As a child she was the lone survivor of a horrendous event - and she keeps those memories locked away. But tragedy comes to the bookstore when a young man hangs himself. Joey was one of Lydia's favourite BookFrogs - one of the 'lost men' of the neighbourhood who make the bookstore their 'home'. (I'll leave it to you to discover the why of this name - it's the perfect book reference.) But how and why would Joey have a picture of ten year old Lydia in his pocket when he died? Lydia is also the beneficiary of Joey's eclectic book collection. Joey seems to have left a message in the pages of those books. Lydia needs to decipher what it is and what the connection to her could be.......
Sullivan has worked in bookstores, as have I. I identified so much with the settings he had created, the behind the scenes areas, the love of books and the eclectic staff. The book titles referenced are great fun - both real and imagined. Anyone who loves books would want to work or visit Bright Ideas. The supporting cast of quirky characters is just as wonderfully drawn - BookFrogs included. But it is Lydia who will capture your heart.
"Lydia's skills as a bookseller came mainly, she believed, from her ability to listen. A raging case of bibliophilia certainly helped, as did limited financial needs, but it was her capacity to be politely trapped by others that really sealed her professional fate."
Oh my goodness, Sullivan is a clever, clever writer. The plot went places I couldn't imagine - but when I got there, I couldn't imagine it unfolding any other way. "The act was impulsive and had only taken seconds, yet it had rippled through the decades like a shockwave." Curious now, aren't you?
Yes, it's a mystery, But romance, family, life and more populate the pages of Midnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore. Absolutely recommended - this is hands down one of my favourite reads for 2017.
Labels: absolutely recommended, debut author, debut novel, five star read, Scribner Books, Simon and Schuster
Here and Gone - Haylen Beck
Are you looking for a summer thriller read for your beach bag? Here and Gone by Haylen Beck is one I couldn't put down!
Audra Kinney has finally found the courage to leave her abusive husband. She and her two kids - Sean and Louise - are driving to California to stay with a friend of Audra's. She's sticking to back roads - her vehicle isn't in great shape and she's sure her husband will have alerted the authorities. When a sheriff pulls her over in Arizona, she figures that's exactly what has happened. Arrested and taken to the local jail, she asks where her children are. And here's the showstopper .....the cops say there were no children with her when they arrested her. Uh-huh. Great premise eh?!
Here and Gone reads like a thriller action movie. (And apparently film rights have been optioned) Beck's crooked sheriff is a piece of work - he's so very easy to hate. His attitude, his posturing and his scheming will make your skin crawl. His sidekick is no better. Audra is a great, likeable protagonist - the reader is firmly in her camp, urging her on.
Audra has been pushed around for years by her husband, but after finally finding the courage to leave her husband, there's no way she's going to accept what's happening to her. For you see, no one believes her - including the FBI. They believe the sheriff. Except for one man - who has also lost his child in the same circumstances......
Here and Gone isn't a character driven book - rather it's the plot that propels this story forward - and it's going mighty fast. There was more than one turn in the story where I just had to put the book down as the tension, intensity and action never lets up. (Here and Gone is not for the faint at heart!) We're alongside Audra as she tries to escape this nightmare and find her kids. There are other points of view as well, from the sheriff, his cohort and the kids. Again, this just ratchets things up another notch.
There were a few plot points that were tied up by the end, but I would have liked more details. But, Here and Gone is getting five stars from me, because I simply couldn't put it down.
Haylen Beck is a pseudonym for a well known crime author, whose books I have enjoyed in the past.
Labels: Crown Publishing, five star read, Hachette Book group, suspense, thriller
Karen Dionne's forthcoming book, the Marsh King's Daughter, has been getting some press - cover blurbs from Lee Child and Clare Mackintosh caught my eye. So, it's been added to my teetering TBR pile! The US cover is on the left and the UK cover is on the right. The same idea is presented on both covers - an isolated cabin hidden away in a marshy area. Colour tones are along the same lines, but the US is brighter. I like the tagline on the UK cover as it gives you an idea about the story inside. But I think I am going to go with the UK cover this time. I like the cabin better than the US (which looks abandoned.) And I also like the trees rather than the openness of the US cover. But, I guess a lot of it depends on your definition of 'marsh', doesn't' it? So, any plans to read The Marsh King's Daughter? Which cover do you prefer? You Can't Judge A Book By Its Cover is a regular feature at A Bookworm's World.
The Burial Hour - Jeffery Deaver
The Burial Hour is the 13th entry in Jeffery Deaver's Lincoln Rhyme series.
For those who haven't read this series - Rhyme is a quadriplegic with limited hand control. Formerly an NYPD detective, he now works for them as a consultant. His fiance Amelia Sachs, also a NYPD detective, is his eyes on the ground, attending the crime scenes and gathering evidence.
Settling in with the latest Deaver is like catching up with old friends. The romance between the two leads is moving (slowly) towards marriage. The 'business' part of their relationship is successful - their combined skill sets are renowned in police circles. The supporting cast includes Rhyme's care worker Thom. I did miss NYPD investigators Sellito and Pulaski who only have brief cameos this time 'round. I feel like I've come to know all the players quite well over the last twelve novels. So, settling in with this latest is like catching up with old friends.
In The Burial Hour, seemingly unrelated victims are being snatched in broad daylight. The miniature noose left at each crime scene ties the cases together. But it is what the perp is doing with his victims that is horrendous. He is obsessed with sounds and music and is filming the death throes of his victims, using their tortured sounds as part of a musical accompaniment. The killer is given a voice through his own chapters and the reader is privy to his reasoning before the cops are.
