After reviewing proposals from five development groups with ideas for the future of Old City Hall, the City of Tacoma will now move forward on negotiations with one. On Sept. 18, City Manager Elizabeth Pauli informed Tacoma City Council of the selection from Surge Tacoma. The group proposes a mixed-use project with a restaurant and bar on Pacific Avenue, nearly 20,000 square feet of retail space, more than 20,000 square feet of office and shared working space for a technology center and micro apartments on the fifth floor. Pauli said the number of housing units would be between 20 and 30. The rooftop would house restaurants and event space. Eli Moreno is the managing member of Surge Tacoma. The other developers will be notified of this decision. Pauli said the plan is for negotiations to be completed in January.
Tacoma City Council has approved an increase in a contract with Korsmo Construction in the amount of $1.25 million for renovations to Rialto Theater and the adjoining Jones Building. This will pay for seating, an orchestral shell, production equipment, donor signage, lobby paint and lobby roof replacement. The contract total is $5.09 million. The money comes from the Performing Arts Fund.
A public hearing on the Tenants Rights Code will take place at the Oct. 2 Tacoma City Council meeting. The hearing will begin at approximately 5:30 p.m. Discussions have been underway on a relocation assistance fund for low-income tenants forced to move in certain situations. Owners of the property being vacated would provide the funding. Assistance could go to the costs of moving, first and last month's rent, damage deposits, utility deposits and connection fees and additional rent and utility costs in the new residence for up to one year.
This is a pre-negotiated pricing program with local dealerships and vendors to offer discounts on electric vehicles as well as home charging equipment, and electric bicycles. To participate, visit cityoftacoma.org/electricvehiclediscount and sign up for the program using the online form. Once signed up, there is no obligation to participate.
Dammeier also mentioned the mobile unit that brings behavioral healthcare directly to those that need it. The mobile team has provided 2,400 hours of direct care over the first eight months of this year, allowing first responders and law enforcement to respond to where they are needed most.
As in previous years, public safety is a top priority in 2019 – for both County residents and the law enforcement team that serves and protects them. The budget includes funding for technology such as laser-guided equipment for the SWAT team. The budget also includes funds for school resource officers in partnership with three local school districts.
Pacific Lutheran University has been selected to host a 2018 U.S. Senate Debate on Oct. 6 by the Washington State Debate Coalition. PLU was picked as a host site by the Governance Committee from a pool of 19 applicant organizations from around the state, and is working with community partners Bethel School District, Eatonville School District, Franklin Pierce School District and Tacoma Public Schools to host the debate in October.
"Pacific Lutheran University is honored to host a U.S. Senate debate, providing Puget Sound residents an important opportunity to hear directly from the candidates about how they will represent our state's diverse regions," said PLU acting president Allan Belton.
Invitations to participate in the debate were sent to Sen. Maria Cantwell and challenger Susan Hutchison at the conclusion of the primaries. Confirmation has been received from Hutchison. The debate, which is free and open to the public, will take place at 7 p.m. in the Karen Hille Phillips Center. Tickets will be distributed in limited numbers to PLU's student body and community partners, and the remainder will be available to the public on a first-come-first-served basis via the event page at www.eventbrite.com/e/us-senate-debate-at-plu-tickets-49620545387.
Advocates for PLU being considered as a host site included campus figures like Director of Forensics Justin Eckstein, Associate Professor and Chair of Communication and Theatre Amy Young, Associate Vice President of Campus Life Tom Huelsbeck and Associate Vice President of Marketing and Communications Lace Smith – people who believe the university has a civic obligation to bring events like this to Parkland and Pierce County.
The Washington State Debate Coalition, founded by Seattle CityClub in 2016 to bolster the number of high-quality, nonpartisan debates available to the public, echoes that sentiment. With 1,800 debate attendees and more than 1 million television and streaming viewers in its first year, the Coalition has succeeded in making political candidates for public office more accessible to voters.
Starting Sunday, Sept. 23 through Friday, Sept. 28, the City of Tacoma's Street Operations Division will perform nighttime street repairs on South Union Avenue from South 19th Street to the off- and on-ramps north of State Route 16. South Union Avenue will be closed each night from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Detour routes will be in place with local and emergency access allowed.
The repairs will involve grinding and replacing the asphalt on the inside driving lanes in both the north and southbound directions, resulting in a smoother ride and preserved street surface.
A child discharges an unsecured gun, accidentally harming or killing someone every 34 hours in the United States, while 1.7 million children in America live in homes where there are loaded, unsecured firearms. There are more than 500 gun suicides by children in our country each year. Such statistics are a parent's worst nightmare. How can we keep our kids safe?
Please join us at Saltar's Point Elementary School on Thursday, Sept. 27 at 6 p.m. in the library for a firearm safety workshop. Co-sponsored by the Steilacoom Historical School District, and Town of Steilacoom Public Safety, this workshop will be led by Chief T.J. Rodriguez, who will focus on preventing the tragedies that occur when unsupervised children gain access to unsecured guns.
Saltar's Point Elementary School is located at 908 Third St. in Steilacoom.
With the high school graduation rate hovering at 79 percent in Washington State, there is understandable fear that a segment of our population is at risk of being left behind. In response, Bates Technical High School is offering an innovative program that enables students to earn their high school diploma and a college associate's degree concurrently and tuition free.
Students in the Bates Technical High School program can earn their diploma through several pathways. They can take only college classes that pertain to their desired associate's degree. Once they complete their associate's degree, students are also issued a high school diploma. Or, they can take a mixture of college and high school classes from Bates and earn their high school diploma by meeting a traditional credit-based graduation requirement.
To be eligible for the Technical High School program, students must be between 16 and 21 years of age; have earned at least 10 high school credits; meet specific career program entry requirements; and, have a high degree of interest, motivation and dedication to complete the program.
To learn more, visit www.startatbates.me/TechHigh or call (253) 680-7004.
A new partnership between Pierce County Project Access (PCPA) and Kaiser Permanente means more patients in our county can get the health care they need. Kaiser Permanente granted PCPA $99,500 over two years to support access to healthcare for uninsured and low-income Pierce County residents. PCPA will use these funds for care coordination staff and patient support services such as transportation, prescriptions, and interpreter services. Kaiser Permanente's support will give many Pierce County residents better access and more affordable care and helps PCPA grow by finding and reaching out to the uninsured who may be unaware of services.
PCPA Director of Development Timm Dowling cultivated this new partnership as part of an increased focus on mobilizing organizations with similar missions to support this important work. Kaiser Permanente is committed to investing in everybody's health and supporting thriving communities.
The Project Access model was started in the mid-1990s in Asheville, North Carolina by physicians who wanted to address the issue of access to specialty care for the uninsured. PCPA opened in 2009 through the leadership of the Pierce County Medical Society and the support of local hospital and health care systems. To date, there are nearly 700 physicians who participate in the Donated Care network equating to over 3,000 people served and nearly $40 million in care provided. Patients must be a Pierce County resident for at least three months and have income at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. PCPA boasts a less than 1 percent no-show rate for referred patients and an average reduction of emergency room usage by 49 percent. To learn more, visit www.pcprojectaccess.org.
Businesses looking to win government contracts have that opportunity at the annual Greater Pierce County Purchasing Forum. This free event takes place Thursday, Oct. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the McGavick Conference Center located on the campus of Clover Park Technical College, 4500 Steilacoom Blvd. SW, Building 23, in Lakewood.
Has your doctor suggested that Tai Chi would improve your balance, flexibility, and disposition? Maybe you've read that 250 million Americans now practice Tai Chi and find it helpful for controlling stress, anxiety, fatigue, or anger and even migraine headaches. No matter the reason, if you've been wondering how to get started with Tai Chi, there's a great chance to learn about this ancient personal development form and martial art at the Washington State Fair. On Sept. 22, members of the Empty Step Tai Chi Association will demonstrate various aspects of the art, including the Yang Family Form, the Sword Form and Chi Gong, giving audience members a chance to see and try for themselves. Simultaneously, Empty Step members will demonstrate stress-free cooking – easy dishes that are good enough to serve company from ingredients most of us always have on hand.
Tai Chi instructor, Jim Gutterman, whose Bachelor's Chicken was a hit last year returns with "The Bachelor Wings It" as he demonstrates preparation of party wings. Jim will also lead practitioners and audience members in Sword Form Tai Chi. Empty Step co-founder Steve Allen will be on hand for instruction, to answer questions, and perhaps prepare a surprisingly easy breakfast omelet. KaCe Whitacre will demonstrate easy Tailgate Sandwiches and there are even some retro recipes, like Dump Cake, which was very popular during WWII. It will be demonstrated by a diminutive Tai Chi student who goes by the single name Sachi. She is a clothing designer who, by the way, is 88 years old. Tai Chi is good for everyone. A second dish that was popular in the 40's and 50's will be Sunburst Fruit Salad, demonstrated by student Marti Lambert, and instructor Larry Francis will demonstrate a vegetarian entrée, Gobble Good Casserole. There will be tasting samples of all dishes. Newspaper columnist and speaker Dorothy Wilhelm will emcee (she's not cooking this year). There will be live music by Jazz stylist Cara Francis and Gospel musician John Reed. Not at the same time. All of this is breathtakingly crammed into the two hours between 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 22 in the Home Arts Pavilion. Free with admission to the Washington State Fair in Puyallup.
For more information, call 1 (800) 548-9264 or Tai Chi at the Fair@myemptystep or mail to www.facebook.com/myemptystep.
Learning is more fun when it includes Lego bricks, motors, circuitry, robots and microscopes. Join in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fun at a STEM session at the Pierce County Library System.
Microsoft Certification Practice Tests and Exams – Take a practice test, have questions answered in person or take the final exam required for Microsoft certification. Practice Test:Saturday, Sept. 22, 2-3 p.m. and 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Administrative Center & Library, 3005 112th St. E., Tacoma. Exam: Tuesday, Sept. 25, 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Administrative Center & Library, 3005 112th St. E., Tacoma.
Explore Your World: Copper Chemistry – Learn all about chemical reactions using vinegar to make a tarnished penny bright and shiny again. Best for elementary and middle-schoolers. Ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Tuesday, Sept. 25, 3:30 p.m.at Eatonville Pierce County Library, 205 Center St. W.
The Curiosity Machine AI Family Challenge: Build a No Wire Circuit – Learn about artificial intelligence (AI) technology and apply AI tools to solve problems. The Curiosity Machine Al Family Challenge invites families to learn about AI technology, and apply Al tools to solve problems in their communities. The Curiosity Machine runs the AI Family Challenge, a program of the STEM education nonprofit Iridescent. Registration required atpiercecountylibrary.org/events. Wednesday, Sept. 26, 6:30-8 p.m. at Parkland/Spanaway Pierce County Library, 13718 Pacific Ave. S., Tacoma.
Marble Run – Learn STEM skills while having fun with a customizable marble run. Explore the concepts of gravity and momentum in custom designs or try to assemble one of the challenge courses. Wednesday, Sept. 26, 4:30 p.m.at Buckley Pierce County Library, 123 S. River Ave.
Explore Your World: Microscopes – Get a peek of the microscopic world using scopes and slides. Best for elementary and middle-schoolers. Ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Thursday, Sept. 27, 6:30 p.m.at South Hill Pierce County Library, 15420 Meridian E.
Robots forKids! – Play with Ozobots and Bee-Bots, robots designed for kids. Draw a map and find out if the robots can follow it. Recommended for ages 4 to 8; under 6 must be accompanied by an adult. Tuesday, Oct. 16, 3:30 p.m. at DuPont Pierce County Library, 1540 Wilmington Dr.
Bricks 4 Kidz: Gadget & Gizmos using Lego Bricks and Motors – Build and experiment with fun motorized inventions using specialized Lego bricks and motors. Ages 6-12. Register online atpiercecountylibrary.org/events. Saturday, Oct. 20, 2 p.m. at Tillicum Pierce County Library, 14916 Washington Ave. S.W., Lakewood.
Find more information about these and other STEM events at https://calendar.piercecountylibrary.org/events?t=STEM.
Humana Medicare Advantage beneficiaries have additional access to two Iora Primary Care practices providing high-impact, relationship based primary care.
Iora Health and Humana's (NYSE: HUM) value-based relationship is already delivering on the promise to provide a high quality of care and service to older adults in Arizona, Colorado and Washington. This is the fifth consecutive year that Iora Health and Humana have expanded their relationship in Washington.
The new practices mean that Humana Medicare Advantage members in Washington have access to Iora's six primary care practices. The new and existing practices, operated by Iora Health, will accept all Humana Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (available for people who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid) offered in Washington, as well as Original Medicare.
For a list of all Iora Primary Care locations, visit: ioraprimarycare.com.
For more information, visit humana.com/provider/support/vbc.
The USDA Forest Service will be accepting applications for more than 1,000 seasonal spring and summer jobs in Oregon and Washington from now through Oct. 12. Positions are available in multiple fields, including fire, recreation, natural resources, timber, engineering, visitor services, and archaeology.
Applications must be submitted on www.USAJOBS.gov by Oct. 12. Interested applicants are encouraged to create a profile on USAJOBS now to save time once the hiring process begins.
Individuals interested in finding more information about a specific position should contact the National Forest at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r6/about-region/offices/?cid=stelprdb5341313 where the position is hosted. Most current and upcoming Forest Service job opportunities across the nation can be found online at https://fsoutreach.gdcii.com/Outreach.
