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Rising Seas 3: Weird weather and sea level inching up prompt Baltimore to confront future climate
by Len Lazarick | Jul 30, 2013 | News | 4 |
This is the third in a series about Maryland's sea level rise put together by the Capital News Service of the University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism. It was written by graduate and undergraduate student journalists under the direction of experienced editors.
By Lauren Loricchio and Emilie Eastman
Capital News Service
Fells Point waterfront (Capital News Service)
In Baltimore's waterfront neighborhoods, flooding is so common that many residents view it as an inevitable nuisance. Some families who have lived along the water for generations have seen dozens of floods and storm surges and have chosen to stay. But recent changes could test their resolve.
Sea levels are rising worldwide, and studies show they are rising two-to-three times faster in the Chesapeake Bay region than in most other parts of the world. By the turn of the century, they could rise 2 to 5 feet, researchers say.
Baltimore neighborhoods would be inundated — along with the 11,700 to 13,000 houses and apartments constructed on those blocks, according to a Capital News Service analysis.
Some of Maryland's most iconic places – Baltimore's Fells Point and Harborplace, the historic fishing town of Crisfield, Ocean City's boardwalk, the Dorchester County birthplace of Harriet Tubman — are at risk. The Port of Baltimore employs more than 14,000 people and indirectly generates another 100,000 jobs around the state. And the water is the focus of much of Baltimore's tourism.
"The waterfront has always been the harbor for the Baltimore economy from the very beginning when people first settled here, and it has continued to be the centerpiece of our economy," said Laurie Schwartz, president of Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore, Inc.
Prized waterfront locations carry risks
But waterfront businesses and communities on the bay face serious risks in exchange for their prized location.
In 2003, the storm surge produced by Isabel caused $410 million worth of damage in Maryland, a National Weather Service report said. On Key Highway, the Baltimore Museum of Industry alone had $1 million in storm damage, as 5 feet of sewage flooded exhibits and the building's heating and air conditioning systems.
Man looks at flooded parking lot at Annapolis City Dock (By Chesbayprogram on flickr)
Sea level rise isn't the only effect of climate change that Baltimore will confront. Besides storms, scientists say, rising temperatures will cause a huge strain on the city, particularly where there is little green space to relieve the heat.
Urban heat islands — large areas of pavement absorbing heat — will affect Baltimore in a variety of ways, from more infectious diseases carried by mosquitoes to more strains on utilities that power air conditioning.
"There is absolutely no doubt that climate change is increasing temperatures…. It will put stress on the electrical grid system," said Beth Strommen, director of the Baltimore Office of Sustainability.
From Hurricane Irene in 2011 to the swift derecho that left thousands without power last summer, severe and damaging storms create problems for governments.
Many residents may not understand that they should be preparing for climate change, said Eric Hohman, assistant Maryland state climatologist.
"It's such a slow change that people don't realize it until it's too late. It's economically necessary to start doing things now… so that you protect your future," he said.
Under Armour from Fells Point (by cizauskas on flickr)
Few counties have plans
Some Baltimore government agencies have begun to consider climate change. The Office of Sustainability was formed, within the planning department, to promote conservation.
But five years ago, the Maryland Commission on Climate Change issued a report urging cities and counties to "take specific action now." So far, just four counties and the city of Annapolis have taken advantage of a federally funded state program to develop plans.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency requires cities to update their emergency plan every five years, the Baltimore Office of Sustainability website says. City officials use the plan to try to protect residents from natural disasters and other community threats, FEMA's website says. This year, Baltimore will incorporate climate change into the plan.
Last winter, Baltimore's planning department created the Disaster Preparedness and Planning Project, or DP3, a committee of more than 30 community leaders, business executives and government representatives who are planning the city's approach to climate change.
"Baltimore is not going to retreat from the waterfront, but we have to acknowledge the change," said Ken Hranicky, floodplain manager and city planner for the Baltimore Department of Planning.
Baltimore City Councilman James Kraft acknowledged that, while the city has made some progress, it needs to do more. Kraft introduced the legislation that created the city's sustainability office.
"We've been working on these things but could act more aggressively than we are," Kraft said. "Nationally, we don't have the courage or political will to make these changes, but here at the local level we can do it."
Human psychology not equipped for long-term risks
But addressing the issues of climate change and sea level rise is complicated. The challenges, from educating the public to implementing the DP3 committee's recommendations, are myriad, said Kristin Baja, who is managing the project.
"People think of climate change as a global element that they can't control at this level," she said.
Dr. Cindy Parker of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and a member of DP3, thinks the reluctance of response may be partly psychological.
"It has to do with how our brains are wired to perceive risk," she said. "It's really hard to commit money to things we can't see or are threatened by."
Part of DP3's goal is to find ways to make sea-level rise a concrete issue for Baltimore residents, she said.
"If we're talking about 2100, it seems so far and advanced for people," she said. "Talking about issues in ways that are relevant to people makes them seem more tangible."
Baltimoreans who live on the waterfront know they have to be ready for the next big storm.
"We're faithful sandbaggers. Like when Superstorm Sandy came, we had our bags," Sandy Piskor, owner of a rowhouse on Aliceanna Street in Fells Point. "That's just the chance we're willing to take."
Capital News Service reporters Tyler Weyant and Natalie Kornicks also contributed to this article.
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Ed	on August 1, 2013 at 12:53 pm
Climate change and its cause — how much is caused by human activity versus natural forces — is open to debate. What is NOT open to debate is the fact that sea levels have been rising throughout the mid-Atlantic and some land has been sinking. That is measurable. The issue is here and it is real. Whether increasingly powerful storms are a part of the future is open to debate, but the effects of storms that do hit are changing because of the increases sea levels, sinking land and development near water. The issue is how to deal with the changes.
Mustang Sally	on August 1, 2013 at 9:09 am
This article is fear based, not factual….the article did not name the study, yet the rest of the article is based on the un-named study! How can I believe any of this when the study is not revealed? These young journalists have a lot to learn. Shame on the editors and shame on Maryland reporter for printing this piece full of fear, propaganda and an obvious agenda. The climate temps have been steady for the last 16 yrs. So now, if anyone disagrees with this "Climate change agenda", they have a psychological problem?? Get ready for the Psy-Ops!! The carbon emissions from America have been at an all time low for several years now. How about bringing some Sustainability to China or India? I've got an idea, lets print some truth! Wake up Folks, and take your country back.
lenlazarick	on August 1, 2013 at 10:54 am
the anonymous Sally wants the name of the study. How about this one http://www.mde.state.md.us/assets/document/Air/ClimateChange/Chapter5.pdf, Regardless, whether you believe in climate change, temperature rise, or what to do about it (the story makes absolutely no mention of "emissions"), the evidence point to rising water levels, and more severe storms. If you live or do business near the water, as hundreds of thousands of Marylanders do, what do you do about that. The increasing floods in Crisfield are not in someone's imagination. So even if the glaciers, icecaps and tundra aren't melting, we know that in Maryland the sea level is rising and the land is sinking, whether we do anything about greenhouse gases or not. Len Lazarick, editor
hungrypirana	on July 31, 2013 at 10:21 am
If this series will have more chapters, then may I suggest one story acknowledging that opposing views exist? Not necessarily on climate change per se (because of scientific consensus), but whether its timing and effects can be predicted with any degree of reliability, and whose ideas to manage such effects are plausible?
So far, this series evokes in most readers a high degree of short-term bad effects; opposing views are couched with too much bias. For example, the "…reluctance of response may be partly psychological…how our brains are wired to perceive risk."


Our Psalms Devotional Guide can be used on its own, but it is meant to accompany our Psalms Coloring Posters & Coloring Pages. This Devotional Guide includes nine meaningful devotions with reflections and questions for both children and adults.
The short reflections and questions will guide you through some familiar, and some more unfamiliar, Psalms. Drawing from the Psalms found in the Revised Common Lectionary (Year B) readings for Lent, these illustrations and this devotional guide can be used during Lent, or anytime during the year when you want to dive into the Psalms.
The Psalms are a great source of theological creativity, depth, and wonder, and we're excited to be able to offer children and people of all ages a way into the Psalms.
Note: The illustrations in the Psalms Devotional Guide are just meant as a reference to what illustration the devotion goes with. They are not meant to be large enough to color. We encourage you to purchase our Psalms Coloring Posters or the Psalms Coloring Pages here.
Purchase it for yourself or your family, and spend time going through the devotions on the Psalms.
Put together an intergenerational Sunday School class during Lent and bring people together for coloring and conversation (using the reflections and prompts in the devotional guide).
Download it and print it off to take to those in your congregations who can't make it to weekly worship anymore as a way to connect them with what your church is doing during the year.