At the heart of this series is Rhyme's uncanny ability to find clues in the most minute of trace evidence. And it is this skill that puts the cops on the trail of the killer they now call The Composer. That trail takes Rhyme and Sachs overseas to Italy. Deaver has done this in previous books - moving the crime and investigation to different countries. I'm not sure I'm sold on it. It does provide an opportunity to introduce new characters and new settings. At the same time it provides the opportunity for the investigation to be more difficult as laws and practices are differen from the US. While I found the settings and law in Italy interesting, I quickly grew tired of the two Italian leads - a forestry officer and a prosecutor. I felt they were overdrawn - one is quite bright, but a novice, the other is secretive and bullying. The number of times this was demonstrated grew tiresome.
There is always a secondary plot to Deaver's books. This time it's an American accused of rape in Italy. Can Sachs and Ryhme help expose the truth? This plotline was quite different with the whodunit and why quite removed from my initial assumptions. It also showcases a current political viewpoint. The resolution of that case opens up a new possibility for future books - one that looks quite promising.
It is the forensic detail that I enjoy the most about this series. The minutiae that provides the clues. The sharp analytical mind (and personality) of Lincoln Rhyme. I mentioned that reading this series was like sitting down with old friends. And it is - but this latest book kinda reminds me of friends who are telling the same stories each time, albeit with a few twists. Enjoyable but not mesmerizing. Read an excerpt of The Burial Hour.
Labels: forensic, Hachette Book Group Canada, police procedural, series
Cover Reveal - Things to Do When It's Raining - Ma...
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The young UFC bantamweight prospect in our new capsule collection.
We've created a number of pieces for French fighter Tom 'Firekid' Duquesnoy, considered one of the most exciting MMA prospects in the world.
Now you can shop the hoodies, sweatshirts and track pants for the range released in 2019.
Tom will appear on the cover of the second issue of our house magazine out imminently, photographed by Neil Bedford at Temple Noble Art in Paris.
Tom will be publishing photographs of the new pieces on Instagram at @tomfirekid over the coming weeks. Stay locked to battlesoflondon.com for more details about our new range and the major new edition of our print magazine.


Our own city, London has a comprehensive energy mapping, rich experience in planning and monitoring and a variety of sustainability schemes that puts it on the global map as one of the pioneering cities when it comes to setting climate action priorities. At GreenTomatoCars, we are trying to support these initiatives with eco-friendly taxi journeys. Below are other global cities which take their commitment to a sustainable future to another level, ensuring that economic development is conducted alongside investment in environmental protection and accessible, inclusive social infrastructure.
Amid rapid technological innovations to counter climate risks, sustainable energy is still rare, hence expensive. On the other hand, climate risks are threats especially for disadvantaged communities who cannot afford costly sustainable energy. In South Korea, this new problem of energy poverty has encouraged the City of Seoul administration to collaborate with universities in registering a virtual power plant which conserves welfare fund to finance sustainable energy upgrades for low-income households.
A virtual power plant is basically a software-operated network of renewable energy sources that reduces energy consumption during the peak hours. The profits from this energy saving scheme is then reinvested into the instalment of LED bulbs, energy efficient windows and solar panels in 2,000 low-income houses. The project has successfully reduced energy consumption and energy costs.
Did you know that global data industry contributes to 2% of global warming, thus having the same carbon footprint as the airline industry?
A Scandinavian city and home to large data centres, Stockholm is where heat is a valuable resource. For these data centres, a server-cooling system is not only expensive, but also leaves a large carbon footprint. In such context, the establishment of Stockholm Data Parks, an innovative solution which confronts both data industry-generated environmental problem and the need for low-cost, efficient heat resource is invaluable.
The City of Stockholm incentivises businesses to move their data centres to the low-cost, energy efficient Stockholm Data Parks which is connected to the city's heating infrastructure. The excess heat generated from the data centres is funnelled to local homes and can also be exchanged for a free cooling service. A 10-MW data centre is able to produce enough heat for 20,000 apartments, and also reduces carbon emissions by 8,000 tCo2e.
The incineration process of used toilet paper produces a huge carbon waste. As a country which pioneers a lot of environmental innovations, the Netherlands has found a way to repurpose its annual 180,000 tons of toilet paper waste into cellulose, a useful raw material for asphalt mixture, biofuel, textiles and others.
The asphalt mixture made up from cellulose is then used to repave Friesland bicycle highways. This initiative has successfully brought down the cost for toilet paper incineration process, reduced carbon waste and improved the quality of the road surface.
Utilising the lake that was once the site of intensive coal-mining, China's Huainan has activated the world's largest floating solar energy plant to replace fossil fuels and reduce carbon emission. This solar farm could generate 40 MWs at one time and power 15,000 homes for a year.
Building a solar farm on water surfaces which are not ecologically sensitive is not only more efficient in terms of space use, but also from the perspective of natural cooling system of the solar panels. The water helps cool the panels down and lower the risk of battery malfunction.
As one of the world's fastest-growing cities, the transportation sector in Addis Ababa contributes to 47% of its emissions. The construction of Sub-Saharan Africa's first renewable energy-powered light-rail transit (LRT) in the city is thus a remarkable green initiative.
Fuelled by hydropower, geothermal and wind power, the carbon-neutral LRT can reduce by 55,000 tCO2e per year and commuting time. It has also become a solution to social-economic problems in the city as the LRT construction has created over 5,000 jobs and reduced the expense on oil import.