The Pacific Northwest Region consists of 16 national forests, 59 district offices, a national scenic area, and a national grassland comprising 24.7 million acres in Oregon and Washington and employing approximately 3,550 people. To learn more about the Forest Service in the Pacific Northwest, please visit www.fs.usda.gov/r6.
NEED HELP CHOOSING THE RIGHT PATH AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?
Thinking about what to do after graduation can be overwhelming. Some will go to college, while others choose to find a job and start exploring careers. Students can explore which path is right for them with the Pierce County Library System's Life After High School Program (http://jbc.mypcls.org/lifeafterhighschool).
Plan for Your Educational Future: Meet with Tacoma Community College representatives, no appointment necessary.
Tuesday, Oct. 2, 16, 30, Nov. 13, 27, 11, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Lakewood Pierce County Library, 6300 Wildaire Road S.W.
Tuesday, Oct. 9, 23, 6, 20, Dec. 4, 18, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at Gig Harbor Pierce County Library, 4424 Point Fosdick Drive N.W.
FAFSA Workshop: Local financial aid advisors will help attendees navigate the financial aid process and walk through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Saturday, Oct. 27at 1-2 p.m. at Steilacoom Pierce County Library, 2950 Steilacoom Blvd.
Tuesday, Oct. 30at 7-8 p.m. at Bonney Lake Pierce County Library, 18501 90th St. E.
ACT/SAT Practice Test: Take a free practice test and receive customized study plans using library resources.
Practice tests may also be taken online usingHelpNow by BrainFuse and the Testing and Reference Center available for free with a Pierce County Library card.
Application Essay Writing: Bring questions, ideas, notes or a first draft essay. Learn about tips, tricks and library resources available to make essays stand out.
Wednesday, Sept. 26, 3-4:30 p.m.at Steilacoom Pierce County Library, 2950 Steilacoom Blvd.
Wednesday, Oct. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.at Buckley Pierce County Library, 123 S. River Ave.
Tuesday, Nov. 13, 4-5:30 p.m.at Lakewood Pierce County Library, 6300 Wildaire Road S.W.
Alzheimer's disease was discovered in 1901 by a German psychiatrist and has grown to affect 5.7 million Americans, making it the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. There are no answers to the cause and no effective long-term treatments are available. It kills more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined. Alzheimer's has affected 44 million people worldwide and statistics show one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or another dementia.
The 2018 Pierce County Alzheimer's Caregiver Conference is provided for caregivers, family members and friends of individuals who experience Alzheimer's or another form of dementia. The event will offer practical information, tools and support to aid in their care of a loved one.
Dr. Mimi Pattison, MD, will be the keynote speaker and present "Recognizing Your Strengths While Making Hard Decisions." Dr. Pattison, an engaging and inspiring speaker, is the Regional Medical Director for CHI Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care in Tacoma. Her keynote presentation will include practical tips for all caregivers.
In addition to the presentation, attendees will have the opportunity to choose from a variety of breakout sessions with topics such as managing challenging behaviors, physical movement and balance, interactive activities and legal issues. A special interactive forum will end the day as individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers share their experiences and engage in discussion with the audience.
Alzheimer's is a progressive disease that varies in those afflicted, yet there is still no cure. Most researchers now believe the disease begins as much as 20 years before symptoms appear. Between 2000 and 2015, deaths from Alzheimer's increased by 123 percent and the numbers are still rising.
The Alzheimer's Association has identified 10 warning signs including memory loss, confusion with time or place, problems with words in speaking and writing, misplacing things, poor judgment and others. Many families delay contacting their physician because the symptoms may not be recognized or understood as potential symptoms.
The conference is sponsored by Pierce County Aging & Disability Resources in collaboration with the Health Care Providers Council of Pierce County. It will be held Saturday, Sept. 29 at Rainier View Christian Church, located at 12305 Spanaway Loop Rd. S., Tacoma. Doors open at 8 a.m. and the program runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It is free and open to the public, but tickets must be reserved online at www.eventbrite.com/e/alzheimers-caregiver-conference-recognizing-your-strengths-when-making-hard-decisions-with-dr-mimi-tickets-47566255952 or by calling (253) 798-8787.
IndieFlix, a leading independent online streaming platform, along with its non-profit arm, the IndieFlix Foundation, is sparking a global conversation about anxiety through screenings of its brand-new documentary, "Angst: Raising Awareness Around Anxiety." On Oct. 1 and 2, Steilacoom Historical School District will hold a special screening of the documentary at Pioneer Middle School and Steilacoom High School, respectively, to open up a dialogue between local families, community leaders and experts. The event will feature a viewing of the 47-minute film.
Find out more information about Steilacoom's special screening of Angst and RSVP for either screening at http://bit.ly/SteillySEL_Angst.
5Ks are fun. Beer is fun. Even Root Beer can be fun if you're under 21. On Sunday, Oct. 7, the Oktoberfest Northwest's Stein Dash 5K and the Half-Mile Kids Root Beer Run, will take place at the Washington State Fair Events Center in Puyallup.
The Stein Dash, produced by Fizz Events and sponsored by MOViN 92.5, is the "Ultimate Beer Run" with three beer stops along the way (that's one for every mile). While 3.1 miles is no marathon, it still requires a pit stop (or three). So in the Oktoberfest spirit, with stein in hand, runners (or shufflers) will stop at each pit stop, fill their stein with a different beer at each stop: chug, sip, sample, taste – it's all about style – just drink the beer and get back on the course because the clock still keeps ticking. Runners do not have to stop at the beer stops. The Stein Dash 5K is an all ages event, however 21 + only permitted to drink beer. Water will be available.
The finish line will take runners right into the amazing Munich-style Festhalle at Oktoberfest Northwest, where the first refreshing free beer will be awarded. Drink tickets can also be used for wine or cider inside the Munich Festhalle and the new Bavarian Festhalle. Those 21 and under, or those that do not drink, can get root beer instead at the Root Bier Garden. The rest of the day is then to be enjoyed at Oktoberfest Northwest, since entry to the event is included in race registration.
Kids 10 and under can register now for the Root Beer Run, a Half-Mile Kids Run with the same premise as the Stein Dash: Run, Chug, Run! At the quarter mark, kids will be greeted with a five-ounce root beer to chug in the root beer garden before racing to the finish line. All registered kids will receive an awesome running cape and gift at the finish line.
On-site registration, and race packet pick-up starts at 9 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 7 at the start line. This is where the official commemorative tasting stein will be presented, along with the race packet including a bib number for the adults and a 'racing cape' for the kids! The Stein Dash kicks off 10:30 a.m. and the Half-Mile Kids Root Beer Run starts at noon.
Sign up for the Stein Dash by registering for $42. Pre-race packet pick-up at Road Runner Sports in Kent on Saturday, Oct. 6 between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., and on race day from 9 a.m. Use Code OKTOBERFEST to receive a $5 race entry discount at steindash5k.com.
Aside from the race, Sunday, Oct. 7 at Oktoberfest Northwest will be jam-packed with additional activities including authentic German bier, food, free activities for kids and entertainment throughout the entire weekend.
What's Oktoberfest NW without a little kinderfest for the children? Stop by the Root Bier Garden in the Munich Festhalle, a family fun zone dedicated to the "kinder" with free airbrush tattoos and face painting on Saturday and Sunday, a scavenger hunt, arts and crafts, pumpkin decorating, a kids Hammerschlagen, and of course, delicious Root Bier Floats.
Plus, on Sunday, Oct. 7, it's Family Day with all-ages general admission at half price at $7.50; children 12 and under are free all weekend. As a special entertainment treat for the kids, Manuela Horn's famous "Kinderfest Show" is back. This fun, interactive polka dance show and sing-along for all ages will have children smiling from ear-to-ear. Manuela will host her Kinderfest Show from 2:20-3:15 p.m. from the Munich Festhalle Stage, sponsored by Xfinity.
Plus, the 11th Annual Wiener Dog Races will also be taking place. The races, produced by NW Wiener Races and sponsored by 100.7 The Wolf, run from noon until 4 p.m. and also include several costume contests. Guests can sign up their dashing dachshunds online at oktoberfestnw.com or on the day of the race, between 11 a.m. and 12 p.m. The Sports Haus will be playing sports all day.
For more information about all of the activities at Oktoberfest Northwest, including the all-new VIP Lounge Experience, and to purchase advance tickets, go to oktoberfestnw.com.
The Department of Social and Health Services' Division of Child Support is looking for input from parents who pay or receive child support.
The workgroup, formed every four years, includes legislators, law professionals, economists and parents who receive or pay support. Governor Jay Inslee appoints all members except for legislators.
Three noncustodial parents, each of whom may be a representative of an advocacy group, an attorney, or an individual, with at least one representing the interest of low-income noncustodial parents.
Three custodial parents, each of whom may be a representative of an advocacy group, an attorney, or an individual, with at least one representing the interest of low-income custodial parents.
To apply, please submit an application for Gubernatorial Appointment for Board or Commission available on the governor's website at www.governor.wa.gov/boards-commissions/boards-commissions/apply-serve-board-or-commission. Applications are due by Monday, Sept. 30. Learn more about the workgroup by visiting the Child Support Schedule Workgroup page at www.dshs.wa.gov/esa/division-child-support/2015-child-support-schedule-workgroup.
If you have any questions, please contact Nancy Koptur with the Division of Child Support at (360) 664-5065.
Dr. Malin Young, deputy director for science and technology at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, will be the next featured speaker at the Readiness Acceleration and Innovation Network (RAIN) "Superheroes of Science" lecture series. The event will be held on Monday, Oct. 8, from 6-9 p.m. at RAIN, 2304 Jefferson Ave.,Tacoma, WA 98402.
The National Laboratories may be America's best-kept secret. For more than 80 years, the National Lab system has spawned industries, saved lives, generated new products, revealed the secrets of the universe, and has changed and improved the lives of millions of people. In this talk, Young will share 10 of the most impactful scientific discoveries made by the National Labs and talk about how the Labs are driving America's leadership in science and technology.
Young serves as the deputy director for science and technology at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. She is responsible for integrating PNNL's science and technology capabilities to address critical challenges in science, energy, the environment, and national security. She also manages PNNL's research partnerships, institutional science and technology investments, business capture and proposal management, and technology commercialization; as well as the Office of Research Integrity.
Prior to joining PNNL, Young served as director of the Biological and Engineering Sciences Center at Sandia National Laboratories in Livermore, CA. In that role, she was responsible for leading the performance of exploratory science and the development of technology to address pressing national needs in energy security, homeland security, and national defense.
Young earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Genetics from Oregon State University and a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of California, San Francisco.
Can't recall how to do that Algebra equation? Don't know where to begin on that research paper? Need an idea for the science fair? The Pierce County Library System can help with Tools for Students. Find books, electronic resources or talk real-time with an online tutor and make this school year a success.
HelpNow:Speak with professional online tutors that give expert help on essays to calculus.
Gale Virtual Reference Library:Access hundreds of full-text electronic books covering a wide range of subjects from biography and business to law and literature.
Gale Biography in Context:Review brief biographies with links to articles in newspapers, magazines and websites.
Culture Grams:Explore the cultures of hundreds of countries, provinces and states, including famous people and recipes.
Gale Opposing Viewpoints in Context:Compare opinions, articles and reference materials about controversial The content is ripe for budding debaters and curious students.
Science Online from Infobase:Discover experiments, videos, biographies and science research.
SIRS Discoverer:Study and learn from articles from more than 1,400 publications and selected topic websites, geared for elementary and middle school students.
Parents and educators can also find booklists for every grade and accelerated reader lists to help improve student reading levels at piercecountylibrary.org/books-materials/Default.htm.
For more information about Tools for Students: piercecountylibrary.org/kids-teens/tools-students/Default.htm.
In the eyes of the American Heart Association (AHA), they are all heroes – men, women and children with a passion for fighting heart disease and stroke. More than 3,000 of these lifesaving heroes are expected at the annual Heart and Stroke Walk, Saturday, Sept. 22 at Cheney Stadium in Tacoma. The South Sound Heart and Stroke Walk is sponsored by CHI Franciscan Health, Columbia Bank, and MultiCare Health System.
The Heart and Stroke Walk is the premier event for the American Heart Association to celebrate survivors, remember loved ones and raise funds that will prevent many more lives from being lost to heart disease and stroke, the No. 1 and No. 5 leading causes of death in the United States. A good portion of the donations will be invested as research grants. The AHA's research programs have contributed to many important scientific advances, such as the first artificial heart valve, implantable pacemakers, cholesterol inhibitors, and standards for CPR. Currently the AHA is funding more than $4.3 million in research projects in the Puget Sound region.
To register, visit SouthSoundHeartWalk.org and simply make a donation.
Route: Start in the stadium and enter Clay Huntington Way toward South 19th Street. 5K walkers will continue west onto South 19th toward Scott Pierson Trail. Continue on Scott Pierson Trail to South Tyler Street, then onto South 19th Street and back onto Clay Huntington Way, finishing back at the stadium. Warrior Walkers will loop at the top of Clay Huntington Way and continue back to the stadium.
Survivors will wear honorary red baseball caps. Hero capes will be available for child survivors.
Control Your Cholesterol – CHI Franciscan Health and the American Heart Association make cholesterol education fun with prizes and information on how to keep cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
Healthy For Good Today & Tomorrow– Columbia Bank and the American Heart Association encourage adults to make a healthy pledge. Participants who join will get health tips periodically to help them achieve their health goal.
A.S.T. Room – This national traveling exhibit will stop in Tacoma during the walk. Get inside to experience F.A.S.T., the acronym for most common signs of stroke, through interactive simulations.
Kids Zone – Children participating in a healthy activity passport program will have the chance to win a prize.


