When the student body votes each spring and fall for our student government, we acknowledge that we as students cannot all speak at once. We elect an assembly to represent and speak for us. We vote for the best and brightest men and women of our University and place them in a position of responsibility. First and foremost, these representatives serve as our link to the administration. Beyond dialoguing with the vast University bureaucracy, they also represent our university to the world. They release statements regarding important events in our University and the surrounding area, giving a voice to the student body.
We have come to a crossroads in our republic in which divisive public opinion has entrenched itself in American society. One believes that a government's founding principle is to provide for the common defense while the other believes in the nullification of the social contract: that our ills should be ignored, and Americans should just go it alone.
What happens when a society creates a huge, growing underclass of unemployed or underemployed, powerless people who believe — and correctly so — that the powers in government and big business don't care enough about them to act in their interests or even hear their voices?
State officials will investigate nine New Jersey schools in the coming weeks for possible cheating, nj.com reported earlier this week. The probe comes on the heels of a two-year examination, during which investigators discovered unusually high rates of erasure marks on standardized tests at 34 schools across the Garden State. Now, we're not necessarily savvy on the relationship between the number of erasure marks on a test and instances of cheating, but we cannot imagine that there's a definite correlation between the two. Preliminary investigations cleared 14 of the original 34 schools of possible cheating, according to Acting Education Commissioner Christopher Cerf — a strong indication that these erasure marks are leading investigators down a dead end. Education officials deserve a dart for going to these lengths. Students shouldn't have to fear that they will be accused of cheating for making changes to their tests. Taking this kind of action seems not only strangely paranoid, but detrimental to a student's test-taking experience.
As the world cautiously prepares for the possibility of war with Iran, it's important to note the catastrophic threat of Israel's nuclear weapons program. Israel is widely known to have amassed a stockpile of nuclear weapons since 1967, although they have continuously refused to acknowledge it. Israel's possession of weapons of mass destruction poses an incredibly menacing threat to the security and stability of the Middle East and the world.
The author of the March 20 column in The Daily Targum, entitled "Surveillance benefits U," has — typical to his writing style — written a blatantly offensive article. It seems like every time I read his column, I am greeted with another instance of moronic xenophobia which he attempts to gloss over with phrases such as "poses a threat to the Muslim and non-Muslim community alike." First of all, let me assure the author that the "baseless accusations" shot at the New York Police Department over the last 11 years are based in its McCarthyist stigma against select minority groups. These happen to include Muslims, Arabs and Pakistanis — to name a few. One may argue that it has been successful, like in impeding the 14 terrorist attacks the author named, but one would be making a foolish argument, as it does not take into account how exactly these policies ferment terrorist sentiment. Indeed, I believe men and women, who are alienated by exactly the racist policies defended by the author, perpetrated many of the attacks that the NYPD has foiled.
I was involved in a "Justice Not Vengeance" campaign in fall 2010 for Dharun Ravi. A now defunct New Brunswick community direct action group I was involved in called "Queering the Air" organized the campaign to present a different narrative than the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning community, as well as what had been circulating in the press and among mainstream LGBTQ organizations. I'm not attempting to speak for the organization, but I feel that the idea of "Justice Not Vengeance" ought to be reintroduced, and I feel compelled to share why I decided to join this campaign.
In the almost two months since Gov. Chris Christie first announced his support of a proposal to merge the Rutgers-Camden campus with Rowan University, more questions than answers have been raised about the impact this merger will have on not just the South Jersey region, but also on the state as a whole.
As a practicing member of the Baha'i faith, I spend 19 days in March fasting from sunrise to sunset. Baha'i, which lasts during the daylight hours, is when people of the faith between 15 and 70 years old refrain from eating and drinking. The fast is symbolic: It stands as a reminder of spirituality in favor of materialism and aims to humble us.
I want to address comments the Center for Science in the Public Interest Director Gregory Jaffe made in the article "Director busts myths behind biotechnology" published on March 1 in The Daily Targum. Genetically engineered (GE) foods are harmful to consumers. There has been a stream of new information showing the risks of GE foods to not only the health of consumers, but for the environment as well. France first banned GE corn in 2008, Peru put in place a 10-year ban on GE crops, and Hungary destroyed acres of genetically engineered corn that had been planted.
The Interfaith Chaplains Association at Rutgers University (TICARU) serves as a forum for positive and constructive dialogue among its members in order to advance the cause of religious life within the University community. The aim is not to proselytize, but rather to embrace a process by which each group might come to understand and appreciate both the differences and common ground between and among faith communities.
There is a wall in Israel, and I thank God every day for its existence. To be quite honest, much of this "wall" we hear so much about is actually a chain-link fence with motion sensors, but that's just semantics. Whatever you want to call it, it is there — and yes, it prevents people from freely entering Israel. These are the facts. I'm sure by now you've written me off as some kind of monster, but if you bear with me I will explain.
There was an excellent editorial in The Daily Targum on Feb. 23 about a New York judge's ruling to allow Dryden, a town in upstate New York, to ban fracking. But, in the last line of the editorial, there was a sentiment expressed that seemed senseless and out of place, stating, "fracking may be deemed appropriate for certain areas." I wholeheartedly disagree — as a public-water activist, this is not true. The public health hazard of having carcinogenic and extremely toxic chemicals seep into the aquifers that hold our groundwater is not a risk worth taking. In many communities around the country and closer to home, such as in the state of Pennsylvania, fracking has proven to be a severe health risk that hurts the public and helps the greedy corporate.
BAKA: Students United for Middle Eastern Justice will hold events this week for "Israeli Apartheid Week" on the University campus. "Israeli Apartheid Week" is closely related to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement against Israel.
The Fair Labor Association is an organization that was created to uphold moral justice, but has unfortunately taken a turn toward corruption. The group was founded in 1999 in response to a boom of the awareness of sweatshops and the conditions they placed their workers in. This included low wages, sexual harassment, working long hours and unpaid forced overtime. Worst of all, though, was the fact that these sweatshop operations were created in order to manufacture the University apparel that adorns the fans in our stadium on game days and the students who occupy the libraries during exam week. Workers made efforts to attain unions that would help their cause — when they did, however, they were met with violent harassment and firings. The FLA was the answer to the heinous crimes committed toward these people — they were supposed to be the voice for those who were unable to speak for themselves. One would think that since the FLA was created, changes have been made for the better, but that would be mistaken.
With the recent outburst about the New York Police Department monitoring Muslim-American students around campus, it is safe to frankly and openly agree that Muslim-American college students are being violated. Muslim-Americans who have worked with us, studied with us, lived with us and even partied with us are not being treated like us. And by "us," we speak as true Americans. The Central Intelligence Agency and other forms of government are prohibited from spying or monitoring the lives of American citizens, yet the NYPD has been discovered doing just that. Simply put, spying on American students simply because of their religion or Islamic lifestyle is unfair, unjust and should not be tolerated in a country that prides itself on being equal and being free.


Disclaimer: I got this book in a trade, all opinions are my own.
I have been anticipating this book ever since it was announced, I absolutely love Buffy the Vampire Slayer! You don't have to have seen the program or read the comics, I've only watched the program of Buffy which I am currently rewatching from season one whilst I write this.. this is one program that will never get old! I got so distracted that I was five episodes in and I still hadn't made anymore progress on this review… oops.
I absolutely loved this book and I'm so sad that we have to wait until probably January for the next book, it was just so good and I really enjoyed being back into this world, I found that the beginning part was a little bit slow giving it 4.5 instead of the full 5 stars. It was an exciting and thrilling book that kept me on my toes trying to guess what was going to happen next and the people I thought were being shady turned out to be.. you guessed it, SHADY. Even though I guessed that I didn't actually know why they were so that reveal was NOT what I was expecting at all.
I really liked Nina's character and to be honest I actually really liked all of the characters that were introduced in this book, I thought that they were all really well done, I need more Buffy books like this in my life! I can't wait for book two as the plot twist at the end was just a surprise!
I definitely recommend this book, even if you haven't seen Buffy, you don't know to know about her to read it but it just gives you extra insight into it if you do. I really liked Kiersten White's Paranormalcy trilogy and I felt that this was on par with that one whereas I've only read the first book of the And I Darken trilogy and as much as I liked it I find that to be quite slow so I was worried that Slayer was going to be extremely slow too but it wasn't which was good!
My parents were fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, but I never watched it, so I'm afraid that I wouldn't fully appreciate or understand this book. Do you think this book is a good choice for those of us who've never seen Buffy?