As one of world's most populated metropolis, Mexico City has extreme levels of air pollution and traffic congestion. To overcome these problems, the administration of Mexico City has introduced a public-sharing bicycle system called ECOBICI with an ambitious goal of converting 5% of city journeys to cycling with bikes are secured at various stations throughout the city. Ecobici has made a huge contribution to the city's sustainability programme by reducing Mexico City's carbon emission.


The launch of Apple's iPhone 5 was unquestionably a successful one. The company sold more than five million units during the device's first three days of availability, setting a new opening-weekend sales record. Yet, by some metrics, the iPhone 5 underperformed compared to its predecessor, the iPhone 4S.
According to new data shared with AllThingsD by Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP), the iPhone 5 accounted for 68 percent of total iPhone sales during its first month at market — significantly less than the iPhone 4S, which accounted for 90 percent of all iPhone sales during its first month of retail availability.
In other words, as a percentage of total iPhone sales, Apple sold more iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S units during the launch of the iPhone 5 than it sold iPhone 4 and iPhone 3GS units during the launch of the iPhone 4S. It also sold more lower-capacity devices.
What that means is that while Apple is selling tons of iPhones, it's increasingly selling more of them at lower prices. The implications of that trend, if it is indeed a trend, suggest that by offering consumers the option of purchasing past-generation and lower-capacity devices, Apple is gradually compressing the iPhone's average selling price (ASP). That's worth noting because it may have an effect on Apple's notoriously high profit margins.
And that's something to keep in mind. By offering less-expensive legacy iPhone models along with the latest iteration of the device, Apple is wisely expanding its addressable market. But those lower-priced models will inevitably grow their share, as well. And that might limit not only the number of full-priced iPhones Apple can sell, but revenue and profits, too. Caveat: It's impossible to say how many of the consumers purchasing legacy and lower-storage iPhones are incremental sales that Apple might not have otherwise seen or lost full-price iPhone sales.


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Hip Hop Producer Ras Beats Controls His Own
August 24, 2016 Ayla Dhyani
New York-based producer Ras Beats is a master of organic music production. Having just dropped his latest record Control Your Own, he maintains this philosophy in all aspects of his life with the founding of his own record label Worldwyde Recordings. Following his own rules and directions, his latest project features the phenomenal talents of Roc Marciano, Elzhi (Slum Village), and Masta Ace among many others. With his unique sound and consistent experimentation, Ras Beats is without question a pioneer in production amongst the New York hip hop scene.
We chat to Ras Beats about his latest record, his writing process as a producer, and what it means to run a label in this day and age. Ayla Dhyani writes.
You just dropped your latest record, what does Control Your Own mean to you?
As far as music goes, it means controlling how it sounds, how it's made and how it goes out to the masses. But it's also on a larger scale than that in the sense of controlling your behaviour, your morals, and your ethics. Basically following your own rules, but in a conscious way. So it kind of has those two meanings to me.
Tell us about your writing process working with such a huge selection of emcees.
I'd say it's a little bit different with each one. Basically when I started out, I had some emcees who I had in mind for the project, and I created a lot of beats before reaching out of them that I though would fit well with their style. I came up with the beat for Roc Marciano beforehand and when I sent it through to him, he was cool with it. That's how it happened with a lot of emcees. Usually they were happy with it, but I wanted them to be inspired to do their best as well. I wanted to make sure that they liked the beat. So I'd say 90% of it was tailor0made to the emcees on each track. I definitely wanted to find some of my beats that would bring out the best in them and inspire them to shine on each one. It was quite organic, and that's how the best music comes about.
Control Your Own by Ras Beats
Tell us about your record label, Worldwyde Recordings.
Worldwyde Recordings definitely goes back to "controlling your own" again. I had a couple of situations where some labels were interested, but in the end I just decided that the best situation was for me to do it myself. I have a couple of people working with me at the label, so it's not me doing everything. But I decided that it was right me for my music to be very self-controlled and quality controlled. Not in an egotistical way, but just so that the music was put out the way that I wanted it to.
How do you find running a label in this day and age?
It's mixed. I would say it's mostly good. One of the things I come across the most, is that it's very easy to promote your own material this way. These days that aspect is very beneficial for smaller labels. However, there is a lot of music out there, so there are challenges to make your music stand out, but that's where you just have to work harder.
How did your journey as a producer begin?
I think my journey is very similar to a lot of people. I started out as fan. I listened to rap a lot, and then I started to DJ, and then after a while I started getting interested in the origin of each sample, bass-line or horn etc. So I started getting into old records and from there it just went off. I think the way I got into it is very similar to a lot people who do sample-based production.
What are your thoughts on New York's current hip hop scene?
I think the New York hip hop scene is larger than it's ever been before. There's probably more rappers and producers and DJs than ever before. There's always been a lot, so that's saying something. I think that where it is right now there is a strong spectrum of quality. You get the highest quality and the middle quality and the not great quality (laughs). It always happens when there's a strong music scene, and it's just about putting out high quality music as much as possible to stand out.
What do you anticipate for the future?
Definitely a lot more music. We only really just started promoting this record, and without giving too much away, we've got a couple more things coming from this album. So there's definitely a lot more coming out with Control Your Own. But aside from that, here are a few other projects that I'm starting on right now that I can't really give away too many details about right now. I get superstitious and don't want to jinx anything (laughs). But for any body that appreciates this album, definitely stayed tuned. There are a lot more great things coming up.