text:
Q: How can obtain energy of a signal using stockwell´s transform? The stockwell´s transform is defined as: $$S(t,f) = \int_{-\infty}^\infty x(\tau)w(t-τ,f)e^{-2\pi if\tau}d\tau$$ Where $$w(t-τ,f)$$ is the gaussian window.
I need obtain the energy of a signal using the representation time-frequency given by this transform. And do not know if I can obtain the energy as in the fourier transform with windows (STFT) where: $$\int_{-\infty}^\infty\int_{-\infty}^\infty|STFT(t,f)|^2 dtdf = \int_{-\infty}^\infty|x(t)|^2 dt = \int_{-\infty}^\infty|X(f)|^2 df = E_x$$

A: start from the spectral definition of the Stockwell transform:
$$ S(t,f)=\int_{-\infty}^\infty X(f+\alpha)e^{-\pi\alpha^2/f^2}e^{2\pi i\alpha t}d\alpha$$
integrate over time to obtain the Fourier transform of the signal,
$$\int_{-\infty}^\infty S(t,f)dt=\int_{-\infty}^\infty X(f+\alpha)e^{-\pi\alpha^2/f^2}\delta(\alpha)d\alpha=X(f)$$
then integrate over frequency to obtain the energy in the signal,
$$E_x=\int_{-\infty}^\infty\left|\int_{-\infty}^\infty S(t,f)dt\right|^2 \,df\qquad[1]$$
so this is different from what is written in the OP, the integral over time should be before taking the absolute value squared, not after,
$$E_x\neq\int_{-\infty}^\infty\int_{-\infty}^\infty |S(t,f)|^2 \,dt df\qquad[2]$$
the difference is also obvious from dimensional analysis: $S$ has dimensions of $X$ times frequency, while energy has dimensions of $X^2$ times frequency, as in equation [1], while equation [2] has dimensions of $X^2$ times frequency squared, which is mistaken.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