Comments 95 Share what you think. But I've always done it under the radar. Swimmer Mark Foster felt he had not been true to himself as he 'tiptoed around' issues over his sexuality for so long before coming out as gay. November Learn how and when to remove this template message. Threads collapsed expanded unthreaded.
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This is a robot! The longer we talk the clearer the reminder that being a gay sportsman still verges on the taboo. Since retiring, Foster - who claimed 11 European Championship gold medals, was twice Commonwealth Games champion, set eight sprint world records and also competed across five Olympics - has gone on to work as a coach and media pundit, as well as appearing on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing programme. Foster was also reluctant to come out while competing because of his focus on winning. I am pretty sure that reaction to Foster coming out publicly will be just as refreshing. One hundred strokes could either take me from one jetty to the next, or nowhere at all, depending on the current.
Much was made of his close relationship with swimmer Rebecca Adlington at Rio Olympics. Sharing stuff was always the problem. On summer mornings in New York City, and even into the late fall and early spring, you can spot little fluorescent globes bobbing in the water along the shores of Coney Island. So I half-said something. We were just good mates. We had so many things we never shared.


text:
NYC's Best Observation Decks
On 25 August 2016 by Chelsey Grasso
New York City has a lot of cool things going for it, from its ever-expanding restaurant list and pop-up shop culture to its rich history and impressive repertoire of museums. Want to take it all in at once? Then you've got to head to one of these seven stellar observation decks. The city can look daunting when you're in the heart of it with skyscrapers towering over you, but the moment you get a leg-up you'll realize how breathtaking this city really is. Go on, see for yourself.
Best of NYC Observation Decks: The Standard (Meatpacking District)
If you're feeling fancy, the legendary Top of The Standard is the perfect destination for you to both enjoy a mouth-watering meal and take in the sights of the Big Apple. Not in the mood to get dressed up? Le Bain, also located on The Standard's rooftop, offers a more casual environment with the same great view. One hotel, two views! 848 Washington St., 212-645-4646, standardhotels.com
Best of NYC Observation Decks: Top of the Rock (Midtown West)
Photo: Ivan Velazco/Flickr
Head over to Rockefeller Plaza to get a stunning view of the Big Apple. The Top of the Rock tour takes you up to the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors of one of the city's most iconic buildings. Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of Manhattan both during the day or late in the evening. Another huge perk about taking pictures from the Top of the Rock? The Empire State Building will actually be in your photo! 30 Rockefeller Ctr., 212-698-2000, topoftherocknyc.com
Best of NYC Observation Decks: Whitney Museum of American Art (Meatpacking District)
The new Whitey building located between the High Line and the Hudson River is one worth visiting for the architecture alone. Add on the fact that it offers spectacular views of the city and a full collection of modern and contemporary art, and you've got yourself an impressive destination. The Whitney's colorful outdoor seating adds to the playful and imaginative atmosphere making for an explorative experience you'll never forget. 99 Gansevoort St., 212-570-3600, whitney.org
Best of NYC Observation Decks: One World Observatory (Financial District)
One World Observatory is one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, and it makes for one spectacular view of Manhattan from the famed Financial District. Take an elevator up to the 100th, 101st, and 102nd levels to enjoy a picture-perfect, panoramic moment. At 1776 feet in the sky, you're bound to feel like a million bucks standing atop this symbolic landmark. 285 Fulton St., 866-731-3862, oneworldobservatory.com
Best of NYC Observation Decks: Brooklyn Heights Promenade (Brooklyn)
The only way to capture the entire Manhattan skyline in all its glory is to step out of it. On the edge of Brooklyn you'll find the family-friendly Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Filled with park benches and one stellar view of lower Manhattan, this popular spot is the perfect place to find yourself on a clear day or night. Who ever said Brooklyn wasn't as cool as Manhattan?
Best of NYC Observation Decks: Empire State Building (Midtown West)
Photo: Jody Claborn/Flickr
There are few buildings to be found in New York City that are more well-known than the Empire State Building. Along with its breathtaking light shows, visitors can take a ride up to both the 86th and 102nd floor of the building to take in unforgettable views of Manhattan and beyond. Whether you're looking for a daytime photo that captures the city in all its glory or a nighttime shot filled with glittering buildings, the Empire State Building's observatory decks won't let you down. 350 5th Ave., 212-736-3100, esbnyc.com
Best of NYC Observation Decks: Belvedere Castle (Central Park)
Belvedere might be considered a miniature castle, but its views are anything but miniature. Created in 1869, this stunning structure can be found in the center of Central Park, looking out on the famous Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir and both the Upper West Side and Upper East Side. If you're looking for a tranquil, scenic location in NYC, Belvedere Castle is your spot. Central Park, 212-772-0210, centralparknyc.org

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
La Vie parisienne est un film français de court métrage réalisé par Vincent Dietschy, sorti en 2012.

Synopsis
Rémi, un ami d'enfance, perturbe la vie rangée d'un couple d'enseignants, Pierre et Marion.

Fiche technique
 Titre : La Vie parisienne
 Réalisation : Vincent Dietschy
 Scénario : Vincent Dietschy
 Photographie : Vincent Dietschy
 Son : Marc Parazon et Benjamin Laurent
 Montage : Mathilde de Romefort et Vincent Dietschy
 Pays :
 Format : Couleurs - 35 mm
 Société de production : Sombrero Films
 Durée : 36 minutes
 Dates de sortie :
  :

Distribution
 Serge Bozon : Pierre
 Millo Mc Mullen : Marion
 Esteban : Rémi
 Mona Walravens : la fille du bar

Distinctions

Récompense
 2012 : Prix Jean-Vigo du court métrage

Nomination
 César 2013 : César du meilleur court-métrage

Lien externe

Film français sorti en 2012
Court métrage français
Prix Jean-Vigo

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


This is your guide to memory care in Titus, AL. Memory care communities provide housing and care for people age 65 and older with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Memory care enables seniors who have memory loss to stay as active and engaged as possible, while living in a dignified, safe and supervised environment. Our local Senior Living Advisors are widely knowledgeable about memory care in Titus, AL and nearby cities. After an initial assessment, your advisor will recommend a list of memory care communities that fit your loved one's essential priorities for care and living preferences, as well as your family's budget.
Titus is an unincorporated community in Elmore County, Alabama, United States. Titus is 13.2 miles (21.2 km) north-northwest of Wetumpka. Titus has a post office with ZIP code 36080.
Delicious and expertly prepared meals are provided to all residents even those with dietary restrictions, residents can self manage their diabetes, caregiver employees can deal with any wandering issues residents may have, staff is trained to deal with any wandering behaviors that might present themselves handled, and this community provides complimentary transportation.
Expertly prepared meals are provided to residents, the Elmcroft of Halcyon is specifically equipped to handle memory care and behavioral issues, caregivers at Elmcroft of Halcyon are trained to spot potential disorientation presented by residents, staff is trained to deal with any exit seeking behaviors that may need to be handled, and this community was built in 1997.
Physical therapy is handled by the physical therapist that makes regular visits to this community, the community is secured for the safety of memory care residents that might be exit seeking, caregivers at Waterford Place Assisted Living are trained to spot potential disorientation presented by residents, caregiver employees can deal with any wandering issues memory care residents may have, and staff monitors medication and reminds residents when it's time to take them.
An on-call doctor is available to help, high tech wander guards are installed to prevent memory care residents from leaving the property, caregivers at Second Home Assisted Living Home can address potential disorientation presented by residents, caregiver staff can deal with any wandering issues a member of the community may have, and residents who need help with medication management can be given reminders and be monitored to make sure they are taking their medications.
The community is secured for the safety of residents that might be prone to wander, Helping Hands Assisted Living has the training to resolve any aggressive behavior that residents may have, the property has a nurse that is able to administer injectable medicine, residents who drive will find parking available to them, and this community provides complimentary transportation.


text:
La USS Preston (pennant number DD-379) fu un cacciatorpediniere della classe Mahan in servizio con la marina militare statunitense durante e prima la seconda guerra mondiale, così chiamata in onore del Lieutenant Samuel W. Preston (1840–1865).

Impostata il 27 ottobre 1943 alla Mare Island Naval Shipyard di Vallejo, venne varata il 22 aprile 1936 ed entrò in servizio il 27 ottobre dello stesso anno al comando del Commander C. D. Swain. Venne affondata nella battaglia navale di Guadalcanal nel novembre 1942. Venne premiata con due Battle star in segno di riconoscimento per il servizio reso alla Patria.

Storia
Entrata in servizio, la Preston servì brevemente sotto il Chief of Naval Operations (capo delle operazioni navali), quindi entrò nella flotta da battaglia della United States Navy. Inizialmente assegnata al 2º squadrone cacciatorpediniere (Destroyer Squadron 2, DesRon 2), passò poi al DesRon 5 ed effettuò esercitazioni in mare fino al 7 dicembre 1941, data dell'attacco di Pearl Harbor. Pattugliamenti e servizi di scorta lungo la West Coast impegnarono la Preston fino al 1º giugno 1942, quando cioè navigò verso le Hawaii per unirsi alla portaerei Saratoga. Arrivata a destinazione il 6 giugno, la nave e il suo gruppo (Task Force 11.1, TF 11.1) partirono per congiungersi alla TF 17 di ritorno dalla battaglia delle Midway, rifornendola di materiali e uomini.

Il 13 giugno la Preston tornò a Pearl Harbor, e per i successivi quattro mesi scortò navi nell'area delle Hawaii e continuò le attività di addestramento. Il 4 ottobre venne unita alla TF 16, e il 15 dello stesso mese salpò per le isole Salomone. Il 24 ottobre la TF 16 incontrò la TF 17 dando vita alla TF 61, unità con la quale la Preston, due giorni dopo, ebbe il battesimo del fuoco nella battaglia delle isole Santa Cruz, dove abbatté due aerei. Si ritirò quindi a Nouméa. Riequipaggiata con nuovi e maggiori armamenti, fece rotta per le Salomone per il suo secondo, e ultimo, scontro a fuoco.