Definitely music. I'm always thinking about music. Looking for old records, listening to albums and mixtapes, revisiting old classics. My life is definitely very music focussed. It's definitely my driving force in life. Besides family and good people of course.
Tags Ras Beats, Control Your Own
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America FC United
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AFC competed in the NEFC NOVEMBER CUP AND COLLEGE SHOWCASE 2018 against clubs coming in from Canada, New York and throughout New England. Despite delays due to snow covered fields it was a great experience for our players. Go AFC!
AFC wrapped up it's final day of Tryouts for the 2018/2019 season. We are always interested in evaluating new players or having them train with our Academy. Please contact us for more information. Go AFC!
AFC offered a free Skills Clinic in Braintree, MA to introduce it's new and improved Junior Academy program. The Junior Academy is for boys and girls ages 6-8 who are ready to transition into the club soccer experience. Several of our coaches helped out and it was a great day with lots of fun for everybody. Go AFC!
Please see a quick video about the clinic from our Director of Coaching, Conrad Whyte and please follow us on Facebook.
Our 2018/2019 Club Soccer Tryouts begin on Monday, June 4 and run through Wednesday, June 13. Go AFC!
Congratulations to our U14 Girls and U18 Girls for making it to the semi-final round of the Mass State Cup this weekend. It was a tremendous experience for the teams and for the club. We will be back next year seeking another shot at the Mass State Cup Championship. Go AFC!
Congratulations to our U14 Boys and U11 Girls for making it to their respective finals of the New England Classic and Cape Cod Challenge Memorial Day Tournaments. Our club teams continue to improve and we expect to have another strong showing next year. Go AFC!
AFC sent three teams to the Mass State Cup, which pits the best club teams in Massachusetts against one another. The U14 Boys, U14 Girls, and U18 Girls, represented AFC in the tournament. Both the U14 and U18 Girls advanced out of the group stage and into the semi-finals! The U14 Girls finished second in their group going 2-1 and conceding only 2 goals in 3 games. The U18 Girls finished undefeated in their group and averaged 3 goals per game. Congratulations to our teams and Go AFC!
March 29, 2018
Congratulations to Kari Wismar who committed to play Women's Soccer at Brandeis University. Kari is a veteran of AFC in joining the club in 2008. She will begin her collegiate career in the fall. During her tenure at AFC Kari was selected to the U15 Girls, Massachusetts Olympic Development Program (ODP.) She was the first AFC female club player to be selected for ODP. We wish her continued success at the collegiate soccer level. Go AFC!
Our U14 Boys Team traveled to Antigua to compete in a national tournament and won the championship! Congratulations to Sam Wong (Forward), Liana Sawyer (Keeper), Jair Whyte (Mid-Fielder), for most valuable position player honors. Congratulations again to Jair Whyte for earning the Most Valuable Player of the tournament award. Go AFC!
November 11, 2017
AFC competed again in the annual Winchester, MA Soccer Tournament with great success. Our AFC 2005 Boys took 1st place going undefeated in the effort. Our
AFC 2005 Girls Elite placed 2nd. Congratulations to all our club teams. Go AFC!
AFC's own Brianne Dane signed a letter of commitment to play soccer at Illinois Institute of Technology. Brianne is a veteran of America FC United joining the club in our inaugural year, 2008. Brianne has played on several AFC teams through the years often playing up. Congratulations Brianne! We wish you continued success at the collegiate soccer level. Go AFC! http://www.illinoistechathletics.com/sports/wsoc/2017-18/releases/20170601o1j5s9
AFC participated in the Cape Cod Challenge and New England Soccer Classic on Memorial Day Weekend with good success. Our U13 Boys and U11 Boys each won their championship game in thrilling fashion, beating their opponent 1-0. Our AFC U11 Girls placed as runner up after advancing to the finals on penalty kicks. Several other teams had a strong showing, barely missing out on advancement to the playoff round. Congratulations to our club for a great tournament. Go AFC!
Our very own Mikayla was selected to the 2003/U15 Girls Olympic Development Program (ODP.) This is a great honor and truly deserved. Congratulations MK!
January/February, 2017
Our 2001/U17 and 2003/U15 Girls traveled to tournaments in Puerto Rico and Florida respectively. The 2001/U17 Girls played in the Caribbean Showcase, Puerto Rico where they reached the finals. The Girls took home a second place trophy after going to an exciting overtime where they just missed winning it all on penalty kicks. The 2003/U15 Girls participated in the Weston Cup, Weston FL, and had three strong games just missing out on advancing to the playoffs. There were a lot of great soccer moments and memories that will last a lifetime. Go AFC!
Our 2006/U11 Boys had a strong season finishing second in (MAPLE) Boys Select South Division. They went 6-1-1, scoring 25 goals, and conceding 12 over 8 games.
Summer League Indoor Training
After winning the Cape Cod Challenge a month earlier our AFC 2005/U13 Girls competed in and won the PYSA Father's Day Tournament. The girls were undefeated, scoring 15 goals and conceding 1, in four games. The girls played tough in a great team effort.
AFC brought 13 teams to the Cape Cod Tournaments on Memorial Day and had a strong showing overall. Our 2005/U13 Girls won the Championship, going undefeated during tournament play. The girls scored 23 goals, conceding only 1, over five games. Congratulations to all our teams on a successful soccer weekend!
AFC hosted Arsenal Academie St-Louis from Quebec, Canada for a futsal jamboree. Arsenal brought down U16 and U17 girls futsal teams, and played a number of futsal matches over the course of two days against AFC U16 girls and a few other local teams. It was a great experience for all involved and the girls had a great time.
