text:
Summer schools in Europe
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when 15 July 2019 -
credits 3 EC
fee EUR 250
registration deadline 27 April 2019
on course website
Netherlands, Utrecht
Exploring Nature's Molecular Machines
when 15 July 2019 - 26 July 2019
Why do we live and why do we die? Protein machines in the cell take the decisions at molecular level that determine our fate. The last two decades have seen a revolution in our understanding of these machines due to the success of structural biology. We now know the structures of the key players in the most fundamental processes of life. Now we can disentangle the function of these molecular machines and understand the networks in which they function. Essential for progress in this area is that we have eyes at our disposal that allow us to see the molecules in front of us, and to monitor how they react during our manipulations.
The Bijvoet Center in Utrecht provides a privileged environment for research and education in this area. The Bijvoet School consists of a select, international group of around 50 graduate students, more than 80% from outside the Netherlands. Our students have access to a 900 MHz NMR spectrometer, the mass spectrometers of the Netherlands Proteomics Center a semi-automated protein crystallization facility, cell culture facilities and advanced microscopy. We organize this summer school to expose the next generation of ambitious and talented students from all over the world to learn how to study the principles that drive life at the molecular level.
This course focuses on the chemical principles underlying protein structure and function. It elucidates how proteins form assemblies of "molecular machines" that work together to sustain the living state. We will explore how proteins "know" what shape they should fold up into following their synthesis, how they cluster into dynamic macromolecular complexes, and how these complexes communicate to form "social" networks that enable cells to move, replicate, signal, and execute other vital processes. We also focus on the varied post-translational modifications proteins undergo (e.g. N-/O-glycosylation and phosphorylation) and how these can have an enormous impact on protein function and lifetime.
The students will be introduced to advanced methods in structural and molecular biology and biophysics for decoding the cellular protein machinery at atomic resolution, and examine how malfunction of specific components can lead to systemic failure and disease.
The school will combine theory with experiments in the Bijvoet research laboratories. We keep the group size small so that you will be able to build up contacts to the group leaders and PhD students of the Bijvoet School. We also schedule a visit to a partner biotech company. See our website for more information on the course, how to apply and scholarship opportunities.
Course leader
Dr. Tom Wennekes & Dr. Markus Weingarth
Advanced bachelor students and early stage master students with a background in chemistry, biophysics or molecular biology as well as a proficiency in English.
To introduce the student:
- to an international and interdisciplinary research environment
- to the molecular principles of structure and function of molecular machines
- to advanced technology for decoding nature's molecular machines
- to ideas for modern drug discovery and development
- to applications in nano-, synthetic and chemical biology.
EUR 250: Course fee
EUR 350: Housing fee (optional)
The Bijvoet Center offers a scholarship to support this Summer Course. Please visit our website for more details on how to apply: https://www.uu.nl/en/research/bijvoet-center-for-biomolecular-research/education/summerschool/scholarships
Organizing institution
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text:
Right Side Broadcasting Network (RSBN) — консервативная американская медиакомпания, основанная Джо Силзом в 2015 году. Наиболее известна ведением прямых трансляций с митингов 45-го президента США Дональда Трампа на своём YouTube-канале.

История
11 июля 2015 года Джо Силз прилетел в Финикс, штат Аризона, на митинг тогда ещё кандидата в президенты США Дональда Трампа. Силз вёл прямую трансляцию митинга со своей камеры, а затем загрузил полное видео на YouTube. После того, как был преодолён порог в миллион просмотров, Силз понял, что существует большой спрос на неотредактированные кадры с митингов Трампа. Это подтолкнуло его к созданию «Right Side Broadcasting».

Через некоторое время Силз и его семья переехали в , штат Алабама. Предпосылкой к тому стало то, что город был оснащён высокоскоростными волоконно-оптическими кабелями, стоимость которых составляла 43 миллиона долларов. Джо переоборудовал свой новый дом в студию новостей, наняв продюсеров и репортёров. На данный момент «Right Side Broadcasting» имеет более двух сотен миллионов просмотров на своём YouTube-канале.

Летом 2016 года компания запустила несколько шоу с Уэйном Дюпре и пастором . Во время третьих президентских дебатов в 2016 году Дональд Трамп транслировал репортаж «Right Side Broadcasting» на своей странице в Facebook. В октябре 2016 года компания получила пожертвования на общую сумму в 40 000 долларов.

24 октября Дональд Трамп в сотрудничестве с «Right Side Broadcasting» запустил ночной выпуск новостей на своей странице в Facebook. В комментариях люди задавались вопросом о возможности расширения сотрудничества компании с Трампом с целью создания «Trump TV». В интервью «Business Insider» Силз сказал, что спекуляции на эту тему являлись «необоснованными». В свою очередь, Трамп заявлял о том, что он не заинтересован в создании какой бы то ни было компании после выборов.

По словам Силза, Трамп «достаточно часто смотрел их эфиры» во время президентской кампании 2016 года. Джо также говорил, что он был в тесном контакте с директором Трампа по социальным сетям .

В 2016 году «Right Side Broadcasting» была официальной платформой для ведения прямой трансляции кампании Трампа в Facebook, где общее число просмотров варьировалось в пределах 300 миллионов. За тот период канал на YouTube собрал порядка 120 миллионов просмотров.

7 декабря 2016 года «Right Side Broadcasting» получила доступ в пресс-зал Белого дома.

Освещение президентских выборов 2020 года
С начала 2020 года «Right Side Broadcasting» продолжила освещать все предвыборные митинги президента Дональда Трампа. 9 января в Толидо, штат Огайо, состоялся первый митинг.

За время президентских выборов 2020 года репортажи «Right Side Broadcasting» собрали более 127 миллионов просмотров на YouTube.

Вещание «Right Side Broadcasting» после президентских выборов было сосредоточено на предполагаемом мошенничестве в ходе подсчёта голосов. Компания освещала автопробег, организованный  в поддержку Дональда Трампа.

На протяжении последующих двух месяцев «Right Side Broadcasting» освещала судебные слушания, касающиеся возможных фальсификаций на выборах.

«Right Side Broadcasting» вёл прямые трансляции митингов Трампа в Джорджии в поддержку сенаторов Дэвида Пердью и Келли Леффлер. 6 января велось освещение выступления Трампа на митинге «Спаси Америку» в Вашингтоне.

В январе 2021 года YouTube-канал «Right Side Broadcasting» достиг отметки в 1,5 миллиона подписчиков.

Заметные фигуры
В эфире «Right Side Broadcasting» принимали участние многие известные гости. Генеральный директор «»  неоднократно появлялся в репортажах. Среди интервьюируемых были такие известные люди, как , ,  и пресс-секретарь Кейли Макинани. Пастор  неоднократно появлялся на «Right Side Broadcasting». После президентских выборов он был ведущим серии передач «Молитва за президента».

Примечания

Right Side Broadcasting Network
Каналы на YouTube
Средства массовой информации США

Ссылки
 Официальный сайт

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


This page contains information about the 2016 Shigellosis Outbreak in Genesee and Saginaw Counties, Michigan.
Genesee and Saginaw counties are experiencing an outbreak of diarrheal disease caused by a bacteria called Shigella.
At least 180 cases of Shigella infection have been reported throughout the two counties between March 1, 2016, and November 14, 2016. That is more cases than we've seen during the same period in previous years.
MDHHS is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the county health departments to learn more about how people may have gotten sick.
Contacting people in Saginaw and Genesee counties who got sick from Shigella to learn more about their illness.
Doing additional laboratory testing of samples collected from people who got sick from Shigella across Michigan.
Mapping where cases have occurred to see if there is a link between water quality issues and the people who got sick. Examples of possible water quality issues include water main breaks and areas that have low chlorine levels.
Although no cause has been identified for this outbreak, the information collected so far suggests the Shigella bacteria is spreading from person-to-person.
State, local and federal public health officials, partner organizations, and community residents are collaborating to learn more about how people from Saginaw and Genesee counties may have gotten sick with Shigella bacteria.
Shigella outbreaks are not unusual. They occur across the United States, with around 25,000 infections reported each year and an average of 300 to 400 infections reported in Michigan each year.
MDHHS tracks cases of shigellosis illnesses based on reports submitted by healthcare providers. These reports showed increases in cases in Saginaw and Genesee counties beginning in June, and laboratory testing showed that the cases in both counties were caused by the same types of Shigella bacteria. MDHHS requested CDC assistance in investigating what might be causing people to get sick.
One-hundred and eighty cases of Shigella infection were reported from Saginaw and Genesee counties between March 1, 2016, and November 14, 2016. The number of ill people identified in each county were as follows: Saginaw (51) and Genesee (129).
Sick people ranged in age from less than 1 to 86 years. Many of the people who got sick are children, and 60% of the people who got sick are female.
As part of this investigation, health officials are contacting the people who got sick to learn more about their illness and ask about different things that could contribute to the spread of Shigella infection. Health officials are mapping where cases have occurred to see if there is a link between water quality issues, like water main breaks and low chlorine levels, and the people who got sick. MDHHS is also working with CDC to look into Shigella infections that occurred in other parts of Michigan to see if they are connected to the outbreak in Saginaw and Genesee counties.
Current data suggest the shigellosis outbreak is being spread person-to-person and did not begin from a contaminated point source, like a drinking water system. Shigella infection outbreaks related to drinking water systems are rare, because Shigella bacteria are easily killed by chlorine. Previous Shigella-related drinking water outbreaks in the United States typically involved contamination of a private well by sewage. If this initial investigation shows any indication that water is a potential source of the outbreak, public health authorities will follow-up with additional, detailed investigations. Regular updates on the progress of the investigation will be provided at community meetings and with the healthcare community.
Shigella is a germ that causes a disease called shigellosis. People sick with shigellosis may have diarrhea and other symptoms, like stomach cramps and fever. In most cases, sick people will get better without medicine within 5 to 7 days. Some people, like people who are already sick with other diseases, may take longer to get better or may need antibiotics.
How Do People Get Sick from Shigella Bacteria?
Changing diapers of children who are infected with the germ.
Touching people who are sick that might have the germ on their hands or bodies.
Eating food that was prepared by someone who is sick with the germ.
How Can I Avoid Getting Sick from Shigella Bacteria?
Shigella germs can spread very easily from person to person, so the single best thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands with soap and water— especially after using the bathroom, after changing a child's diapers, and before preparing food.
If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is effective in killing Shigella germs. But use soap and water as soon as possible afterwards because hand sanitizer does not kill all types of germs and may not be as effective if hands are visibly greasy or dirty. Other products like cleansing wipes (including baby wipes) do not completely remove germs and are not recommended for cleaning hands.
What Should I Do If I Think I am Sick with Shigella?
If you or one of your family members have the symptoms of shigellosis, such as diarrhea, fever, and a stomachache, visit your doctor and ask about testing for Shigella. Your doctor can order a test that will show whether you or one of your family members are sick from Shigella. It is also important to drink fluids to stay hydrated and wash hands often with soap and water to keep from spreading the sickness to others.
Below are links to more information and resources on Shigella and shigellosis.
CDC - Does Your Child Have Diarrhea?