La sera del 14 novembre, la Preston, con la TF 64, levò l'ancora per dirigersi verso la punta orientale di Guadalcanal per intercettare un gruppo di navi giapponesi intenzionate a bombardare l'aeroporto di Henderson Field e portare rifornimenti alla guarnigione di Guadalcanal. Giunta all'isola di Savo, la forza statunitense composta da due corazzate precedute da quattro cacciatorpediniere si addentrò nello stretto di mare tra Savo e capo Esperance. Alle 23:00 la corazzata Washington individuò nei radar di bordo il cacciatorpediniere giapponese Sendai, dando di fatto inizio alla seconda fase della battaglia navale di Guadalcanal.

Il Sendai, accompagnato dal cacciatorpediniere Shikinami, seguì le navi USA ma dovette desistere a causa del fuoco nemico. Poco dopo, comunque, lo scontro riprese. La Benham e la Preston si unirono alla battaglia, mentre la Gwin, che poco prima aveva sparato proiettili illuminanti, si accorse della vicina presenta dell'incrociatore Nagara scortato da quattro cacciatorpediniere e seguito da altre forze pronte a colpire i cacciatorpediniere statunitensi concentrati nello stretto. Dopo circa 8 minuti di scontro a fuoco, il cacciatorpediniere USA Walke venne colpito, seguito poco dopo dalla Preston, centrata da una salva del Nagara che causò un incendio a bordo che presto si estese a tutta la nave. Alle 23:36 venne dato l'ordine di evacuazione, ma qualche secondo dopo la Preston si rovesciò su un fianco e si inabissò in dieci minuti, portando con sé 116 uomini di equipaggio.

Note
Questa pagina contiene estratti del Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships, una pubblicazione ora nel pubblico dominio. La pagina online può essere vista cliccando qui .

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

Preston
Preston
Preston


text:
Q: How can I return a session variable and clear it straight after its rendered on the next refresh? I have a function which displays current admin log in information which also displays feedback messages contained in a session variable.
I had it setup so the session variable would be set to null straight after it was displayed. However in the implementation I have the function displaying the variable displays it like so:
function loginInfo()
{
    $code .= 'You are logged in as bob.';
    $code .= 'msg:'.$_SESSION['msg'];

    $_SESSION['msg'] = null;

    return $code;
}

function breadCrumbs($section = '')
{
    $html .= $this->loginInfo();
    $html .= '
Dashboard > '.$section.'
';

    return $html;
}

function dashboard()
{
    $html .= $this->breadCrumbs('');
    $html .= '
';
    $html .= etc..
}

-----------

$_SESSION['msg'] = 'message here';
header(Redirect "/admin");
exit();

then the dashboard function is called on the new page.
echo $admin->dashboard();

The above always returns null, I'm assuming its because its changed to null in the function before the $code is displayed from the return?
How can I get around this?

A: No, your code is pretty fine.
You must search in another places.
Search for 2 occurences  of loginInfo(); in your code and you'll get it

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


"Price is what you pay. Value is what you get." So said Warren Buffett, and as one of the most successful businessmen in history, he ought to know. The value your customers place on you, your business and your products or services ultimately determines your success or failure. Despite this, many business owners aren't able to define and differentiate the value that they can deliver to their customers. When you can't clearly explain your value proposition, you waste time and effort chasing prospects without a clue why they should even consider doing business with you. To help get the basics of this concept established and working for your business, I pose these three questions.
What do your customers value about you?
This is a question of the value someone gets from you even before they hand over their hard earned for whatever you're selling. What is the value of their contact with you? When they engage with you or your business, they should believe that it was a valuable use of their time instead of lamenting, "There goes an hour of my life that I'll never get back!" Establishing this value is the cornerstone of building long term, trust based relationships.
What value do your customers get from your product or service?
This is a question of transactional value. When they buy from you, are they saving or earning more money as a result? Are they saving time? Is it solving a critical problem, making their lives easier? If the answer is "none of the above", you lose.
What is the specific and unique value your customers get from you?
other factor. And that is a valuable asset for any business to own.
What does your business need to grow and thrive?
In a word, the difference between growth and success in business and a constant state of struggle is largely determined by one critical element: mindset.
comes as a result of effort, learning, and persistence. This is the mindset I most commonly observe amongst business owners that describe their businesses as successful.
This growth mindset is directly opposed to what is known as a fixed mindset. I have frequently observed a fixed mindset in business owners who describe their businesses as struggling. To someone with a fixed mindset, personal aptitude is carved in stone. Whatever skills, talents, and capabilities you have are predetermined and finite. Whatever you lack, you will continue to lack.
There is a huge difference between these two mindsets and this single factor has an enormous impact on business performance.
This difference goes far beyond the matter of an individual's level of pessimism or optimism. In my experience, business owners who exhibit a growth mindset are more likely to think about their businesses differently to those with a fixed mindset in two critical ways.
income stream. This results in a constant search for ways to improve the internal operations of their business to maximise its ability to generate long term returns. On the other hand, owners with a fixed mindset are far more likely to look only at the income they are generating from the business.
That is why so many business owners are trapped in a situation where they have "bought themselves a job".
investment. They ask, "If I invest my money/time/effort in this way, what will be the likely return on that investment?" The first question asked by someone with a fixed mindset given the same set of options would be "What is this going to cost me?" Again, the difference is subtle, but it colours every aspect of the management decision making process and impacts on overall business performance.
If you're looking to grow and improve your business, it is well worth while to consider whether you have a growth or a fixed mindset and ask yourself some critical questions about what impact that is having. Based on what I've observed in over 15 years of working with businesses of all shapes and sizes, the honest answers to some hard questions can determine whether your business thrives or simply struggles along.
Like what you've read? Sign up to get more!
I'm excited that the Queensland government has decided to shine the spotlight on small business with their sponsorship of the inaugural Small Business Week to be held from the 24th – 31st of July. Too often, small businesses are at best ignored and at worst actively hindered by every level of government. It is a well-known but often discounted fact that small businesses are the engine room of the Australian economy, accounting for a large proportion of the nation's job creation and innovation. For the state government to acknowledge and support small businesses in this fashion is a long overdue and worthwhile undertaking.
I encourage local business owners and managers to check out the events connected to Small Business Week and commit to getting involved in at least one activity that will lead to deliberate action to improve their businesses. There's a button at the bottom of this post that will link you to the website with details. In addition to providing opportunities to take a short break from the day today, the events planned for Small Business Week are a great chance for business owners to interact with each other – something that is all too rare in our time poor lives.
If you do decide to get out and participate in Small Business Week, I encourage you to do so with the following rules in mind to make sure that you get the most out of the experience and that it is a productive, valuable use of your time.
Rule #1 – No whingeing.
It's just too easy to squander this opportunity to take pot shots at the government. I have always been an advocate for small business that isn't afraid to call government on the carpet when they're throwing up roadblocks to business owners doing what they do best. But Small Business Week shouldn't be about pointing out what's wrong with the government's approach to supporting business. Instead, focus on what you as a business owner can do (something that is within your control) to make your business better than it was yesterday.
Rule #2 – Stretch yourself.
Rule #3 – Make a connection.
Interact with people. Meet someone new. Ask people a lot of questions. Actively seek out different perspectives and advice from others who, just like you, are trying to make their business as successful as they can. Too many small business owners suffer in isolation with no one to turn to for advice and support, be accountable to or simply have a conversation with. Businesses run on the rails of relationships – don't run out of track.
I'll share it with my network so everyone can benefit.
I have a very good friend that for as long as I have known him has been the kind of person that just seems to always have the right answers. At school, he got good grades without putting in much effort and in his professional life, right up to today, he is someone that I go to when I'm facing a particularly difficult challenge and need advice. I'm sure most of you know someone like my friend – someone who almost always seems to have the right answers. The question is - how do they do it?
Some years ago now, I asked my friend his "secret" and our conversation has stuck in my memory ever since. His initial answer to my enquiry was that he was "just a good listener that pays attention when people smarter than me are talking". But as I dug a bit deeper, I found out that he had actually developed three distinct habits that allowed him to tap into the "right answers" for almost any situation. Now, I purposefully practice these habits and try to develop them in the people that I am mentoring. They are equally useful in business and interpersonal situations.
The foundation of having all the right answers, somewhat paradoxically, is to realise that you don't have all the answers. People like my friend – the "answer people" - are actually more self-aware than most. They know their strengths and weaknesses well. They're very knowledgeable in their particular area of expertise and they're confident enough to admit when they don't know something. And they're most definitely not what others would describe as "know it all's" in a derogatory sense.
Many people derive their sense of power from their perceived technical expertise and, as a result, they're often terrified of appearing as though they don't know something. "Answer people" are the exact opposite. Instead of staking their reputations on and measuring their self-worth by their perceived expertise, they judge their success on their ability to make an impact in critical situations. So how is it that these people almost always have the right answers even outside their areas of expertise? The other two habits help explain.
In business, it's become a bit of a cliché to say that you should surround yourself with the smartest, most talented people you can find (or afford). In practice, most business owners and managers deliberately avoid doing so. This too is linked to the human tendency to link our sense of power to maintaining the illusion that we know it all. Expertise as a source of power is unreliable because there will always be someone out there that is more of an expert than you are.
them to intelligently and successfully tackle most challenges. But there is one more critical habit that you'll need to establish to become someone who almost always has the right answers.
Contrary to what many in the business world seem to think, asking for help is not an admission of failure! In fact, developing the habit of seeking advice is a key to succeeding in any endeavour.
strengths, surround yourself with confident experts and just start asking for advice on a regular basis, you'll experience the same success that I have. And you just might become one of those people that almost always have the right answers.
One great truth about learning any subject is the fact that you don't need to know everything - you only need to understand the few critically important concepts that deliver the most value. Once you've mastered these key principles, using them to achieve your purpose becomes much easier. In my lifetime, I've read hundreds of books about business, interviewed and worked directly with hundreds of business leaders and consulted to businesses ranging from one-man entrepreneurs to multinational companies turning over hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition, I've worked for some of the biggest companies in Australia and the United States. Along the way, I've collected, distilled and applied (or in many cases discarded) numerous key principles for starting, operating, improving and growing businesses. In this blog, I'll present a collection of foundational business concepts that will help business owners and managers get things done. My hope is that as you read these posts, you'll get ideas about key principles that you can apply immediately to achieve your business goals. Think of this blog as a filter, designed to help you avoid having to absorb all of the business information that's out there - and believe me there is a lot out there! If you can learn some concepts here that focus you on what matters most, you will be able to spend your valuable and limited time on making things happen. I'll leave you with a quote and a cartoon that sum up the truth that you don't have to know it all.