Upon your purchase, you will receive a downloadable PDF of the Psalms Devotional Guide that you can print out.


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LADERA RANCH, Calif., Aug. 15, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — Strategic Storage Growth Trust, Inc. ("SSGT") announced continued growth in same-store revenues, net operating income ("NOI"), occupancy and annualized rent per occupied square footage as part of its overall operating results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.
Increased same-store revenues and NOI by 15.6% and 44.1%, respectively, compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased same-store average physical occupancy by approximately 5.5% to 94.8% from 89.3% compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased same-store annualized rent per occupied square foot by approximately 9.8% to $12.11 from $11.03compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased modified funds from operations to approximately $0.7 million from a loss of approximately $0.6 millioncompared to the same period in 2016.
Increased quarterly cash flows from operations to approximately $1.4 million from cash used in operations of approximately $0.2 million compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased same-store revenues and NOI by 18.2% and 38.7%, respectively, compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased same-store average physical occupancy by approximately 7.2% to 94.3% from 87.1% compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased same-store annualized rent per occupied square foot by approximately 9.5% to $11.62 from $10.61compared to the same period in 2016.
Increased modified funds from operations to approximately $1.1 million from a loss of approximately $1.4 millioncompared to the same period in 2016.
Increased cash flows from operations to approximately $0.5 million from cash used in operations of approximately $0.6 million compared to the same period in 2016.
On May 11, 2017, SSGT closed on two existing self storage facilities in Asheville, NC (the "Asheville Portfolio") for a purchase price of approximately $10.3 million. The two properties have approximately 860 units and 125,000 rentable square feet combined.
On May 23, 2017, SSGT closed on a newly-constructed self storage facility located in Sarasota, FL. SSGT acquired the Sarasota property for a purchase price of approximately $6.7 million. The property has approximately 485 units and 48,000 rentable square feet.
On May 5, 2017, SSGT filed with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-3, which registered up to an additional $115.6 million in shares under SSGT's distribution reinvestment plan (our "DRP Offering"). The DRP Offering may be terminated at any time upon 10 days' prior written notice to stockholders. As of June 30, 2017, SSGT had sold approximately 32,000 Class A Shares and 11,000 Class T Shares for approximately $0.4 million and $0.1 million, respectively, in its DRP Offering.
On June 22, 2017, SSGT's board of directors declared a daily distribution in the amount of $0.0010958904 per share on outstanding shares of common stock, payable to both Class A and Class T stockholders of record of such shares shown on its books as of the close of business each day during the period commencing July 1, 2017 and ending September 30, 2017. Such distributions payable to each stockholder of record during a month will be paid the following month.
On July 11, 2017, SSGT closed on a self storage facility located in Mt. Pleasant, SC for a purchase price of approximately $5.7 million. The property has approximately 500 units and 48,000 rentable square feet.
On July 14, 2017, SSGT's property manager informed Extra Space Storage, Inc. of its intention to terminate each sub-property management agreement effective October 1, 2017, after which SSGT expects that its property manager will manage its properties directly. In connection with a termination of the sub-property management agreements with Extra Space and the anticipated amendments to the underlying property management agreements with its property manager, SSGT will incur a termination fee of approximately $0.2 million. SSGT's sponsor is currently in negotiations to reacquire the rights to the "SmartStop® Self Storage" brand in the United States which, if successfully acquired, SSGT anticipates using at its properties.
On February 8, 2016, a subsidiary of SSGT executed a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of property that is being developed into a self storage facility located in Pembroke Pines, FL (the "Pembroke Pines Property"). The purchase price for the Pembroke Pines Property is approximately $15.7 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Pembroke Pines Property to close in the fourth quarter of 2017 after construction is complete on the self storage facility and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.
On April 5, 2017, a subsidiary of SSGT executed a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of property that is being developed into a self storage facility located in Gilbert, AZ (the "Riggs Road Property"). The purchase price for the Riggs Road Property is approximately $10.0 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Riggs Road Property to close in the second quarter of 2018 after construction is complete on the self storage facility and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.
On May 9, 2017, a subsidiary of SSGT entered into an assignment with its sponsor in which its sponsor assigned it a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of property that is being developed into a self storage facility located in Las Vegas, NV (the "Deer Springs Property"). The purchase price for the Deer Springs Property is approximately $9.2 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Deer Springs Property to close in the first quarter of 2018 after construction is complete on the self storage facility and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.
On June 5, 2017, a subsidiary of SSGT entered into an assignment with its sponsor in which its sponsor assigned it a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of property that is being developed into a self storage facility located in Eastlake, CA (the "Eastlake Property"). The purchase price for the Eastlake Property is approximately $17.0 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Eastlake Property to close in the fourth quarter of 2017 after construction is complete on the self storage facility and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.
On June 9, 2017, a subsidiary of SSGT entered into an assignment with its sponsor in which its sponsor assigned it a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of property that is being developed into a self storage facility located in Riverview, FL (the "Riverview Property"). The purchase price for the Riverview Property is approximately $7.8 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Riverview Property to close in the first quarter of 2018 after construction is complete on the self storage facility and a certificate of occupancy has been issued.
On July 26, 2017, a subsidiary of SSGT entered into an assignment with its sponsor in which its sponsor assigned it a purchase and sale agreement with an unaffiliated third party for the acquisition of a self storage facility located in Nantucket, MA (the "Nantucket Property"). The purchase price for the Nantucket Property is approximately $37.5 million. SSGT expects the acquisition of the Nantucket Property to close in the third quarter of 2017.
SSGT's results of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 have been significantly impacted by a favorable increase in same store results of approximately $0.4 million and $0.7 million, respectively, a decrease in interest expense of approximately $0.4 million and $0.8 million, respectively, and a decrease in distributions to preferred interest holders of approximately $0.5 million and $1.0 million, respectively. The information below should be read in conjunction with the discussion regarding the acquisitions and the table above.
Net loss attributable to SSGT's common stockholders for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 included none and approximately $0.5 million, respectively, in distributions to Preferred Unitholders in SSGT's operating partnership and none and approximately $22,000, respectively, in accretion of preferred equity costs. Net loss attributable to SSGT's common stockholders for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 included none and approximately $1.0 million, respectively, in distributions to Preferred Unitholders in SSGT's Operating Partnership and none and approximately $52,000, respectively, in accretion of preferred equity costs. As of December 31, 2016, SSGT had redeemed all of the Preferred Units.
In evaluating investments in real estate, SSGT differentiates the costs to acquire the investment from the operations derived from the investment. Such information would be comparable only for publicly registered, non-traded REITs that have generally completed their acquisition activity and have other similar operating characteristics. By excluding expensed acquisition-related expenses, SSGT believes MFFO provides useful supplemental information that is comparable for each type of real estate investment and is consistent with management's analysis of the investing and operating performance of SSGT's properties. Acquisition fees and expenses include payments to SSGT's advisor and third parties. Acquisition related expenses under GAAP are considered operating expenses and as expenses included in the determination of net income (loss) and income (loss) from continuing operations, both of which are performance measures under GAAP. All paid and accrued acquisition fees and expenses will have negative effects on returns to investors, the potential for future distributions, and cash flows generated by SSGT, unless earnings from operations or net sales proceeds from the disposition of other properties are generated to cover the purchase price of the property, these fees and expenses and other costs related to such property.
Debt issuance costs of approximately $179,000 and $163,000, respectively, were recognized for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016. Debt issuance costs of approximately $327,000 and $336,000, respectively, were recognized for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016.
SSGT is a public non-traded REIT that focuses on the acquisition, development, redevelopment and lease-up of self storage properties. The SSGT portfolio currently consists of 20 operating self storage facilities located in nine states comprising approximately 12,900 self storage units and approximately 1.5 million net rentable square feet of storage space. Additionally, SSGT owns two development properties in the Greater Toronto Area which will be comprised of approximately 1,700 self storage units and 170,000 net rental square feet of storage space once completed, and one development property in Asheville, North Carolina which will be comprised of approximately 650 self storage units and 72,000 net rental square feet of storage space once completed.
SmartStop is a diversified real estate company focused on self storage assets, along with student and senior housing. SmartStop has a managed portfolio that currently includes more than 67,000 self storage units and approximately 7.8 million rentable square feet and approximately $1.3 billion of real estate assets under management. SmartStop is the asset manager for 107 self storage facilities located throughout the United States and Toronto, Canada and two student housing facilities. SmartStop is the sponsor of Strategic Storage Trust II, Inc., SSGT and Strategic Storage Trust IV, Inc., all public non-traded REITs focusing on self storage assets. The facilities offer affordable and accessible storage units for residential and commercial customers. In addition, they offer secure interior and exterior storage units as well as outside storage areas for vehicles, RVs and boats. Additional information is available at www.smartstopassetmanagement.com.