From their Duke Street office, our Richmond carers bring home care visits to families throughout Richmond, including Twickenham, Hounslow, Feltham, Brentford, Chiswick and other areas of London and Surrey.
Each of our carers are fully trained by our experts and are dedicated to supporting your independence. Whether you're looking for support with housekeeping, cooking, personal care, dementia care or mobility support, we provide a person-centred process and put your needs and comfort first.
An approved care provider in Age UK's Business Directory for London, we also provide live-in care and live-in housekeeper services to families throughout the area.
Richmond's Branch Manager is Parnita Nagi, a Registered Manager with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Before joining Helping Hands she was supporting people with brain injuries and learning difficulties, as well as young people leaving the foster care system.
Meet Parnita, the Branch Manager for Richmond.
Our team of Richmond carers supports people across Surrey and south-west London so they can live independently at home.
We can arrange for care to start quickly, putting yours and family's minds at ease. Temporary respite care is also available, should you need urgent live-in support after a last-minute hospital discharge or in response to a sudden emergency or change in circumstances.
If you find that you need ongoing support, we have a large team of fully-trained live-in carers who can provide 24-hour care. Dedicated live-in care means you can stay at home surrounded by your home comforts, and not experience the upheaval of moving into a residential home.
Each of our carers are handpicked, not just based on their previous care experience but also according to your preferences, personality, and interests. In other words, they'll be more than just a carer; they can also become a valued companion.
Your locally based manager is always on-hand to make sure everything runs smoothly, and also to coordinate any changes and ensure continuity of care. Call us today to find out more about our fully managed service.
All of the staff are really kind and very capable – the carers make the experience personal and individual.
With almost three decades of experience, our carers understand that familiarity and continuity are so important for those affected by dementia. Guided by our team of dementia specialists, they are on hand to help manage the challenges dementia can cause.
Many of our carers take additional training to ensure that your loved one can get the support they need at home, surrounded by their familiar comforts, rather than going through the upheaval of moving into a care home.
Working alongside a dedicated team of nursing specialists, we also enable those with more complex requirements to get the care they need so they can continue to live in the place they feel most comfortable – their own home.
Keeping on top of the house as well as juggling work and family commitments is a constant battle. Ranging from help with cleaning, vacuuming and laundry through to running errands and making your meals, we can help keep your home in tip-top condition.
Our Richmond housekeepers understand and respect that your home is your personal space. That's why we always make sure we meet your exact standards and work to suit your lifestyle. And if you find that you need more regular support, a live-in housekeeper will be there for you whenever you need them.
Get in touch with us today to find out more about housekeeping assistance in and around Richmond.
Our carers are truly special people. Though they all come from different backgrounds and have varying levels of experience, each and every one of them has care in their hearts.
In order for us to provide the highest standard of care, our carers take part in a detailed training programme before starting their work with us, regardless of their previous experience. Each one of them also goes through a series of strict background checks before joining our team.
As a CQC-regulated provider, you can be assured that our carers will deliver the outstanding care that you would expect and, because they are directly employed by us, they will receive our continuing support too.
Helping Hands gave me a chance, which I'm so grateful for. It definitely touches you when you've made someone else's life a little better.
Finding out what care you or your loved one needs might seem a little overwhelming to begin with. Our friendly care team is only a phone call away. Call us today on 02035530348 and we will take you through the options and arrange care that is the best fit for your family.
You can visit our Richmond care team on Duke Street on Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5.30pm (excluding bank holidays).


text:
TV's Upfront Time: Schizophrenically Comforting
by Wayne Friedman , Staff Writer, June 14, 2006
Given the pronouncements of TV network leaders, it would seem to be one of the most schizophrenic upfront markets in some time.
News Corp. COO Peter Chernin said Fox sold about 70 percent of its upfront inventory at 2 percent to 3 percent CPM increases at a West Coast investor conference. At the same event, Tom Staggs, CFO of Walt Disney Co., said the market has been very slow for ABC--with ABC not even doing any deals as yet. On top of that, Les Moonves, CEO of CBS Corp. expressed surprise that Fox has gotten to the levels it has, noting the market is at a much lower level.
One media executive doesn't recall the last time there has been this kind of disparity in selling--and marketplace information--among the networks. He didn't remember the last time one network was so far out ahead in terms of selling, while another hadn't even started
The irony, of course, is this: The major TV networks are separated by just tenths of a rating point in 18-49, the most parity in terms of viewers of virtually any time in TV history.
What gives?
Chernin blamed misinformation--especially among the press--during this upfront.
But marketplace forces always have the upper hand; they decide the direction of money, not the press.
"At the end of the day, ratings sometimes don't matter, schedules don't matter, and clout doesn't matter. Sometimes the market just is what it is," said a veteran media agency executive.
That's comforting. You spend all year working your schedule, plying the press with big news stories about how well your rookie drama or your hot new reality show is doing--and then one day in June a major media buying agency says, "Sorry, we already spent most of our money. You'll be competing with cable networks and syndication programmers for the scraps."
Media agencies executives still believe that for some networks, it's still a negative marketplace. But they don't hold all the cards: the networks have a few to play. Moonves, for example, talked a lot about CBS using the scatter markets--as the network did, doing surprisingly well a few years ago.
All this means is that this upfront is a cranky upfront, with continuing eccentricity.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


20 GW of solar power by 2022 was the original target under India's national solar mission set by Manmohan Singh-led UPA government. But in 2015, PM Narendra Modi-led NDA government revised it to 100 GW by 2022.
New Delhi: India is expected to reach 20 gigawatt (GW) of installed solar capacity by the end of the present financial year (2017-18), said a report released by the consulting firm Bridge to India (BTI) on Tuesday.
According to the latest edition of India Solar Map 2017, which was released on Tuesday, India will reach a total of 20 GW of installed solar capacity by 2017-18 end. It also said that India installed 7.5 GW in the last four quarters (Q4 2016-Q3 2017) and the total utility scale solar capacity reached 16.2GW by September.
Out of the 7.5 GW capacity added in this period, 57% came from three southern states—Telangana, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. With this, Telangana now ranks number one for commissioned capacity followed by Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh.
20 GW of solar power by 2022 was the original target under India's national solar mission set by Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance government. But in 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government revised it to 100 GW by 2022.
"It is a curious time for solar sector in India. We are coming off a period of exceptional growth of over 80% over last three years. But the future looks more subdued—demand for solar power is slowing down when tariffs have fallen to a low of Rs2.42/ kWh level making solar power the cheapest new source of power in India. Utility scale solar capacity addition is expected to slow down to about 5 GW per annum," said Vinay Rustagi, managing director, BTI, while speaking on the launch of BTI's India Solar Map 2017.
He said it is expected that "investors to shift their attention to the secondary market, where some large M&A (mergers and acquisitions) transactions are in the pipeline."
Meanwhile, the report further said that seven project developers in India now have a portfolio greater than one GW (both commissioned and pipeline projects).
The report also stressed that there has been a "marginal increase in the market share of Indian manufacturers" but the "Chinese suppliers continue to hold over 80% of the total market share".


text:
from xlsxwriter.workbook import Workbook
from xlsxwriter.worksheet import Worksheet
from xlsxwriter.worksheet import convert_cell_args

def excel_string_width(str):
    """
    Calculate the length of the string in Excel character units. This is only
    an example and won't give accurate results. It will need to be replaced
    by something more rigorous.

    """
    string_width = len(str)

    if string_width == 0:
        return 0
    else:
        return string_width * 1.1

class MyWorksheet(Worksheet):
    """
    Subclass of the XlsxWriter Worksheet class to override the default
    write_string() method.

    """

    @convert_cell_args
    def write_string(self, row, col, string, cell_format=None):
        # Overridden write_string() method to store the maximum string width
        # seen in each column.