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The Art of Cosplay
During the summer of 1998 I was introduced to cosplay when I attended my first anime convention, Otakon. People were walking around dressed up in costume and it wasn't Halloween. There were Sailor Moon's galore, and even all of the Iron Chefs! And this is when I fell in love with cosplay. There weren't quite as many cosplayers back then at those earlier conventions, but over the years as geek culture has become more popular, so too has cosplay.
For those of you that don't know anything about it, Cosplay is a portmanteau of the words costume and roleplay. It's defined as the art or practice of wearing costumes to portray characters from fiction, especially from manga, animation, and science fiction. Sometimes cosplayers will act as the character they are portraying, but a lot of the time they simply dress as them.
I think cosplay has gotten a bad repution, sometimes even within other parts of geek culture. 'Oh yes, I might be a geek but I'm not one of those geeks.' Cosplayers are often mocked or made fun of for dressing up or being 'weird'. But most cosplayers are just like most people; incredibly normal folks with a passion for their favorite hobby.
Most of the cosplayers I have encountered over the years attending anime conventions were dressed as anime or game characters, but I've also seen characters from a wide variety of sources including western animation, movies, and books. I even saw someone cosplay a cereal mascot! I think my personal favorite was seeing someone cosplay Shaun of the Dead.
For me, as an observer to cosplay, it's great to see people dressed up as your favorite things. It's like they are wearing a giant badge that says 'I love the things you love, come talk to me!' For an introverted person, this really gets me to come out of my shell a little and that's why I love it.
I wanted to gain a little more insight about cosplay from the perspective of someone that actually does it so I interviewed Tyesha aka Afrovixen, a cosplayer from the Baltimore area.
How long have you been doing cosplay? Why do you like it?
I have been cosplaying for about 3 years. I started off a little rocky in the beginning because I didn't know a lot about it. I love cosplaying because it gives you a chance to be someone you aren't on a day to day basis. I am kind of shy person when I am around people that I don't really know. Cosplaying helps me open up to people more.
What first got you interested in cosplay and how did you get started?
I went to my first Otakon in 2009 and I seen so many people in these awesome costumes and I thought it was amazing. There were so many people in costume, that I couldn't believe that I missed out on this for the majority of my life. I soon started to see that it was getting a lot harder for me to go to conventions and not cosplay.
Do you make a lot of the costuming yourself or buy items pre-made? Is it expensive is it, on average?
Depending on what you are making it can be really expensive. I think the best time to start a new cosplay is at the end of a con. That way you can get everything you need without breaking the bank. I actually have someone who makes my cosplays. I'm not exactly a small woman so it's not easy just buying them. If I can make a cosplay without sewing, then I will make my own. I can hand sew a little but not enough to make a whole outfit. I am actually working on trying to learn how to sew my own outfits so from now on, whenever I have an idea I can just sit down and start working on it myself. I do make most of my props though.
How long does it take you to put together a costume? How long do you typically start working on a costume before an event?
It usually takes about a month or two for a cosplay to come together, props and all. That also includes the time it takes for my cosplay to get commissioned. If I actually had more time to work on them throughout the week, it would probably take a little less than that.
What was the most complicated/hardest to make costume you've ever worked on?
I am going to say my Navi (The Legend of Zelda) cosplay was the hardest. I have never had any experience with making wings. I looked up a couple of ways to make them and decided that making my wings with wire hangers would be the easiest and cheapest way to do it. Let me tell you it wasn't. It took a lot of hangers, a lot of knee highs, and a ton of duck tape to actually get a decent set of wings together. They aren't the greatest pair of wings but I made them and I was pretty happy.
What's the strangest thing you've ever incorporated into a costume and how did you use it?
I can't say that I have used anything strange yet. I am waiting on that day though. I know it will happen.
Where do you get your inspiration for ideas of what to cosplay? What characters have you cosplayed as? What characters would you like to do in the future? Why do you think you gravitate toward these types of characters?
I think my inspiration is the fun I know I will have acting out the character I decided to cosplay. It's always fun. I still think I have to work on the acting part more. So far I have cosplayed Shinobu (No More Heroes), a white mage (Final Fantasy), Navi (The Legend of Zelda), a female Afro Samurai and Michonne (The Walking Dead comic).
I wanted to start out simple so that I wouldn't get frustrated with myself and just give up. As the years have passed I found a very awesome seamstress.
I started to cosplay characters I thought had a totally different personality than my own. They are also characters that I love. I think Michonne is my favorite. I have a few cosplays I want to do in the future but I really want a cosplay where I can make armor. I don't have a character in mind yet but hopefully I will come across one one day.
Where do you cosplay/what events have you attended? Have you ever entered a contest, if so where and what was it like?
I do most of my cosplaying at Otakon. I do attend Baltimore Comic Con and cosplay but it's only for a day. I would love to travel around the U.S. to see how other conventions are but my money just won't allow me to. I entered one contest before and I felt very scared and put on the spot. Haha. It was at a local comic book shop in Baltmore. I think I would do it again, maybe. It wasn't too bad but like I said it scared the crap out of me to be there.
What kinds of reactions do you get to your costumes? Best? Worst?
I get pretty good reactions. The best I think was when I cosplayed as Navi and two kids walked up to me and started saying 'HEY! LISTEN!' They were both pretty young and the boy started telling me a story. I couldn't make out much of what he was saying, but I listened. They were really cute.
I think the worst reaction I had was no reaction at all. I went to Otakon as Michonne and not a lot of people recognized me but I still enjoyed myself.
Are you a member of any cosplay communities/clubs (real life or online)? If so which ones?
It's not a cosplay group but I am apart of a group on Facebook called DMV Anime Watchers.
What do you like most about the community?
I met some really nice people in the group with similar interest and a lot of them cosplay as well. They also schedule events throughout the year for the group.
What problems (if any) do you think there are in the community, and/or what would you like to see change?
I see no problems at all. They were nice enough to let me in!
Is there anyone in the cosplay community that you look up to or you aspire to be like? Who?
I look up to EVERYONE that cosplays. Sometimes this isn't the easiest thing to do. It takes a lot of hard work and sometimes a lot of self esteem. It takes guts to come out of your house in costume on a day that's not Halloween. People stare, they talk and they judge. Cosplayers look past all of that and do what they love doing.
Can you recommend any sources to check out if someone is interested in getting started in cosplaying?
Youtube will be your best friend!
What do you think the future holds for you as a cosplayer?
Right now it's a hobby that I really enjoy. I wish I can do it a lot more. I am still learning and I know I have a lot of it to do. Hopefully I will get better at it and continue to do it until I can't anymore.
Is there anything else that you think we should know about cosplay in general or your particular experience with cosplay?
I think people should cosplay whomever they want. If you feel comfortable doing it then do it. Everyone should try it at least once. I have had nothing but fun doing cosplaying.
To find out a little more about Tyesha's cosplay you can check out her facebook page here.
Posted in: Articles | Tagged: afro samurai, anime, cosplay, costume, fantasy, gaming, interview, legend of zelda, lilo and stitch, manga, michonne, navi, shaun of the dead, stitch, the walking dead, waytoofantasy, wtf
Disconnecting from Magical Reality
Movie Review: Fantastic Planet
One thought on "The Art of Cosplay"
unicornblues says:
Reblogged this on The Unicorn Blues and commented:
This is the peice I wrote on Cosplay for Way too Fantasy. My first time intervieiwing someone. I think it came out pretty good.


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To celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Better Living Through Chemistry, the DJ will perform the album in its entirety.
Fatboy Slim is set to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of his debut album, Better Living Through Chemistry.
Twenty years to the day it was first unveiled, a new edition of the album will be released on 23 September via influential dance label, Skint.
To mark the occasion, Fatboy Slim - otherwise known as Norman Cook - will perform the album in its entirety at The Social, London on 13 September 2016.
The album will be available on expanded 2CD and special limited edition yellow vinyl formats.
The 2CD version will feature the album in its entirety on disk one and a second bonus disk of rare B-Sides and previously unreleased material.