Jared Strong (AFC U16 Boys) of Hull has been selected as 1 of 18 players to represent the Massachusetts Soccer ODP U16 Boys Soccer team in the Region I Tournament, June 5 - 7. Mass ODP is part of the U.S. Youth Soccer's Olympic Development Program with a "basic mission of identifying and developing elite players in the most challenging and competitive environment possible and to the notion that playing on a Massachusetts State Team is a hard-earned honor."
AFC is excited to have Brooke Hutchinson, assistant women's coach at Eastern Nazarene College, to run practice sessions with AFC teams. Brooke comes to AFC with lots of experience, previously working as an assistant coach at Johnson and Wales (where she played and captained the team), Director/Coach at various club teams throughout New England, and as a head trainer for In The Net Sports Academy. Brooke will be working with individual teams on Monday and Wednesday nights over the next few weeks.
The AFC U12G participated in the 2015 Boston University Tournament and went undefeated posting a record of 3-0-1. Not only did the girls play great soccer, but they received a tour of the facility/Q&A session from BU players and coaches. The girls got great insight into what it takes to be a D1 soccer player, and the girls asked some great questions. Congratulations on a great day of soccer!
Congratulations to the AFC U14G for winning the 2015 Cohasset Club Soccer Tournament. The girls lost only one game in the group rounds, and came back to beat the team they lost to in the finals to secure the championship. Congrats Girls!
AFC U9G attacking the net
AFC brought 14 teams to the Winchester Veterans day tournament on November 14. Congratulations to all teams who participated and for all the success and fun the teams had! A special shout out to the AFC U9 Girls who went 3 and 1 in the U10 division against older teams!.
America FC United is excited to announce the arrival of George "Sowa" Dublin to Quincy. Dublin is the current captain of the Antigua and Barbuda Men's National Soccer Team, which recently played against the USA Men's National Team, on June 2012 (Tampa) and October 2012 (Antigua) for 2014 World Cup qualifying matches.
Dublin is coming to Quincy to host 2 clinics for America FC on Saturday, March 2nd and Saturday, March 9th at Point Webster Middle school (more information below). He will also be attending the training sessions for the AFC teams from u10's through the u14 and high school age teams.
Conrad Whyte, Director of Coaching for America FC United, grew up with Dublin in Antigua, and played on the Men's National team together with him. Coach Whyte will be hosting his stay in Quincy, while working together to develop training sessions and clinics for the players enrolled in America FC and soccer players in Quincy and surrounding communities.
Dublin has played on the Antigua and Barbuda youth and senior men's national team as a center back defender from 1997 to present and is 36 years old. He currently has 78 caps (international game appearances) 62 as captain with 9 goals. George has had an extensive professional playing career, ABFA (Antigua and Barbuda Football Assoc.) and the TTPL (Trindad and Tobago Professional League). He is playing currently for the Antigua Barracudas FC of the US Pro league since its inception in 2011. Dublin has earned several awards, ABFA footballer of the year in 2001 and Most Inspirational player in 2001 and 2002 among many others.
The clinics will be held on March 2nd and 9th, at Point Webster Middle school, 60 Lancaster St. Quincy. Under 10's boys and girls will be from 1-2pm, under 12 and 14's boys and girls from 2-3 and high school age boys and girls from 3-4pm on both dates. Cost will be $20 for both sessions. Registration is open to all, please use the Register/Payment Button in the right hand column.
America FC United U18 boys player James O'shea has been selected to the Region 1 team. Being selected is a huge honor as the tryout process is extremely competitive. Region 1 consists of 13 states and is 1 of 4 regions in the United States. Recognized during the region 1 tournament, James, was one of the one hundred and eighty players (180) from 13 states selected to come train and tryout to make the Region 1 team. Out of the 180 players only thirty-three (33) players were selected for the final cut. Our James O'Shea was selected to the final 33, and was one of three (3) players from the state of Massachusetts to make the cut. He is now a part of the region 1 pool and will be called upon to represent our region during regional and national competitions next year. James has worked tirelessly and has been extremely dedicated to improving his game and we have no doubt he will represent himself, and the club to highest extent possible at these events. Congratulations to James from all of us here at AFC United.
James O'Shea
The America FC United U17 boys team took part in the MPS Thanksgiving Showcase in Lancaster on November 23 to 25th, and placed first in the U17 Boys Select Division. The U17s went undefeated with a record of 2-0-1, winning their last two games after a late tie in the first game. The boys only conceded one goal during the three games while scoring four. The U17s tallied 7 out of 9 possible points, leading the group by 3 points, as the second place team had only 4 points.
The AFC United U14 boys qualified for MAPLE (Massachusetts Premier League) in impressive fashion going 3-0 and placing first in the MAPLE qualification tournament. The boys outscored their opponents 14-2 over the three games, posting two shutouts. This capped off a terrific season where the boys went undefeated, 7-0 in MASC (Massachusetts Soccer Conference) Division 1 and made the finals of the Cape Cod Classic tournament. The U14 boys will be playing in MAPLE U15 Division 3 next year and will look to continue their success.
Spring 2013
The America FC United U14 boys competed in the Cohasset premier league. They finished in 1st place earning a bye into the playoff finals where they met the Weymouth Misfits. The U14 boys played a strong game earning a win by the score of 4-2. Coach Conrad Whyte said "The Championship was attributed to the boys hard work, dedication and good practice habits." The u14 boys now turn their attention to their season opener on Sunday April 7, 2013 at home.