        # Check that row and col are valid and store max and min values.
        if self._check_dimensions(row, col):
            return -1

        # Set the min width for the cell. In some cases this might be the
        # default width of 8.43. In this case we use 0 and adjust for all
        # string widths.
        min_width = 0

        # Check if it the string is the largest we have seen for this column.
        string_width = excel_string_width(string)
        if string_width > min_width:
            max_width = self.max_column_widths.get(col, min_width)
            if string_width > max_width:
                self.max_column_widths[col] = string_width

        # Now call the parent version of write_string() as usual.
        return super(MyWorksheet, self).write_string(row, col, string,
                                                     cell_format)

class MyWorkbook(Workbook):
    """
    Subclass of the XlsxWriter Workbook class to override the default
    Worksheet class with our custom class.

    """

    def add_worksheet(self, name=None):
        # Overwrite add_worksheet() to create a MyWorksheet object.
        # Also add an Worksheet attribute to store the column widths.
        worksheet = super(MyWorkbook, self).add_worksheet(name, MyWorksheet)
        worksheet.max_column_widths = {}

        return worksheet

    def close(self):
        # We apply the stored column widths for each worksheet when we close
        # the workbook. This will override any other set_column() values that
        # may have been applied. This could be handled in the application code
        # below, instead.
        for worksheet in self.worksheets():
            for column, width in worksheet.max_column_widths.items():
                worksheet.set_column(column, column, width)

        return super(MyWorkbook, self).close()

# Create a new MyWorkbook object.
workbook = MyWorkbook('inheritance2.xlsx')

# The code from now on will be the same as a normal "Workbook" program.
worksheet = workbook.add_worksheet()

# Write some data to test column fitting.
worksheet.write('A1', 'F')

worksheet.write('B3', 'Foo')

worksheet.write('C1', 'F')
worksheet.write('C2', 'Fo')
worksheet.write('C3', 'Foo')
worksheet.write('C4', 'Food')

worksheet.write('D1', 'This is a longer string')

# Write a string in row-col notation.
worksheet.write(0, 4, 'Hello World')

# Write a number.
worksheet.write(0, 5, 123456)

workbook.close()

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


If you're researching round trip flights to Quebec City from Nanaimo, you'll want to give WestJet a look. We fly into Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport and more than 150 other destinations across Canada, the U.S., Central America, the Caribbean and Europe — so you can depend on us to get you there. On top of our great routes, we're proud to provide our passengers with air travel that's truly safe, swift and comfortable, all at an affordable price. So make your next trip one to remember and book with WestJet.
Much has been written about Quebec City over the centuries — but this is still a place with exciting secrets to share with visitors. This UNESCO World Heritage site is not only brimming with national landmarks, but it's also bustling with galleries, museums, cafes, boutiques and seasonal festivals. The area's impressive natural spectacles are also popular — particularly the nearby Montmorency Falls, which stands a full 30 metres taller than the world famous Niagara Falls.
Are you past due for a vacation? Book round trip flights today through WestJet and your dream trip to serene, storied Quebec City will quickly become a reality. It doesn't matter if it's business travel or a trip to see Parliament Hill, the Musée de la Civilisation or the Plains of Abraham — you can get there with us. Fly to Quebec City from Nanaimo and find out how your money goes further with WestJet.


Bill Ward, Burlington's code enforcement director, sometimes picks up discarded needles.
In April, Burlington's public library locked its restrooms after used needles clogged the toilets, and in June, the waterfront shelter followed suit. Now the public safety committee (made up of city councilors) and the board of health (made up of citizens) are considering setting up public sites where people can dispose of their needles. They plan to complete a feasibility study by the fall.
In addition to the two restroom closures, during the last 18 months, SeeClickFix, Burlington's crowd-sourced app for reporting low-level problems to city officials, documented 32 needle discoveries.
Beyond that, Councilor Selene Colburn (P-Ward 1) said the committee isn't sure of the scope of the problem, but one of their goals is to figure out a way to quantify it.
Councilor David Hartnett (D-Ward 4), the owner of the Mobile Short Stop in the New North End, said he's observed firsthand an uptick in the needles discovered in his restrooms. He bought a "sharps" container (a catch-all for sharp biowaste products) to dispose of needles he finds. "We used to just put them in Coke bottles or styrofoam cups," he said.
"I don't think we have any data to show how many needles are found," Hartnett said. "But I think it's a bigger problem than people realize," he continued, pointing out that he doesn't report the needles he gets rid of.
Councilor Jane Knodell, who also serves on the public safety committee, said the group wants to increase the number of city employees who are trained to retrieve needles for disposal. To do so, they'll have to sort out some logistical kinks – including potential liability concerns. Right now, Knodell explained, that task falls to Bill Ward, the code enforcement director, or one of his deputies, who will often show up on off-hours to pick up needles reported on SeeClickFix. Police officers are also trained to dispose of any needles they encounter while on patrol.
Colburn said the committee doesn't have a specific disposal system in mind, but one option would be to install safe disposal containers in public restrooms. What will people think of publicly-sanctioned needle boxes? Colburn said they'll be prepared to answer to address any concerns. "I think we certainly recognize there are going to be some questions and, potentially, controversies."
The Howard Center's Safe Recovery program operates a needle exchange program, Monday through Friday, that accepts used needles. Colburn said the committee hasn't reached out to them yet, but plans to.
The committee is encouraging residents who happen upon needles to either call the Howard Center (802-488-6067) or to use the SeeClickFix website.


text:
I was a rebellious, A.D.D. diagnosed only child with a big personality and an even bigger desire in my heart: to help people break free from who they think they need to be and become the spirit they were born to be.
In my 20's I built a wealth of experience working in business development, sales, marketing, promotions, event leadership and media with Rogers Radio, Chum, Corus Group, KVOS TV, Coca Cola, and Royal Caribbean International. Those were some of my fondest memories. Those positions allowed me to gain invaluable skills and get a good glimpse of my light through the work I was doing.
I took an intern job as a Producer/Director/Host of a travel TV Show where I first got a feeling for TV Production. I had a dream when I was 18 that I wanted to own my own TV Show one day and thought this position might help get me there… and it did!
I became an Executive Director and TV Star on my own show called the GOtoGAL which aired on a local TV station. This was a huge actualization and dream come true for me.
I met my husband working on that show and we decided to open our own video storytelling company SPIRO Creative. We share stories of good people doing great work in the world. We've been fortunate to tell over 2000 stories of amazing people creating positive change and love the work we get to do together. We've even won 2 awards! I also started my own talk show called "Passionpreneur TV" that aired on Telus Optik.
Being behind the lens on video shoots I would see so many people, especially women afraid to really shine their light. They'd let fear, anxiety, or worry hold them back from being who they are. They'd be afraid of what someone would think or say about them. Or they didn't think they knew enough or were ready to step into the spotlight.
My heart craved to help these women with big heart messages show up more confidently and share their light freely with the world. I wanted to help them achieve their big dreams so together we could create more positive change in the world.
Hence why this website was born. And my mission is to create a world full of women who feel so self-expressed and soul-aligned in the work they get to do.
What I believe will happen once we all liberate our light within is we'll create new dynamics on how the world works and what we deem important. And best of all we will change the way we do business to be PRO people and PRO planet before profits. This is my big vision, my big "WHY" and YOU are an integral part in that change.
Together we will create a world where everyone feels free to show up exactly as they are and build businesses that matter.
My all-time favourite thing is to work with small groups of women in a retreat or online setting. I love to speak and travel where ever my light is needed. A new day with a new experience, meeting new faces is my happy place.
5 Fun Facts About Me:
1. I recently moved to Vancouver Island with my rescue pup and husband to write my first book.
2. I'm a Kundalini Teacher and have my Reiki Level 1
3. I love to teach Improv and airband with my girlfriends. Check out #dancepartyfriday on Facebook or my Adera and the Lightfinders Music Video.
4. I ran across Canada with the Olympic Flame in 2009-2010
5. I've traveled to 19 countries and plan to visit India, Australia, South East Asia and the continent of Africa in 2020!
Some other cool life experiences include:
* Moving to Ireland to meet Gerard Butler but realizing I went to the wrong country
* Working as a Personal Assistant and traveling via private jet
* Organizing 100 single wing aircrafts to land in Whitehorse
* Meeting Robin Williams, the Barenaked Ladies, Michael Buble, Josh Groban, Michael Beckwith, Gabby B, and Rebecca Campbell.
* Co-Hosting with Red Robinson and Mark Madryga
* Getting fired from my promo gig at a big Vancouver radio station because I was too busy chasing love
* Managing a folk band
* Doing my first stand up comedy routine at Lafflines
* Sledding down a Volcano in Nicaragua
* Wearing a gown in Venice so my boyfriend could take Vogue like pictures of me in St. Mark's Square
* Jumping out of an airplane and just this year bungy jumping.