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The Entrustment Ceremony – Creating meaningful ritual in open adoption
By Leah Sheldon
Originally Published by Adoption Connection
Ashlee (left) and adoptive mom Bobbie exchange vows and bracelets at the entrustment ceremony of daughter Fait
Rituals have always been used to signify a change or rite of passage, or to mark a transition in the life of a person or community. Although they are often interwoven with religious traditions, rituals can be anything that symbolizes and celebrates a life change. We mark birthdays, baptisms, bar/bat mitzvahs, and weddings with a special ceremony, so why not open adoptions?
The transfer of parental rights from one family to another in an open adoption is bittersweet. The birthmother is giving up her role as caregiver while the adoptive parents are gaining a new family member to love and nurture. The role of a ritual–or entrustment ceremony– to honor this event is becoming very common as adoptive and birth families feel empowered to create open and trusting relationships.
Just as each open adoption unfolds differently, each entrustment ceremony is unique and can be tailored to fit the needs of the birth and adoptive family. Ideally, the ceremony should emphasize that the two families are now creating a new, extended family connection that will forever honor and respect the birthmother's biological bond to the child.
Tips To Planning an Entrustment Ceremony:
Make sure that the ceremony is directed as much as possible by the birthmother and her family. (It is okay if it is planned by the adoptive family, adoption agency, or clergy member if it suits the situation.)
Invite key contributors: the birthmother and selected family members of her choosing, along with the adoptive parents and the baby.
Make sure everyone has a role in the celebration, however small. Poems or religious passages may be read, or perhaps both the birth and adoptive parents can speak about their hopes and love for the baby.
As with all festive rituals, flowers, food, candles, and meaningful music can all be a part of the ceremony.
There is no right or wrong way to plan an entrustment ceremony. Do what feels right and what will contribute to connection and meaningful memories.
The Ritual Unfolds
Adoptive parents Karen and Chris suggested the idea of creating an entrustment ceremony with Denise, their son Jonah's birthmother. Before the ceremony took place, the couple videotaped Denise holding Jonah and saying her goodbye on camera. (She had said a private goodbye the day before.) The family brought in a local pastor to lead them in a few readings, and the adoptive family shared an oath and a commitment to raise their son in a strong and loving home. Flowers were exchanged, and birth and adoptive grandparents and friends were present to witness the special ceremony.
Eric and Robin originally planned on a ceremony at the hospital as well, but plans changed when Shelly, their daughter's birthmother, had an unexpected Caesarean section. Much of her family wouldn't be able to make it. They decided to meet at the birth family's home the day after Shelly was released from the hospital, when her extended family could participate. Shelly and her mother were able to print and frame pictures of the baby taken at the hospital, as well as images of family and friends to display around the house. The birth grandmother ordered a sheet cake with four candles for the four days of life their daughter had had. Eric says, "We called it a 'Celebration of Life' so it wouldn't take on a religious tone, and it really was a celebration. The family had put together family heirlooms for us to take home for Madison, including Shelly's silver baby rattle."
Eric and Robin knew that Shelly and her family were private people, so instead of speaking publicly at the party, they gave her a letter that they had written the night before. "We wanted to let her and her family knows how thankful we were for them and how much we love our daughter," says Eric.
Bobbie and Eli and their birthmother, Ashlee, waited until two weeks after their daughter's birth to host a ceremony. It coincided with the signing of Ashlee's relinquishment papers, making the adoption legally binding. Bobbie says, "Waiting those two weeks felt like a good decision for everyone because leaving the hospital was such an emotional experience for all of us." During their ceremony, Bobbie and Eli presented their birthmother with a special bracelet that was inscribed with the words "Faith, Hope and Courage," which matches one Bobbie wears as well.
Birth grandfather and poet, Paul, incorporating a special adoption poem during the legal relinquishment process of his daughter creating important memories and a keepsake in their open adoption process.
Take the Long View
An entrustment ceremony isn't going to be possible for every adoption, but Lynne Fingerman, Director of Adoption Connection, believes adoptive parents can do little things in the hospital that can ease the transition and celebrate the birthmother's love and care. "Whether you send flowers to your birthmother or have her family participate at the hospital in feeding the baby, there are things you can do to create trust and ongoing tradition… things that you can tell your child about later on."
When Bill and Danielle adopted their daughter, Cassandra, their daughter's birthgrandmother wanted to be the first to hold her. The adoptive family made it as easy as possible for her by finding a room next to the nursery where a rocking chair would fit so that she could have some quiet moments with Cassandra and be the first to hold her.
An Event to Remember
When Bridget chose to place her son with Erik and Christina, she was hesitant to go forward with an entrustment ceremony at the hospital. "I was initially scared and only agreed because Erik and Christina wanted to do one," she says. "But it turned out to be very powerful for me." Since both families were Catholic, the couple brought in a member of the clergy to say a few words during the ceremony.
Bridget would definitely recommend a ceremony to other birthparents. Her advice? "Be open-minded to the adoptive parents' ideas and just let them plan it if you feel overwhelmed."
Taking pictures and videotaping the event are also good ideas. When adoptees start to ask questions about where they come from, they want to taste, touch, and feel as much of the early stuff as they can. Having a video or pictures of the entrustment creates a legacy of caring and love for the child. Just as importantly, it can show the growing child that his or her adoption was a deeply loving choice based on a conscious decision.
This entry was posted in Family Formation, Family Reflections and tagged adoption, Adoption Stories, Adoption Tips, Adoptive Parenting, Birthparent Stories, celebrations, ceremonies, family formation, parents on April 23, 2014 by Our Family Coalition.
Straight Talk From a Lesbian Mom
I am a real live lesbian mom. My wife and I have been together for 23 years, way back before we could even think of being wives. We have a 16-year-old son and a 12-year-old daughter.
We are pretty much like any of you and your families. We get up every morning, make lunches for our kids and then scramble to get them out the door to school on time. Then, my wife Alison and I rush off to work, texting when we can catch a moment during our busy days to navigate the chores and details of dinner, shopping, dentist appointments and the ever changing complexities of our kids' schedules. At the end of our work day, we rush home, make dinner, help with homework and, like many other parents these days, nag our kids to put away their electronic devices. When we are lucky, they share their struggles and their triumphs with us. And, in between all of this, we worry about our kids. Actually, we worry all the time, for all the reasons every parent does.
We are fortunate in that we live in a place where our kids are growing up in an oasis of inclusion, with a community of friends and family that span the rainbow of sexual orientation, gender identity, race and class. Inside our bub ble there is a culture of acceptance. Lesbian moms are hardly worth noticing, certainly far less noteworthy to our children and their friends than our questionable fashion choices or embarrassing dance moves.
But, our bubble is transparent, and both the awesomeness and the ugliness of the world are right outside. Our kids are tuned into American culture through social media, literature and Hollywood movies; but, until very recently, they saw little, if any, reflection of our family in the media, on television, on the web or in the books they read. However, partially due to the popularity of shows like Modern Family, Glee and The Fosters, this has begun to change. Now that marriage equality is cascading through the blue states, and even some of the red ones, corporations like Coca-Cola and Chevy are clamoring to embrace family diversity to grab a piece of the market share and consequently, send a message out to the world that change is no longer coming, it's here.
Unfortunately, there are some that still react with fear and hate to families like mine. The conservative opposition continues their 50-year crusade leveraging the anxieties of well-meaning straight people, advancing the tired and unfounded notion that somehow gay people, like my wife, and me, will harm their kids. They continue to demonize our families with unfounded truths like, "Kids need both a mother and a father to be well-adjusted members of society" or "Children will be harmed if they grow up in gay or lesbians families." These statements are slightly watered down version of the repressive Russian laws that led to an international outcry as LGBT families were pushed deep into the closet and out of their homeland. The same way of thinking leaves American children of LGBT parents vulnerable when they are denied legal connections to both their parents in so many states.
Our families are scattered throughout the United States: a quarter of all same-sex couples are raising kids in the American South. Salt Lake City has the highest ratio of same-sex couples raising children. States in the South and Midwest that have the highest percentage of same-sex couples raising children, also have the most precarious legal protections for their families. We have become accustomed to the one step forward and two step backwards pace of achieving equality. Yet, I feel confident that our path is inexorably set and that we will ultimately, some day, triumph in the Supreme Court.
The battle for acceptance is not solely taking place in the courts, but also at playgrounds, schoolyards, little league games, chess tournaments and in churches, synagogues, mosques, everywhere LGBT families are quietly going about the business of raising children and living their lives. LGBT parents are your neighbors. We are your kids' coaches, team managers and fellow carpool drivers. We can be people you rely on, people you turn to, people you trust with that most precious being, your child. We don't just stay in our bubble and neither do you.
The only way I know to start paving the way for a future of full-scale equity, one that goes beyond marriage equality, is for us to reach our hands across the playground and really meet one another. I ask you to put away any discomfort you might have about my family or other families that are different or simply don't look like your own. Welcome that two-dad couple when they come to Back-to-School night; take the leap and let your kid attend my kid's birthday party. Let's get to know each other. It is the only path to real change.
Originally posted on the Huffington Post blog
This entry was posted in Family Reflections and tagged Children of Gay Parents, Gay Parenting, Gay Parents, judy appel, Lesbian Moms, LGBT, LGBT Parents, LGBTQ-headed families, our family coalition, parents on April 15, 2014 by Our Family Coalition.
A Night Out to Remember
By Jessica Israel Cannon
For the past five years, Our Family Coalition's Night Out has been an annual favorite event for the adults in my family. We get dressed up, head into San Francisco and enjoy a festive date night, while supporting OFC's amazing work.
As an elementary school administrator and a bisexual mom (married to a transgender dad), I know firsthand the power of Our Family Coalition's professional development to empower educators. They work hard to bring inclusive curriculum to many schools throughout the Bay Area, including the one our son attends. And they are fiercely dedicated to creating truly welcoming environments for all our children and families, helping many of us to embrace and celebrate our full selves.
One of our favorite Night Out traditions is to invite our son's teacher to attend the event as our guest. We know how hard these teachers work and inviting them to the Night Out festivities is our way of saying thank you for all they do for our family. We have been so lucky to have one caring, inclusive educator after another. Each of these dedicated individuals has been completely open to our unique family story and has gone out of her/his way to make sure all families are represented in the classroom. The teachers we have invited share a huge sense of connection with the other guests at the event and are proud to be a part of Our Family Coalition's work.
My husband Ali and I are so proud of being part of this family that, after our first year as attendees, we decided to become Table Captains. In this capacity, we have been able to share the inspiring stories behind Our Family Coalition with other queer parents, co-workers, extended family and numerous straight allies. I cannot describe the feelings as I sat at the event next to my straight father-in-law two years ago, watching his eyes fill with tears as he realized how much this organization has done for his family. That same year, one straight couple was so moved by what they witnessed at Night Out, that this year they are captaining their own table.
Best of all, Night Out is fun! It's a great opportunity to meet other queer parents and educators, and catch up with old friends who we may not have seen in quite some time. The hotel is exquisite and the food delicious. We also enjoy competing in the Silent Auction knowing that all the money we spend will go to support such a fabulous organization. The emcees, such Marga Gomez and more recently Alec Mapa, bring unforgettable queer humor to the event. And, the awardees, from Jesse Tyler Ferguson to Betty Degeneres to the Bay Area's own Jill Rose, have been inspiring leaders in promoting visibility and equality for all families.
Each year, my husband and I leave Night Out feeling a renewed sense of community, commitment and connection. It is an amazing experience to be a part of something that so benefits our family, but is also so much bigger than we are. Night Out celebrates that work and reminds all of us of the tremendous possibilities for social transformation when people are truly able to celebrate who they are.
We are looking forward to this year's celebrations and we hope many more families will also be able to share OFC's amazing work with their own family and friends!
This entry was posted in Family Reflections, Night Out, Our Family Coalition Events and tagged a li cannon, annual night out, inclusion, jessica israel cannon, Milton Reynolds, night out, night out gala, our family coalition on April 1, 2014 by Our Family Coalition.


