text:
Q: c++ builder ZipProgress callback for the progress bar I have a simple form, and I'm trying to work with the ProgressBar when a .zip file is being created, based on the ZipDirectoryContents callback. I have seen some Delphi example in the forum, but I don't know it well, and I get several errors. Here an example:
.cpp
#include <system.zip.hpp>

String PreviousFilename;
bool __fastcall createZipFromFolder( String inZipName,
                                     String inSourcePath,
                                     String inTargetPath )
{
      bool result = true;
      sZipName = "C:\\test\\testBar.zip";
      sSourceName = "C:\\test2";
      TZipFile* Zip = new TZipFile();
      try{
        if ( FileExists( sZipName ) ){
            Zip->ZipDirectoryContents( sZipName,                // destiny
                                       sSourceName,             // to include
                                       zcDeflate,               // compression mode
                                       OnZipProgressEvent() );  // <--- p callback
            Zip->Close();
        }
      }
      catch(...){
        result = false;
        ShowMessage("Error");
      }
      delete Zip;
      Zip = NULL;
      return result;
}

void __fastcall OnZipProgressEvent( TObject* Sender, String FileName, TZipHeader Header, __int64 Position )
{
  if ( PreviousFilename != FileName ){
    PreviousFilename = FileName;
    Form1->ProgressBar1->Max = Header.UncompressedSize;
    Form1->ProgressBar1->Position = Position;
  }
  else{
    Form1->ProgressBar1->Position = Position;
    Application->ProcessMessages();
  }
}

.h
#include <System.Zip.hpp>

public:     // User declarations
    __fastcall TForm1(TComponent* Owner);

    typedef void __fastcall ( __closure * TZipProgressEvent )( TObject*,
                                                               String,
                                                               TZipHeader,
                                                               __int64 );
    bool __fastcall createZipFromFolder( String inZipName,
                                         String inSourcePath,
                                         String inTargetPath );
    void __fastcall OnZipProgressEvent( TObject* Sender,
                                        String FileName,
                                        TZipHeader Header,
                                        __int64 Position );
};
extern PACKAGE TForm1 *Form1;
extern String PreviousFilename;

#endif

A: When calling Zip->ZipDirectoryContents(), you need to change OnZipProgressEvent() to &OnZipProgressEvent instead.  You are trying to call the callback (with missing parameters) when you should be passing its address.
Also, in your .cpp file, both createZipFromFolder() and OnZipProgressEvent() need to be defined as being members of your Form class.
Also, in OnZipProgressEvent(), the TZipHeader parameter needs to be passed by const reference rather than by value, per the documentation.
Try this:
Unit1.h
...

class TForm1 : public TForm
{
    ...
private:        // User declarations
    String PreviousFilename;
    void __fastcall OnZipProgressEvent( TObject* Sender,
                                        String FileName,
                                        const TZipHeader &Header,
                                        __int64 Position );

public:     // User declarations
    __fastcall TForm1(TComponent* Owner);

    bool __fastcall createZipFromFolder( String inZipName,
                                         String inSourcePath,
                                         String inTargetPath );
};

extern PACKAGE TForm1 *Form1;

#endif

Unit1.cpp
...
#include "Unit1.h"
#include <System.Zip.hpp>

bool __fastcall TForm1::createZipFromFolder( String inZipName,
                                             String inSourcePath,
                                             String inTargetPath )
{
    bool result = true;
    sZipName = _D("C:\\test\\testBar.zip");
    sSourceName = _D("C:\\test2");
    PreviousFilename = _D("");
    TZipFile* Zip = new TZipFile();
    try{
        if ( FileExists( sZipName ) ){
            Zip->ZipDirectoryContents( sZipName,                // destiny
                                        sSourceName,             // to include
                                        zcDeflate,              // compression mode
                                        &OnZipProgressEvent );  // <--- p callback
            Zip->Close();
        }
    }
    catch(...){
        result = false;
        ShowMessage(_D("Error"));
    }
    delete Zip;
    Zip = NULL;
    return result;
}