We've all heard the normal "how to survive college" tips – don't procrastinate, don't make ramen your entire food pyramid, actually sleep once in a while…the list goes on. But, how many of us actually take those to heart? When's the last time you ate a meal that didn't consist of pizza? So, here's some college tips that you'll actually use, and not forget about two weeks into school.
1. Master the art of skim-reading.
There's always those weeks in college with two exams and three papers due, and there isn't enough time to read that article for your humanities class. It's on days like this where skim-reading saves the day. Make sure you read the headings of each section and the first sentence of each paragraph, and skim through the rest of the text to get a general idea about what it's saying. This way, you'll have a good idea what will come up during the class discussion, but you don't spend too much time trying to decipher every word.
2. Study the morning before an exam, not the night before.
This might seem a little counter-intuitive, but it works, as long as you don't have a job interview you have to be super alert for the next afternoon. It's better to go to bed early and get up at 3 AM to go over the material than stay up until 3 AM and drag yourself to your exam still half-asleep. When you study in the wee hours of the morning, the information seems to get in your brain better. Plus, you're already in the mindset of whatever subject you're studying, and ready to go when the exam rolls around.
3. If studying for an exam is freaking you out…don't.
Mental health is always the most important. If you're on the verge of having a breakdown because you just can't memorize all the elements of the periodic table, sometimes it's better to stop and wing it. This is not a PSA to stop studying altogether, but when it gets severely overwhelming, don't push yourself or put too much pressure on yourself to do it. A bad grade on a test isn't the end of the world. Heck, a bad grade in a class isn't the end of the world either.
4. Have study music that you like.
Contrary to popular belief, sometimes having soft classical music in the background will make you fall asleep…especially when it's late at night and there's a deadline in 30 minutes. Having a playlist filled with music you love that gets you pumped will make working a million times better.
5. Anything can get done the night before.
When a professor tells you something can't be finished the night before, they're lying. Anything can be finished the night before with enough focus and motivation. However, don't save everything for the night before. If you're trying to finish three essays in two hours, it won't be pretty. But if it's absolutely necessary, don't worry about putting something off to the night before. If you concentrate, you can do it.
Are High School Days Really The Best Days Of Your Life?


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Vodafone and Three's mega merger
In today's top stories, UK telecoms giants Vodafone and Three are in talks to merge, while furniture retailer Made.com hangs up a 'for sale' sign. Japan's largest IPO of the year takes place courtesy of Socionext and South Korea's Naver acquires poshmark. Investors also consider how they want to position in an impending recession.
Vodafone and Three agree to merge
The UK's third and fourth biggest mobile phone networks, Vodafone [VOD.L] and Three [III.L], are set to merge. According to Three's owner CK Hutchinson [0001.HK], a combined entity with 27 million customers "will gain the necessary scale to be able to accelerate the rollout of full 5G in the UK". The deal will no doubt be scrutinised by the Competition and Markets Authority, however. Oddo analysts believe there's a 55% chance it will be approved.
Made.com hangs up for sale sign
Beleaguered furniture retailer Made.com [MADE.L] has put itself up for sale, a couple of weeks after announcing that it is set to cut more than 200 jobs. The company, whose share price has collapsed 97.6% year-to-date, has warned it will need between £45m and £70m to stay operating as a public company over the next 18 months. As of 3 October, Made's market cap stood at £16.05m.
Socionext is Tokyo's largest IPO this year
Japanese chipmaker Socionext has sold 18.3 million shares at 3,650 yen each ahead of its IPO on 12 October. This will make it Tokyo's largest IPO this year. The company develops system-on-chip products, and while the specifics of what the company does is perhaps too technical for the layman investor to understand, it has "solid cashflow and a mature business model," Hiroaki Tomori, chief fund manager at Mitsubishi UFJ Kokusai Asset, told Bloomberg. "I don't see much downside," he said.
Invest defensively ahead of biggest recession
The next recession is likely to be the biggest ever, according to Keith McCullough, founder and CEO of Hedgeye Risk Management. In an interview with MarketWatch, McCullough explained that he was bearish on most stocks even though prices have tumbled, because there'll be "no dovish pivot" from the Fed. Investors should position themselves defensively in cash, gold and the US dollar, he argued.
Naver to acquire Poshmark amid ecommerce slump
Fashion marketplace Poshmark [POSH] is being acquired by South Korea's Naver [035420.KS] for $17.90 per share or roughly $1.2bn. Naver's CEO said its AI recommendation tools will help to power the next phase of Poshmark's growth – yet eyebrows are raised. Ecommerce sales are slumping and "the deal looks expensive" given Poshmark is expected to report a $70m loss this year, Oh Dong-hwan, Samsung Securities analyst, told the Financial Times.
Mortgage lenders remove and reprice mortgage products
Last week's collapse of the pound has forced mortgage lenders to suspend products and retract or reprice offers. The share prices of HSBC [HSBA.L], Santander [BNC.L], and Nationwide [NBS.L] have all traded lower as a result. John Cronin, head of financials at Goodbody, told Reuters that investors are spooked by the fact "that effectively the UK banks are saying there's no front book at these rates".
AstraZeneca pulls back despite approvals
British pharma giant AstraZeneca [AZN.L] has received a series of approvals in different regions for a number of therapies in recent weeks, yet the share price has pulled back. The firms is down 7.6% in the past month. Still, CEO Pascal Soriot believes that the drugmaker's long-term strategic focus on oncology research and development, and streamlining the business, will bear fruit.
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Will VR hardware help lift the Apple share price?
Meta is the industry leader when it comes to augmented reality and virtual reality hardware, but Apple could eat into its dominance.
Investors lose appetite for Beyond Meat and Tyson Foods shares
Demand for plant-based protein products is falling as consumers cut back on foods with premium prices.
Geely's Zeekr premium EV brand eyes $10bn IPO valuation
It would be the first major listing of a Chinese company in the US since Beijing and Washington agreed to share audits.
Gene editing stocks are being dragged down. Is now the time to buy?
Gene editing is a niche that could be the key to unlocking the future of healthcare, but there are several challenges for industry players to overcome.
Investing in CMC Markets derivative products carries significant risks and is not suitable for all investors. You do not own, or have any interest in, the underlying assets. We recommend that you seek independent advice and ensure you fully understand the risks involved before trading. Spreads may widen dependent on liquidity and market volatility.
The information on this website is prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs.
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Accurate cause-of-death information is important: 1) to the public health community in evaluating and improving the health of all citizens, and 2) often to the family, now and in the future, and to the person settling the decedent's estate.
The cause-of-death section consists of two parts. Part I is for reporting a chain of morbid events leading directly to death, with the immediate cause of death (the final disease, injury, or complication directly causing death) on Line a and the underlying cause of death (the disease or injury that initiated the chain of events that led directly and inevitably to death) on the lowest used line. Part II is for reporting all other significant diseases, conditions, or injuries that contributed to death but which did not result in the underlying cause of death given in Part I. The cause-of-death information should be YOUR best medical OPINION. A condition can be listed as "probable" even if it has not been definitively diagnosed.


Vintage Velour Coral Playsuit. Perfect for the season ahead. STYLING: Pair with trainers. SIZING: Size XS measures approx 34" pit to pit, 35" length, 2.5" inside sleeve. Our model is a size 8UK and 5'10". CONDITION: Although the product is in good vintage condition please expect some natural wear/age and imperfections.


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European Commission Suspends Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe Funding for Some Hungarian Institutions
Erasmus+ CZELO Dům zahraniční spolupráce
EU has banned new contracts with some Hungarian public trust foundations. Many Hungarian universities will lose funding.
The European Commission decided no new legal commitments may be entered into with selected Hungarian public trust foundations. This measure is grounded in the EU rule of law conditionality mechanism officially triggered by the European Commission last April. The Commission found that Hungary failed to implement necessary remedial measures adequately and subsequently decided to freeze EU funding for Hungary. The ban affects 21 Hungarian universities — they will not be able to receive new grants from the educational programme Erasmus+ or Horizon, the EU's key funding programme for research and innovation. These universities are run by public trust foundations named in the decision.
Ongoing projects and mobilities will not be affected as the suspension of cooperation with Hungarian subjects only affects agreements signed after December 15.
How will this decision affect Erasmus+ projects?
Outcoming and incoming student and staff mobilities and strategic partnerships funded in 2020, 2021 or 2022 calls are not affected and are allowed to continue.
As for the new 2023 call with the submission of the application deadlines in February and March of this year, the involvement of some Hungarian universities will be limited. Study stays abroad will remain unaffected for Czech students as Hungarian institutions are not involved in the contractual relationship. However, this decision will affect study stays abroad for Hungarian students as well as cooperation with Hungarian institutions.
Especially where cooperation among organisations and institutions (KA2) is concerned, we recommend all institutions currently preparing for project application in the 2023 Call review the conditions for participation by Hungarian universities and possibly involve them as additional partners once the minimum of three partners from three other countries has been met.
How long will this suspension last?
Based on information from the European Commission, we are able to confirm that the measures affecting both programmes are temporary. The Commission plans to release further instructions to National Agencies administering the Erasmus+ programme in the next few days. As soon as the situation changes, we will inform the public, applicants and current Erasmus+ grant recipients.
Around 100 Hungarian university students and another 100 Hungarian academics come to Czechia every year for their Erasmus+ study stay. Similar numbers of Czech students and university staff head to Hungary every year. Hungarian universities are also important partners for their Czech counterparts when it comes to long-term cooperation. Some of them are also members of the European University Alliance along with Czech universities.
This programme promotes cooperation and mobility in all spheres of education and training, and in relation to sport and young people. It is open to individuals (e.g. students, teachers, and volunteers) and organisations (e.g. schools, youth organisations, and NGOs).