James O'Shea (U18B) and Kevin O'Shea (U14B) were featured in an article in the Boston Globe. Click Here to Read.
Three players from the America FC U17 boys MAPLE team (Connor D., Cian M. and James O.), one from the AFC U16 MASC boys (Jeremy C.) and one from the AFC U14 boys MASC team (Kevin O.) have made the ODP (Olympic Development Program) team for their respective ages. These players tried out and were selected as one of the 24 members of the Massachusetts boys U17/U14 teams. These teams will train in the winter, spring and will play in a regional tournament during the summer. The ODP program is a great way for players to gain exposure to collegiate, professional, Regional and National team programs.
AFC U12 Girls
AFC brought 8 teams to the 2013 Cape Cod Challenge, and out of the 6 teams eligible to make the playoffs, 4 advanced to the playoff round(U12G, U12B, U14B, U16B). The U12G and U14B both were able to reach the championship game, but were edged out in heart breaking fashion in both games. AFC's two U10 teams (U10B and U10G) for whom there are no playoffs, both did very well, with the Boys going 2-2 and the Girls 2-1-1 in the Open A division. While the wins were nice to see at the younger ages, what impressed the coaches and parents the most were the many moves, feints, and skilled play that AFC focuses heavily on. To see examples/fun from the weekend check out our team pages under the Academy tab for photos and videos from the Cape Challenge and 2013 season.
The America FC United U10 girls earned a promotion to Division 1 of the Massachusetts Soccer Conference (MASC) midway through their fall season. The girls went 3-0-1 without giving up a goal and scoring 13. "The girls are getting better every game, and its really encouraging to see them learning and then using their moves and feints in the games", said Coach Tyler.
Joey Critelli of our U14 Boys Team who scored the first goal in club history was featured in an article for The Irish Emigrant. Congratulations Joey! Go AFC! Click Here to Read


Maxor National Pharmacy Services, LLC ("Maxor"), today announced that Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease, an illness someone is born with that is not contagious.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease that causes problems in the lungs and digestive system.
If you want to learn about cystic fibrosis, you've found the right place!
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a bacteria that can cause infections in many parts of the body.
Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes (CFRD) is a special form of diabetes that only affects people with cystic fibrosis (CF).
Children with cystic fibrosis are just like every other kid. And there are going to be times they won't want to do what's best for them.
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, and sweat glands.


On Thursday, I stepped in to be one of three woman science fiction authors to read at an event sponsored by LitCrawl, called Robots, Ray Guns, and Self-Saving Princesses!
Lowest left… what a night it was.
This entry was tagged 2017, afterparty, author, Bones of Starlight, Capitol Hill, Caren Gussoff Sumption, Cat Rambo, Claudia Castro Luna, Eva L. Elasigue, LitCrawl, ray guns, reading, robots, science fiction, seattle, self saving princesses, Shane Knode, St. John's, typewriter poem, women. Bookmark the permalink.


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Mixed feelings as Norfolk's mental health chief retires
After nine years at the helm of the county's mental health trust Pat Holman has mixed feelings about her retirement.Sarah Hall talks to the out going chief executive of the Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Trust about her achievements, regrets and the changes in mental health services.
After nine years at the helm of the county's mental health trust Pat Holman has mixed feelings about her retirement.
Sarah Hall talks to the out going chief executive of the Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Trust about her achievements, regrets and the changes in mental health services.
When Ms Holman embarked on her nursing career 33 years ago she saw a vulnerable man with severe mental health problems walking around the grounds of an asylum - semi-naked, confused and embarrassed.
While the image haunted her it is one she has kept with her throughout her career and it galvanised her to change mental health services and ensure the thousands of people like this particular patient are made to feel more safe and secure.
'It is a story I always tell and an image I always carry with me' she said. 'It is exactly what I wanted to change about mental health and the image I never wanted to come across again.
'I started in 1979 when there were asylums and institutions. Mental health was not openly talked about and people were pushed behind walls and kept away from the general public.
'Now I see a totally different image - people are looked after in the community as much as possible, they are more integrated and community services are much more accessible.'
Ms Holman, now 56, started her career as a mental health nurse in Bristol and worked in Dorset and Brighton and her last position before her Norfolk post was as director of mental health services in Suffolk.
Her frustration at services and her desire to improve the mental health environment for patients gave her the drive to eventually become chief executive of the Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Trust, which currently cares for almost 18,000 people.
During her time in post she says the biggest change is in attitudes to mental health and considers one of her biggest achievements as helping to provide round-the-clock care for patients from multi-disciplinary teams catering for 'all aspects' of mental health.
The trust has come under repeated criticism for years for closing inpatient units which care for people with dementia in favour of 'care in the community' but Ms Holman said the public have now 'come round' to that way of thinking.
She said: 'The last resort now is a hospital or care home. My biggest goal has been to keep people with their families and out in the community wherever possible. I would say one of my biggest achievements is to open up services so they are available 24 hours a day.
'Mental health is just like any other physical illness and should be accepted in this way. I think we have achieved quite a lot in this area. We are certainly getting there with the elderly now.'
Earlier this year Norfolk's first NHS provided psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) opened at Hellesdon Hospital. The unit provides mental health care in a specialist environment in a peaceful and calm setting and designed for the highest standard of patient safety, privacy and dignity.
The state of the art building has been described as Ms Holman's 'legacy' and something she says is not only one of her biggest achievements but a 'very far cry' from the horrendous image which propelled her to improve mental health services all those years ago.