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Does the Kodak Printomatic automatically print photos?
By Bryan M Wolfe
hero-kodak-printomatic (Image credit: Kodak)
Best answer: Yes. If there's Zink paper installed, the camera automatically prints your photos as they're being taken. Otherwise, the camera will save the images to a microSD card, if one has been installed.Get the camera: Kodak Printomatic Digital Camera (opens in new tab) ($70)And the compatible paper: Kodak Zink Paper, 50 sheets (opens in new tab) ($24)
Paper = Pictures
The Kodak Printomatic instant camera uses 2-by-3-inch Zink Paper to print images almost immediately after they are shot. The photo paper, available in packs of 20 and 50 sheets, eliminates the need for film, cartridges, ink, and toner. Instead, you load the paper into the camera, and it prints photos in a single pass. As long as there is Zink Paper in the camera, each time you push the shutter button, an image will print.
Save for later use
You can save your images for later use with a compatible microSD card. When you have a card installed, but no paper, the image is only saved; when you have the paper in the camera, and there's also a card installed, your photo is printed and saved.
If you don't have a microSD card installed, you can still save photos internally, although with stricter limitations. The Printomatic stores up to three images at a time, which is less about long-term storage and more about having a queue of photos that you can print.
The Printomatic supports microSD cards up to 32GB (opens in new tab), which isn't a lot by microSD standards, but should still offer plenty of room for photos.
Why the Kodak Printomatic?
The low-priced Kodak Printomatic weighs just 7.05 ounces and allows you to take photos in real-time. Available in seven colors, the device features a 10-megapixel camera with an f/2 aperture. You can print your pictures in color or black and white. The Zink Paper includes sticky material on the back for added flexibility. The camera also compares favorably to the similar Polaroid Snap.
Entry-level goodness
Kodak Printomatic Digital Camera
$70 at Amazon (opens in new tab)
A good starter instant camera
The Kodak Printomatic gets the job done at a price much lower than other instant cameras. Why type of photos would you like to shoot? You can also store them for printing later on a microSD card.
Kodak Zink Paper, 50 sheets
Instant smile
Make sure to stock up on compatible Zink Paper when you purchase your Kodak Printomatic. You'll be glad that you did.
Bryan M Wolfe
Bryan M. Wolfe has written about technology for over a decade on various websites, including TechRadar, AppAdvice, and many more. Before this, he worked in the technology field across different industries, including healthcare and education. He's currently iMore's lead on all things Mac and macOS, although he also loves covering iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch. Bryan enjoys watching his favorite sports teams, traveling, and driving around his teenage daughter to her latest stage show, audition, or school event in his spare time. He also keeps busy walking his black and white cocker spaniel, Izzy, and trying new coffees and liquid grapes.
Best Camera Accessories


Since 2001 the cultural association 'Erasmus Torino' has worked to integrate foreign students who have moved to Turin and find themselves spending from six mounth to three years in the city. The organisation offers assistance in finding accommodation, organises relevant events, cultural trips, free Italian lessons and other cultural activities.In the last five years the global economic situation has changed a lot and in doing so it has created a series of problems for those who wish to study internationally.These economic factors, combined with the continued reduction in scholarships on the part of universities, have led to families assuming the financial burden when sending their children to study abroad.With a view to assisting the diffusion of an international culture and enabling the exchange of people through the movement of students across Europe, Erasmus Torino, has decided to offer a scholarship. It hopes to contribute in an active manner to the financing of international students by offering three scholarships in the form of the expenses reimbursements with "ritenuta d'acconto of 20%". Each scholarship is worth €500 per person, for a total of €1500.
In order to participate in this initiative you must first of all be a member of the association Erasmus Torino, you can join at our office on Via San Massimo 4 from Monday to Friday between the hours of 4pm and 8pm. The cost is 5€, for imtenational student, and €10 for italian student,by becoming a member you open yourself up to all of the associated benefits, which are listed on our website http://www.erasmustorino.it/info-erasmus/tessera-erasmus .All the membership cards carry the member's name, a unique membership number.
The mechanism for awarding the reimbursements is based on membership of the association 'Erasmus Torino' through which a series of events is organised. For every event organised by the association there are points attached, ranging from 50 points to 1000 points, which can be won by participation in the events.Once the card has been issued the list of members can be accessed through the website ERASMUS TORINO , or in a facebook official page ERASMUS TORINO .By participating in the association's events members can accumulate points which will be used to determine to whom the three scholarships should be awarded. The three members with the highest accumulation of points will be awarded the scholarships of €500 per person.
The allocation of points is only possible with a full membership card.
Points will only be allocated after the conclusion of the event and are made public on the website of the association ERASMUS TORINO .
The period in which points can be accumulated runs parallel to the academic year 2017/2018, more precisely from December 2017 to June 2018. Upon the conclusion of the academic year there will be a ceremony to announce the winners and award the three expense reimbursements with "ritenuta d'acconto of 20%".The minimum number of points required in order to receive the reimbursement is 9000, without which no reimbursement can be given.
In order to receive points it is necessary to produce the membership card, complete with photograph, otherwise points cannot be awarded.In order to receive the membership card it is necessary to produce photo ID (driving licence, passport, student card, national identity card) in order to confirm the identity of the student. If the member can't identify themselves in this manner points won't be allocated.In the event of the membership card being lost or stolen a replacement can be made by visiting our offices in Via San Massimo 4, Monday to Friday between the hours of 4pm and 8pm.In the event that the person in possession of the card is different from the actual owner all points will be lost and the person in question is banned from further participation in 'Erasmus Torino'.


text:
RIM Buries More Overhead Spending In Lay-Offs
Inside Investor Relations
Research in Motion (RIM) has been in a tight spot because of heavy criticism over governance, as well as product sales falling almost as fast as the stock price.
[Click here for the Inside Investor Relations chart]
During the last earnings call, RIM's co-CEOs Jim Balsillie and Mike Lazaridis promised what they said would be 'streaming'. No surprise, then, that yesterday the company announced it would lay off 2,000 employees.
The maths behind the reductions was confusing at first, however. In its annual information form, RIM mentioned that it had approximately 17,500 employees as of February 26, 2011. But in the press release yesterday, RIM announced that it would have roughly 17,000 employees left after the layoffs.
Wait a second: subtracting 2,000 from 17,500 should leave 15,500, not 17,000. Ah, but according to what a RIM spokesperson tells Inside Investor Relations, the company had been expanding 'certain areas of the organisation'. Work the numbers and it comes to an additional 1,500 people hired in a little under five months, even as the company was under heavy fire for its poor performance.
This means the 'cost-optimization program' RIM announced on July 16 managed only to reduce the company to the size it was earlier this year, with no promise that an additional 2,000 people won't return within a few months, redundant or not.
[Article by Erik Sherman, Inside Investor Relations]
sai-contributor sai-us