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′칼레항 입구 봉쇄 시위′…프랑스-영국 어업 분쟁 악화일로
BRITAIN-EU/FRANCE-FISHING
FRANCE CALAIS FISHING
TOPSHOT-FRANCE-BRITAIN-DIPLOMACY-FISHING-TRANSPORT
이재명, ′부동산 사과′ 민심 수습…서울 공략 돌입
French fishermen on their trawler install a banner which reads "Stop your fishy business" before the blockade of the port of Calais during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Calais, France, November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
epa09605010 French fishing boats block the entrance of the Port of Calais starting a day of protests to mark anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licences, in Calais, France, 26 November 2021. EPA/MOHAMMED BADRA
French fishermen on their trawlers drive past a ferry during an action to block the port of Calais during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Calais, France, November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
French fishermen on their trawler drive past a ferry during an action to block the port of Calais during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Calais, France, November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
French fishermen on their trawler attend an action to block the port of Calais during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Calais, France, November 26, 2021. The banner reads "Stop your fishy business". REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
TOPSHOT - French fishing boats block the entrance to the port of Calais on November 26, 2021 as fishermen began a day of action to disrupt cross-Channel traffic in protest at the post-Brexit fishing rights granted by Britain, blocking ferries seeking to access the northern port of Calais. - Five fishing boats blocked access to the port as part of a protest due to last one-and-a-half hours. They were also expected later to disrupt freight traffic seeking to enter the Channel Tunnel. (Photo by Bernard BARRON / AFP)
French fishermen on their trawler attend an action to block the port of Calais during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Calais, France, November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
French fishermen block trucks at the Eurotunnel Freight Terminal during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Coquelles, near Calais, France, November 26, 2021. REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol
Banners installed by French fishermen are seen on the fences of the Eurotunnel Freight Terminal during a day of protests to mark their anger over the issue of post-Brexit fishing licenses, in Coquelles, near Calais, France, November 26, 2021. Banners read "We want our licences back" and "Licences refused, fishermen in danger". REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol


July 2014 Edition: 6 Paid iOS Apps For FREE, Grab Them All Here!
The deals are flying in right now for mobile device owners, and with Amazon having last week offered an almighty 30 apps and games free of charge for Android users, the App Store appears to be hot on its tail in serving iPhone, iPad and iPod touch users looking for a bargain. Once again, we're back with another six apps for iOS device owners to get stuck into, and if your home screen is looking a little scant, then join us after the leap!
This flexible app lets you custom-build your very own frames for photos and videos, taking things to the next level with a multitude of different shapes and options.
If you're into tricky little puzzlers, then Nozoku Rush will be right up your alley, and even if you're a seasoned pro at these kinds of games, you'll soon meet your match thanks to the Extreme Mode.
Like Solar Walk, which we featured only a couple of days back, this app lets you discover a little bit more about what's going on outside of our own planet. It's pretty fascinating anyway, and SkySafari makes the process of touring space and the solar system even more enchanting.
As implied by the name, this app will help you find new movies to watch, and if you're stuck for a box office smash to entertain you for the evening – first-world problems – then check this app out.
This app offers a plethora of great photo-editing features, helping you to achieve that perfect shot. It's both easy to use and packed with different effects, so if you want to give your snaps a touch-up, this is one freebie you won't want to miss.
Free for Canada Day, LeechTunes offers you a whole new, alternative feature set and interface through which you can enjoy your favorite songs and artists. With gesture controls and a multitude of themes, it makes a pleasant change from the stock Music app, and if you're a music lover, go ahead and give this app a try.
This Epic $6.99 Title For iOS Has Gone FREE For The First Time, Download It Right Now!