Last year the trust also gained foundation status which means people have more of a say in the running of services with less 'top-down' power.
However Ms Holman said there is an area which she still believes needs a great deal of improvement and if she was in post for another couple of years she would work hard to achieve.
'I would like to see more done with children and young people,' she said. 'It is important to get people who can communicate with youngsters to help them more.
'We need more youth workers and people who can communicate with young people and to let them know there is such a strong link between being physically healthy and mentally well.
'And also to let them know if is normal o ask for help without them being stigmatised at school or other social environments
'Because it is okay to have mental health problems.'
Ms Holman, who lives near Fakenham with her landscape photographer partner Steve Barker, plans to go to Portugal immediately after her last day and at some point in the near future has plans to take part in voluntary work.
She will be succeeded by Aidan Thomas who is currently chief executive of NHS West Essex.


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France recognises Libyan opposition leadership
By Patrick O'Connor
The French government of President Nicolas Sarkozy yesterday extended official diplomatic recognition to the so-called Libyan Interim Transitional National Council, the first outside government to do so.
According to Agence France Presse, the Sarkozy administration will also recommend to its counterparts at a European Union summit concluding today that Gaddafi's command headquarters be bombed.
These aggressive and unilateral interventions into Libyan affairs comes amid planning in Washington, Brussels and at the UN Security Council on forcing the collapse of the Libyan regime of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. Gaddafi faces a challenge from the opposition National Council that was formed last month, after mass protests broke out against Gaddafi's rule in the east of the country.
There is discussion of air strikes, no-fly zones and other military measures aiming to install a client government in Tripoli friendly to transnational oil companies and the strategic interests of the Western powers.
By recognising the National Council, Paris is potentially throwing a lifeline to the organisation, which faces an increasingly difficult situation in fighting inside Libya. Gaddafi's forces have recaptured Zawiyah, an oil port and refinery city 50 kilometres to the west of Tripoli, and also the important oil processing centre of Ras Lanuf on the Gulf of Sirte, in the east of the country.
The government's use of the air force reportedly played an important role in each battle. Warplanes reportedly bombed another oil town, Brega, about 80 kilometres east of Ras Lanuf.
The French government's provocative stance was hailed by the Benghazi-based leadership. Mustafa Gheriani, a media organiser at the opposition headquarters, told the media that the diplomatic recognition is the "first nail in the coffin of Gaddafi." He added: "France is playing the role of breaking the ice for the European Union. We expect all Europe to follow."
French imperialism is aggressively advancing its interests—not least those of its main oil firm, Total—in a region where it previously had significant colonial possessions.
France's diplomatic recognition paves the way for billions of dollars in oil revenues and frozen Libyan financial assets to be handed over to the self-appointed leadership of the anti-Gaddafi forces based in the eastern city of Benghazi. The extraordinary decision was made despite the fact that the opposition leadership is unelected, its composition remains unclear, and many of its leading members are former Gaddafi government members, including council head Mustafa Abdel-Jalil, the government's former justice minister.
A meeting of European Union foreign ministers imposed further measures against the Libyan government. It added five financial institutions, including the $70 billion Libyan Investment Authority and the Libyan central bank, to its sanctions list. Discussions will continue today, and will reportedly include a decision to extend the sanctions to Libya's state-owned oil company.
Each of the major European powers is seeking to advance its own imperialist interests in Libya and the Middle East. Britain and France have presented a united demand for the imposition of a no-fly zone, but they are themselves divided on certain issues. British Foreign Minister William Hague appeared to reject suggestions that his government would quickly follow France's recognition of the opposition leadership. "We recognise states rather than groups within states," he pointedly said.
A meeting of NATO defence ministers yesterday agreed to move warships in the Mediterranean Sea closer to Libya, including a German frigate and an Italian cruiser and minesweepers. The ships will increase surveillance of Libya and monitor the arms embargo against the country.
NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen said the vessels would "improve NATO's situational awareness and contribute to our surveillance and monitoring capability, including with regard to the arms embargo". He added that there were three conditions for an intervention: "Firstly, there has to be demonstrable need for NATO action. Secondly, there has to be a clear legal basis. And thirdly, there has to be firm regional support."
The National Council has played a thoroughly reactionary role throughout the anti-Gaddafi uprising. The movement was triggered by workers and young Libyans, inspired by the revolutions in Tunisia and Egypt and driven by the same issues as their North African counterparts: social inequality, mass unemployment, limited education opportunities, "free market" reform and privatisation programs, and government repression and corruption.
The National Council represents a section of the Libyan ruling elite that, from the very beginning of the uprising, rushed to hijack and pre-empt the unfolding revolt. For this layer, ousting Gaddafi is a means to promote its own political and economic interests.
The official opposition leadership is just as hostile as the Gaddafi regime towards any challenge to capitalist property relations in Libya.
It has consistently directed its appeals not to the social aspirations of the working class, but to the major powers. Al Jazeera yesterday reported that the "national transitional council, based in Benghazi, says it will respect all oil contracts signed by Libya." Opposition spokesman Hafiz Ghoga added: "We are seeking to increase our production of oil, but the bombardment of certain oil industry locations will definitely affect our levels of production."
This statement pointed to the financial and strategic calculations behind any no-fly zone that may be imposed by the US and European powers.
Significant tactical divisions are emerging among the major powers and inside the US government itself on how to effectively intervene in Libya, however.
The UN Security Council deadlocked yesterday over whether to vote for a no-fly zone, with Russia and China opposing any moves towards even tentative military action.