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Amazon and Dish's 5G Alliance: A Nightmare for Network Carriers
April 29, 2021 February 23, 2021 by Alan Flores
The monumental contribution of Dish in getting the merger of T-Mobile and Sprint will be remembered for years to come. The aforementioned merger revolutionized the existing industry. It posed an imminent threat to the existing reign of wireless network companies i.e., Verizon and AT&T. If this chain of events wasn't sufficient to create havoc, the news suggests that a new collaboration might be on the cards. This partnership may lead to a possible 5G alliance between Amazon and Dish, which could prove to be a nightmare for existing carriers.
This potential partnership stems from Dish's decision to pay a large sum for Sprint's prepaid businesses. Ever since Dish took this massive step, Amazon is back in business. However, the news of this alliance seems to be short-lived. Numerous sources suggest that the e-commerce hub is only planning to launch what it calls a "Sim Service Test" in an uncharted market outside the United States. This news hasn't been confirmed, but we can be assured of its authenticity as it comes from a very credible source, Peter Adderton. That's right. Looks like the founder of Boost Mobile America has more to offer than just a wireless service!
Tweets by peter_adderton
Despite his absence from the business, Adderton seems to know what's going to happen next. If we are to take his word on the matter, then the likelihood of Amazon testing waters with its mobile network somewhere outside the United States is extremely possible. With this assumption, it won't be much of a surprise if Amazon moves forward to partner with Dish. Consequently, if this partnership does materialize, existing network carriers will be given a run for their money.
With that being said, the initiative to introduce a 5G network doesn't come without the need for a colossal investment. Executives at Dish have quoted expenses amounting to $10 billion. However, the massive expenses that the company may have to incur, do not bother Charlie Ergen, the Chairman, who feels that Dish can gradually roll out its share of investments for the launch.
Even though Ergen remains unfazed with the financial aspect of this service, it can be said without a doubt that the amount quoted for investment may seem unrealistic, even for a company like Dish. The scenario seems mind-boggling until and unless Dish can find a partner who can provide core funding.
Adderton's words are starting to make more sense now. The dish is in need of a partner who can aid them through funding. Amazon seems to be back with the aim to enter into a new industry altogether. Together, they can form an indestructible 5G alliance, one that can prove to be a nightmare for existing US carriers.
A question that may arise: how a 5G alliance can prove to be an inevitable threat for the existing network carriers. The answer is simple. Ergen conceptualizes this 5G network as one that relies purely on virtualization, and this new concept is something that the old carriers cannot possibly implement until they rewire the crux of their networks.
If this 5G alliance between Amazon and Dish were to happen, it can prove to be an absolute nightmare for the existing carriers. However, the intensity of this nightmare and the subsequent after-effects on the current carriers remains to be seen.
Related Article: Verizon and Honda have announced 5G
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VRLove Review 2021 – VR Porn Game
VRLove is being produced and constantly improved by one of the largest VR companies: VirtualRealPorn.
Get VRLove!
Quick and Easy: Is VRLove worth it?
Teledildonics compatible
Live pornstar scanned character
Offers Free mode
Wide range of customisation
Graphics need to improve
Interactions with character needs to improve
Graphics of VR Love
Erotic side of VR Love
How about the content of VRLove?
Interaction in the game
Story behind VR Love
Price of VR Love
Conclusion: VR Love
With VR porn taking the internet by storm, VR porn games have been on the rise. However, there haven't been many to become a true 'adult' VR game successfully. While some have lacked in aesthetics, others have failed to capture the imagination of its players.
Play VRLove!
The graphics work in the game sub-par when compared with the industry average. There's space for improvements, especially with reactions, emoting, eye movement, and hair texture, but considering it's still an alpha version, they can still make it to the top 10.
One of the reasons for this will be technology – when it improves, so will the graphics. But apart from that, one of the characters has been developed based on Spanish pornstar Amarna Miller. In 0.8.8 VR, Love updated this initial model to look better!
The environment for the game has also been beautifully developed and looks very immersive. It's a stellar work by a relatively new group of VR enthusiasts.
The team behind VRLove added a VR Vignette mode too, made specifically for people who suffer from dizziness while playing.
Overall, the graphics are still above average, and there's a lot of hard work put into how the game looks. And where it's hard work, there are great results too. I'll rate it at 4.5/5.
The game looks to encourage not just VR sex but interactions, flirting, and then some hardcore action. The premise of the game itself is quite erotic as it looks to increase the foreplay. Additionally, the characters that are presented are quite erotic themselves. You can't discount how sexy Amarna Miller looks no matter what.
Whether you have a fetish for big breasts or you like your girls petite and young, you'll find them all here. That said, the erotica is still dependent on how good the graphics get. We'll wait for VRLove to improve their graphics, but as of now, I'll still rate their erotica 5/5.
The game currently involves two modes – Free mode and Story mode. The free mode is based on the philosophy of 'don't flirt, just fuck', and it quite rightly lives up to the expectation.
It's built to give you an instant dose of some VR fuck, once you have decided on your characters. Your characters can be big-boobed, petite, BBW or slim, and a few other combinations.
Once that's done, you'll need to select the mode. While those looking to get straight into the action can choose the free mode, they can easily do that.
The free mode gives you lots of capabilities to change up your character as a game should! You can alter some individual face features along with the body type and specific parts of it.
You're also free to choose all of the characters' clothes, underwear, and shoes apart from customizing their looks. Every clothing article can be purchased with an in-game currency.
They have already committed that more characters, gay, lesbian, transsexual interactions and multiplayer features will soon be available. Additionally, the game is already compatible with Lovense and VRStroker, so that's a big plus. Overall, for content, I'll rate the game at 4/5.
I liked the Story mode, which offered interaction, engagement, and then some action. It's interesting, engaging, and works well. It would have been even better if the characters could have been given the ability to anticipate and react to what's going on in the game (for example, when you're fucking a beautiful blonde while a red-head is sitting beside you on the couch) instead of looking disinterested.
Some face animations could be added to the characters, too, for a better overall experience. Because the game lacks face animations, they seem to look at you a bit too straight sometimes.
For interaction, I'll rate the game a 4/5.
The Story mode offers the ability to interact with Amarna and finally get her to bed. However, it's quite easy, and it would be more fun if there are a bit more challenges to it.
We can expect that the later characters are going to be more evolved. It would also be great to allow the user to control the sex actions, the stroking speed and allow the characters to emote properly.
For now, I'll rate the Story, a 4/5.
The pricing options are very varied. So you have a lot of options to choose from. Billing is secure, easy, and anonymous. As expected of such a professional site as VirtualRealPorn.
You need a minimum of:
OS: Windows 7 / 8.1 / 10 64bit
DirectX: DirectX 11
Processor: Intel Core i5 4590 equivalent or greater
Memory: 16GB+ RAM
Storage: 4GB
Video Card: NVIDIA GTX 970 or GTX 1060 / AMD R9 290 equivalent or greater
Equipment: Mouse, Keyboard
VR: Oculus Rift CV1 , HTC Vive
Equipment: Wheel mouse, Keyboard, Xbox controller
There are very few games in the market that have the ability to create an immersive game with realistic graphics, always on top of new trends, and easy on the pocket.
VRLove is one of them, and it makes a purchase decision all the easier when you know VirtualRealPorn supports it.
It looks great, feels smooth while playing, and has its erotic and sexy content. A great game that shows us a bit of what the next-gen games will be like.
Hi, I'm VRPornDave! I'm the owner and main author at VRPornMania. I know everything there is to know about Virtual Reality and the adult industry. I wrote reviews to every single VR porn site, toy, and game. Why did I do all this hard (no pun intended) work? To help you find the best VR porn out there!
18 U.S.C. § 2257 Statement


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'Roswell, New Mexico' 2×01 Review: 'Stay (I Missed You)'
Home » 'Roswell, New Mexico' 2×01 Review: 'Stay (I Missed You)'
Alyssa Barbieri
During these scary times our world is facing, it's nice to have an escape in the middle of the madness. Which is why Roswell, New Mexico couldn't have timed its season 2 premiere better.
If we have to self-quarantine for the next couple of months, at least we have Roswell, New Mexico on Mondays.
I didn't realize how much I missed this show until the season 2 premiere. It's easier to distract yourself with something else — other shows, sports, reality TV. But when a really great show like Roswell, New Mexico returns, you stop what you're doing and pay attention.