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M/S Costa Concordia incidents January 13-14, 2012 caused by ship not being seaworthy - Part 12
Some conclusions and thoughts about my Costa Concordia incident analysis
i. Don't believe what media report about incidents at sea!
According Wikipedia:
"Coverage of the shipwreck dominated international media in the days after the disaster. The New York Times called the incident "a drama that seemed to blend tragedy with elements of farce". Phillip Knightley called it the "most significant event in modern maritime history" because "every single safety procedure designed to make sea travel safe failed miserably". ... Newspaper Corriere della Sera stated that Italy owed the world a "convincing explanation" for the wreck and called for harsh punishment of those found responsible. Il Giornale said the wreck was a "global disaster for Italy". Il Messaggero said there was "anguish over those still missing". La Repubblica called the event "a night of errors and lies". La Stampa criticised the captain for not raising the alarm and refusing to go back on board the ship." Etc, etc.
Evidently the above is typical Wikipedia trying to describe how media work and it is better not to report anything, e.g. about ship owners' responsibilities.
Don't believe anything media report of incidents at sea. The reporters and journalists don't know much about ships or passenger ships and safety at sea and terms used. Media never ask the first question you should ask, when an accident or incident at sea occurs:
Was the ship seaworthy?
Answer: No!
Media never ask the second question you should ask, when an accident at sea occurs:
Were there sufficient trained crewmembers aboard to save passengers and ship?
Or the third question:
Was the ship owner aware of the responsibilites?
Media just report what certain part interests like and that sells, e.g. all is the fault of the Master. Media do not dare to report the ship owner's - Costa's - own statement:
"The (ship owning) company is not responsible for what happens on board the ship"
- just blame the Master!! - as then the passengers will get scared.
Media reporting is generally stupid show by uneducated journalists.
The Heiwa Co website is therefore never linked to or consulted by media!
The news July 21, 2012 - that the analysis of the Costa Concordia Voyage Data Recorder information was delayed nine months until October 15 2012 - was hardly reported at all. Or why it was difficult to analyze the data.
The final data (if it can be trusted) showed that most info published by media until then about the incident could not be confirmed. Media reported a collision - there was no collision. Media reported a grounding - there was no grounding. Media didn't report a capsize, when the passenger ship actually capsized more than two hours after the accidental contact that started the drama resulting in a black-out and so on. Media reported a successful up righting September 2013 of the wreck but didn't report that the wreck hull was seriously damaged in the process and must be repaired ... under water ... to proceed. Etc, etc.
ii. 99% of all aboard were safely evacuated! But 32 drowned. Why is that? Who is responsible?
The ship's Master is innocent of any manslaughter, causing a shipwreck and abandoning the ship etc, according to any laws (except an Italian law from 1942). He was just doing his job according to given ISM instructions of the ship owner and approved by the authorities, when accidents struck at least twice during and after his stupid Magic turn the ship show on the bridge.
He was apparently on the bridge, when the ship was executing a planned (but strange) turn - the inchino - and started to leak due to one stupid/strange/accidental contact incident at 21.45 hrs 13 January 2012 partly up flooding three watertight compartments (double bottom was intact) and nobody died then. The planned route including a turn/change of heading, in the pitch dark night, close to shore was as per company policy and agreed prior departure and then and planned by the 2nd Officer in charge of navigation, when something went wrong (incorrect charts, language problems, incompetent crew provided by the ship owner, steering gear not working, sabotage, etc, etc?). The Master alone cannot really be blamed for all that. He was just performing his Magic show to entertain the passengers and his Moldovan girlfriend!
One question still not clarified is why the ship didn't pass parallell to the island from the beginning to avoid this strange last minute turn ending in an accidental contact ripping open the hull.
The Master's prime responsibilities aboard were otherwise (1) to keep the passengers incl. girlfriend and the ship owner happy and (2) ensure that ISM procedures were followed and not to personally steer the ship. He and his mostly Asian origin, underpaid (compared to EU citizens), non-Italian speaking crew supplied by the ship owner then managed to anchor the damaged but floating and stable vessel along the shore and supervise, hm, the evacuation of 99% of persons aboard to shore. The ship evidently was never aground as reported, because a ship that is aground cannot capsize! If ISM procedures were followed but still causing 32 people to drown, it must be explained.
It seems crew supplied by the ship owner didn't know how to launch the life rafts and that passengers were not informed that life rafts could be used when abandoning ship.
Furthermore it seems many lifeboats both port and starboard were not used at all, again, due to lack of crew aboard to lower the boats to the embarkation deck, embark passengers and then launch the boat into the water. Several hundreds of passengers were abandoned on the starboard side and had to rush to the port side to find a lifeboat or life raft to use and ... found boats and rafts ... but no crew to launch them. These facts have been ignored by Italian marine incident and judicial investigators for 21 months ... and you should wonder why.
Easiest is to re-establish by independent investigators what really happened before, during and after the abandon ship operation and why 32 persons were left behind.
The present investigators have not done a proper and complete job in this respect. They actually defend an incompetent ship owner and the Italian maritime authority by issuing an incomplete report full of incorrect information.
The responsible parties are the ship owner, the top management of the ship owning company and the maritime authority that have sent a not seaworthy, dangerous and unsafe cruise ship to sea. To improve safety at sea, these parties must improve their performances and explain themselves in a judicial court.
iii. Ship capsize and sinking must be explained to establish the proximate cause of killing people!
The ship was stable and floating after the January 13, 21.45 hrs contact, i.e. safe, even if 1 000's of tons of water had leaked into the hull of the ship and partly up-flooded four compartments. The authorities suggest that damage was 60-70 meters long and that five compartments were immediately up-flooded but it is wrong. If it had happened, the ship would have capsized 180° at once and all aboard would have drowned.
The hull opening is 36.5 meters long and only three compartments were partly affected (the double bottoms mainly intact) and the damage condition was stable and floating. Why the Italian investigators lie in this respect must be clarified.
Why the floating, not aground ship heeled slowly to starboard prior capsize must also be explained.
It was probably due to progressive flooding through illegal watertight doors apparently opened after the first incident during the evacuation reducing stability and wind force, when starboard bilge touched some rocks.
The chaotic, incomplete evacuation leaving 300+ persons on the ship, when it capsized, was due to some lifeboats and most life rafts not being used. The cause for this fatal fact is that crew to handle life rafts and lifeboats were not aboard and that equipment didn't work. The responsibility of the ship not being seaworthy rests with the ship owner.
After the chaotic (it had never been tested) evacuation of 99% of persons aboard to shore, the ship capsized very close to shore (a second incident!) between say 00.20 and 00.32 hrs the next day January 14 (the heel suddenly increased to 90°) and started sinking due to down-flooding of intact, watertight compartments and sliding away on the sea floor into deeper water and first then people still aboard drowned or were killed. The starboard side from bilge to top of deck house was apparently severly structurally damaged due to the capsize and sliding away from shore.
Why this happened and who is responsible (for manslaughter!) need to be further investigated. What caused the righting arm GZ to become 0 and the ship to capsize, to get further damaged on the starboard side and sink (almost three hours after the first incident) killing people? Did somebody open watertight doors aboard or change anything to cause capsize/sinking?
Where the 25 watertight doors operated according SOLAS rules, ISM procedures and administration's and company's instructions? Were the doors legal? Evidently not. Watertight doors are not permitted by SOLAS. The ship was substandard.
Is the proximate cause of the second incident, i.e. the capsize (and killing of people) an open or leaking watertight door and progressive flooding of intact hull compartments as suggested by the Italian Marine Casualty Investigation Central Board in a preliminary report but not mentioned in the final report. Did the crew/staff open watertight doors duriing the evacuation? Is the person responsible for the opening and/or leaking watertight door responsible for the killing of people on the Costa Concordia. Who can it be? The ship owner? The administration?
Were the bilge alarms in every watertight compartment working or fitted at all, so the Master knew how the ship was flooded? Were the bilge pumps started to keep vessel afloat? Who was responsible to assure the safety of the ship? Evidently the ship owner and management ashore and his crew onboard. Anyway, the ship never sank completely as it was and still is resting on the bottom with 30% above water (or less after up righting).
iv. Insurances were not valid!
The Underwriters (the insurance companies) may consider the loss or damage has resulted from multiple absences of due diligence by the ship owner, i.e. the insurance is not valid!
The ship owner doesn't know how many were aboard and are missing!
It is not diligent by a ship owner to allow a ship to navigate with open watertight doors at sea and to ignore SOLAS requirements to maintain watertight subdivision at all times! This fault actually refers to the whole Costa fleet and nothing is done about it! The watertight doors were illegal!
It is not dilgent to provide a full crew that is not familiar with the mustering, embarkation, lowering of lifeboats and life rafts and abandon ship procedures.
It is not diligent never to practice mustering full complement, embarkation, lowering of all lifeboats and all life rafts and abandon ship procedures. How this defect was not noted at regular ISM audits and Port State Control inspections is a mystery. Were the auditors and inspectors competent?
It is not diligent by a ship owner to encourage his shipmasters to show off the ships close to shore after sunset and in pitch dark conditions while not providing proper outlook and charts and later deny it and blame all on one unfortunate shipmaster!
It is not normal or expected that valuable ships with plenty passengers are turning very close to the shores in show offs at night ... with open watertight doors! If it happens it is evidently at the ship owner's own risk. The underwriters would have stopped the madness at once, if informed. The ship owner may therefore have shot himself in the leg.
Refusal by underwriters to pay the stupid, total loss �400 million and removal expenses �900++ million may be a good initiative to encourage ship owners to behave more serious in order to maintain and improve safety at sea and to prevent incompetent ship owners to operate ships at all.
The total claim may be of the order $1.6 bn and it looks like underwriters actually pay (17 June 2014)!
v. Visible structural side damages do not look real!
There are also the very strange things about the contact incident to consider. The visible structural damages on port, vertical side one meter below waterline and above the inner bottom do not look real: a ship hardly shears off and scoops up a 100 tons boulder from an outcrop of the sea floor and lodges it on top of its inner bottom. And why is it suggested that the damage is 60-70 meters long and five watertight compartments were immediately up-flooded at contact, when the open fracture on port side is only 36.5 meters long causing up-flooding of four compartments? And why are there no underwater pictures of the starboard side of the hull before and after up righting?
Of course no real seaman ever speeds by close to any shore with a big ship, so any associated damages have never been imagined. The alleged manuever before anchoring - a 180° turn 1.000 meters north of final position and moving against current - do not look real either. The miraculous evacuation and sending home of 4.200 persons within 24 hrs after shower/breakfast on a small island are also unbelievable. Where did 4 000+ persons stay on the island? In 3 000 beds? Finally, the various statements of the ship owner, Master, senior officers and crew are very strange. And why was the whole crew quickly repatriated without being questioned about the incident? Is this a real insurance case or something else? 4 February 2012 I had my doubts about the whole thing. You have to have an open mind, when investigation incidents at sea. Fraud is always an temptation being masked as a stupid accident.