Red, White and Blue Salt Water Taffy from Sweets Candy. Flavors include Blueberry, Vanilla and Cherry and feature wrappers with stars and stripes details.
Approximately 67 pieces per pound. 3 pound bulk bag.


The Western Sydney Rams have caused a huge boilover and claimed the Horan-Little Shield in the process, beating Melbourne Rising 68-30 in Melbourne.
The nine tries to four bonus point win adds another fascinating element to next week's final round of the Buildcorp National Rugby Championship, and ensured a fourth holder for the Shield in just five weeks of the 2016 season.
"Yeah, I'm not that surprised actually, I was pretty confident heading into this game with our preparations through the week, and the boys really, really wanted it; it was good to see," Rams Captain Paul Asquith said after the win.
An Albert Nikoro try inside the last twenty minutes cancelled out a Sione Tuipulotu double for the Rising, and put the Rams out to a 52-30 lead, and when the Rising found themselves down to 13 men, a third change of hands for the Shield for 2016 was very much on the cards.
Western Sydney No.8 Tyrone Viiga's third try for the afternoon sealed the win in the 67th minute, and replacement flanker Jordan Tuapou's 79th minute intercept try was the icing on the cake.
The Rams will defend the Horan-Little Shield in Sydney next weekend against NSW Country, with the winner to be crowned the 2016 holders.
Earlier, it was the Rams who scored first, despite running into a howling wind in the first half. Their maul was already proving dangerous, and so it proved when Viiga crashed over in the 8th minute.
The Rising hit back soon through scrumhalf Mick Snowden diving over from the base of the ruck, which with Jack Debreczeni's conversion made the scores level.
Or they were level briefly; the Rams won the restart and launched another attacking raid, with flanker Tupou Sopoaga diving over in the corner. Paul Asquith's forced drop goal conversion almost went backwards into the wind, but the Rams were ahead again.
And that didn't last either. Pat Leafa crashed over from short range in the 22nd minute, Debreczeni converted, and it was becoming clear we had a shootout on our hands.
But the Rams kept playing, and playing very well into the teeth of the wind, and tries to Asquith, flyhalf Mitch Walton, and a second for Viiga put the visitors out to a 38-16 lead at halftime. They were setting themselves up wonderfully for the second half, in which they'd have the wind at their backs.


In this post, I relate my first entrepreneurial experience pitching my idea to potential investors. I share the good, the bad, and the final result.
I have always dreamed of having my own successful company, being a leader to a company full of excited employees, building successful products that customers love. I've delayed that dream for a while. In my 20s, I realized that I had a lot to learn. In my 30s, I worked on learning the skills that I did not have and mastering the skills that I had learned as a software developer. So now that I have started my 40s and now have a family, I've decided that the time has come to get serious about the next phase of my career. With that, I did my first pitch.
My product pitch took about 8 months from start to presentation. There was a lot of brainstorming. I spent a lot of time finding competitors and reading through financial reports. I thought about what my product was going to do and the benefit that it was going to bring to customers.
Why is the product important?
How will I engage customers and drive sales?
How much time and money are required for a minimum viable product?
Fair enough. This was good information to know because it helped me to try to focus on what was important to him. I spent the next six months refining the product idea, doing my research, and refining the pitch. I pitched the idea to friends, showed them my slides, talked to them about my plans. And I spent a great deal of time hoping that I was hitting all of the points that the investor wanted to know.
Finally, after enough rehersals, I felt that the time was right. I was as prepared as I could be. It was time to step up and do the pitch. I put together an executive summary document and sent out a calendar invite to my investor group. Within minutes, I received the first meeting accept response. The others soon followed.
THe day of the pitch arrived much too quickly. I was still tinkering with slides, trying to perfect my story. The day of the pitch, I rose out of bed at 4:00am and was leaving the house by 4:35am. My flight left Phoenix at 6:35am and I landed at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana at 7:40am. I was in my rental car minutes later, and at the location within about 30 minutes with traffic.
I still tinkered with slides for a few minutes throughout the morning, but then they all came together in the right order and I felt that the story was complete. Finally, the time to pitch came.
With a sort-of nervous confidence, I stood in the conference room and waited. My laptop was connected, the projector was working, and my presentation was showing on the screen. The investors entered the room and took their seats. I began.
I introduced myself and thanked them for their time. I reiterated my resume and gave brief highlights of my career. I then launched into my story. I introduced the product, gave a brief background to help them understand the context, and then I told them the product's story. I told them how the product would help doctors help their patients and how medical science would be improved and advanced by my product. I showed them how doctors could collaborate on research and patient care. I painted the best picture that I could.
Next I launched into the market and competitors. I tried to describe the market in terms of value. I covered the greater healthcare market, then tried decomposing it into science and medical publishing, and then dove down farther into medical research. I then talked briefly about the size of the US market in terms of percentage of GDP and the number of doctors and medical students in the United States.
I then highlighted the top competitors as I saw them in the market. I tried to describe their revenue and their product offerings. I tried to answer the questions as they came to me. And this is where my confidence started to waver.
Finally I went into the schedule for building my minimum viable product or POC (depending on the perspective). I told them the time frame that I was aiming for, the cost, and the list of features that would be included. This is where it really collapsed quickly. I found myself defending the features that I had chosen for inclusion, and ultimately fighting for my vision of the product. I saw that my vision that I had tried to convey was now being twisted into a different product that I was starting not to recognize.
Then the criticism started. How was I going to sell it? Did I know how I was going to sell it? Did I know that I could compete against these other companies? I'm just a computer scientist and software engineer. Why am I looking at a product at the medical market? Why not build a product for other software engineers?
The main investor was in full monologue mode now, explaining to me his past experiences and sharing with me information that I had not considered; not information about my product or my pitch, but about other investments and how they turned out.
One of the good things about being somewhat introverted is that I know when it's time to listen, and I did listen. I captured. I assessed. I analyzed. I was mentally making notes and changes to the next pitch.
Now, I could have taken this as a negative experience, but I never found this to be a negative. I knew that I had lost the pitch, that I was not going to leave the room with the funds to start my product. But this was a learning experience. I was learning fantastic details about the inner workings of a business that I have been a part of for the last 7 years, and it was fascinating. I felt that the criticisms that I was facing were not meant to tear me down, but helping me to make this better. I needed answers to the questions that I didn't have answers to. The criticisms were intended to make me and the pitch better.
In the end, I lost the pitch, but I gained an opportunity. I had the opportunity to learn by fire in front of a real audience. I learned what it's like to be challenged and grilled about my ideas. I learned that my idea was not bad, but the story has to be more compelling and better described. I learned that I have to be able to prove that I can compete in a market that, by all intents, I have no experience in.
As I left the meeting, I was undoubtedly disappointed. I felt a little let down. I didn't do my best. I missed the mark. I wasn't ready. But as the rest of the day went forward and I waited for my flight home, those feelings quickly passed. I learned a valuable lesson, and there will be another day and another pitch. Ultimately, while my idea didn't fly, it's still an idea that I believe in. It's a product that I believe in. And while the pitch didn't work this time, I have an opportunity to make the pitch better. And I have a desire to start building the product on my own.
When I come back next time, I'll have a product. I'll have an MVP. I'll have early adopters that have taken a look at what I've built. I will have a feedback loop, better market research, and a better sales plan.
I may have failed in my pitch, but overall I've succeeded. This was my first failure. It won't be my last. But it also won't be the only outcome. Success is coming, and I'm a little farther down the road to getting there.


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European Championships | 9 Oct 2013
Greece set Schwechat on fire
Who thought Greece will play in the final of the 2013 LIEBHERR European Championships… but they did and they did it in great style. They put six time champions, Germany, on severe pressure and produced one of the most spectacular finals. Eventually they h
Who thought Greece will play in the final of the 2013 LIEBHERR European Championships… but they did and they did it in great style. They put six time champions, Germany, on severe pressure and produced one of the most spectacular finals. Eventually they had to settle with silver, after they reached the medal rostrum for a first time in the history of the European Championships.
Man whose games paved that path was Panagiotis GIONIS, but the contribution of Kalinikos KREANGA, legend who already won 12 medals at the biggest Championships and Konstantinos PAPAGIORGIU who lost only one match throughout whole tournament was not to be denied.
"Once again in the final, GIONIS performed at the highest level. He took the pressure after Dimitrij OVTCHAROV overcame KREANGA and showed mental power in situation where BAUM was 2:0 in the lead. He recovered from 2:0 in reverse to win the match. Against Dimitrij OVTCHAROV GIONIS took an early lead, put him under pressure and lost two next game 12:10. "
Before the final PAPAGEORGIU was unbeaten. Patrick FRANZISKA spoiled that record. "PAPAGEORGIU is a very clever player, strong and calm. He can make a big damage to the much better ranked players and he proved that here and so many times before. He beat WALDNER at the World Championships in Paris in 2003 in singles. In Austria his role in creation of this success was huge."
The match against Portugal gave power to the Greek team. "We were prepared for them. GIONIS established himself as a player who knows how to beat left-handers. FREITAS , MONTEIRO and BAUM, all suffered by his hands here. The victory over Portugal gave us fuel and launched us into the orbit. The victory against Belarus did not come as a surprise. We already beat them, even without KREANGA in Sankt Petersburg. GIONIS, also, already succeeded against SAMSONOV before. We were not favorites, but we know what it takes to succeed."
One and only KREANGA finally achieved his dream. "Kalinikos already won 12 big medals, but he dreamed about the one in Team's. I know that his personal desire was to say Goodbye with the team's medal. I do not say he will do it now, but now he can finally be relived. For years now, we carefully plan all his matches, appearances, and tournaments. He is focused only on biggest championships and French league, to avoid injury and to performs on a highest level for a national team."
Asked to compare the team's and singles medals KREANGA was clear: " You can not compare it. The feeling of having the medal in Team's Event is something we all live for. We worked together for 20 years in Athens' Olympic Center for this."
Coach VATSAKLIS thanked to national federation and praised personal efforts of President Emmanuel KOLIBADIS for a great support in period of heavy financial crises. "Our funds are dry. Only support we have is from our National federation and great enthusiasm of President KOLIBADIS."
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Here's another fantastic Penguin Prison remix for your sunny Sunday. The three Hoxton hipsters of Luxury Living take the electro-pop original and give it a gorgeous makeover, turning up the nocturnal qualities of Penguin Prision's production. The revamp starts out as a glittering atmospheric number but steadily builds into a multi-layered, hypnotic work out. Very good.


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Netflix Is About To Get More Expensive
By Bill Galluccio Jan 14, 2022
Netflix is increasing the price of its streaming plans for customers in the United States. Netflix's basic plan, which does not include HD streaming and limits users to a single screen, will increase by $1 from $8.99 per month to $9.99.
The standard plan, which allows users to stream on two screens in high definition, will now cost $15.49 per month, up from $13.99. The premium plan, which includes 4K streaming and allows up to four people to watch at a time, will rise to $19.99 per month, an increase of $2.
The new rates will take effect immediately for new subscribers. Existing subscribers be notified in-app and via email about the price increase, which should be reflected in their next bill.
The last time Netflix increased its prices was in October 2020.
"We understand people have more entertainment choices than ever, and we're committed to delivering an even better experience for our members," a Netflix spokesperson told Reuters.
"We're updating our prices so that we can continue to offer a wide variety of quality entertainment options. As always, we offer a range of plans so members can pick a price that works for their budget," the spokesperson added.
The price hike comes as the streaming company prepares to release its quarterly earnings report next week. Analysts are expecting Netflix to announce it added an additional 8.5 million subscribers from October through December.
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6/1/2011 – Excuse our appearance. The History portion of the website is under maintenance.
On April 13, 1644, William Learned was chosen as the first Constable for the Town of Woburn (of which Winchester was a part). In addition to his duties of keeping the peace, Constable Learned collected taxes. He also collected fines for
Chief McIntosh 1897-1930
such things as persons being absent from a public meeting without a lawful excuse or being late for the annual election. In addition to Constables, the selectmen appointed "Tithingmen" to have oversight of their neighbors and see that they keep good order in their houses. The title meant tenth men, from each having a company of ten families to look after. In 1691, the selectmen chose Edward Converse as Tithingmen for "ye South End" (now Winchester).
In 1850 the Town of Winchester separated from Woburn. At the town meeting in March of that year, two Constables were elected. These Constables were also commissioned as Police Officers by the Selectmen and were the only police force of the town. They had no police station and no regular hours of duty. They were paid $10 per year.
By 1874, the number of police officers had risen to seven. Those who served for a complete year were paid $100. The officers elected one of their own—F. H. Johnson—as the first Police Chief. In 1878, the selectmen began the appointment of an official Chief of Police. Zanoni A. Richardson was the first to carry the official title, and C. H. Dupee was his successor.
Chief Rogers 1930 - 1948
In 1882, a nightduty policeman was commissioned for the first time. In a few years, there were two night officers, while the Chief alone was on day duty. The Chief was now paid $500 per year. Uniforms appeared and were worn by regular officers starting around this time. In addition to a full-time police officer, the practice of appointing "special officers" began. These officers served without pay but were called in for emergency duties such as quelling disturbances. They were nicknamed the "Fourth of July Cops" due to the customary duty of being hired on Independence Day.
In 1897, William R. MacIntosh succeeded J. Winslow Richardson as Chief. Mr. MacIntosh, who had been Chief of Police of Woburn, was the first professional police officer in Winchester. He devoted his life to law enforcement and had no other business or employment.
In 1913, the officers were granted one day off in every 30. Previously, they had been accustomed to working year-round without a day off except for an annual two-week vacation. Also in 1913, steps were taken to provide a new station house. It was erected on Mt. Vernon Street (where it stands today) and was designed by Edward R. Wait. At the time of occupancy on June 10, 1915, the police station/fire station was visited by admiring throngs of police and fire officials from all over New England.
Chief Harold 1948 - 1960
Through the 1950s and 1960s the Winchester Police Department saw the creation of a detective division and the juvenile officer position as well as the introduction of more extensive training and education for the patrol officers. Winchester was also one of the eight founding communities of NEMLEC (North Eastern Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council), which formed in 1963. In the 1970s and 1980s, specialized training became utilized. The police union came into existence, and the department began to more fully transform into what it is today.
On May 1, 1989, Joseph N. Perritano became Chief of Police. A graduate of Northeastern University, Perritano was a 25-year veteran of the department when he was appointed Chief. During Chief Perritano's first year in office, four positions were cut along with 50 thousand dollars in overtime. The following year, two more positions were cut. These cuts resulted in the laying off of two regular officers. This was the first time in history of the department that officers had to be laid off. Through attrition, those officers were back within a year. Despite the cuts, Chief Perritano went ahead with the DARE program, believing that the program was worth its cost—taking an officer from regular police duties and placing him in the schools.
Chief Derro 1960 - 1970
In September of 1992, the Department became computerized thanks to the assistance of then-Lieutenant Kenneth Albertelli, Selectman Peter Van Aken, Chief Philip Mahoney of Woburn, and the cooperation of the entire Winchester Police Department. No clerical staff was added because the officers immediately began inputting their own information and reports. In 1998, laptops were installed in the patrol vehicles which enabled officers to do reports in the field and obtain other police information without going through dispatch. Also in the 1990s, the philosophy of Community Policing, a mountain bike patrol unit, and a special operations/tactical unit were introduced. As a result of the many school shootings in the 1990s, NEMLEC joined the national effort to curb the growing number of violent incidents in schools. The School Threat Assessment and Response System (STARS) was created. Each member community of NEMLEC was to train a STARS officer. For Winchester, that officer was Sgt. Daniel Perenick.
Out of the STARS program came the School Resource Officer (SRO) program in 2001. The SRO receives specialized training from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) and serves as the police department's liaison to public school students, staff, and parents. The philosophy of the SRO is that of an old-time beat officer—the SRO must get to know the members of the school community ranging from students, the school administration, teachers, and parents to local residents and business owners who are affected by the schools' operation.
Chief Bowler 1970 - 1976
On July 1, 2006, Kenneth C. Albertelli became Chief of Police. His leadership has been met with significant new challenges, not the least of which are extensive personnel shifting and the growing demand for technological modernization. In response to the significant number of retiring officers, Chief Albertelli put personnel developments such as hiring, promotion, and general departmental renewal at the forefront of his agenda.
The department's method of administration was significantly changed by the establishment of the "Lieutenant-In-Charge of Operations" position. Along with his standard police duties, the Lieutenant-In-Charge serves as the chief's administrative assistant and plays a key role in implementing the chief's proposed policies. Further, the detective bureau underwent a renewal of both personnel and equipment. It now takes fuller advantage of modern technology and relies more on statistical crime analysis. This renewal has led to a dramatic improvement in the accountability, efficiency, and responsiveness of the detective bureau.
Chief McHugh 1976 - 1989
In addition to handling significant personnel changes, Chief Albertelli budgeted for, initiated, and supervised the technological development of the police department from the bottom up. Utilizing the expertise of Sgt. Daniel O'Connell, the police department made remarkable technological advancements in just a few years. The department executed a transition from an old-fashioned mainframe-driven system to PCs, installed all-new computer wiring in the station, and fully switched to a new Windows server environment as of 2007. The department also now runs and maintains its own network of nearly 50 PCs. The cruiser laptops were upgraded to have the capability of accessing all of the material available on computers within the department building. Among other things, these upgrades provided new levels of accessibility in the field by connecting officers to the department of corrections, warrants, and the sex offender registry from their patrol vehicles. Further, firewall protection, file backups, and other failsafe systems were established and refined.
Chief Perritano 1989 - 2006
In July 2006, under the leadership of Chief Albertelli and the supervision of Lt. Peter MacDonnell, the Winchester Police Department began the involved process of earning state accreditation. The department earned state certification in October 2008 and achieved full accreditation in November 2009. Of over 360 police organizations in Massachusetts, Winchester's is among the few (less than 10%) with the distinction of state accreditation. The State Accreditation Commission recognizes the Winchester Police Department's adherence to policies and procedures which reflect the highest standards of law enforcement. A state review is conducted every 3 years, and maintaining the accreditation requires a constant effort from every employee of the department.
The Winchester Police Department strives to continue providing efficiency of service with the utmost professionalism and integrity. We are well into our third century of law enforcementand look to the future enthusiastically.
Chief Albertelli 2006 - present


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Hivamedia
Home Technology Top 10 Most Technologically Advanced Countries In Africa
Top 10 Most Technologically Advanced Countries In Africa
Oludare Isaac
Technology is the drive behind our modern society, and Africa is not left behind in this technological drive as the mother continent has caught the bug also.
All over the world, technology is fast evolving with the Americas at the forefront, Europe and Asia are right at the center while Africa comparatively lags and is heavily dependent on the acquisition of already invented technology from the more technologically advanced continents.
Even though Africa is not yet up there, the continent has been making steady progress in this regard over the years. In this article, we take a look at the African countries at the forefront of the continent's technology charge.
In coming up with this list of the top ten most technologically advanced countries in Africa, all 54 African countries were examined and matched based on several factors such as productivity and the variability of technological products, energy, defense, the intensity of Research and Development, chemical, computer hardware and software, Internet, and mobile phone software & services and several others
So, below is the list of the ten most technologically advanced countries in Africa;
#1. South Africa
South Africa Best Technologically Advance Country In Africa.
Topping our list of the 10 most technologically advanced countries in Africa is the most southern nation in Africa, South Africa. South Africa, is head and shoulder above most other African countries in terms of technology.
The country tops all other African countries in the most recent Global Innovation Index (GII). It ranks 53rd out of 143 countries compared globally. South Africa provides adequate support for its human potentials which is why the country is experiencing a lot of development in its It sector.
Read Also: LIST OF TOP 10 BEST UNIVERSITIES IN AFRICA
Also, the country is home to some of the best universities in Africa which is another factor contributing to the tech advancements being witnessed in the country.
Some of the numerous Innovations and inventions to come out of South Africa so far are; Linux Ubuntu that was developed by Mark Shuttleworth, Multichoice (DSTV), PayPal which was co-founded by a South African, CAT scan, and also SASOL technology that converts coal into oil just to mention a few.
The technological strength of South Africa is certainly not in doubt.
#2. Egypt
Egypt Ones Of the Technological Country In Africa.
The Nile country is the second most technologically advanced country in Africa. It is said that Egypt is the birth country of modern civilization and as such, the country has for long been seen as a center of inventions and Innovations.
Read also: Top 10 Things to Know about Nigeria.
From blessing the world with Egyptian Pyramid to the use of the calendar and written language, this North African Country has not relented in spearheading science and technology in Africa.
Incidentally, some of the best universities on the African continent are in Egypt, and they support technological development.
The giant strides made by Egypt in tech advances are not without government support, but despite recent you rest in this Arab nation, Egypt remains a force to be reckoned with in term of technology on the African continent.
#3. Nigeria
Nigeria One of the most technological advance countries in Africa.
Coming in at number three is the giant of Africa, Nigeria. As Africa's most populous nation and also the largest economy in Africa, it is expected that the country is at the forefront of technological advancement on the African continent and this is quite true.
Nigeria is indeed an African technology giant with lots of potentials. The country is home to the likes of Iroko Partners, a highly successful internet company with well over 6 million unique users from 178 different countries, made in Nigeria INYE-1 and INYE-2 tablet computers, and also Seyi Oyesola's "hospital in a box" invention and several others.
Also, developed in Nigeria is a urine-powered generator that was built by school teenagers; a Moringa plant technology that would enable Nigerians to use Moringa plant for water treatment, which is a move towards increasing the accessibility to potable water in the country.
Also, there are lots of achievements in mobile and web apps development across the country although internet penetration in Nigeria is still quite low and stands at roughly 38%.
The potentials of the country in technology are not hidden, and Nigeria is renowned for producing the most talented people when given the opportunity.
#4. Kenya
Kenya One of the most technological advance country in Africa.
This list cannot be complete without Kenya making an appearance. This East African tech powerhouse is certainly one to be envied.
The country is currently seeing a lot of startup companies with revolutionary ideas, especially in the IT sector. If the tempo is sustained, many of these start-ups may grow to become International platforms for further technology growth.
Some of the inventions that have come out of Kenya so far include: charging shoe that was developed by Antony Mutua, an alarm-fitted television that was created by a 44-year-old man resident in Nairobi.
The alarm of this TV set can be set off with a simple jostle movement and can sound for up to eight hours. Some other inventions out of Kenya are; a solar-powered refrigerator which makes it possible for medications including vaccinations and valuable perishables to reach remote areas of rural cities where there is no hope of finding electricity, a charcoal stove, Moses Gichanga' drone which can fly for up to two hours at a time, Tamperproof voting Machine, Solar-Powered Refrigerator, Underwater pets housing, SMS car immobitime, and so many others.
#5. Ghana
Ghana is one of the top tech nations in Africa. This small West African country ranks 5th on this list. The country has a fast growing and stable economy as well as one of the best environments in Africa to support tech advances.
Well over the years, quite a lot of technological innovation has emanated from this small West African country of over 25 million people. Some of these Innovations are; compressed gas to generate electricity which was invented by Mr. Freddie Green. Also, an affordable video conferencing system was also developed by a Ghanaian.
Without a doubt, the tech potential of Ghana is there for all to see. Great things are expected of this nation in terms of tech in the foreseeable future.
#6. Rwanda
Civil war and genocide may have ravaged this East African powerhouse in the past, but the country seems to have risen from the ashes and is fast becoming one of the most technologically advanced nations in Africa.
The country is striving to become a regional hub for African information technology, with many international tech companies setting up branches in the country.
The country has one of the fastest internet services in Africa, with the launching of the 4G LTE broadband network in the country which has provided more opportunities to deliver better services across the country.
Rwanda is rapidly engaging with all kinds of technology at once and it won't b long till we can see mind-blowing inventions come out of Rwanda.
#7. Botswana
As one of the most stable and most successful economies in Africa, it is unsurprising that Botswana features on this list.
The Innovation Hub of Botswana has back by the government of the country, and it is designed to grow start-ups, global corporations, and also, research and health organizations all under one roof.
That technology is fast becoming a measure of international development is no longer a secret which is why Botswana is striving so hard not to be left behind.
The country takes its place in 7th position on this list of Africa's most technologically advanced nations. Angola
Although the science and technology industry in this South African country remains limited, there is an increasing awareness which has led to the country getting on the right track in terms of information and technology development.
As of now, there aren't many groundbreaking inventions coming out of this country (Angola), which is also one of the focal believe that with sustained growth and development, the country would step up to become a tech giant in Africa. The future certainly is bright for Angola in the world of technology.
#8. Uganda
Uganda is next. The country places 9th on this list. A study that was carried out by Martin Prosperity Institute of the US revealed that Uganda is one of three African countries that have been ranked among the countries with advanced technological and innovation capabilities in Africa.
According to this particular report, Uganda is second only to South Africa and followed by Madagascar.
On a global scale, Uganda is among the 82 countries of the world that have advanced technology and innovation capabilities.
#9. Zimbabwe
Rounding up this list of top ten most technologically advanced countries in Africa is Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe is a country located in Southern Africa. Unfortunately, this country has experienced turbulence in its annual GDP growth rate.
In terms of technology, the country is not experiencing a tech revolution, but still, technology in the country is advanced enough to feature in this list.
Much has been done in terms of technology in this country, but then there is so much room for improvement.
This country is a prosperous country blessed with a lot of human skills that can be harnessed for greater technological advances.
Conclusion On Top 10 Most Technologically Advanced Countries In Africa
There you have it on this list of top 10 most technologically advanced countries in Africa.
You now know those African countries that are leading the African charge in the quest for more technological advances to change our modern society further.
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In a change from the clearer skies, this morning it is cloudy and light snow is falling at the start of the day.
It's milder than we hope for though with the temperatures rising just above zero.
The forecast for today is snow all the way through and getting heavier later on so we might be able to report some decent cm tomorrow morning. There's not a whole lot forecast over the coming week once we clear this particular bunch of snow clouds and so fingers crossed.


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text:
require 'spec_helper'

describe Github::Utils::Url do

  def eq_query_to(query)
    parts = query.split('&')
    lambda { |other| (parts & other.split('&')) == parts }
  end

  it 'escapes correctly' do
    described_class.escape('<html>').should eql '%3Chtml%3E'
    described_class.escape('a space').should eql 'a+space'
    described_class.escape('\\/?}!@#$%^&*()').should eql '%5C%2F%3F%7D%21%40%23%24%25%5E%26%2A%28%29'
  end

  it 'unescapes correctly' do
    described_class.unescape('%3Chtml%3E').should eql '<html>'
    described_class.unescape('a+space').should eql 'a space'
    described_class.unescape('%5C%2F%3F%7D%21%40%23%24%25%5E%26%2A%28%29').should eql '\\/?}!@#$%^&*()'
  end

  it 'normalizes correctly' do
    described_class.normalize('github.api/$repos★/!usersÇ').should eql 'github.api/$repos%E2%98%85/!users%C3%87'
    described_class.normalize('123github!@').should eql '123github!@'
    described_class.normalize('github.api/repos/users').should eql 'github.api/repos/users'
  end

  context 'parses query strings correctly' do
    it { described_class.parse_query("a=b").should eq 'a' => 'b' }
    it { described_class.parse_query("a=b&a=c").should eq 'a' => ['b','c'] }
    it { described_class.parse_query("a=b&c=d").should eq 'a' => 'b', 'c' => 'd' }
    it { described_class.parse_query("a+b=%28c%29").should eq 'a b' => '(c)' }
  end

  context 'builds query strings correctly' do
    it { described_class.build_query("a" => "b").should eq "a=b" }
    it { described_class.build_query("a" => ["b", "c"]).should eq "a=b&a=c" }
    it { described_class.build_query("a" => ["b", "c"]).should eq "a=b&a=c" }
    it { described_class.build_query("a" => 1, "b" => 2).should eq "a=1&b=2"}
  end

  context 'parse_query_for_param' do
    it 'returns nil if cannot find parameter' do
      described_class.parse_query_for_param("param1=a;param2=b", 'param3').
        should be_nil
    end

    it 'returns value for given parameter name' do
      described_class.parse_query_for_param("param1=a;param2=b", 'param1').
        should eq 'a'
    end
  end

end # Github::Utils::Url

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


We are pleased to present "Rituals of Signs and Metamorphosis" at the Red Brick Art Museum in Beijing. Curated by Tarek Abou El Fetouh, the exhibition presents works by ten renowned artists from different corners of the Asian continent and situates their work between historical and contemporary systems of thinking, which allows the unexpected, the unknown and the mysterious to appear. The works of these visionary artists are displayed along an imagined ritual path of concepts and forms, materials and mediums, gestures and actions, and they explore different registers of metamorphosis. This poetic journey leads us to question the certainty of narratives, provokes reflections and ideas, and sparks the desire to seek out divinatory signs.
The journey begins with Anish Kapoor's (b.1954 India) installation Descension (2015), where a material transforms within a sculpture, confuses the boundary between the spaces of the object and the viewer, and confronts the audience with a perpetual force that pulls downward into an unknowable depth.
In Hu Xiaoyuan's (b. 1977 China) three-channel video installation Cutting Ice to Cross the Sea (2012), an intense emotional and physical tension animates the performer before the ocean, as she is driven by an unbearable inner force to struggle fiercely against a constantly changing and vast nature.
The exhibition presents the world premiere of Ho Tzu Neyn's (b. 1976 Singapore) installation The Mysterious Lai Teck (2018), co-produced by Red Brick Art Museum. Through an imaginary reconstruction of the life and times of a mysterious triple agent who operated in Southeast Asia in the 1940s under more than 30 known names, the work addresses the ruthlessness of the protagonist's becomings, of his untimeliness, of his crossing of lines: the lines between the inside and the outside, fiction and espionage, agency and treachery.
Walid Raad's (b. 1967 Republic of Lebanon) two works Les Louvres and Letters (2014) to the Reader (2014) manifest in a field somewhere between matter and mind, where historical and modern art objects moving between museums or placed on display engage in autonomous and peculiar transformations. The objects trade skins and colours or lose their shadows, leading Raad to propose a new and dynamic setting for them using architectural elements, floors, frames, walls, and shadows.
In Tightrope (2015), a video by Taus Makhacheva (b. 1983 Russia), a tightrope walker crosses a canyon in the highlands of the Caucasus Mountains, using copies of artworks by various Dagestani artists as a balancing pole. The walker is attempting to bring them from one side of the mountain to the other to place them in a structure that evokes a museum storage unit. Through this risky action, Makhacheva comments on the precarious situation of museums and artists around the world, using intriguing images of artworks that seem out of place, in strong contrast to the captivating and vast landscape.
In A Small Art History 1-2 (2014/2017), Park Chan-Kyong (b. 1965 Korea) recreates his own version of art history by reconfiguring select artworks across the ages. The work includes images of Korean amulets and a scan of a book on the history of mudang (female shamans), as well as reproductions of Old Master and contemporary artworks. The images are annotated with handwritten captions, many of which reference ghosts and spirituality. Using East Asian culture and history as an axis, he studiously avoids a chronological narrative of art history or the false categorization of East and West.
Jawshing Arthur Liou's (b. 1968 Taiwan) video installation Kora (2011-12) is based on a cathartic journey undertaken by the artist following the passing of his daughter. The expedition from Lhasa through the Tibetan Plateau included a four-day kora, a walking circumambulation, around Mount Kailash at an elevation between five and six thousand metres. The work simulates the otherworldliness of his journey and the hallucinations caused by the low levels of oxygen, and retraces the steps of his search for inner peace in the vast mountain landscapes, invoking a reverence for nature and a space for spiritual reflection and sanctuary.
Dilbar (2013) is a video by artists Apichatpong Weerasethakul (b. 1970 Thailand) and Chai Siri (b. 1983 Thailand) that portrays a city builder's physical and spiritual transmigration as he is driven by the warm winter into a 'sleeping' existence that moves between the museum and the labour camp. This comatose journey slowly turns into a symphony of dreams and hallucinations, as his senses are possessed by the unseen water in the desert and he becomes part of a source that feeds the trees, birds, machines, and buildings. The film transports this 'sleeper' across the boundaries of economic and social status, of meaning, and of life and death.
In Tomoko Kashiki's (b. 1982 Japan) paintings, the subjects seem to merge with their surroundings, capturing the process of transformation that happens in an intimate dream world. While her aesthetic is reminiscent of Heian Buddhist paintings, her own sophisticated process includes layering scenes, fermenting them, sanding them down, and repainting the canvas, thereby erasing the evidence of the artist's hand and leaving a vivid impression much like a daydream.
Wood-Purlin N. 7 (2018) and Wood-Purlin N. 8 (2018) are two new paintings by Hu Xiaoyuan and part of an ongoing project that reflects on the differences, appearances, and unanimities between surface and essence. Through a process of extraction, covering, and replacement, the artist blends the properties of wood and silk, transforming the two materials into a production infused with her time and will. The resulting artworks manifest the subtle and infinite possible materializations that lie beneath the apparent determinism of finite forms.
"Rituals of Signs and Metamorphosis" aims to create a collective dialogue in a space where various critical and methodological approaches converge to shift rigid patterns of perception and induce intuitive ones. The exhibition sheds light on the concepts behind the aesthetics, offering both a rich visual and reflective experience. It signals various aesthetic and epistemological structures that suggest that nothing is constant in the universe and everything is always changing in form and essence. "Rituals of Signs and Metamorphosis" touches on our connection with nature and summons ghosts, spirits, dreams, hallucinations, and psychospiritual dynamics. In our hyper-consumerist contemporary world, the works of these artists show their desire to re-enchant it, proposing unlimited possibilities for the future.
Tarek Abou El Fetouh has researched the Chinese art scene since 2011 and presented many Chinese artists in his exhibitions around the world. His curatorial projects include the Sharjah Biennale in Sharjah in 2009, "Home Works 6" in Beirut in 2013 (named in Art Forum's Top Ten of 2013 lists), "Lest the Two Seas Meet" at MoMA Warsaw in 2015, and "The Time is Out of Joint" in Sharjah and Gwangju in 2016, "Captive of Love" at Red Brick Art Museum in 2017.


I should be up rotating laundry and putting up the dishes, but instead I'm lying here listening to Hila Fay softly snore. Her hand is draped over my chest and every once in a while her fingers lightly flutter in reaction to the dream world she's entered. Yes, I really should get up. My floors need swept and bills need to paid, but I'm a bit afraid you see.
I'm afraid that tomorrow she'll grow up and not want my snuggles anymore; or that she'll realize my kisses don't actually have magic in them that heals all her boo-boos away. I'm afraid that she'll realize that I don't know everything or that it's actually not "cool" to kiss your momma good-bye.
I'm afraid that one morning, all to soon, I'll wake up and my baby girl's impish, mischievous smile will give way to the slow, steady smile of a young lady. That all of her Barbies and Legos will have disappeared, only to be replaced by novels and make-up.
Yes, I really should get up….or maybe not.


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Are you setting and managing the right expectations?
What are the chances of making this mistake?
Do you know what parts to use?
Do you really need everything you have right now?
Now, read those blog posts one more time and tell me you didn't feel uneasy. Where's the discussion about IOPs, backup frequency, server configuration? Nothing.
But didn't I say this is your first pit stop?
Pit stops help drivers in a car race make the necessary adjustments with the goal of winning the race. The keywords there are "necessary adjustments." Often times, those adjustments are trivial yet impact the final outcome. Small changes here and there but add up over time. Sometimes, the adjustments can be massive. A car can't move forward if the tire blew up. So, a new tire needs to be replaced.
Designing SQL Server HA/DR solutions using the old paradigm may have worked in the past. That won't work anymore in the cloud. That's why you need to change the way you think about designing solutions. Ask different questions. Look at things differently.
It was interesting to see the changes in the design of a solution that a friend of mine did as we were discussing it last week. I can't share the technical details but all I can say is that the design made a complete turn when I asked non-technical questions. Same thing happened to another guy who contacted me thru my blog. The questions I asked made them go back to the drawing board and rethink their designs.
A simple, four-word question is all you need to make the necessary adjustments in your design: does this make sense?


text:
require_relative "base"

module Elasticquery
  module Filters
    class Term < Base
      OPTIONS = %i(_cache)

      def initialize(data = {})
        @options = data.slice *OPTIONS
        @condition = data.except *OPTIONS
      end

      def valid?
        @condition.keys.size == 1 && @condition.values[0].present?
      end

      def to_hash
        {term: @condition.merge(@options)}
      end
    end
  end
end


During the White House press briefing on Monday, press secretary Josh Earnest said that Chicago is an example of why our country needs stricter gun laws.
Jim Avila: "But the president's hometown, a place where I worked for nearly 30 years, is, in fact, often used as a — evidence against gun control because of the — very strict gun control laws.
Earnest "As you point out, Jim, I think the city of Chicago is actually a good illustration for why allowing local jurisdictions to put in place these gun safety laws doesn't work. Because it's too easy for those with bad intentions to just cross the city line or cross the county line to go and make a handgun purchase that they are prevented from making in some other jurisdictions.
"Often somebody who is seeking to evade gun laws like that is somebody that probably shouldn't have a gun in the first place. This is somebody with a criminal record, somebody who may be the subject of restraining order, or maybe even somebody with a mental problem.
One again folks, Chicago already has some of the strictest gun laws in the country.
The Supreme Court pretty definitively ruled on the issue of gun control in Heller v. D.C. This issue is still under discussion because liberals refuse to accept the preeminence of the ruling.
It's going to take a series of reinforcing Supreme Court decisions to convince activists and politicians that they are prohibited from removing a fundamental right from citizens.
In 1994, the Assault Weapons ban passed under President Bill Clinton. That piece of legislation, now sunsetted into the history books and having had no discernible effect on crime even when active, was one of the big reasons the Democrats got their derrieres handed to them in the 1994 mid-term elections.
Democrats past protestations about not wanting to take our guns is certainly accepted and excused by their liberal acolytes, apologists and worshipers. They recognize that their pols need to tell lies in order to get past the unbelievers' obstructionism.
There are over 350 million guns in the country. While every new firearm sale and every transfer through a licensed dealer requires record keeping, transfers between individuals do not. So, apart from those jurisdictions that require registration, there's no way the government could effect an effective confiscation program without full compliance by the public.
Even if only one gun owner in 10 held back, there would still be millions upon millions of firearms in the hands of the public, and I'd feel safe in speculating that more than 1 owner in 10 might feel reluctant to hand 'em over.
NY State's attempt to get guns registered seems to have about a 5% compliance rate. Connecticut's compliance rate is in the low teens.
The liberal gun grabbers can dream, but their more practical counterparts (including Hillary's strategists and "walk-back-ers") know that it's a sure loser of an issue. Even should Hillary win the White House, I doubt she'd attempt a confiscation.
The eternally un-addressed or under-addressed observation - if the crime in places with strict gun laws is driven by people smuggling guns in from places with "lax" gun restrictions - why isn't crime higher in those lax places?
Why would criminals go through the trouble and risk of all that travel when they could simply "one-stop-shop" i.e. commit their crimes where they buy the guns. Might it be that they just might be aware that others in that "lax" area might have guns as well?
Of course, the trends support a robust concept of armed self-defense. In the past couple decades, 40 states have passed right-to-carry laws. Many to most have seen crime decreases, and not one has seen an increase.
But, gun control is one of those topics where liberal orthodoxy and their version of "common sense" trumps empirical data and history. The gun-banners "know" that allowing greater access to guns is certain to create crime, to turn the law-abiding into macho vigilantes, to prompt "old-west" style shootouts, and to greatly spike the number of people killed by their own guns. They "know" and argue these points by claiming that they're obvious - forget the facts or the statistics (which they dismiss either by attacking the source, declaring without evidence that they've all been fudged, or declaring (again, without evidence) that they *could* just as easily find stats that support their positions).
This reminds me of an old gag from college math and science classes - you start solving the problem, then write the answer and claim that it's "intuitively obvious." Too bad professors don't give credit for "intuitively obvious."
The problem with all the gun control laws and statistics is that there's really no null hypothesis. If guns were banned in total, 100% of the crimes would be committed by illegal gun owners. If there were no gun control laws, 100% of the crimes would be committed by legal gun owners.
Human behavior has far more to do with it than anything else. If a criminal seeks to accomplish something, he's going to do it if motivated enough. However, guns can deter a spontaneous event, I believe.
Long story short, guns in the hands of the responsible will either do no harm or possibly help. Guns (or anything else for that matter) in the hands of the irresponsible and criminal element will do no good or do harm.
To me, that is the simple truth about gun control. It's government trying to fix a problem, except the problem is a symptom and not the source of the problem to start with.
Why doesn't anyone ask Earnest why they always wait to use those guns until they get back to Chicago? Wouldn't it be more logical to use your gun where you bought it instead of risking being caught transporting guns across state lines? Could it be that criminals are no longer afraid of the punishment that the Liberal justice system in Chicago, and Liberal states in general, mete out? They know they won't be punished to the fullest extent of existing law so they are willing to take the chance.


ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) — The U.S. Forest Service and Chugach National Forest Avalanche Center are warning outdoor explorers of 'considerable' avalanche danger through the weekend after a large snowfall on an unstable base.
Turnagain Pass, the Kenai and Western Chugach Mountains, and in and around Eastern Turnagain Arm are among the areas included in the warning, according to a release from the Forest Service.
The warning is in effect from 6 a.m. Saturday morning to 6 p.m. Sunday night.
"Despite improving weather, human triggered large avalanches will remain likely on slopes steeper than 30 degrees at elevations above 1,500,'" the release says.
Anyone traversing those areas is recommended to stick to terrain that's flat or less than 30 degrees in steepness, to carefully evaluate snowpack conditions before venturing forward, using caution finding routes, and using conservative decision making skills.
You can find the latest avalanche conditions and nearest avalanche centers at avalanche.org.