And considering where we left things after the season 1 finale, there were so many questions. Questions that only grew into more questions after this season premiere.
Of the characters that knew of Max's death — Liz, Isobel, Michael and Rosa — they each seemed to represent one of the five stages of grief — denial, anger, depression and bargaining.
Thankfully there's no acceptance. Because that would mean saying goodbye to Max forever, which we know couldn't be further from the truth.
Let's break down this amazing season premiere of Roswell, New Mexico, where these characters each represented one of the five stages of grief:
Denial – Isobel
Ursula Coyote/The CW
For all that everyone lost, Isobel lost her other half. Her better half. Her brother. He's been the one constant in her life, the one that's kept her grounded. And now that he's not there, she's struggling.
While Isobel has perfected the art of pretending that everything is fine with Max, she's had an outlet through which to grieve: The death of her husband/traitor Noah. While she couldn't miss that asshole in the slightest, the fact that she lost someone that the world believes she lost, Isobel is allowed to grieve Max.
And it's painful as hell.
Look no further than Noah's funeral, which for Isobel served as the closest thing to Max's funeral. Because they haven't told anyone that Max is dead. Merely that he's out of town. (Isobel and Liz even plan a nasty argument in front of everyone to illustrate that Max left town because Liz broke his heart.)
But watching Isobel stand in front of everyone, there was no way she could convince anyone that she missed Noah — no matter how good an actress she could be. So, she focused her attention on Max. For a moment, Isobel let herself not be in denial. And the floodgates overtook her. She felt overcome with emotion, the kind that she felt she could never recover from.
In allowing herself to grieve Max for a moment, Isobel realized just how painful it was. The kind of pain that she didn't know if she could survive. So, she decided to push it away and embrace the denial again. It was easier, after all.
But for all that it's worth, Isobel refuses to believe that Max is really gone. Perhaps that's the one thing truly saving her from going over the edge completely. This belief that, if she can harness her powers to the fullest extent, that she can bring him back. She's giving herself a purpose, and clinging to hope that Max will return — and that she'll be the one to do it.
But there's one thing that Isobel can't deny, she's pregnant with that jackass's baby. SON OF A BITCH.
Anger – Michael
bisexualalienblast
If there's one thing we know about Michael Guerin, it's that he doesn't deal with grief in the best way. When he can't simply brush it off — or make a joke — he embraces the anger that comes with the pain. Because it's easier to blame someone else than be forced to feel the pain of heartbreak.
Whether that's stumbling into funerals with a near-empty bottle of booze or making out with a random girl and getting in a bar fight, Michael is doing everything he can to embrace the anger because it's better than feeling the grief that he knows is waiting for him.
And that's exactly what's happening with Michael. He's lost his best friend, but he doesn't exactly know who to blame here.
Because for all of the blame that Michael has placed on Max for what ultimately happened — the fact that he had to play hero — the truth is, Michael feels responsible. He feels like he should've been able to stop Noah. He feels like he could've saved Max. He feels like he should've been the one to die.
Obviously, Max is a big boy. He makes his own choices. He knew the risk that came with going up against Noah, and he took it. For all that he was, Max was a hero, a protector. And there was nothing in the world that was going to prevent Max from protecting the ones he loved.
Still, Michael is too proud to admit that he cares sometimes. Vulnerability is a struggle for him. Almost as if it's perceived as weakness. But it's not. So even as Alex sees that Michael is hurting — he doesn't know the extent at the time — he reaches out to Michael. And what does Michael do? He tries to push him away.
"I don't think we're good for each other, and I want to be good for somebody," Michael tells Alex, and he 100 percent believes it. Not that they're not good for each other — that's a straight up lie — but that he wants to be good for somebody. Specifically, he wants to be good for Alex. Not that he can exactly tell him that.
So Michael tells Alex that he doesn't think they're good for each other. Because that's what Michael thinks Alex needs to hear in order to get the message — stay away, or you could end up like my best friend: Dead.
If anything, I just want to hug everyone in this episode for all of the pain that they're feeling.
Depression – Liz
Liz has perfected the art of pretending that she's alright. To the outside world, she's strong, she's in control, and nothing affects her — even the most crippling pain.
But we know better. Some of us are good at internalizing pain and hiding it from the outside world. And it doesn't take us long to see that Liz is far from okay. In fact, she's unhappy. And she's hiding it from everyone, forcing herself to take on all of the pain by herself.
Why shouldn't she be happy, Liz wonders. After all, she got her sister back. How many people get a second chance with a loved one that they lost? How many people have had someone they love give them the gift of a second chance with a family member?
It's almost like Liz feels guilty. Because she's not happy like she should be. Kind of like she's acting ungrateful.
But Liz, like everyone else, needs to grieve. Even though she feels like she has to be the strong one. She sees Isobel breaking down, sees Michael's anger and sees her sister struggling in her transition back to life. Liz feels like she needs to be the rock now that Max is gone. And it's not fair to her to put that kind of pressure on herself.
Eventually, it comes to a breaking point in a hotel bathroom. It's the first time she's had alone with herself. And, out of nowhere, the grief strikes. And she can't control it. She sobs in the bathroom, as Rosa listens, crying in the shower as water rains down on her and it's impossible to notice what's water and what's Liz's tears.
When Rosa confronts Liz about being unhappy, Liz realizes that's not the case. It's not unhappiness, it's grief. She lost someone she loves deeply. She'll never know what her life could've been with Max. And she's left to wonder without him. It's a terrifying weight, one she's let bog her down for two weeks.
But Liz turned that depression into motivation. Motivation to defy outside expectations. The old men on boards that have told her to stay in her lane, that told her something like regeneration wasn't possible. But she's choosing to believe in herself. She knows she can do this.
And it was fucking beautiful.
Bargaining – Rosa
How does one react when they realize that they've been dead for 10 years only to be gifted with a second chance at life?
I'm not sure, but in my opinion, Rosa was doing a bang-up job of acclimating to a new world — one where aliens exist and apparently so is regeneration.
Aside from the nightmares that she's been experiencing — that feature Noah — it seems like Rosa is doing fine. Turns out, it's a lot harder to live if to the man that sacrificed his life so that you could live. Especially when that man was madly in love with your sister.
It doesn't take long for Rosa to catch on to the fact that Liz is in pain. While she's put on a brave face for Rosa over the last two weeks, even Liz can't hide the grief that needs to come up.
Rosa wonders what makes her so special that she was spared? What did God see in her? Because she certainly doesn't see it herself.
We soon see that Rosa has been struggling more than she's let on. She's struggling coming to grips with this second chance she's been given. She wasn't the best person before she died. When she learned that someone as noble and loving as Max exchanged his life for hers, she feels like she doesn't deserve it.
Max should be the one still alive, she should've stayed dead.
But Liz reminds Rosa that this wasn't God's decision. Max made the trade, not God. Max wanted to do something amazing, and he brought her back to life. Max saw something in Rosa that was worth sacrificing himself for her life.
Now, Liz is going to return the favor.
Where did Maria's mom go?
There's nothing more chilling than watching Maria's mom walking to the bar as "Zombie" plays and what appears to be a UFO popping up behind her.
Oh, and the fact that she disappeared — even as Maria was looking for her — is the kind of eerie stuff that's sure to leave everyone talking.
WHERE THE HELL DID MAMA DELUCA GO?!
What's wrong with Max?!
In the final moments of the premiere, we saw that the nightmares Rosa was having was merely Max trying to get in contact with her, seeing as they're psychically linked.
But what was so important that Max was fighting so hard to get to her?
Apparently, Max knows that Liz is trying to bring him back to life. And he doesn't want her to. In fact, Max begs Rosa to ensure Liz doesn't bring him back to life. Whatever it takes, Rosa's going to have to be the one to stop Liz.
BUT WHY?!
Perhaps he didn't want Noah's heart. Or perhaps Max knows there's bigger repercussions at stake here. The kind that could destroy everyone.
'90s music nostalgia was FIRE
I feel like this can't be said enough. But the fact that Roswell, New Mexico is paying homage to the original series by playing the '90s music of our childhoods is the kind of thing that separates this show from others.
It's honoring the original show, staying true to the characters that grew up in that time and reminding everyone — including teenagers — that '90s music was the freaking bomb.
I mean, just look at some of the songs that played tonight:
"Zombie" – The Cranberries
"Bitch" – Meredith Brooks
"Santa Monica" – Everclear
Are. You. Freaking. Kidding. Me?!
I still have chills after that final montage featuring "Zombie." Chills.
Roswell, New Mexico airs Mondays at 9/8c on The CW.
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Love Trumps Hate (The Women's March: Macrocosm and Microcosm)
Posted on January 27, 2017 by Lynda Smith Hoggan
Last weekend I participated in the Women's March in Los Angeles. It was organized to be a sister march to one scheduled in Washington, DC. Its goal was……to support women's rights, and it did. But most know that a secondary mission was to protest the presidency of Donald Trump. It's impossible to separate the two, because many of Trump's agendas are directly threatening to the health and welfare of women and families, not to mention the environment that supports us all.
I was ambivalent about going. Not because I don't support the causes – I do – but because I was a bit worried. I'm not as young as I used to be, and going would involve taking public transit into LA (which I've never done before) or driving and facing closed streets and full parking lots (which I've done too many times before). Plus I have back problems and was concerned about the long day of walking and standing. I could have stayed home and supported it in my heart.
The main reason I ended up going makes me smile now: I was worried that there might not be a good turnout. I know many people feel the way I do, but would they brave those same barriers and show up? I didn't want the March to appear piddly and feed Trump's already narcissistic idea that few people oppose his policies; I could help just by contributing a body. Instead, an estimated 700,000 people turned out! And that was just in Los Angeles. The original march in Washington had over half a million. New York had between 500,000 and a million. Chicago had 250,000. The list goes on: Boston, Philly, Miami, Denver, Seattle, etc.
And size isn't the only factor. Those are bigger cities, but small cities and even small towns around the nation were represented. Borrego Springs, CA had 140 people. I've spent a fair amount of time visiting there; that must have been practically the whole town!
So this was not just a DC event, and it was not just a US event: Cities around the world also took part. Places like Toronto, London, Barcelona, Mexico City – even the research station in Antarctica had 30 participants (more if you count the penguins!) It was a global event, and the largest of its kind in history.
Academics are still working on the calculations, but here is a preliminary list that is pretty interesting:
http://news.infoshop.org/dissent/womens-march-global-tally
Best of all, in the two cities that had the largest marches, police reported that crowds were always peaceful and respectful, and there were NO ARRESTS. I expect other cities were similar.
That was the macrocosm, which Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines as "1 : the great world : universe. 2 : a complex that is a large-scale reproduction of one of its constituents." Millions of people came together to stage a world-wide peaceful protest.
Now for the microcosm.
Once I had decided to go, some friends wanted to come from out of town to join me. They also wanted to help make sure that I could sit and walk comfortably. The two adult women spent the evening before knitting pink 'pussy hats,' while the girl and I made signs.
– Images of three women by artist Shephard Fairey
(made available to the public for the Marches)
While we worked, she asked me to explain the meaning of the March, which I gladly did. She is a woman of the future, and what is happening now is going to have a profound impact on her life and those of other young people I care about. This march would be in HER honor!
In the morning, we met with friends of theirs and all caught the train into Los Angeles. It wasn't full when it arrived, but it was when it left. There was standing room only, and in fact, people were standing – and sitting – in the bathroom (luckily no one had to 'go')! Everyone was cheerful, polite, and generous of spirit.
Being in the March was amazing. Most of us lost phone coverage, yet I still managed to connect with two other close friends. There was a constant kaleidoscope – a sea of pink hats, funny or thought-provoking signs, friendly police officers. In one favorite segment, women chanted, "My body, my choice!" and enthusiastic men called back, "Your body, your choice!" Imagine the females of all ages there, but especially the young ones, witnessing such homage to Girl Power!
– Los Angeles Women's March, photographs by Christopher Haug
Oh yeah, and there were portapotties. Duh! Why is that worth mentioning? Because near the beginning of the March I used one, and at the end of the March I realized … (dun dun dun) … that I had left my new phone in it. Aarrgghhh! Not that I could easily go back, walking against the crowd, but I knew there was not much reason to go because thousands of people would have already gone inside after me; someone would have taken it. It really cast a pall on an otherwise great day, because there were pictures on the phone that I had not saved elsewhere.
Later we had dinner; we took the train back. At home I checked my landline messages as I always do. One was from my college roommate, which was not unusual. But her message was: "Lynda, call me! I heard from someone who says she has your phone!" Turns out that my phone was locked, but if the woman who found it paid close attention, and if the phone received a text, she had a brief window to text back to that person. My friend had texted, the woman caught it and replied. I called her that night and drove back to Los Angeles to get the phone the next day. What a lovely person she is! She said she had to do everything possible to get my phone back to me.
And so the microcosm, defined by Merriam-Webster as "1 : the little world. 2 : a community or other unity that is an epitome of a larger unity." A stranger went out of her way to help another; commUNITY.
Lastly, another microcosm: Two of the people who stayed with, marched with, and helped me are the wife and daughter of an ex of mine. Proving one of the most popular signs in the March – Love trumps Hate.
See you April 15, if not sooner. 😉
– Photograph by Christopher Haug
This entry was posted in Politics, Relationships and tagged children, equality, feminism, global, hate, health, kindness, Los Angeles, Love, macrocosm, men, microcosm, movement, peaceful protest, Politics, portapotty, progress, pussy hats, rights, strangers, Washington DC, welfare, women by Lynda Smith Hoggan. Bookmark the permalink.
73 thoughts on "Love Trumps Hate (The Women's March: Macrocosm and Microcosm)"
Nesh on February 8, 2017 at 9:21 am said:
I think that the march was one of the most amazing symbols of unity that I have seen. Women's rights are not up for negotiation. I despise the fact that men are making decisions for women and what their reproductive rights should be. I wanted to go to the march but I had to finish homework and submit some assignments. My aunt attended the march and she said that it was amazing. Also, the story about you phone was priceless. There are still some good people in the world.
Lynda Smith Hoggan on February 8, 2017 at 2:38 pm said:
I almost didn't go, and I'm so glad I did! Yes, the phone incident was a nice reminder that not everyone is just out for him/herself. Maybe you can go to the next one!
gracers on February 8, 2017 at 7:25 pm said:
I've heard a lot of conservative people I know and work with criticize the protests. They say we need to accept things the way they are and not be poor sports about the election loss. I will never understand this attitude because the only thing that has ever made necessary changes to our system is protesting! From civil rights, to gay rights, to abortion rights, to free speech rights, to human rights. Now we even have to protest for the right to allow Muslims into the country. What's wrong with us? How did we let it come to this? It is precisely because we weren't out there protesting before the election that Donald Trump won the most powerful seat in the world.
People like to say that my generation is lazy, apathetic, and too consumed by social media to participate in the political system. I think this protest proves that we don't get enough credit. Cheers to more of these protests in the next four years. We're going to need it.
Lynda Smith Hoggan on February 14, 2017 at 1:33 am said:
Very well put, Grace! Change does not happen because people sit and do nothing. I protested against the VietNam War and for civil rights, and I will continue to demonstrate on behalf of what I believe is right. I hope you will, too.
Nick Luna on February 13, 2017 at 10:11 pm said:
To be apart of such a historic moment, that will without a doubt make it to our future generations textooks as a moment in time where women were still fighting for their rights as human beings. Sounded like an amazing empowering event to experience.
Yes, it certainly was! And men were and are welcome. 😉
Jerry Castanon on February 15, 2017 at 8:01 pm said:
That is an awesome story of humanity being good to each other, feeling and sharing love, and coming together to use their power in a positive way. I think that the messages we fight for are better heard when we are examples of what we advocate. I wish I would've gone! Maybe I could've gone and found myself a strong woman! If not, I could have just supported, of course. :p
Lynda Smith Hoggan on February 16, 2017 at 12:39 am said:
You would have found many strong women! 😉 But consider going next time, this cause or another you support. It really is an unbelievable experience!
Laurenski on May 20, 2017 at 11:06 pm said:
I love the idea of women coming together and standing up for what they believe in. Unfourtunately I disagree with Trumps previous choices to defunned planned parenthood and pro life stances because I am very much pro choice. Aside from that I am a huge Republican and Trump supporter and I think he wants to make America a safe superpower and I'm all for it.
Lynda Smith Hoggan on May 24, 2017 at 12:37 am said:
We wouldn't agree on Trump, but I'm with you on Planned Parenthood and pro-choice! As well as women standing up!
Aaron Wirohusodo on May 21, 2017 at 4:01 am said:
It's amazing to hear about such an event. I can't believe that I didn't hear about an event on this scale (which really goes to show how much more I need to pay attention to what's going on in the world around me). It makes me happy to hear about people being so kind to one another. I also love to hear about men and women, alike, standing up for women's rights. It makes me smile to hear about the positivity that this event spread, unlike the negativity that "feminism" sometimes sparks. Don't get me wrong I am all for women's rights and equality, but sometimes people take things too far and begin shaming men by making harsh generalizations based off of some outspoken sexists. I would love to participate in the next one and show my own support for the cause and experience this kind of positivity for myself!
Lynda Smith Hoggan on May 23, 2017 at 10:52 pm said:
I'm surprised that you didn't hear about it, especially because it was a GLOBAL event, with cities and countries around the world taking part! I have a feeling you will have another opportunity, just watch the news and google. It's nice to hear men caring about women's welfare and rights. 🙂
Amber Cardinas on May 22, 2017 at 4:12 am said:
This March was such a revolutionary point this year in showing the Nation what mass amounts of people believe in and stand for. It must have been quite the spectacle to be there for yourself, especially since LA is such big place to be marching in. i applaud you for having the courage to go even though it would be tiring and exhausting (mentally and physically i would assume)
You're right, it was tiring, but it was also energizing. There's nothing quite like being with a large group of people with like mind and purpose.
chicana23 on May 23, 2017 at 7:16 am said:
Lynda,
I too attended the Women's March in Downtown LA. I've been to several protests before, and I attended the anti-Trump march/protest the day before. Aside from the difference in weather, the atmosphere was completely different for the Women's March. I felt like I had goosebumps the entire time because I couldn't believe how many people were actually there. I couldn't believe how many people were supporting us: women!! Later, when I heard the actual numbers being put to what we had accomplished, I was shocked. It feels so empowering to know that I was a part of history that day. Just like the brave men and women who marched and protested during the civil rights era, we would be represented for this generation. I was sorry to hear that you lost your phone, I had a similar experience with losing our car! The excitement and energy took over and we didn't even think to check or write down what parking garage we had parked in. It took almost two hours just to find our car again. Nevertheless, this was an experience I will never forget.
The part about the car was a bummer, but, like my phone, at least it ended well! Yes, I was amazed at the turnout, and the meaning behind the turnout: Support for the needs and rights of women!
Vanessa on May 23, 2017 at 6:54 pm said:
I found it inspiring that you decided to go and support the women's march and put aside all the obstacles keeping you from attending. I have never participated in a march but I appreciate those who represent us that don't and that take the time to go out and stand up for what is right and just. The work you ladies (and gents) go through is incredible. Just as you put it, it is in HER honor. Not just for us ladies who've already made a mark in this world but to our future generations; our unborn sisters. Way to make a change!
Thank you for your generous words! I hope you get to go sometimes because they are very empowering experiences. Girl power! (But I'm glad you mentioned the gents, because they were an important part of it.)
kayvonmakanvand on May 23, 2017 at 9:20 pm said:
Although I wasn't able to attend this event, I'm certain I would like to go next time! It surely is eye-opening to see how entire communities join forces to stand by what they think is right. It is also reassuring to see that they protest the derelict legislation of our president. My faith in humanity still stands strong!
As a veteran of many protest marches (including the largest ever march against the war in Viet Nam), I can tell you they are amazing, empowering experiences (as long as everyone keeps a cool head). I'm glad you are keeping the faith alive!
Patricia Valdez on May 24, 2017 at 12:10 am said:
It's crazy how such a huge group of women can come together to help each other send such a powerful message. It just shows how strong each one is and how race, sexual identity, beliefs all don't matter because sticking together and marching as one makes us so much stronger! I am so proud to be a woman. Hopefully one day I can attend one of these marches.
Lynda Smith Hoggan on May 24, 2017 at 1:35 am said:
I hope you do, because you deserve to see the power of women in all its forms!
Victoria Z. on May 24, 2017 at 4:06 am said:
I had been wanting to go to the March myself but I was worried because I've never been to a March before and I was scared to attend alone. It's so surprising that someone actually contacted you to return your phone that's amazing! I never would've expected that but as women we all have to stand by each other including ex best friends and your ex's new girlfriend.
Actually it was my ex's wife and daughter who helped me! But the woman who returned my phone was a total stranger. It was very moving. Next time you want to go, try to get someone to share the experience with you.
Meghan Sauerheber on May 24, 2017 at 4:08 am said:
I really love how this March brought everyone together and women became as one to have a voice about something they believe in. Thats what I love about this country is that you're able to stand up for what you believe in. Its so exciting that you got to be a part of it and watched history.
It was very exciting, and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I never expected it to be so HUGE!
Samuel Torres on May 24, 2017 at 5:39 am said:
I am glad you were able to change your mind and go to this march after all even with all those obstacles that were holding you back. It really shows how passionate you are for the woman not just in this country but around the entire globe and I truly respect that. You even have inspired to me to fight for what is right and not let those with power take advantage of us. We are the people!
Thank you for taking the opportunity to be inspired! Yes, we are the people, and we deserve to have power over our destinies.
Alula on May 24, 2017 at 5:59 am said:
I live in a predominantly religious/conservative home, with only my younger brother and I being more liberal minded; I remember my parents watching Fox news that day and besides talking about the inauguration they would roll their eyes at the women's march not knowing that I so badly had wanted to go. Now I regret not plucking up the courage and going in solidarity because you describe your experience as one so uplifting and encouraging! I will definitely cast any fear aside and go next year to be with such an amazing crowd of men and women for such an important cause.
It's part of growing up to realize and accept the ways in which your beliefs and values differ from your parents'. I do hope you find the courage, because it will be an amazing experience.
julianne on May 24, 2017 at 6:45 am said:
It's crazy how we have just so many men even wanting to decide on issues that only affect women! Unfortunately I did not get to march with my sisters but I have protested for black lives matter and I agree it is exhausting but even when I was physically tired I had some type of adrenaline that distracted me. It's great to see people involved. Hopefully I get to participate in the next one for women
Black Lives Matter is an important cause, too. Any time people are being treated unfairly, others have to stand up and say NO!
Meghan Sauerheber on May 24, 2017 at 3:45 pm said:
I think this march was amazing. Watching all these women come together and make history was unbelievable. It must have been so cool and fulfilling to experience this and be a part of history. I love this country for the very reason we can do things such as this to show and stand up for what we believe in.
It really was a great historical event! We must never stop standing up for the rights of women and girls.
Monse on May 24, 2017 at 5:11 pm said:
Its amazing how so many women and men came together mad all happen on that day. Sadly i wasn't able to join since i was out of the country for that whole month. But i was still there in mind and in spirit . My body, my choice is a great motto to live up too. I'm so glad that you were still able to attend and was able to be part of something so historical.
I agree that's a great motto, and it was particularly inspiring to hear the men saying it!
alissadorame on May 24, 2017 at 5:42 pm said:
Honestly what you're doing is amazing love all of your blog 😭
Thank you! I hope you keep reading. 🙂
Honestly what you're doing is amazing love all of your blog 😭 This encourages me and makes me want to make one of my own!
Oh, how exciting! I hope you do!
Michelle Tran on May 24, 2017 at 10:43 pm said:
The fact that many people gathered together on a common ground for what they believe in is truly beautiful and inspiring. Reading this makes me realize that we can all be united as a society to fight for what we believe is right because we have a voice and it should be heard. I hope that I can be apart of this beautiful experience next time! Actions unite us!
I hope you make use of this kind of inspiring experience for yourself!
daltonhibbard on May 25, 2017 at 2:07 am said:
A detailed account of a historic event. Thank you for sharing your experience, Lynda. I wish that I could have marched alongside you and stood up for this important cause. There are always more opportunities, though. You are an inspiration.
It was indeed historic, and I hope you make use of those other opportunities!
Denae Ramos on May 25, 2017 at 3:43 am said:
I actually participated in this walk as well but in San Francisco. The Women's March was such an empowering movement and an experience that I will never forget. My friends and I made the best signs and enjoyed being a part of a walk that was worldwide. I felt so liberated walking with so many different women, even men, who believed in the power of women. Having a president who has talked down upon women is disappointing and months later still shocking but the Women's March overpowered everyone.
How exciting that you were in the march in San Francisco! And to know that it was going on all around the world. I agree that Trump's words and behavior are disappointing and shocking.
Valencia on May 25, 2017 at 6:04 am said:
I think the Women's March is such an amazing and historical event. It truly shows how much female empowerment we have. It is important that we all stand up for what we believe and what we feel is right and just.
I couldn't agree more!
Iris on May 25, 2017 at 7:15 am said:
Isn't it ridiculous that it is 2017 and men still think they have any right to our health and body rights? The women empowerment movement is beautiful. Women of all shapes and sizes come together to support and spread love to one another. Im so glad you were able to attend the march and now have an amazing experience to hold on to!
Yes, I'm amazed (and angered) when I see photos of a group of white men grinning about signing bills that control women's rights and welfare!
lilbee on May 25, 2017 at 8:55 am said:
Im so glad that you decided to attend the march. You were able to enjoy yourself and do a march many women and others believed in fighting for. It is great you were able to experience new things and exploring more then usual. I am very happy for you.
Thank you – it was quite a learning experience in many ways. Never too old to learn!
Paul Alvarez on May 25, 2017 at 4:09 pm said:
This was a fantastic article to read. It is great to hear people like you participating in events like this one. There is still so much needed change in the world and I hope events like this will continue in future. Never stop fighting the good fight!
It's about standing up for what you believe in, and marches are only one way!
think that these types of marches are amazing and I'm glad you were there
to represent the rights of women! I'd love to participate in the next one
if I can find one. Let's give 'em hell!
I also think it's great that you included the little one in the
preparations and explained the politics. It's important that we help shape
the next generation of leaders and getting them actively involved in
politics is a great step forward.
With that said, I don't want to be like the conservative parent that
actively works to instill his beliefs into his son. My views could
ultimately be wrong. I want to instill a core set of beliefs like love,
acceptance, and empathy so that he can come to his own conclusion. Recently
he heard a stranger speak Spanish and exclaimed, "people that don't speak
English should come back to where they came from." Needless to say his
attitude changed when I pointed out his grandparents don't speak perfect
English. There's a line and I don't know where to cross it. I want him to
be one of the men yelling, "it's her rights!"
It sounds like you are taking a great approach to getting core values across. For me, not having kids, I don't get that much opportunity. But this was such an opportunity, and she was genuinely asking the questions, not just getting it rammed down her throat. It was a fabulous march, and I was so glad that little girls (especially) got to see so many people standing up for them!
Kevin Johnson on July 26, 2017 at 3:51 pm said:
I love it when professors get political! This is such a positive force in the world. I have a young daughter, and as a father it's reassuring to see that she will have strong positive female rolemodels in the world that she grows up in. It's admirable that you get to be that for the young woman in your life. Fight the good fight, Lynda!
Lynda Smith Hoggan on July 26, 2017 at 5:13 pm said:
Thank you! I think we should get political, because we usually have the education that makes for an informed, progressive society. Yes, our young girls need those role models. And they need strong, supportive males like you in their lives, too!
Kaitlyn Doyle on November 27, 2017 at 1:06 am said:
I really enjoyed your article on the woman's march. It gave me a happy feeling, however just the other day I heard that the last abortion clinic in Kentucky is going to be closed due to deficiencies in its licensing paperwork. It saddens me that the women in Kentucky will no longer have that right. I know its not uncommon in the bible belt, but it still is a loss to woman in the United States. I wanted to join the woman's march, but I did not want to deal with the issues you brought up within your article like the lack of parking and traffic. I have been to a gay pride parade, but a woman's march is definitely on my list.
I think there is going to be another Women's March this January. And I took the train which made parking a non-issue. (Don't know where you'd be coming from, but I got the Metro in Montclair and then just had one quick change at Union Station – could have walked it as well.) You do have to be prepared for crowds and that cell phone towers will be overwhelmed. Yes, I am saddened by the continued attacks on women's reproductive rights. The people who would force a woman to bear a child don't want to do anything to help her care for that child. It is a health issue for women – and for all of us as a nation – that women be able to control their fertility.
Lynda, It's amazing that you attended the woman's march and making a difference with women's right. Peacefully marching is always far more effective in spreading it's message then a chaotic one.I'm glad that the women's march in LA was able achieved that!
It was a wonderful experience! And I understand this year's was just as good (I was unable to attend). Thanks for reading!
floresalfonso455 on February 7, 2018 at 2:20 am said:
I am so proud of you professor that you went to the women's march even though you have back problems you STILL managed to attend! We need more women like you that inspire us women to stand up for what is right. P.S. I loved your poster!
Thank you. I'm an old peace marcher from the early '70's! But it was a lot easier when I was in my 20's LOL. It was fun to make that poster with my young friend and talk to her about the history.
NEH on May 22, 2018 at 9:17 pm said:
After reading this article I love the fact that thousands of people come together fighting or supporting for what they think is right. I believe that we are the most powerful together as a unit, and for doing so I agree for that March one hundred percent
Many, many thousands around the world! And they did it again this year!
Sawan Sheth on May 23, 2018 at 11:05 am said:
Absolutely love this article, Love does truly Trump Hate and it definitely inspires me to love more then hate.
Thank you! It was a loving day.
It is amazing that so many people participated in the Women's March in the United States. I am so proud of women who call for equal rights in pay and health care, to denounce sexual harassment, and to encourage women to run for office. I heard people said that it was ridiculous that women were still fighting for equal rights in 2018, but if there aren't many inequalities, why did hundrends of thousands of women gather to call for equal rights?
There are still MANY inequalities, and more so in countries around the world. I'm glad you support women's rights!
Jasmin on July 28, 2018 at 11:43 pm said:
I, too, participated in the march. It was one of the greatest experiences of my life. It was incredible to see so many people coming together for women's rights. I took the Goldline to LA, out train was completely full, every station had long lines of people, and no one could get on. I am so happy to have been a part of this HUGE movement. I loved every bit of it from reading all of the creative signs to the sense of power and importantance I gained during the March. I'm so glad that a fellow marcher did eveything she could to get you your phone back, too!
That was not my first big march, but it was the biggest – and inspiring! Thank you for being there!
Katie Funk on July 29, 2018 at 4:32 am said:
I love the story of your phone! It makes me happy that women are there for each other. I am literally sitting in the living room while my mom is watching HSN calling some of the models "ugly," and the host is telling the consumer that this is unattractive and that is unflattering. I am around so many women tearing each other down it is nice to see women bring each other up.


text:
Post Set to Take Applications for Four-Year, Full-Tuition Malcolm Baldrige Scholarship
Post University will start accepting student applications Nov. 1 for a four-year, full-tuition scholarship named in honor of the late Malcolm Baldrige, the namesake of the university's acclaimed business school who served as U.S. Secretary of Commerce from 1981 to 1987.
Winners of the Malcolm Baldrige Scholarship to enroll at the university's main campus will be announced March 1, 2019. The deadline for submitting completed applications to the Office of Main Campus Admissions is Feb. 1. Students can request a scholarship application by sending an email to admissions@post.edu.
"Offering this coveted scholarship to deserving students is a fitting salute to the selfless commitment that Malcolm Baldrige made to public service," said John L. Hopkins, president and CEO of Post University.
Eligibility for the Malcolm Baldrige Scholarship is limited to full-time students who have at least a 3.65 grade point average, and an SAT composite score of 1160 or an ACT score of 24. Other eligibility criteria apply.
Applications must include a personal resume, two letters of recommendation from a teacher, employer or another individual who address the applicant's academic abilities, and a 500-word essay on the concept of "quality" with respect to organizations, individuals, or both.
Students can remain eligible for the Malcolm Baldrige Scholarship each year by maintaining a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better and sustaining status as a full-time residential student pursuing a degree at The Malcolm Baldrige School of Business at Post University.


Don't miss the brilliant November issue of PONY magazine – it's full of awesome things to enjoy with your fave pony!
Jump more clear rounds by improving your jumping position and wow your friends by learning how to ride perfect 10m circles. If you love hacking out, don't miss our awesome step-by-step guide to opening gates while riding your fave pony – it's easy when you know how! We also help you choose the right clip for your pony, and let you know what rugs he'll need this winter, too.
If you don't have your own pony yet, check out our clever ideas for persuading your parents that it's the best idea ever!
There's also a bumper Pony Club Insider magazine inside the issue, which has all the action and the results from this summer's Pony Club championships.
Also, don't miss our epic competition to win Liverpool Horse Show tickets, and the November PONY comes with a FREE super-cute pony pencil and shiny stickers.


One of the key aims of SoilCare is to identify, test and evaluate soil-improving cropping systems (SICS) that will increase the profitability and sustainability of agriculture across Europe.
SoilCare defines soil improving cropping systems (SICS) as cropping systems that improve soil quality (and hence its functions), and that have positive impacts on the profitability and sustainability of cropping systems. Cropping systems refer to both crop type, crop rotation, and associated agronomic management techniques. The proof of the SICS concept is in the prioritization of specific crop rotations and specific agro-management techniques, and the subsequent optimization.
The SICS that have been selected by SoilCare study site stakeholders for field trials are presented HERE.
general SICS, which enhance soil quality and soil functions in general.
Prioritization of crop types and agro-management technique in soil threat-specific SICS.
Variable rate tillage, liming, manuring, irrigation seeding, fertilization, and crop management.


text:
Does Weaponizing a Pandemic and Blaming China Make America Great Again?
by Kim Petersen / May 4th, 2020
United States president Donald Trump is proud of the US effort against COVID-19. In his 1 May remarks on protecting America's seniors, he said,
Through aggressive actions and the devotion of our doctors and nurses, however, we have held our fatality rate far below hard-hit other countries such as Spain and Italy and United Kingdom and Sweden. We're way below other countries.
Trump employs the logical fallacy of the confirmation bias. In this case, he selectively chooses from among the most ravaged world nations suffering from COVID-19 to compare the US. There are 190 or so other countries where the US does not fare so well in comparison. Why doesn't Trump compare the US to his designated enemies of the US? Why not compare the US to Cuba, Venezuela, Iran, Russia, and especially China? Maybe Trump won't do that, but the rest of us can look at the data and compare.
COVID-19 Fatality Data for 1 May 2020
Deaths/1 M pop
United States 65,753 1897 199
Cuba 64 3 6
Venezuela 10 0 0.4
Iran 6091 63 73
Russia 1169 96 8
China 4633 0 3
One should regard the data with some skepticism. There may well be underreporting or misreporting of the number of cases. There may be misdiagnoses. Countries may also be in different stages of fighting the pandemic. Nonetheless, what jumps out from the data is that the US is being ravaged by the coronavirus far worse than Trump's designated adversaries.
Trump reversed the normalization of ties, began under president Barack Obama, between Cuba and the US. Instead, Cuba has been targeted by the Trump administration policy of "maximum pressure." This pressure included the US blocking of 100,000 face masks, 10 COVID-19 diagnostic kits, and other aid such as ventilators and gloves donated by Chinese entrepreneur Jack Ma. Nonetheless, Cuba and its socialized medicine have a far lower fatality rate than the US. Cuba to its good reputation has sent medical personnel abroad to help fight COVID-19, and it has even been so magnanimous to offer aid to the US. Venezuela, another socialist nation, has been targeted for sanctions by the anti-socialist Trump. Venezuela also fares statistically better than the US with 0.4 deaths per 1 million people compared to the US's 199 per 1 million people. The US's weaponization of the pandemic is also being used to try and topple the goverment of Iran. These actions clearly evince that the US has little regard for the populace of the countries. Yet, even though hard hit, Iran fares much better than the US. Russia is fighting COVID-19, but the situation up to now is much less lethal than in the US.
China, being where the pandemic broke out, had to identify the virus, treat the people, and strategize how to contain COVID-19. Its tackling COVID-19 has been sterling in comparison to the US, especially given the many weeks the US had to prepare for the pandemic to hit US shores; knowing what the pathogen was; knowing the genetic profile, thanks to China; and knowing how China has been dealing with the contagion.
Trump boasts: "And other countries are asking us for help, and we're helping other countries: allies and some that aren't necessarily allies, but they're in big trouble."
A group of prominent economists maintain that the sanctions imposed by the Trump administration are "feeding the COVID-19 epidemic." Columbia University professor Jeffrey Sachs said,
This policy is unconscionable and flagrantly against international law. It is imperative that the U.S. lift these immoral and illegal sanctions to enable Iran and Venezuela to confront the epidemic as effectively and rapidly as possible.
Trump, notorious for his lack of diplomatic verve, threatens others in the time of a pandemic. Any iota of decorum should tell Trump not to kick an opponent when he is down. And, referring to the fatality table above, it is clear that the US is also in "big trouble."
Polling neck-in-neck with a cognitively impaired presidential challenger, COVID-19 not abating, unemployment shooting upwards, the US economy sinking, Trump continues to deflect. He is quick to take credit when he considers the economy to be strong, but when the economy turns for the worse, he is quick to look elsewhere and point a finger:
It's horrible that — what this country [the US] has gone through and what the world has gone through, frankly. This is something — it could have been contained at the original location, and I think it could have been contained relatively easily. China is a very sophisticated country, and they could have contained it. They were either unable to or they chose not to, and the world has suffered greatly.
As CGTN made clear:
China was the first to confront COVID-19, which has made its challenge much greater. But the point about China is that it's not a talker, it's a doer, and when it got hold of the problem, it gave an impressive performance!
Trump just can't let up on deflecting blame from his government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic:
"The virus situation is just not acceptable…"
"It came out of China, and it could have been stopped, and I wish they stopped it. And so does the whole world — wish they stopped it…."
"But they could have stopped it. They are a very brilliant nation — scientifically and otherwise. It got loose, let's say, and they could have capped it. They could have stopped it. But they didn't."
This prompted a media person to ask:
You praised China in the past, so what's changed? When you tweeted, 'China has been working very hard to contain the coronavirus. The [U.S.] greatly appreciates their efforts on transparency. It will all work out well…' What has changed between then, when you were saying these things about China, and now?
Well, what's changed is the following: We did a trade deal and everybody was very happy. There's nobody ever been tough on China like I've been tough on China. I got elected, at least partially, because of borders and military and different things, but one of the things I'd say is how China and other countries are ripping us off.
So recently, we signed a trade deal with China, a number of months ago. China is buying billions of dollars' worth of our product, our farm product and other product, manufacturing product, and it's been a great deal. But then, we noticed a virus. And it's not acceptable what happened. It came out of China, and it's not acceptable what happened.
And now what we're doing, Jim, is we're finding out how it came out. Different forms — you know, you've heard all different things. You've heard three or four different concepts as to how it came out. We should have the answer to that in the not-too-distant future, and that will determine a lot how I feel about China.
The answer was a classic non sequitur. China while dealing with the early stages of a contagion still negotiated a trade deal with the US. A less callous trade partner might have insisted: let's put things on hold while you deal with this epidemic. Still Trump's reply is puzzling: how does a trade deal logically connect to Trump's changed opinion of China's handling of COVID-19? Moreover, who out there is saying the pandemic is acceptable?
A better question would have been: Mr President, you say China "could have stopped it" being "a very brilliant nation — scientifically and otherwise…. They could have stopped it. But they didn't." So you are
1) implying that China did this intentionally, that they exposed themselves to the virus and the shutting down of their economy; and
2) you also imply that America is not so brilliant because Americans have not stopped the pandemic within their borders. Even worse, given the time lag that the US had to prepare for the arrival of SARS-CoV-2 and given the far more deleterious impact on American lives and health as well as the vibrancy of economy, brilliant is not an apt adjective.
Nothing about this pandemic in the US points to America becoming great again.
Kim Petersen is an independent writer. He can be emailed at: kimohp at gmail.com. Read other articles by Kim.
This article was posted on Monday, May 4th, 2020 at 1:00pm and is filed under COVID-19.


Pan Weilin (潘玮琳) is a Junior Research Fellow at the Institute of China Studies of Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences. She has served as the Assistant to Secretary-General of the World Forum on China Studies since 2010.
Her research focuses on material culture in modern China. She earns her Ph. D of History from Fudan University, Shanghai. She is currently working on her book project "Forgotten gifts to the dead: Paper-offering industry in Republican Zhejiang". She also participates in the monitoring project on China Studies outside of PRC at her institute. She teaches Chinese history and History of Shanghai at CET (China-based US language program for college students) and Shanghai International Studies University.
Dr. Pan was a visiting scholar at the Asian Pacific Studies Institute of Duke University from 2008 to 2009. She is currently a visiting scholar at the Carter Center, Atlanta.
"Connecting Confucian Tradition and Contemporary Chinese Political Practice? – A Preliminary Review of the Recent Overseas Scholarship on Confucian Tradition and Democracy," in China Studies Quarterly Issue 4 , 2014.
"Cultural Hegemon in Transcultural Practices: the Case of the Confucius Institutes," in Sinology, Vol.16, 2014.
"American Think-tanks on the 18th Party Congress," in Overseas China Watching, Dangxiao chubanshe, 2014.
"Arguments on how to describe China in the 19th Century: case study of Meadows' criticism upon L'Empire chinois by Regis-Evariste Huc", in Historical Review Oct. 2010, pp. 141-149.


The Newport Beach Parks, Beaches and Recreation Commission plans to vote Tuesday about which trees should replace the eucalyptus removed from Fourth Avenue in Corona del Mar.
City staff members recommended gold medallions, dwarf southern magnolias and African tulip trees as suitable replacements.
Currently, the Hong Kong orchid is the designated tree for replanting along Fourth Avenue, but a staff report says that it grows too slowly in some areas of the city.
Homeowners would be able to chose one of the three new species to plant in front of their homes.
When choosing the three trees, city staff members considered the space available, their growth rate, color and availability, according to the report.
In October, officials removed 33 blue gum eucalyptus trees along Fourth Avenue after one fell and killed a woman in another part of town.