Washington yesterday joined the German government in rejecting, at least for now, British and French moves to have NATO impose a no-fly zone. Defense Secretary Gates said that contingency planning would continue, but "that's the extent of it as far as a no-fly zone is concerned." Gates added that the arms embargo on Libya would not be enforced by military force unless this was authorised by the UN Security Council.
Germany's foreign minister, Guido Westerwelle, declared: "One thing for the German government is absolutely clear—we do not want to get sucked into a war in North Africa." Westerwelle added that Sarkozy's diplomatic recognition of the Benghazi leadership appeared to have been decided "on a whim."
US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton yesterday told the House Appropriations Committee that she would speak with the Libyan opposition leadership when she visited Tunisia and Egypt next week. But, the New York Times noted, Clinton "appeared far more cautious about military intervention than she was a week ago, aligning herself more closely with the warnings offered by Secretary of Defense Robert Gates."
"Absent international authorisation, the United States acting alone would be stepping into a situation whose consequences are unforeseeable," the secretary of state declared. Clinton warned that no-fly zones and air strikes may not advance the US regime-change drive in Libya, saying the no-fly zone imposed over Iraq in the 1990s "did not prevent Saddam Hussein from slaughtering people on the ground and it did not get him out of office."
Whether the US military, already fighting two neo-colonial wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, is capable of this action is another question. Within the senior command there is clearly disquiet over the implications of war with Libya, especially as Gaddafi appears to be gaining the upper hand on the ground.
US Director of National Intelligence James Clapper told Congress that in the longer term "the regime will prevail" because of its superior firepower. Clapper added that Libyan air defences are "quite substantial", second only to Egypt among Arab countries.
During the Armed Services Committee hearing, Army Lt. Gen. Ronald Burgess, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, agreed with Clapper. "Right now he [Gaddafi] seems to have staying power, unless some other dynamic changes at this time," he said, adding that momentum "has started to shift" to the regime's forces. Burgess also acknowledged that imposing a no-fly zone "would be considered an act of war."
Some White House officials appeared to challenge these assessments, however. Obama's National Security Advisor Tom Donilon told journalists that Clapper had provided a "static assessment" of the situation. "But if you look at it through a 'dynamic lens', taking into account motivation, isolation, Gaddafi's loss of legitimacy ... you can come up with a different assessment," Donilon declared.
Turkey's Erdoğan threatens to send troops into Libya
Five candidates contest December 12 Algerian election amid mass opposition
Algerian junta to slash energy subsidies amid mass protests
French-backed Libyan militia airstrike kills 42 civilians
German defence minister supports combat operations in Africa
Apple, Microsoft and Google among five companies sued over deaths of Congolese child miners
Uprisings in the Middle East
Iraqi prime minister offers resignation after army unleashes bloodbath
Political and economic turmoil escalates in Lebanon
Prime Minister Hariri's resignation intensifies Lebanon's political crisis
Erdogan vows to send Turkish troops into Libya
The 2011 war in Libya
Libya autonomy declaration poses threat of civil war
Amnesty International details torture and murder in Libya
Ongoing atrocities by NATO-installed Libyan regime
Former Gaddafi official tortured to death in Libya
Torture in Libya: The ugly reality of imperialist "liberation"


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'We want a seat at the table' | Knox County teachers talk fall reopening plan, task force
KCS released a three-part reopening strategy including a task force of community leaders, an online survey and focus groups with students, teachers and parents.
Author: Gabrielle Hays
Published: 11:46 PM EDT June 11, 2020
Updated: 12:05 AM EDT June 12, 2020
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Christy Bruchey teaches first grade and like most teachers across the country she is ready to see her students.
"Mostly everybody just wants to get back," she said.
But in the midst of a global pandemic what next year will look like is still up in the air.
"We understand there will be changes but we really want to get back in the classroom and help them the best we can," Bruchey said.
On June 3, Knox County Schools released a three-part strategy for making the decision. It includes a task force of community leaders, focus groups and an online survey. However Bruchey said there is one part she is concerned about.
"I was just disappointed there were no teachers on the committee," she said, referring to the task force.
She and other teachers add they wish more teachers were involved in that specific part of the plan.
"I would love it if we were a part of the planning of it as well because we will understand how all of this will be implemented," she said.
The system does, however, include teachers along with students and principals in the focus groups, which KCS Director of Public Affairs Carly Harrington reiterated in a statement on Thursday.
"Knox County Schools is committed to seeking input from a wide variety of stakeholders regarding the Fall 2020 semester. On June 3, we announced a three-part strategy that includes a task force of community leaders; focus groups of students, teachers, principals and parents; and an online survey that has now received more than 22,000 responses. We're grateful for feedback from all of these sources, and will continue to gather input from a wide variety of stakeholders."
While Bruchey believes the focus groups and online survey do help, she still thinks teachers want to be a part of the task force planning too.
"I'm working on stuff right now," Bruchey said.
Until a final decision for Fall is made, Bruchey said she and many teachers are working to be prepared no matter what.
"We are working on some training so that if we have to do distance learning again we can do it a little better, a little more efficiently for the parents," she said.
She added a part of that process is also working with other teachers, which she said has been a particularly helpful part of the process.
"Part of it is having discussion within our schools so we are identifying who's strengths, who we can go to when we are confused," she said.
The task force is expected to present its findings to the Knox County School Board on July 8. Bruchey said she's hoping to get enough guidance to start shaping what next year will look like.
"I don't expect a concrete plan but like the bare bones," she said.
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