vi. Incorrectly fitted and wrongly operated watertight doors caused the loss and killed people and made the ship unseaworthy!
Modern cruise vessels like this one or this one (and also Costa Concordia and her sister ships) are incorrectly fitted with doors in the watertight hull bulkheads in crew and store spaces and are then wrongly certified by ignorant maritime authorities and will sink like stones in collisions or contact incidents killing people due to progressive flooding through open watertight doors in incidents, when watertight compartments are up-flooded. The ships are substandard and not seaworthy. Many maritime authorities and cruise ship operators like USCG vice admiral Brian M. Salerno, deputy USCG commandant for operations, and captain George Wright, senior Vice President, Marine Operations, Princess Cruises, do not understand that doors in watertight bulkheads are not permitted, and, when permitted, e.g. only one door in a bulkhead between engine rooms (necessary for safe operations of the ship) are subject to draconian safety requirements. A watertight door in a crew or store space is not necessary for the safe operation of the ship and cannot be fitted under any circumstances. It is as simple as that ... since early SOLAS days. The solution - to walk up/down to the main deck at the bulkhead - is very easy and safe and the only alternative. In the Costa Concordia case - with the engine control room located above bulkhead deck - there seems to be no need for any watertight doors at all between engine rooms.
The Costa company instructions about watertight doors on all their ship can be read here (in Italian). The crazy document shows clearly that all Costa ships are not seaworthy, fitted with illegal watertight doors and operated with watertight doors open at sea, to be recorded in the log book, which is not done, etc, etc. Reason for this dangerous situation is incompetent ship owner and maritime authority not knowing better. It is quite sad.
Unfortunately the reaction from stupid and incompetent administrations and ship owners (and underwriters!) is that the underpaid crew need the doors to walk around in the hull, that it is safe to sail with open doors because they will be closed, if something happens, etc, etc, blah, blah. It is stupid! It is criminal. And nothing is done about it. It would appear that the crew/staff opened watertight doors during the evacuation and that the doors could not be closed again. The open doors caused progressive flooding, loss of stability, capsize and sinking! And nothing is done about it!
vii. Risk of big luxury cruiser collision greatest ever!
'Experts' suggest that probability (risk) is low for this type of strange incident but fact remains that contacts and collisions at sea are real risks and next time maybe a bigger cruise vessel (with 5 000+ passengers aboard) may be rammed by a fast, big containership (with a crew of 20!) away from any shore. It is very simple to test the evacuation of a ship with 5 000+ persons aboard. Do it at anchor in port and invite media to look on!
There have never been so many big, slow cruise vessels (offering cheap cruises) with illegal W/T doors and fast, very big containerships at sea in history, i.e. the risk has never been so big.
Maybe the number of persons to be carried on any ship should be maximized?
The risk that a cruise ship will collide with the safest oil tanker in the world is zero because USA as only member of the IMO has forbidden it to enter US ports ... so it is not built! The Safety at Sea business is tough.
viii. Analyzing ship incidents is interesting and fun and improves safety at sea!
Analyzing ship incidents is interesting and fun because you and ship owners can learn from them, improve the ships, crew, procedures and their safety and save lives in the future. Heiwa Co has done it with good humor and common sense since at least 1994. Strangely this is not appreciated by authorities, underwriters, incl. P&I and (stupid) people in charge, e.g. in Sweden. That's why more sea accidents will take place and more people will be killed on ships ... and ashore ... asking the wrong questions. Prove me wrong and earn �1 000 000:-!
I was looking forward to a correct Costa Concordia incident safety investigation report as per EU Directive 2009/18/EC ... but got another M/V Estonia type report 1997 or an M/V Estonia sinking time schedule research project report 2008, where experts like D. Vassalos, P. Valanto, C. Strasser and others scientifically falsify the capsize and sinking of a passenger ship with 22 watertight doors in 11 watertight bulkheads to satisfy particular interests not associated with safety at sea. Evidently a passenger ship with 22 watertight doors (and incorrect LSA) is not seaworthy but it was in spite of these criminal defects certified by many national administrations and classification societies. You wonder how 25 watertight doors of the M/S Costa Concordia were permitted? And why they were fitted against SOLAS requirements? The Italian Ministry of Infrastructures and Transports (sic) has 16 months later, May 2013, not explained it at www.safety4sea.com/images/media/pdf/Costa_Concordia_-_Full_Investigation_Report.pdf.
ix. The water filled ship removal ... or attempt of ... salvage, re-floating, towing away, re-cycling in a dry-dock full of water and ... re-sinking
The capsize, crushing onto the sea floor and sliding down away from shore on hard rocks and sinking on 14 January 2012 damaged the ship's starboard side and bilge but apparently no underwater inspection was done to establish the condition in view of removal. That the ship was a constructive total loss beyond repairs should have been obvious early. No underwater pictures of the damaged hull are available to the public. And a very strange and expensive removal method was chosen. It was announced that all work, re-floating and towing away, should be completed by May 2013 but then the ship was still in the same position as a year before.
The parbuckling of the ship September 2013 apparently resulted in starboard bilge and/or the false see floor and coral reef being further crushed. But again no further underwater inspection was done to establish the condition in view of re-floating and towing away. No underwater pictures of the damaged hull of the ship are available to the public.
If attaching of extra buoyancy tanks, sponsons, 12-30 meters underwater on the starboard side was possible is an open question ... and how long it will take. It would probably have been cheaper and faster using pontoons.
The damaged hull, superstructure and deckhouse finally arrived at Genoa July 2014. And it was still there February 2017 for re-cycling ... in a dry-dck full of water. The lower part of the hull is still full of water and nobody seems to know how to get rid of it. Maybe re-sinking should have been the final solution?
And why wasn't a safer, quicker and simpler salvage methods used? No sponsons attached to the hull are really required. After up righting on the underwater platforms and securing the bow using the blister, two 30 000 dwt pontoons could have easily lifted the wreck off the rocks.
x. Why did 32 persons get killed on 14 January, 2012?
Why didn't all persons aboard get evacuated before capsize? Why did 12 German, 6 French, 5 Italian and 2 US American passengers and 1 Spanish passenger during two, three hours not understand that they had to go to the muster stations to be escorted by trained crew to the lifeboats and liferafts? The passengers spent all their time high up in the deck house of the ship and it was ample time between first contact at 21.45 hrs and capsize 00.34 hrs early next morning to get off the ship or go higher up. Alarms were activated. Six other crew members apparently also drowned but maybe they were doing their jobs and were surprised by the capsize down below.
Why were ISM procedures for evacuation and abandoning ship not followed? Had they actually been tested and trained? Apparently not. The crew didn't know how to launch all lifeboats and most life rafts! There were not sufficient trained crew aboard to launch the life rafts.
Only a complete and correct incident, criminal or safety, investigation will clarify why these people drowned or were killed on 14 January, 2012. Heiwa Co recommends any prosecutor not to blame any officer, crew member or office staff ashore for killing people before that proper investigation is done. So far the investigations are poor and incomplete just trying to blame the Master for everything without any evidence forgetting the Company and authorities ultimately responsible for safety at sea.
xi. 20 months criminal trial ... for what?
You wonder why it is necessary with a show trial of the lone Master Schettino starting 16 July 2013 ending in spring 2015 in a theater at Grosseto after 65 sessions planned in court to establish what really happened 13-14 January 2012 at Isola del Giglio. Isn't it obvious that the 13 January 2012 contact was an accident caused by faulty charts and bridge procedures and incompetent crew provided by the ship owner and language problems making the ship unseaworthy and maybe a defective steering gear? Who was responsible? The Master? The ship owner? Or nobody? Luckily nobody died on 13 January, 2012, and the ship was floating and stable.
The manslaughter occurred on 14 January when the ship sank after having capsized apparently due to open watertight doors as explained many times above. Progressive flooding took place and stability (GZ) was lost, vessel heeled 90°, starboard side was locally crushed and intact compartments were down flooded and the ship sank on the rocky shore. Some people had not been evacuated and drowned as life rafts and lifeboats were not used.
The ship was evidently substandard and incorrectly designed, certified and operated with 25 watertight doors and incompetent and incomplete crew and thus not seaworthy. Who is responsible? The Master?
No, in this case responsibility is that of ship owner and maritime administration. The ship was not seaworthy at any time due to lack of competent crew to, e.g. launch life rafts, muster passengers and incorrect design with 25 watertight doors.
However, in the end only the Master was found guilty of various crimes with following penalties:
Unintentional, multiple homicides, prison sentence: 10 years.
Sinking of M/S Costa Concordia, prison sentence: 5 years.
Abandonment of the ship and disabled persons aboard, prison sentence: 1 year.
Delay in the information given to the authorities competent for the organization of the relief, prison sentence: 1 month.
The Master started serving the prison sentences 12 May 2017.
xii. Voyage/Voice Data Recordings, VDR - are they real?
It is suggested that what happened on the ship was recorded one way or other. But as everything is so confusing it is clear that all VDR data was destroyed early and what was reported later was just made up to suit.
xiii. Lessons learnt
No lessons have been learnt from these incidents. I have been told that Italy has changed the rules so that any officer on the bridge can intervene when a Master makes a mistake on an Italian flag ship.
Only way to improve safety at sea is to ensure that the ship is seaworthy at departure. It is quite easy, actually, but often forgotten.
xiv. Italian books about the incident
Anders Björkman, Heiwa Co, 24 November, 2013 (and up-dated later - last time 19 May 2019)
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Focus on Nutrition: Collard Greens
Collard Greens - Nutrition Facts
1 cup, cooked, boiled, & drained collard greens = 1 serving. RDA=Recommended Daily Allowance
extremely high in:
vitamin K (836 mcg = 1045% RDA)
vitamin A (15416 IU = 308% RDA)
vitamin C, (34.6 mg = 58% RDA)
folate, (177 mcg = 44% RDA)
manganese (0.8 mg = 41% RDA)
calcium (266 mg = 27%)
Magnesium (38.0 mg = 27%)
Collard greens are a good vegetable source of fiber (5.3 g=21% RDA) AND a good vegetable source of protein (4.0 g = 8% RDA).
Folate (previously all folates and folic acid were reported as mcg folic acid.)
Dietary folate can come in both naturally occurring folates and synthetic folic acid.
New guidelines require that folates/folic acid be reported in Dietary Folate Equivalents (DFE) with mcg of folic acid in parentheses.
Folic acid has greater bioavailability than naturally occurring folates.
Conversion Factor:
1 mcg DFE = 1 mcg folates
1 mcg DFE = 0.6 mcg folic acid
Vitamin A: has previously been reported in international units (IU)
Vitamin A in the diet can come in different forms:
retinol,
beta-carotene,
alpha-carotene, and
beta-cryptoxanthin.
Some of these forms have greater bioavailability than others.
New labeling guidelines require reporting of vitamin A in the unit of mcg RAE, (retinol activity equivalent)
accounts for the differing bioavailability of the forms.
1 IU = 0.3 mcg retinol
1 IU = 0.6 mcg beta-carotene.
1 mcg RAE = 1 mcg retinol
1 mcg RAE = 2 mcg supplemental beta-carotene
1 mcg RAE = 12 mcg beta-carotene
1 mcg RAE = 24 mcg alpha-carotene
1 mcg RAE = 24 mcg beta-cryptoxanthin
Vitamin E - has previously been reported in international units (IU).
New guidelines
require that Vitamin E content be determined based on the source of vitamin E
require that Vitamin E be reported as mg alpha-tocopherol rather than in IU.
Vitamin E in food and dietary supplements can come from natural or synthetic forms.
To convert from IU to mg alpha-tocopherol
old conversion factors:
1 IU = 0.6 mcg beta-carotene
new conversion factors:
1 mg vitamin E (as alpha-tocopherol) label claim = 1 mg of natural α-tocopherol
1 mg vitamin E (as alpha-tocopherol) label claim = 2 mg of synthetic α-tocopherol
Key nutrients (Daily Value)
iron (12%)
vitamin B2 (12%)
vitamin E (8%)
phosphorus (6%)
potassium (6%)
vitamin B1 (5%)