text:
via New Directions
Taking an Author's Photo Is Like Going on a First Date
Nina Subin on the Careful Process of Taking a Writer's Headshot
By Nina Subin
It has been said that, to understand the process, every writer should have worked for a while as an editor and every editor should have written at least one book. The same is true for editorial photography. In my case, I worked for many years both as a photo editor (at New York, Esquire, and the New York Times) and as a photographer, mainly for travel magazines. For the last 20 years, I've left editing to do my own work: still-lifes for myself and commissioned portraits, generally of visual artists and writers.
Writers may be difficult in their private lives, but on the other side of the camera lens they tend to be nervous but sweet. At the point where they need to be photographed for a book jacket or a magazine article, the book they've been working on for years is finally done (and the reviews aren't out yet). Unlike actors or "celebrities," they are unaccustomed to being photographed. They have no physical "brand image" to project, or a "better side" for their profile. Almost all writers start the session by telling me that they are not photogenic. (I tell them to decide after they have seen the photos.)
I try to make the process relatively painless. When I'm shooting in my studio there's no loud music or a hubbub of bustling assistants. I've usually read at least a few chapters of the forthcoming book—if I don't already know the previous work—to get a sense of the person. We talk about the book or travels or families—anything except politics, which these days makes anyone look too depressed for a portrait.
It's rather like a long first date. The writer starts out uncomfortable and tense. If hair and make-up have been requested, that may be a first experience. Initial movements and expressions tend to be awkward. But then the conversation rolls on, the logistics become familiar, and the writer usually drifts into a more relaxed state. This may well be boredom, but from my point of view, the face softens and that's often when the best pictures are taken.
Almost all the work is done in my studio or in the writer's own home or studio. Sometimes, when it's appropriate for the book, we move outside, in natural or urban street locations. I especially enjoy photographing writers in their own environments, where they become part of what is almost a still-life of their life, surrounded by familiar objects. William Dalyrymple, at his home outside of Delhi, became distracted admiring his lovely cockatoo. Yoko Tawada felt like being photographed holding something red: she suggested a lobster but settled for a pomegranate, which I thought would be less Daliesque.
When this isn't possible, the photos are taken in my studio, which is on a high floor in Chelsea with wonderful natural light. Rather than plug the subject into an existing set or a preconceived or standard "look," I move flats and lights and reflectors and curtains around, and we try different angles or articles of clothing, so that there are always things about the individual that ultimately determine the portrait. From my years as a photo editor, I know that the best photographers not only do the assignment—what the client wants—but also explore the other unexpected possibilities that grew out of the shoot.
Writers are often surprised that it isn't easy. It's work. They can't just stand or sit there and let the photographer do everything. It's a collaborative process and they often leave exhausted. Many marvel at how models can do this every day. But usually, when they receive the photos that are sent for a final selection, they feel it was worth it in the end. And quite a few come back for a second date, years later, when their next book is done.
Click to expand.
William Dalrymple
Yoko Tawada
Barbara Epler, New Directions Editor
Rivka Galchen
John Keene
Josh Ferris
Reniqua Allen
Still Life by Nina Subin is out now.
author photosAyad AkhtarBarbara EplerbirdsbooksfruitheadshotsNew DirectionsNina SubinphotographyRivka GalchenTa-Nehisi CoatesTayari JonesWilliam DalrympleYoko Tawada
Nina Subin
Formerly the photo editor of the New York Times Sophisticated Traveler, Esquire, and New York magazine, since 2000 Nina Subin has devoted herself full-time to her own work: portraits from her base in New York City and photographs of sacred places and landscapes around the world. Her portraits of writers, visual and performing artists have appeared in numerous magazines, newspapers, book jackets, and publicity campaigns. She has done assignments for, among others, Little, Brown; Houghton Mifflin Harcourt; Harlequin; Farrar, Straus & Giroux; Riverhead Penguin Putnam; Random House; New Directions; Crown, Scribner, and Artisan Books; and Harper Collins, as well as many publishers abroad. Her photographs have appeared in The New York Times, Oprah, Bomb, Elle, German Vogue, People, Time, Artforum, and Time Out.
The New Toolkit For Opening Up Your Memoir Writing
Jon Meacham on E.B. White and American Democracy
In December 2017, I was faced with my yearly dilemma: What to buy my father for Christmas? He wasn't keen on gifts and had everything...


text:
News Release 18-May-2016
Mechanism for herbicide resistance in Palmer amaranth identified
University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences
image: Populations of Palmer amaranth have been shown to resist the effects of certain herbicides. view more
Credit: Aaron Hager
URBANA, Ill. - Corn and soybean farmers might as well be soldiers locked in an ever-escalating war against the weeds that threaten their crops. New weapons -- herbicides -- only work for so long before the enemy retaliates by developing resistance and refusing to die. So farmers attack with new herbicides or new mixtures of existing herbicides until the cycle starts again. This has been the case for decades for two familiar enemies, waterhemp and its aggressive cousin, Palmer amaranth.
A new study co-authored by University of Illinois weed scientist Patrick Tranel shows that Palmer amaranth populations from Arkansas are now resistant to a class of herbicides known as PPO-inhibitors (PPOs).
PPOs were used extensively in the early 1990s in soybeans after waterhemp developed resistance to the class of herbicides known as ALS-inhibitors. But when Roundup Ready crops came along, most farmers switched to using glyphosate, with PPOs applied to soil prior to weed emergence. Thus, when glyphosate stopped working on waterhemp and farmers went back to PPOs for post-emergence control, they were surprised to find that they no longer worked on waterhemp in some fields.
"The PPOs applied pre-emergence were providing selection pressure and increasing the resistance to PPOs without farmers really knowing about it. That's one of the reasons we think we have so much PPO resistance now," Tranel explains.
But PPO resistance in waterhemp is old news. What's interesting is the mechanism of resistance to PPOs.
The genetic code of an organism, which determines all of its physical traits, is housed in its DNA in molecules known as nucleotides. Normally, mutations in genetic sequences that give rise to herbicide resistance happen at the scale of a single nucleotide.
In PPO-resistant waterhemp, however, Tranel's group found a different mutation. Instead of a change in a single nucleotide, they found the deletion of three nucleotides. "It seems like it would be really rare and difficult for this particular mutation to occur. It just shouldn't happen," Tranel says. But, for waterhemp, it did.
This mutation probably happened because the sequence of three nucleotides was repeated, and this repeat just happened to be in the right place in waterhemp's genetic code.
So the team looked at the genetic sequences of related pigweeds, to see if they had the repeat in the right place, and found that most did not. However, when they looked at the genetic code for Palmer amaranth, they found the repeat. They predicted that, someday, they'd see Palmer amaranth developing resistance to PPOs.
"Palmer has this repeat. It's predisposed to PPO resistance. If waterhemp can do it, Palmer can too," Tranel notes.
Soon, several of Tranel's colleagues started hearing reports from farmers about Palmer amaranth that wasn't being killed by PPOs. When Tranel tested samples sent from Arkansas and Tennessee, he found the mutation. His prediction had been right.
"We predict PPO resistance is going to spread very rapidly in Palmer, like it did in waterhemp. By now, we know PPO-resistant Palmer is present in at least three states. If a farmer has Palmer, they should not rely on PPO as an effective herbicide. It might only work for a couple of years," Tranel says.
In fact, when Tranel and his colleagues tested the effectiveness of the PPO inhibitor fomesafen on an Arkansas population of Palmer amaranth, they found that each successive generation had a higher frequency of the mutation and required more and more PPO to be applied to achieve a 50 percent growth reduction.
The rapid spread of the mutation in these populations is bad news for farmers, but intriguing from an evolutionary science point of view.
"That's why resistance is so cool: it's just evolution," Tranel says. "We can study it at warp speed. Most people who study evolution have to deal with time scales of hundreds or thousands of years. We can study evolution in five or ten years."
How can farmers deal with this new threat? Tranel says they should "pray for a new herbicide."
But for the time being, he suggests they use as many different pre- and post-emergence herbicides with as many modes of action as possible in every field in every year.
The battle continues.
The article, "Resistance to PPO-inhibiting herbicide in Palmer amaranth from Arkansas" is published in Pest Management Science. The research was supported by the Arkansas Soybean Research and Promotion Board, Cotton Incorporated, and Syngenta Crop Protection.
The full text of the article is available at http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ps.4241/full.
Pest Management Science
10.1002/ps.4241
Lauren Quinn
ldquinn@illinois.edu
, Syngenta Crop Protection, Arkansas Soybean Research and Promotion Board
/Life sciences/Biochemistry/Pharmacology/Bioactive compounds/Pesticides/Herbicides
/Life sciences/Genetics/Molecular genetics/Mutation
/Life sciences/Biochemistry/Biomolecules/Nucleotides


The watercraft operates quietly and doesn't produce any waves or emissions, which makes it suitable for lakes, rivers, seas as well as marine protected areas, where most motor boats and personal watercrafts are prohibited. It has a top speed up to 40 km/h (21 knots) and a range of up to 100 km (54 nautical miles) and can be fully charged in under 2 hours. Quadrofoil is ready for production and available for pre-order worldwide as of October 2014. The limited edition first series is due to be shipped in March 2015 on a first come, first served basis.
A patented, integrated steering system makes your Quadrofoil experience simple and exciting. The technology also works as a stabilization system and makes the vessel responsive on the water and prevents drifting. Quadrofoil is designed to be almost unsinkable due to its airtight top module and foil hydrodynamics that create automatic balancing and stabilization. When airborne at 12 km/h it flies over water and with ergonomic and soft seats premium comfort is achieved.
Quadrofoil is a high-tech development company with a team of skilled engineers, nautic enthusiast and visionaries, who design and manufacture the world's first fully electric and completely environmentally friendly hydrofoiling personal watercraft.