void __fastcall TForm1::OnZipProgressEvent( TObject* Sender,
                                            String FileName,
                                            const TZipHeader &Header,
                                            __int64 Position )
{
    if ( PreviousFilename != FileName ){
        PreviousFilename = FileName;
        ProgressBar1->Max = Header.UncompressedSize;
        ProgressBar1->Position = Position;
    }
    else{
        ProgressBar1->Position = Position;
        Application->ProcessMessages();
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Cecily Tynan Accused of Assaulting South Philly Woman at U2 Concert
Brittany Lewandowski has filed a private criminal complaint against Tynan, who was not arrested.
By Victor Fiorillo·	 6/14/2018, 3:33 p.m.
Get a compelling long read and must-have lifestyle tips in your inbox every Sunday morning — great with coffee!
Left: Brittany Lewandowski and boyfriend Stephen Buchanan before the concert. Right: Buchanan tried to take a photo of Cecily Tynan in the Wells Fargo Center security office as a Philadelphia police officer attempted to block his view.
This is a developing story and may be updated at any time.
A 27-year-old woman from South Philadelphia has accused 6ABC meteorologist Cecily Tynan of assaulting her at a U2 concert at the Wells Fargo Center on Wednesday night just after 9 p.m.
The woman, Brittany Lewandowski, a lifelong South Philadelphia resident, filed a private criminal complaint against Tynan, who is 49, with the Philadelphia District Attorney's office on Thursday morning. The DA's office is refusing to release the contents of that complaint to the press at this time.
The Philadelphia Police Department confirms that police were called to investigate a report of assault involving a 27-year-old woman and a 49-year-old woman at the Wells Fargo Center around that time on Wednesday, but they will not confirm the names of the parties involved or release details because no arrests have been made.
Neither Tynan nor 6ABC management responded to multiple requests for comment.
The allegations first appeared on social media on Wednesday night, when Lewandowski's boyfriend, Stephen Buchanan, posted the following photos and comment:
In an exclusive interview with Philadelphia magazine, Lewandowski laid out her version of the story. She says that she was standing up dancing at the beginning of the concert when she allegedly felt someone's fingernails digging into her collarbone. When she turned around, a woman who turned out to be Tynan told her that she was trying to enjoy the concert and to "shut the fuck up." Lewandowski claims that she told Tynan not to put her hands on her again. She says that Tynan continued to yell at her and curse at her, and security was summoned.
Cecily Tynan and husband in 2013. Photo by Hughe Dillon.
Once back in the security office, Lewandowski says she was told that the woman in question was Tynan. She says she had absolutely no idea who Cecily Tynan is.
"I've never seen that woman before," she claims. "I didn't know she was even on TV. I only watch Fox 29."
Eventually Philly cops showed up to take the report. When they finished, Lewandowski says, she was told that no arrest would be made but that she could file a private criminal complaint with the DA's office. (When police decline to make an arrest after receiving a report, citizens have the right to file a private criminal complaint with the DA, who then evaluates the complaint and decides whether charges are warranted.) Lewandowski returned to her seats and, she claims, Tynan was moved to a suite.
Lewandowski says that, while she's upset that Tynan allegedly put her hands on her, her only injury is a scratch and that she has no plans to take any legal action beyond filing the private criminal complaint. But she's also upset that she missed so much of the show.
"We all left with security right after the show began," she says. "And we didn't get back until the end. We missed pretty much the entire show."
Cecily Tynan
Victor Fiorillo	Senior Reporter at Philadelphia Magazine @phillyvictor
https://www.facebook.com/VictorKnowsPhilly/
vfiorillo@phillymag.com
10 Delicious Dishes Worth Going Out of Your Way to Eat in Philly
"Missing" Man Tim Dillon Was Just a Sex Offender in Hiding
A CHOP Doctor Shares Why His Philly COVID Projections are Optimistic
Meet the Deep-Voiced Delco Teen Making Sea Shanties Cool
Meet Rachel Levine, the Woman In Charge of Coronavirus in Pennsylvania
Stephanie Hazelton, a.k.a. Ayla Wolf, Was Part of Capitol Attack

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Hosts Zambia claimed a fourth COSAFA Cup title after a hard-fought 2-0 victory over defending champions Zimbabwe in the final in Ndola on Saturday.
Early and late goals from free-kicks gave Zambia the Cosafa Cup Saturday with a 2-0 win over holders Zimbabwe.
Alex N'gonga scored after four minutes and substitute Kabaso Chongo sealed success two minutes into stoppage time in the Zambian mining city of Ndola. But the scoreline was cruel to Zimbabwe, who won far more possession only to be foiled by some great goalkeeping from Danny Munyau and their own poor finishing.
It was the fourth southern African national team championship title for Zambia, matching Zimbabwe's record. And France-born Zambia coach Herve Renard got the revenge he craved for 2005 and 2009 final defeats by Zimbabwe.
It was his second trophy in charge of the Chipolopolo (Copper Bullets), having defied the odds to win the 2012 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon. N'gonga, elevated to the starting line-up after making a big impact when he came on against South Africa in the semi-finals, struck on four minutes.
The position of the free-kick – 25 metres out near the touchline – hardly spelt danger to Zimbabwe. But as the kick flew goalwards, the defensive wall pushed forward and the ball bounced once before flying over Maxwell Nyamupangedengu into the corner.
A wonderful start for the hosts almost got even better on the quarter-hour mark when a Bornwell Mwape back-header rebounded off the crossbar. Zimbabwe slowed gained the ascendancy and a purple patch midway through the opening half came close to delivering an equaliser.
Tendai Ndoro headed wide from close range, Munyau acrobatically tipped away a Last Chibwiro drive, and an Eric Chipeta header off a corner flew just over. There were more substitutions than scoring chances in a second half Zimbabwe often controlled, and Munyau did superbly to keep out a Ronald Chitiyo header.
Zambia substitute Moses Phiri went close with a shot across the goalmouth before Chongo landed the killer blow. His goal was a carbon copy of the first as he glided the ball across the face of the goal and into the far corner.
In a curtain-raiser, captain Wayne Sandilands saved a penalty as South Africa defeated tournament giant killers Lesotho 2-1 to finish third.
The goalkeeper guessed right as defender Tlali Maile took his second spot kick of the match, diving left and making a one-handed block.
With Ralekoti Mokhahlane absent, Maile took over the penalty-taking duties and converted one midway through the opening half for the Likuena (Crocodiles).
Mandla Masongo levelled close to half-time and fellow midfielder Hlompho Kekana nudged Bafana Bafana (The Boys) ahead on 53 minutes. It was the second goal of the 15-day tournament for Kekana, whose industry and finishing earned him the man-of-the-match award.
Bafana Bafana just about deserved the win as Lesotho scored one penalty and missed another.


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text:
NEW MILTON CRICKETER RAISES OVER £500 FOR NHS
NEW Milton all-rounder and former captain Ryan Beck has completed a full marathon from his own garden.
Beck, who has been entertaining people in lockdown with viral cricket videos in an effort to keep kids active during the Covid-19 pandemic, has raised over £500 for NHS charities from the running challenge.
Beck said that he originally planned to do it over two days but was spurred on to complete over 500 laps of a 77-metre course he laid out in just one day:
"I sat down on Friday and thought what to do for the cricket virus on Saturday. I heard it was supposed to be London marathon on Sunday so I went for that. If I'm honest, I thought maybe do it over two days."
"The inspiration behind it all has got to be all the support I've had through the 36 days of cricket virus prior to the marathon.
"My fiancee Hayley set up the fundraiser to show me that people are behind me. Thanks for all the amazing donations and amazing support."
All the money raised will go to NHS charities after Ryan's 50th daily cricket video and to donate visit www.gofundme.com/f/ryans-cricket-virus-raise-for-help


Joel Marks has also directed a symposium series at the University of New Haven on "Ethics in the Workplace"; hosted the radio program, "Student Scene," on WNHU, West Haven, and co-hosted "The Professors" on WNHU and CTV; and writes occasional columns on ethics, astronomy, and other topics for newspapers, magazines, and blogs..
Ought Implies Kant: A Reply to the Consequentialist Critique. Lexington Books, 2009.
Moral Moments: Very Short Essays on Ethics. University Press of America, 2000.
(Contributor and Co-Editor with Roger T. Ames). State University of New York Press, 1995.
The Hoffnung Festschrift (Co-Editor with David E. E. Sloane). Special issue (Vol. XXI) of Essays in Arts and Sciences (University of New Haven), 1992.
The Ways of Desire: New Essays in Philosophical Psychology on the Concept of Wanting (Editor and Contributor). Precedent Publishing, 1986.
"Activism as Integrity." Philosophy Now, no. 67, May/June 2008, pp. 44-5.
"A Planet by any other Name." Think (Royal Institute of Philosophy), winter 2007, pp. 101-4.
"Cheating 101: Ethics as a Lab Course."
Teaching Philosophy, vol. 26, no. 2, June 2003, pp. 131-45.
Prof Joel Marks from the University of New Haven, US, says comets are bigger and faster than asteroids and meteors.


7/01/2019�� She claims to be a goddess, Aqua, and asks if he would like to go to another world and bring only one thing with him. Kazuma decides to bring the goddess herself, and they are transported to a fantasy world filled with adventure, ruled by a demon king. Now Kazuma only wants to live in peace, but Aqua wants to solve many of this world�s problems, and the demon king will only turn a blind eye how to use active speech without using i 29/11/2015�� You need to do it for each "Premium SMS" app you used and allowed. It only prompts the permission the first time it is used on Android Marshmallow.
1/01/2017�� I connected internet to my PC via my Android mobile data. But Windows 10 Mobile hotspot not working it shows "we can't set up Mobile hotspot Turn on wifi" While connected via mobile hotspot. But Windows 10 Mobile hotspot not working it shows "we can't set up Mobile hotspot Turn on wifi" While connected via mobile hotspot. how to turn on usb debugging on locked phone 29/11/2015�� You need to do it for each "Premium SMS" app you used and allowed. It only prompts the permission the first time it is used on Android Marshmallow.
Tumblr�s parent company, Oath, is changing its name to Verizon Media Group in January 2019. Also, the Oath Scented Candle is on sale: �The scent of Oath, Empowered , channels our authenticity and optimism with a fragrance structured by natural cedarwood, cardamom and iris, brightened with notes of juicy grapefruit and salty ozone.
1/01/2017�� I connected internet to my PC via my Android mobile data. But Windows 10 Mobile hotspot not working it shows "we can't set up Mobile hotspot Turn on wifi" While connected via mobile hotspot. But Windows 10 Mobile hotspot not working it shows "we can't set up Mobile hotspot Turn on wifi" While connected via mobile hotspot.


text:
July 19, 20215 min read
A meta title is an HTML element which is crucial for website optimization. It is not the page headline per se, but it acts as a name tag for the web page. A meta title is also sometimes referred to as "title tag," "page title," or "title."
What is Meta Title?
A meta title is referred to as such because it is considered metadata that is located on a web page's header. Meta title exists for both search engines and visitors and is prominently displayed, often in large blue text, on search engine results pages or SERPs when, for example, you are conducting a search. You can use titles to help people find what they are looking for on your site, both while browsing and in search engine results. A meta title is a concise way of communicating the main topic or subject matter of a page without repeating anything from its body text. ERP Analysis Meta Tags – Use these tags when creating SEO optimized pages that will appear under specific keywords within SERPs (search engines Results Pages). You may also see them show up next time you open Google searchers window as well.
To look for a page's meta title, you can right click on any area of a page and click on "View Page Source" from the drop-down menu. You will find something that looks like this:
<title>Sample Title</title>
However this format may vary depending on the content management system that you are using. If you are using WordPress, for instance, you can add the meta title in general settings under "Tagline."
Similar to meta descriptions, meta titles also follow a standard for optimal format and length. Ideally, a meta title should be formatted like so:
Your primary keyword – Your secondary keyword | Your Brand Name
In terms of its length, a meta title should have 50 to maximum 60 characters. Anything more than that and you risk your text being clipped by search engines such as Google. If you want your titles to be displayed properly, then it is best to follow the above mentioned title length. A vivid example of MetaTitle can be seen below:
Why are Meta Titles important?
Meta titles give search engines and the visitors a glimpse of what they can find in the certain page. They help them and give the ability to understand what the content on a particular page is about and can play a role in influencing a visitor's decision to click on your link or not. Meta titles are also great tools to have for branding, especially if you have already established yourself as a trusted name in your industry. You can leverage your brand by displaying it on your title tag, inviting people to click on the page of a brand that they trust.
In the matter of page rankings, meta titles can play a role in how well a page ranks on SERPs, given that they are quite an important on-page SEO component. By putting keywords closer to the beginning of your title tag, there may occur a higher chance for them to rank when it comes to keyword-based searches.
How to write a good Meta Title?
In order to write a good title tag, here are some guidelines you can observe!
Be mindful of your title length: As it was mentioned earlier, it is best to limit your title length to under 60 characters, including spaces. But there is more to it than that. While there is no set limit to how many characters you can put on your title tag, there is also a 600-pixel container that you need to be aware of. You may be wondering why some title tags could appear to have more characters, while others can have fewer than 60 characters, but still get truncated on SERPs. This is for the reason that some characters like Ws and titles in all caps take up more space. Titles in all caps are also more difficult to read, and as a result, can get truncated. Surprisingly when you follow the optimal length for your meta title, search engines may opt to display a different title tag from what you've originally provided.
Do your keyword research: When it comes to meta titles, it pays to do keyword research. Page rankings do not just depend on one particular main keyword; they also factor in related terms and other variations, in the case of long-tail keywords. And while it might be tempting to place several keywords in your title tag, avoid keyword stuffing. This can result in a bad user experience and can thus negatively impact your ranking on SERPs.
It is also important to always keep in mind that you are writing for a human audience as well, not just search engines.
Avoid using duplicate title tags: Duplicate title tags can affect the certain page's visibility on SERPs. Giving each page a unique title can take up some of your time, but making one page stand out from another is ultimately beneficial for you and your page. A unique title makes it easier for the visitors to know what a certain page has in store for them, which makes it all the more inviting to them. This, in turn, translates to more click-throughs for the page.
Tags: growth, marketing, seo
CPC Marketing


text:
Mark van Rijswijk (Runnymede, Engeland, 30 augustus 1979) is een Nederlands sportverslaggever en voetbalcommentator bij ESPN.

Biografie
Omdat zijn vader in dienst was van het internationale olieconcern Shell, werd Van Rijswijk buiten de landsgrenzen geboren. Vervolgens verhuisde het gezin naar Oman en op vijfjarige leeftijd komt hij in Assen te wonen. Zijn middelbareschooltijd bracht hij door in Den Haag en (een jaar) in Oegstgeest. Omdat zijn ouders in Turkije woonden, zat hij met zijn broer twee jaar op een internaat.

Van Rijswijk studeerde Journalistiek en Rechten aan de Rijksuniversiteit Groningen. In deze stad werkte hij ook voor de lokale omroep OOG Radio, waar hij wedstrijden van FC Groningen versloeg. Via verschillende contracten bij RTL 5 kwam hij in 2006 terecht bij Talpa waar hij commentaar gaf bij De Wedstrijden. Later ging hij naar RTL Voetbal. Vanaf de zomer van 2008 werkt hij voor ESPN (voorheen Eredivisie Live en Fox Sports).

In 2006 versloeg Van Rijswijk de EK-finale onder 21 in Portugal. Hij deed verslag voor bijna vier miljoen kijkers in de wedstrijd Jong Oranje het eindtoernooi won. Ook bij de tweede Europese titel van Jong Oranje in 2007 versloeg hij de finale.

Nederlands sportjournalist

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
{-# LANGUAGE OverloadedStrings #-}

module Main where

import Control.Proxy
import Control.Proxy.Concurrent

import Control.Monad

import Control.Concurrent.Async

import Pipes.CEP

import qualified Data.Map as M

import qualified Data.Text as T

import Data.List
import Data.Maybe

import Test.QuickCheck
import Criterion
import Criterion.Main

import MarketData

tickers :: [T.Text]
tickers = map mkTicker [0..999]

--------------------------------------------------

broadcastD :: Proxy p => [Input a] -> () -> Pipe p a a IO ()
broadcastD = foldr ((>->) . sendD) pull

--sendSwitchD :: (Ord k, Proxy p) => (b -> k) -> [(k, Input b)] -> () -> p () b b' b IO ()
--sendSwitchD predicate sm () = runIdentityP loop
--  where sm' = M.fromList sm
--        loop = do
--          -- request the next value
--          v <- request ()

--          -- lookup receiver in our map
--          let input = M.lookup (predicate v) sm'

--          -- send value only if receiver was found
--          success <- case input of
--            (Just i) -> lift . atomically $ send i v
--            Nothing  -> return True

--          -- when we send sucessfully
--          -- we respond and loop
--          when success $ do
--            _ <- respond v
--            loop

sendSwitchD :: (Ord k, Proxy p) => (b -> k) -> [(k, Input b)] -> () -> Consumer p b IO ()
sendSwitchD predicate sm () = runIdentityP loop
  where sm' = M.fromList sm
        loop = do
          -- request the next value
          v <- request ()

          -- lookup receiver in our map
          let i = M.lookup (predicate v) sm'

          -- send value only if receiver was found
          when (isJust i) $ lift . atomically . void $ send (fromJust i) v

--------------------------------------------------

main :: IO ()
main = do

  --let ss = force $ map statement1 tickers

  -- create test data
  -- this is randomly generated by quickcheck ... so it may effect the results
  -- but I am lazy and don't want to create data by hand
  td <- fmap concat $ replicateM 100 (sample' arbitrary  :: IO [MarketData])

  -- force the creation of the list by showing the length
  -- note: this of course won't evaluate the individual values
  --       but it doesn't make a big difference in the end
  print $ "done forcing " ++ show (length td) ++ " elements"

  -- function to calculate the average price
  let avg e = sum e / genericLength e

  -- some simple tests to get running
  let s1 = bench "only fromListS" $ nfIO $ runProxy $ fromListS td
  let s2 = bench "mapD price >-> windowTime 10 >-> mapD sum" $ nfIO $ runProxy $
             fromListS td >-> mapD price >-> windowTime 10 >-> mapD avg
  let s3 = bench "mapD price >-> windowLength 10 >-> mapD sum" $ nfIO $ runProxy $
             fromListS td >-> mapD price >-> windowLength 10 >-> mapD avg

  -- filter tests
  let s4 = bench "filterD (\\e -> ticker e == \"S0AAA\") >-> windowLength 10 >-> mapD (sum . map price)"
            $ nfIO $ runProxy $
             fromListS td >-> filterD (\e -> ticker e == "S0AAA")
                          >-> mapD price
                          >-> windowLength 10
                          >-> mapD avg

  -- switch test
  let s5 = bench "test sendSwitch" $ nfIO
         $ do
            -- create mailboxes
            (ins, outs) <- fmap unzip $ replicateM (length tickers) $ spawn Unbounded

            -- create statements
            let stmt o = recvS o >-> mapD price
                                 >-> windowLength 10
                                 >-> mapD avg

            let stmts = map stmt outs

            -- spark statements
            asyncs <- forM stmts $ \s -> async (runProxy s >> performGC)

            -- run the actual proxy
            runProxy $ fromListS td >-> sendSwitchD ticker (zip tickers ins)

            -- wait for other threads to finish
            mapM wait asyncs

  -- run the benchmarks
  defaultMain [s1, s2, s3, s4, s5]

--switch m = do

--   v <- request ()

--  let t = ticker v

--  let stmt = M.findWithDefault pull t m

--  stmt ()

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Tomorrow, my firstborn turns 15.
How is it that 15 sounds 10 years older than 14? Maybe it's because he'll start driver's ed in April. Maybe it's because he's 6'3″ and I can't tell his clothes apart from his dad's in the laundry sometimes. Or how grown-up he looks in his ROTC uniform, or how he constantly talks about his "military career" after high school. His whole adult life is right in front of him, and I'm standing behind wondering where that 6 1/2 pound newborn with colic went.
But I won't say, "It went by so fast!" It did in my perception, but honestly, I was there for every minute and I've watched him grow. So yes, it feels like it went by fast, but I'm changed, and that confirms that the time did pass. That old clock's hands ticked double-time.
Every age of children is interesting, but I have to say these years, where my kids have fully-formed personalities and interests that diverge from my own, have been the most awe-inducing. Is there drama? Some, but not much. Are there still times I shake my head and ask, "Why?" Yes. Most of the time, though, I have the chance to watch them do things I never saw coming–like a self-avowed band-nerd becoming a marching-band parent or listening to them talk about Texas history (which teaches me something since I took Oklahoma history in school). It's an intense time of life (mountains of homework, broken hearts, extracurriculars) but it's fun, too.
So when people ask why I write YA, it's because of the possibilities. Whether you write paranormal or contemporary, historical or dystopian–teens are always on the cusp of something, and that tension, those possibilities, make for great stories.
I'm looking forward to the stories my own kids create. It's going to be a wild ride.
And, in honor of the kid's birthday, here's a picture of that tiny baby from so long ago. Can you believe a 6'3″ kid came from this bitty creature? <3
This entry was posted in Blog on February 4, 2016 by Kendra.
My Favorite Shows (and Movies) of 2015
Howdy all!
There are only a few hours left in 2015–and I just got used to writing the correct year on checks. Alas. In continuation of my series of my 2015 favorite things, this last post is dedicated to movies and TV. I had to combine them because I don't do much of either, but what I like, I really like. So…here goes:
Marvel TV (via Netflix)
Okay, Netflix, you got me. You really, really got me. Daredevil and Jessica Jones were two of the smartest, darkest, best written superhero shows in 2015–even more so than Avengers: Age of Ultron (which I liked okay) and Antman (which I thoroughly enjoyed against my initial impression). These two shows, written for Netflix, are made to be binged. Netflix, wisely, released the entire seasons at once, allowing for "just one more" when you're bleary-eyed at eleven p.m. In Daredevil, they created a smart, likable, if brutal, hero, two great "sidekicks" (although I'd argue they transcend that label), an excellent cameo in Rosario Dawson, and one of the best Marvel villains ever written for the screen. Yes, I made that claim. Fisk was so complete: loving (yes!), scared, brusque, driven, passionate, merciless, and as broken as our hero.
Jessica Jones did something we haven't seen from Marvel on the screen (yet): they let a woman lead. Besides Agent Carter and until Captain Marvel, we haven't had much in the way of female characters being central to the story from Marvel, until now. And, oh, what a character Jessica is. She's an anti-hero extraordinaire. A victim, a liar, a voyeur, an unrepentant alcoholic. She's a terrible friend, but grows into a great one. She's a terrible lover, but atones for her sin. And she doesn't let the damage done to her stop her from seeking out and destroying the man who destroyed her first. Dark, twisted, raw–it's definitely rated M for mature, but it works despite the shock and awe. And maybe because of it. Oh, and David Tennant is terrifying as the villain. His superpower is so simple, but so awful at the same time.
The Big Bang Theory, CBS
A lot of people think TBBT is on its last legs. Many complain that "it's not as nerdy, therefore not as fun." As a writer, I have to ask: if the show and the characters stayed exactly the same for nine seasons, would you still enjoy it? Probably not. I think the reason I'm still so invested (and I'll admit, season 8 was soft) is because the characters are evolving–especially Sheldon. It's nice to see these guys mature, while still enjoying all things Comic Con. And the women on the show add some much needed texture. I love Amy. Mayim Bialik has done a great job with the character. You can tell she's finally in a place where she feels validated and belongs.
The Blacklist, NBC
I started watching the blacklist early in 2015–I watched a few minutes of the episode after the Superbowl and decided I should give it a try. After that, I picked up season one on Netflix, and I've been devouring episodes since. I talked a little about my obsession with Liz and Tom's twisted relationship before, but I'm still 'shipping them. He's willing to do anything for her–and I mean anything. She's gone from black and white FBI agent to someone in the margins, which is why they work so well. And James Spader…I've been a fan of his for years, from Brat Pack, to Stargate, to Boston Legal to Red Reddington. You can just tell he's having a blast on this show. And he can basically outact just about everyone, even guest stars like Isabella Rossellini and Peter Fonda. Jury's out on David Strathairn, though–depending on what they let his character do. Oh, and did I mention they get kickass guest stars? The FBI is writing to look a little slow, but there's enough to make up for it to keep the show interesting.
Ant-Man, Marvel
The movie started slow. Let's admit it. BUT–when it got going, it was a darn fun popcorn flick. Ultron was big and loud and (JAMES SPADER!) and amazing to look at, but Antman was just fun. Michael Douglas was part badass, part nerd, and part grumpy (funny) old man. Evangeline Lilly proved she can kick ass without Tolkein at her back. And Paul Rudd was hilarious. The scene with Thomas the Tank engine never gets old to me. I laugh every single time–it's ingenious film making to use perspective to be awe and entertain. Oh, and Michael Pena was so funny, too.
And finally (you knew this was coming):
Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Disney/Lucasfilms
There's so much I want to say about this movie, and I just can't. It's too soon for spoilers (tomorrow is 2 weeks, and I think the "imaginary ban" is lifted, but I won't post yet), but…BUT. Daisy Ridley's Rey is an amazing, empowered, spunky, stubborn, compassionate heroine. She's the Star Wars heroine I've been waiting for (nothing against Leia–but Rey literally kicks ass). Finn has a big heart–for fear, pride, and for friends. Poe is fearless, funny, and loyal. And our old favorites don't disappoint. I know a lot of people were disappointed. I know a lot of people thought it was too much like A New Hope. While that may be, peel back the layers and you'll see it's different enough, and going in a different direction. This was the setup. VIII is going to be the launch. I saw it twice in the theater. It's been years since I've paid for a theater ticket to see something twice. Usually I wait for the DVD and watch at home. That says a lot about how much I enjoyed it. Part of that was nostalgia, sure. But a lot of that second time was to devour all the details I missed. To immerse myself in the experience. For me, it's the Star Wars movie I've been waiting for since Jedi.
So that's my list. Any great movies or shows I'm missing? Let me know in the comments. And here's to 2016! Suicide Squad! Civil War! X-Men: Apocalypse! Should be entertaining.
This entry was posted in Blog on December 30, 2015 by Kendra.
My Favorite Songs of 2015
Since I did a post about my favorite books of the year, I thought, why not keep on going? TV, Movies, Music–I'll post about them all before December 31!
Today we'll focus on my favorite songs from 2015. Now, some of these *might* have been released before 2015, but I didn't come across them (anywhere) before then. All righty–let's get started:
"I Started a Joke" from the Suicide Squad Trailer
Sidney Chase (Feat. Becky Hanson)
From what I can see, you can't get this version on iTunes (I bought two covers that were close though), so you can bet I'll buy the soundtrack as soon as it releases. This song is so eerie, so beautiful, so haunting, that it MADE the trailer. To me, it sounds, and feels, like Harley Quinn's theme song. Check out the lyrics, combine that with her complicated love-story with the Joker, and you'll see why.
"Up and Up" by Coldplay
Coldplay's last album was all about heartbreak–and why not. Chris Martin had just split with Gwenyth Paltrow. A Head Full of Dreams could not be more different. There's joy in every single song on this album. I'll feature a second song shortly (which happens to be CM's favorite song ever), but this is my favorite from the new album.
"The Fall" by Imagine Dragons
This song is so beautiful. To me, it feels like discovery, awakening. It also got me through the Sekrit Project. There's another song (which I won't post here, to keep a mystery) that sparked that project, but this one captured the heart of my heroine. She's had her heart broken, then remended in an unexpected way. She's been waiting for something to change, and it does. Plus the end chorus really sums up her feelings.
Renegades by X Ambassadors
Yes, it's been played nearly to death by the radio stations, but I LOVE this song. It celebrates the unique weirdness inside us all. Plus it just has a great sound. This is a song my kids and I will always listen to when it comes on. It's a great song for YA writers, too, because it captures that moment when a teen realizes being different is actually awesome. And the video? The man climbing Kilimanjaro, whose arms and legs end before the first joint, was a speaker at a conference I attended. He's amazing. Oh, and X Ambassdaors's keyboardist, Casey? He's blind. So when you think you can't do something because it's too hard, think again.
"A Head Full of Dreams" by Coldplay
So this is Chris Martin's favorite song–his favorite out of Coldplay's entire discography. It's a wonderful, bouyant piece of music. The main theme is that your dreams can be the change you want it to be. This is classic Coldplay, ethereal, vibrant. They are one of the most musical bands you're going to hear (yes, haters, they are)–if you've seen them live, you'll agree. I can't help but smile and bounce a little every time I hear this song.
And last, but so not least…
"Time" by Mikky Ekko
This song hit me right in the soul the first time I heard it. And I knew, immediately, that this was Quinn and Lexa's song. To me, I hear the struggle for two people to finally be together. That time isn't on their side, but they're still hoping, waiting, fighting for that chance. There's such longing in the music and Ekko's voice is raw with it. It's the perfect song for star-crossed lovers, and reunited couples.
So that's my list! How about you? Any songs burst onto your radar this year?
I've been wracking my brain, thinking about a post for the end of the year…2015 has been a long year for me (while still being really quick), but one thing I had plenty of time to do was read. Being laid up after surgery is a great time to work down that TBR pile, and boy, did I. I've read some amazing fiction this year, and thought I'd share my faves.
The Heart of Betrayal by Mary E. Pearon
The second book in the Remnant Chronicles was even better than the first. Both books are great, but this one added depth, danger, and passion. It's a lovely epic-fantasy style YA perfect for people who enjoyed The Girl of Fire and Thorns series. YA 13+
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Fans of the Grisha trilogy know Bardugo can craft a great yarn. This book, set in the same universe, is one of the most fun caper tales I've read. A ragtag group of criminals/malcontents are charged with completing a dangerous heist in return for a big reward. Nothing ever turns out as it seems, making it very hard to put down. YA 14+
An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
If you're a fan of The Hunger Games, unusual world-building, or unlikely love stories, this book is for you. Gorgeously written, it takes an old plot and gives it a hard shake into something new. It's a little similar to Red Rising, but only in that one protagonist comes from an oppressed people, and the other from the oppressors. I read it in two days while on vacation–just devoured it. Lovely work.
Golden Son by Pierce Brown
Speaking of Red Rising, you knew this one would be in here. It seems like forever since it came out–but it was January 2015, so it qualifies. With the final book in the trilogy, Morning Star, coming out in early 2016, you really should take some time to pick up this series. Part Roman society oppression tale, part dystopian, part space opera, this book has everything. Epic space battles, beautiful nuanced character moments, and some bloodydamn good writing. Howlers, let's rock. Adult due to violence (but suitable for ages 15+)
Walk on Earth a Stranger by Rae Carson
Anybody who's read Girl of Fire and Thorns knows Rae Carson can write. She creates intimate portraits of her characters, and protagonist Lee/Leah is no exception. On the run from her parents murderer, Leah has to pose as a man to join a wagon train on its way west to the California gold rush. I've never read a YA in this time period, and thoroughly enjoyed it. It's a planned trilogy, so this book is all about the journey. The details are spot-on, and the drama, fear, and hope is real. YA 13+
There are so many more books I enjoyed this year, but these were some of my very favorites. Next year, I'm looking forward to series follow ups from all these authors plus (be still my heart) the conclusion to the The Raven Cycle by Maggie Stiefvater, and the conclusion to The 5th Wave series. I'm always looking for new reads, though–care to share some of your faves in the comments to send me off to my next book obsession?
UPRISING: Now Available
Greetings from lovely Sedona! I'm enjoying a write-cation with my fabulous beta readers this weekend, cranking out words and enjoying the lovely scenery. Oh, and celebrating the release of UPRISING! For those of you who've been waiting (and waiting and waiting) for the sequel to UNSTRUNG, it's now available on most media outlets, including Amazon, Kobo, iTunes, Smashwords, and (hopefully soon) Barnes & Noble.
I'll post more soon, but my blog is giving me fits. In the meantime–happy reading!!
This entry was posted in Blog on November 14, 2015 by Kendra.
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Finalizing details in Paris and getting ready for Technical Verifications on Friday and the "Grand Depart" from Place Trocadero on Saturday!
The current coat of arms of Morocco was introduced 14 August 1957. It was developed by the graphic artists Gauthier and Hainaut and shows a green pentagram on a red background before the Atlas Mountains and a rising sun. The royal crown is on top. Two lions function as the holders of the shield. On the ribbon underneath, the Arabic inscription is written: "If you glorify God, he will glorify you" (Quran, Verse 7, Sura 47). The Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles is proud to be the only auto event to bear the Moroccan coat of arms. Embroidered on the Gazelles' vests, its presence serves to remind them of the respect due to its lands and people during their great adventure.


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The Year of New Possibilities...
Who has words to describe 2020 that don't sound trite or overused? Yet, there is so much that still needs to be said.
Who has words to describe 2020 that don't sound trite or overused? Yet, there is so much that still needs to be said. Everyone I speak to is beyond exhausted and doing their best to put one foot in front of the other as we crawl our way into a more hopeful 2021. For all of you who have suffered loss and hurt, know that I send love and strength in this time.
While this year has broken so much, it has also broken us open to create new possibilities. I hear in each of my conversations-from New York to Karachi to Lagos to Bogota-how people are moving from a sense of despair to finding purpose and determination through their actions, large and small.
I saw this profoundly in our work at Acumen this year. Within weeks of the first COVID-19 lockdowns around the world, Acumen's Board and Partners stepped up in extraordinary ways. Together, we created two emergency funding facilities of over $6.1 million dollars, which enabled our team to extend grants and concessionary debt to Acumen's companies and Fellows, protecting vital jobs and critical services to address the moment's urgency.
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Director Kannan's Boomerang with Atharvaa in the lead has been certified with 'U' by censor officials. It stars Megha Akash, Induja, Upen Patel, Suhasini Maniratnam, RJ Balaji and Satish in prominent roles. Music is by Radan and cinematography by Prasanna Kumar.
It is bankrolled by Kannan himself.According to Kannan, 'To make a film set against a sensational premise and packaging them with elements that would savour the universal audiences remains to be a challenge. But as a producer and director, I remained conscious about making it happen as I felt this as a need of hour'.
Tags: boomerang gets 'u', Boomerang.