copper (4%)
zinc (3%)
selenium (1%)
choline (<1%)
betaine (<1%)
Helpful Tips:
When buying collard greens:
Buy collard greens that are firm and have deep-green leaves
Smaller leaves are more tender
Smaller leaves have a milder flavor
Store collard greens in the refrigerator.
Only steam collard greens for about 10 minutes to help retain nutrients.
Versatility:
Use in:
salads,
wraps,
sandwiches,
casseroles,
smoothies,
braised, or
sautéed (Recipe idea: sauté fresh onions and garlic in extra-virgin olive oil, and then add collard greens until they become tender.
Juicing (combine with other vegetables and fruits like apples, celery, & cucumber ).
Avoid frying in lard or bacon fat or overcooking (can lead to a bitter and strong sulfur taste).
Risks and Precautions:
choose organic collard greens as conventionally grown greens may be contaminated with organophosphate insecticides, which are highly toxic.
Collard greens contain oxalates. In high levels, oxalates may interfere with mineral absorption and cause a problem for those with gallbladder issues.
Collard greens have a high vitamin K content. Since Vitamin K plays a big role in blood clotting, people taking certain medications (blood thinners) should exercise caution. Please consult with your health care practitioner before making changes to your diet.)
Bloating is also a common side effect of high-fiber foods such as collard greens.
What are Collard Greens?
• Loose-leafed green plants
• Species: Brassica oleracea
• Family: cruciferous
Possible Health Benefits
Cardiovascular (heart)
Studies indicate that Collard Greens can reduce risk of glaucoma, may prevent cancer, and could provide detox support.
Sources: Dietary Supplement Database/conversions and What are Collard Greens? Nutrition Facts & Benefits, By Jon Yaneff, Food for Better Health
Food Focus: Vinegar
Each country develops its own variety of bottled sauces – from wine in France & Italy to rice wine in the East and malt vinegar in Britain. Soy sauce and fish sauce are essential ingredients in Oriental cuisine; and in the Middle East, pomegranate syrup is used. Once you have experimented with the various flavors, try to experiment with these amazing and tasty syrups and vinegars in various recipes. This article will briefly describe a variety of vinegars and sauces, but will focus on apple cider vinegar – it's health benefits and uses.
Vinegars and other bottled sauces are usually highly acidic or salty. Since salt and acid are natural preservatives, they should last for at least six months or longer. They should be stored in a cool, dark cupboard, away from heat. After a year or so in storage, they will probably lose their subtle flavor and have a sharper taste.
Food pastes do not store as well and, once opened, they should be stored in the refrigerator (covered in a thin layer of oil). I always recommend glass storage containers.
Wine Vinegars – The quality of wine vinegars vary tremendously. The best wine vinegars are made by the Old Orleans method. Barrels are filled with wine and vinegar along with starter vinegar. With time, microorganisms convert the wine into acetic acid. Once the process has been completed, some of the vinegar is removed and new wine is added to begin the process all over again.
Balsamic Vinegar – Balsamic vinegars have a wonderful, sweet & nutty rich taste. It is made from the juice of Trebbiano grapes (one of the world's most widely grown white wine grape varieties.) The grapes are simmered and thickened before the fermentation process, which is quite lengthy, begins. First, it ferments in a huge barrel (chestnut or oak). As the liquid evaporates and concentrates, it is moved into smaller and smaller barrels. The process lasts from a minimum of 4-5 years to 40 or more years, by which time it is reduced to thick syrup. The older the balsamic vinegar, the less you will need to provide incredible and subtle flavors to your cuisine. A few drops will go a long way to releasing the flavor of your food. It can be sprinkled lightly over food, enhances sauces & dressings, Add it towards the end of the cooking process and never let it boil. It can be added to strawberries and other fruits for a yummy twist ii fruit salad.
Sherry Vinegar – Sherry vinegar comes from Jerez, Spain. It is a gourmet wine made from sherry. It is rich, aromatic and sweet and can be used as a seasoning in Spanish dishes, on salads, in soups, or to enrich sauces.
Perry Vinegar – Perry vinegar is made from pears. It is mild and should have the faint smell of apples. It can be used the same way cider vinegar is used.
Rice Vinegar – Rice vinegar is made from rice wine. It is sweet and has a faint yellow color. It has a mild, delicate flavor and can be used in dressings, for pickling, or to season the rice for sushi. Brown rice vinegar is darker in color and has a more pronounce flavor.
Black Rice Vinegar – Black rice vinegar comes from China. It is very dark and inky looking. It is thicker than most vinegar and has a sharp, rich, spicy fragrance. It is reminiscent of balsamic vinegar. It is used for braising, enriching sauces and as a dipping sauce.
Fruit-Flavored Vinegars – Fruit vinegars are made by macerating fruit in vinegar and letting it sit over a period of days before straining it through a cheesecloth-lined sieve. Raspberries, currants, blackberries and blueberries make excellent fruit vinegars. They can be used in long summer drinks (added to ice tea) or fine vinaigrettes.
Herb-Flavored Vinegars – Vinegar can be flavored with practically anything that you wish. It is made by pushing a few large sprigs of herbs (either a single type or a combination) into the bottle of vinegar. Use a good quality white wine vinegar, rice vinegar or cider vinegar. Then leave it on a sunny, warm windowsill for a week or longer. If the green sprig begins to fade color and starts looking tired, strain the vinegar and rebottle it.
Chili Vinegar – Chili vinegar can be as strong as you wish it to be. Add one or two chilies for a mild, spicy flavor; or add a handful for a chili explosion. You can also use garlic or other bruised spices in the mixture. Follow the method outlines above.
(Apple) Cider Vinegar – Cider vinegar has a sweet and gentle taste and low acidity. When it is good, it has a sweet, faint smell of apples. It is mild and often used for pickling, for flavoring, with herbs, and for dressings over salad. It can be used as a drink, lightly sweetened, and topped with mineral water.
Crushing organically grown apples and storing them in wooden barrels make organic apple cider. Over time, the fermentation causes a web-like bacterial foamy substance to grow over the fermented material. This substance, which is called mother, can be used to add to other apple cider vinegar to speed up its maturity or to initiate the fermentation process of more apple cider vinegar. The natural vinegars that have the mother contain minerals and enzymes that are not found in commercially distilled vinegars (due to over-heating, over-processing, and filtration). Natural apple cider vinegar has an ideal acidity level (pH) of 5-7.
Apple Cider Vinegar, with an ideal acidity (pH) level of 5 to 7, is a natural probiotic health drink.
It is important to utilize natural organic apple cider vinegar for many reasons:
It contains vital minerals and trace elements (potassium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon & fluorine) – all needed for a healthy body.
It is a natural probiotic.
It has been used to treat some chronic conditions, eliminating the need for dangerous medications.
It has been known to:
Reduce sinus infections and sore throats
Balance high cholesterol
Cure skin conditions such as acne
Protect against food poisoning
Fight allergies in both humans and animals
Prevent muscle fatigue after exercise
Strengthen the immune system
Increase metabolism – which promotes weight loss
Improve digestion and cure constipation
Alleviate symptoms of arthritis and gout
Prevents bladder stones and urinary tract infections
Has been found to be an effective treatment for yeast infections.
General Home Remedies:
Daily maintenance, Weight Loss & pH balancing – 2 teaspoons of ACV in a glass of water, three times per day, before meals.
Halitosis – Add 2 teaspoons of ACV in to a cup of water and gargle with the mixture for 10 seconds at a time. Spit. Repeat.
Body Odor –
Under arms – wipe ACV under armpit with a cotton ball every morning.
Feet – soak feet in a pan filled with water containing 1/3 cup of ACV for 15 minutes each week.
Acne – Apply a solution of ACV and water (2 tablespoons per 8 oz water) with a cotton ball several times a day.
As you can see, there are many types of vinegar as well as many uses for vinegar. Explore, try something new, and enjoy the different flavors and textures. Bon Appétit!
• Sophie Grigson's Ingredients Book; Sophie Grigson, Mitchell Beazley, 1993
• http://foodmatters.tv/
Song of Eve
The Touch of the Masters Hand
"Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer
thought it scarcely worth his while to waste much time on the old violin,
but held it up with a smile; "What am I bidden, good folks," he cried,
"Who'll start the bidding for me?" "A dollar, a dollar"; then two!" "Only
two? Two dollars, and who'll make it three? Three dollars, once; three
dollars twice; going for three.." But no, from the room, far back, a
gray-haired man came forward and picked up the bow; Then, wiping the dust
from the old violin, and tightening the loose strings, he played a melody
pure and sweet as caroling angel sings."
Last night, I was once again privileged to learn from my teacher & mentor, Dr. Bruce Berkowsky. The subject of the class was how to potentize a blend of essential oils by the use of his magical protocol called Spiritual PhytoEssencing. The blend that was the subject of our class is called Song of Eve.
A potentized blend carries the spark (the essence) of the essential oils blend after the physical elements of the actual blend have been stripped away.
"In order to reach the essence of the fruit…we must relate to its innermost aspects, its spiritual dimension. This dimension is called the Godly spark of the object…Each and every object has its Godly dimension, which is the reality revealed when the material aspect is stripped away."
— Rabbi Yechiel Bar Lev
Here's a video that beautifully demonstrates how water has memory. It's similar to the potentizing effect that we are utilizing in Spiritual PhytoEssencing.
I want to share a story of another Eve that I remembered during last night's class. Years ago, there was an old violin maker and his wife that owned The Violin Specialty Shop on Lemmon Avenue in Dallas. His name was Earnest Lindsay. His wife's name was Thelma.
When I was in high school, I used to go play violin for them and spend time with them. He was a paraplegic and didn't get out too often.
There were violins hanging on the north wall of the shop. Mr. Lindsay would let me play any violin I chose except for one: Miss Eve. Miss Eve was made as a gift to another young lady who would frequent his shop. She was a young Jewish girl named Eve. She also would play the violin for them. Apparently, Eve fell in love with a Muslim man when she went to school at a nearby University (the same University where I got my degree, coincidentally), married him and disconnected herself from her family and friends 100%.
Mr. Lindsay was heartbroken. He would only let us (I brought friends along to play for him sometimes) play Miss Eve occasionally, to keep the violin from deteriorating. He once told me that he was always hoping that she would come back to play it someday.
What happened to Mr. Lindsay? He passed away from a heart attack. The last time I saw him he was at the hospital. He didn't want me to see him in that condition and he rushed me away. I never forgot him. He loved the Mountains.
What happened to "Miss Eve"? – an old preacher named Bob inherited Miss Eve when Mrs. Lindsay passed away. I don't remember his last name. He was one of the people that used to come and watch over the couple.
I once tried to find Eve on campus. I started asking around about her. One day, an Immam came up to me and asked me why I was looking for Eve. He instructed me that she is married and has a new way of life and as such she is not allowed to have contact with anyone associated with her past. He warned me to stop trying to find her because she did not want to be found.
I remember Mr. Lindsay telling me how her Mom and family were heartbroken when she "disappeared".
Last night, I couldn't help but feel that the blend, Song of Eve, can help to heal the soul of all those affected by her story.
Once again, I am blessed beyond measure that Dr. Berkowsky has created such an amazing protocol and I thank him for bringing us this amazing gift.
On the back of his business card, Mr. Lindsay had an excerpt of this poem:
The music ceased, and the auctioneer, with a voice that was quiet and low,
said; "What am I bid for the old violin?" And he held it up with the bow.
A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two? Two thousand! And who'll make
it three? Three thousand, once, three thousand, twice, and going and
gone," said he. The people cheered, but some of them cried, "We do not
quite understand what changed its worth." Swift came the reply: "The touch
of a master's hand."
And many a man with life out of tune, and battered and scarred with sin,
Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd, much like the old violin, A
"mess of pottage," a glass of wine; a game – and he travels on. "He is
going" once, and "going twice, He's going and almost gone." But the Master
comes, and the foolish crowd never can quite understand the worth of a soul
and the change that's wrought by the touch of the Master's hand.
-Myra 'Brooks' Welch
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