Have you ever come across one of those bumper stickers that simply ask, "How's my driving?" Well, you can always ask a passenger for some instant feedback, but there's an app out there that simply rates your driving habits with a numerical value.
Interestingly enough, insurance provider State Farm has an app for iOS that calculates your driving by relying on data provided by your iPhone. Their Driver Feedback app uses the handset's GPS and accelerometer to measure things like you braking, cornering, and acceleration habits – thus ultimately coming down with a numerical score for you to brag about with your friends.
For those hesitant on using the app, you won't have to worry because State Farm claims that it does nothing more than offering you some insight to your own driving habits – and that they won't collect data or adjust your rate depending on your score.
Although there are some services out there that utilize information gathered by specific devices to potentially lower you premium, as long as you're deemed as a safe driver, it'll be interesting to see whether or not insurance providers will branch the service out to other smartphones down the road. Then again, it can do the opposite and actually raise your insurance premium!
This is actually pretty cool. I have a lead foot, so this would be an app that would be interesting to see actually how crazy I am. But, like usual, the good apps go right to the iPhone. Whoever comments on the Android app post last week, let this be proof about how apple apps are better / more advanced.
Haha if anything this will just turn into something they might use to raise your rates.
I really doubt it accurately rates your driving. I feel like they'd take points off for fishtailing, when in reality that's a point winner if you can fish tale and not get in an accident. Hell of a skill.
Heh, "more advanced"?, you don't know how fast you're driving?


text:
Update: BlackBerry KEYone launched in India for Rs 39,990
Optiemus Infracom, the brand behind the sales and distribution of BlackBerry-branded devices, has today launched KEYone smartphone in India today. The smartphone is priced at Rs 39,990 and will be available exclusively on Amazon India from August 8.
The smartphone was first announced at this year's Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2017. The major highlight of the device is the Smart Keyboard, which has a fingerprint sensor on the spacebar and a capacitive touch on the entire keyboard for scrolling. One can 'Flick' predictions using the BlackBerry KEYone keyboard, and also assign shortcuts to keys for actions such as browsing, triggering the camera or messaging app.
To recall, the BlackBerry KEYone will be the last smartphone designed by the company itself. This is due to the fact that it has given away the license for designing and producing smartphones to its partner TCL. BlackBerry has also entered into a long-term licensing agreement with Optiemus Infracom Ltd for the production of future BlackBerry Android handsets in India. Optiemus will also manufacture, design and sell future handsets neighbouring countries including Sri Lanka, Nepal and Bangladesh as well.
The smartphone sports an aluminium frame and a 4.5-inch full-HD (1620x1080 pixels) IPS display with a pixel density of 433ppi and has Corning Gorilla Glass protection. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 octa-core SoC clocked at 2GHz, coupled with 4GB of RAM and an Adreno 506 GPU. It has a 64GB of inbuilt storage that is expandable via microSD card (up to 2TB).
The smartphone runs on Android 7.1.1 Nougat operating system. It is backed up by a 3505 mAh battery and has QuickCharge 3.0 with a 'Boost' charging feature that gives 50 percent charge in "roughly 36 minutes." On the camera front, the smartphone offers a 12-megapixel rear camera with a Sony IMX378 sensor and an 8-megapixel front facing the camera with a wide-angle lens and a flash module. Besides, the smartphone offers hybrid dual sim, 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a USB Type-C port. The smartphone measures 149.3 x 72.5 x 9.4 mm and weighs 180 grams.
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The SpongeBob SquarePants characters are silly, eccentric and endearing. Here's a list of the main SpongeBob SquarePants characters.
SpongeBob SquarePants is optimistic and upbeat all the time. He lives in a pineapple next to Squidward and Patrick. SpongeBob works as a fry cook at the Krusty Krab. He wakes every morning to the sound of a fog horn alarm clock. His favorite pasttime is jellyfishing.
SpongeBob is voiced by Tom Kenny (Adventure Time).
Patrick may not be the brightest starfish in the sea, but he's still SpongeBob's best friend. Patrick lives under a rock next to Squidward and SpongeBob. He's pink, he likes to eat and he likes to go jellyfishing with SpongeBob. Not too many people know, he can play his belly like a drum.
Patrick is voiced by Bill Fagerbakke (Coach).
Squidward is SpongeBob's cynical and sarcastic neighbor. He plays the clarinet and boasts to be an exceptional artist, which you can see when you enter his house, covered in self-portraits. Squidward works the cash register at the Krusty Krab. Once, he moved away but found he missed the spontaneity of living next to SpongeBob (though he'd never say it out loud).
Squidward is voiced by Rodger Bumpass.
Mr. Krabs owns and operates the Krusty Krab restaurant, home of the Krabby Patty. He's a sailor who worships money. His daughter Pearl, a whale, lives with him in their anchor-shaped home. He's notoriously cheap and frequently cracks the whip on SpongeBob and Squidward, once even keeping his restaurant open 24 hours, every day, in order to compete with his arch nemesis, Plankton.
Mr. Krabs is voiced by Clancy Brown (The Flash).
Plankton is an evil, tiny enemy who owns a failing restaurant called the Chum Bucket. He tirelessly tries to steal the recipe for Krabby Patties. He seeks to rule all of Bikini Bottom. His schemes have included disguising himself as Mr. Krabs, befriending SpongeBob and switching lives with Mr. Krabs.
Plankton is voiced by Mr. Lawrence.
Gary is SpongeBob's pet snail, who meows like a cat. He sleeps on newspaper next to SpongeBob's bed. It's been shown more than once that Gary is an intellectual, knowing how to tie his shoes and dreaming about browsing a library. Once, Gary ran away when SpongeBob forgot to feed him for days. But he returned when he realized he was in danger and SpongeBob missed him.
Gary is voiced by Tom Kenny.
Sandy is voiced by Carolyn Lawrence (Jimmy Neutron).
The Flying Dutchman is a ghost feared by Bikini Bottom residents. He's had run-ins with SpongeBob, Patrick and Mr. Krabs, sometimes involving his ghost ship and some socks.
The Flying Dutchman is voiced by Brian Doyle-Murray (Groundhog Day).
Mrs. Puff is a blowfish who teaches at her own Boating School. She's had SpongeBob as a student for years, because he has yet to pass his driving test. More than once her life has been in danger just from riding shotgun with SpongeBob.
Mrs. Puff is voiced by Mary Jo Catlett.
Pearl is Mr. Krabs' daughter, and she's a whale. Like any other teenager, she just wants to be considered "coral" by the rest of her high school. She's had eventful proms and birthday parties, all thanks to SpongeBob.
Pearl is voiced by Lori Alan.
Larry is the lobster who is a lifeguard at Goo Lagoon. He lifts weights and frequently enters competitions with Sandy.
Larry is voiced by Mr. Lawrence.
Is SpongeBob Good Programming for Children?
What Are the 10 Best Episodes of 'SpongeBob SquarePants'?
Who's who on 'The Boondocks'?


text:
// <copyright file="RockSceneContextExtension.cs" company="https://github.com/yangyuan">
//     Copyright (c) The Hearthrock Project. All rights reserved.
// </copyright>

namespace Hearthrock.Bot.Score
{
    using Hearthrock.Bot.Exceptions;
    using Hearthrock.Contracts;

    /// <summary>
    /// Extension for RockSceneContext
    /// </summary>
    public static class RockSceneContextExtension
    {
        /// <summary>
        /// Get a RockCard by id.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId.</param>
        /// <returns>The RockCard</returns>
        public static RockCard GetRockCard(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.GetRockObjectAs<RockCard>(id);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Get a RockMinion by id
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId.</param>
        /// <returns>The RockMinion.</returns>
        public static RockMinion GetRockMinion(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.GetRockObjectAs<RockMinion>(id);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Get a RockHero by id
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId.</param>
        /// <returns>The RockHero.</returns>
        public static RockHero GetRockHero(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.GetRockObjectAs<RockHero>(id);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Get friendly RockPlayer
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <returns>The RockPlayer.</returns>
        public static RockPlayer GetFriendlyRockPlayer(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.Scene.Self;
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject FriendlyHeroPower.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a FriendlyHeroPower</returns>
        public static bool IsFriendlyHeroPower(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyHeroPower);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject IsFriendlyCard.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a IsFriendlyCard</returns>
        public static bool IsFriendlyCard(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyCard);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject IsFriendlyCard.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a IsFriendlyCard</returns>
        public static bool IsFriendlyMinion(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyMinion);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject is EnemyMinion.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a IsFriendlyCard</returns>
        public static bool IsEnemyMinion(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyMinion);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject is friendly.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a is friendly</returns>
        public static bool IsFriendly(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyCard)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyMinion)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyHero)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyHeroPower)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.FriendlyHeroWeapon);
        }

        /// <summary>
        /// Is RockObject is enemy.
        /// </summary>
        /// <param name="rockSceneContext">The RockSceneContext.</param>
        /// <param name="id">The RockId</param>
        /// <returns>True if it is a is enemy.</returns>
        public static bool IsEnemy(this RockSceneContext rockSceneContext, int id)
        {
            return rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyCard)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyMinion)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyHero)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyHeroPower)
                || rockSceneContext.IsObjectType(id, RockObjectType.EnemyHeroWeapon);
        }
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub