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White Pine Group
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Posted by White Pine Group at 3:54 PM No comments:
Dick Weber Memorial
R.J. "Dick" Weber, who passed away peacefully on February 22, 2012, was an easy going, affable supporter of our White Pine Group attending several outings and Turkey Dinner Fundraisers over the years. Our first "record" of his active participation was his signing in at a Swiss Valley Service Trip on October 19, 2002. Dick had fond feelings toward Swiss Valley because it was under a Sycamore tree near the entrance to the picnic grounds off Swiss Valley Road that he proposed to Kathleen.
In memory of Dick, our White Pine Group EXCOM made a donation of $50 toward the $100 needed to purchase a picnic table memorial to help replace all the tables lost during the late July flood last year. Another donor completed the other $50 to assure proper White Pine Group memorial designation for Dick. Kathleen reported that at least two other tables were donated in Dick's behalf, and one by her family is to be placed near the Sycamore tree where their engagement took place. :)
A note received from Gerda Preston Hartman for the Friends of the Dubuque County Conservation Board dated March 7, 2012, reads: "To the White Pine Sierra Group we want to say thank you for the $50 donation in Dick Weber's memorial. We will put his name on a table in his honor. We were busy building our first 48 tables last weekend and will build another 48 soon thanks to all the donations we have been receiving." Signed: "Your friends in recreation."
A personal note from Kathleen, Steve, and Jay Weber reads, "Thank you for your thoughtfulness and generosity. I love the donation of a picnic table! (and so would Dick.)" Indeed he would.
Watch for the next picnic table building session and join in as an active memorial on Dick's behalf.
Posted by White Pine Group at 12:13 AM No comments:
Labels: volume 32 number 2
Newsletter Mailings
Recently, the newsletter has been mailed to members whose membership expired during the previous few months, thinking that the non-renewal may have been an oversight and that the newsletter might be a means to nudge renewal. The Club is very efficient on promptly dropping names of expired members from the mailing labels it provides for newsletter usage once a year if membership has not been renewed. We understand that economics and varying viewpoints on matters regarding the impact of Earth's human civilizations vs. planet Earth's environment can also affect renewal decisions. It is disappointing to lose members and we can't help but wonder if any specific matter may have caused a non-renewal. Anyway, we hope you will understand our motivation if you should still happen to receive a newsletter after a deliberate non-renewal.
Another mailing issue relates to newsletters returned due to "Temporarily Away" notices. We mail the newsletters as a reduced bulk mailing rate which does not accommodate forwarding to a winter or other temporary address. The return is marked, now, with 45 cents due. To re-mail it First Class would be another 45 cents. So, a 26 cent mailing could rise to $1.16. We may opt to do that for some more active members we know, but usually the returned newsletters get lost in the shuffle. So, we also hope that members who are "temporarily away" will not be offended if a newsletter is not received.
Currently, parts of the newsletter produced as Word documents can be e-mailed. Other physically cut-and-paste parts are not kept in a Word document format. Plus, we do not have e-mail addresses for all members--usually just for new members who have given it on their membership enrollment form. Send us an e-mail address and Needle items can be e-mailed.
UIU To Screen "Red Gold", Documentary on Alaska Salmon Threatened by Proposed Mine
FAYETTE, IA (March 17, 2012)--Upper Iowa University will offer a screening of the award-winning documentary, "Red Gold," which takes viewers to Bristol Bay, Alaska, the location of the most productive Sockeye salmon rivers in the world. The area is also the location for a proposed open pit gold and copper mine, Pebble Mine, which would be the largest in the world.
The one-hour film shares the views and lives of commercial fishermen, Alaskan natives, and sports fishing guides who rely on the Sockeye salmon to make a living and who are trying to protect the watershed. Mineral exploration of the area began in 1986, with the first drilling in 1988. The mining proposal has triggered significant controversy that continues, with the EPA beginning its scientific assessment in February 2011 to look at the possible impact of large-scale mining activities. "Red Gold", which received the "Director's Choice award for Best Documentary" at the 2008 Telluride Mountain Film Festival, was produced by Felt Soul Media and Trout Unlimited Alaska. "This has been the most important thing I've ever done in my life," said co-director Ben Knight when accepting the award.
UIU will screen the documentary in a program from 3:30 to 5:30 PM on Thursday, March 29, in the Liberal Arts Auditorium. Admission is free. The screening includes a question-and-answer session with three men from Bristol Bay, who have more than 100 years combined experience working in the Bristol Bay area. Jeff Skrade, a native of Prairie du Chien, Wis., migrated to Alaska in 1970 where he worked as a full-time fishery biologist for the state of Alaska and an area management biologist in Bristol Bay. Since retirement, he works seasonally as the fleet manager for Peter Pan Seafoods in Dillingham, Alaska. Curtis Olson is a native of Broadus, Mont., and is a commercial fisherman, rancher and auctioneer with 30 years of experience in Bristol Bay. His children and grandchildren are all fishermen in the Bay area. Dave Egdorf resides in Hardin, Mont., and is a fishing guide in Alaska during the summers. He has worked in Southwest Alaska for more than 30 years.
"This film profiles an important environmental issue," said Dr. Katherine McCarville, associate professor of geosciences, who organized the screening at UIU. "The film features beautiful photography and really digs into the issues surrounding the potential development of the Pebble Mine."
McCarville noted that the UIU event will conclude with an auction of Alaska salmon.
For more information, contact Dr. McCarville at 563-425-5233 (mccarvillek@uiu.edu)
Oceanographer Robert Ballard will be speaking at the University of Wisconsin, Platteville on March 28. This is a free lecture on Wednesday morning at 10:00 AM in the Williams Field House. Robert Ballard discovered the Titanic and many deep sea wrecks and biological features. He has connections to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium through Coastal America and NOAA, and the Smithsonian.
Group Program/Meetings
Our Group's 4th Tuesday Program/Meetings take place in the former parsonage of St. Peter Lutheran Church, 3200 Asbury Road, Dubuque. The large meeting room is at the back of that red brick home on the right as you enter the church parking lot from Asbury Road. The meeting room door is to the left of the big window of the meeting room. No steps, so easily accessible. Programs begin at 7 PM. A brief EXCOM session follows the program. The general public is always welcome. Mark your Sierra Calendar and catch a program.
Tuesday, March 27 (reminder)
John Muir Trail Scenic Access Routes over Bishop Pass (11,972 ft) and Piute Pass (11,423 ft.)
South Lake trailhead; Saddle Rock and Bishop Lakes; stonewalled switchbacks ascended by kayak-carrying fellows planning to kayak down the Middle Fork of King's River; Bishop Pass; Dusy Basin lake sunset camp; descend along waterfalls and smooth slopes of Dusy Branch of Middle Fork King's River; meet non-kayak carrying fellow coming back out after his kayak had gotten smashed right away; junction with John Muir Trail; Muir Hut; Sapphire and Evolution Lakes; South Fork of the San Joaquin River. Junction with and steep ascent along Piute Creek; no-water trail-ledge camp; "Iowa Hawkeye embryos"; Pilot Knob; Hutchison Meadow; Humphrey's Basin 11,000 ft. high camp sunset; frozen surface in bucket of water; Summit Lake; Piute Pass; Piute Lake; North Lake Trailhead.
August 2010, Dick Worm
2011 Little Turkey, Turkey, and Volga Rivers
9th Annual Project AWARE River Clean-Up (A Watershed Awareness River Expedition), July 9-16
See the mating damsel flies; piles of river trash and recyclables; historic towns and Opera House; project logistics; river scenery; certificate awarded to "Northeast Iowa Sierra Club--White Pine Group" for sponsorship contribution and ice cream; recognition on the Project t-shirt, 88 miles, 429 total participants; 32.36 tons of material collected (96% recycled including 611 tires!)
Dick Worm and Jim Fahrion
Dubuque Food Co-op
Targeted for opening by October 1, the Dubuque Food Co-op will be located on Dubuque's Historic Millwork District on the corner of 9th and Washington Streets. The goal is to have 20% of the inventory come from within a 90-mile radius from local producers, farmers, and growers of fruits and vegetables, eggs and milk, and cheeses and meats. Some featured products include "organically and humanely raised meats" and "natural household and personal care products."
Katie Giannakouros will present details. http://www.dubuquefoodcoop.com/
No Program/Meetings in June and July
Potluck Picnic and Autumn Calendar Planning Meeting at Echo Valley Pond at Dick and Jane Worm's Faraway Farm. Grills and a campfire for bring-your-own items will be fired up at noon. Bring a vegetable, salad, or dessert to share; and your own beverages, lawn chair, insect repellent, sunscreen, and other usual picnic paraphernalia. Come early and/or stay late for hikes to Mississippi River bluff and shoreline, woodland, and prairie areas on maintained trails; for pond swimming, fishing, and/or canoeing; and for other camaraderie. Camping Friday and/or Saturday night at various locales on this 150-acre Conservation Easement Private Preserve is also an option. New this year, as an alternative, but still primitive, in-door picnic and camping facility, is an all-weather, maintenance and educational-component building ("Benglari") with a warming room. Its landscaping and internal completion will be a work-in-progress for several years to come but the building, amazingly, went up during this mild winter. So, August 18 can serve as Benglari's unofficial Grand Opening, of sorts.
Directions: 6 miles south of Dubuque, on US 52, turn east onto St. Catherine Road at Lombardi's; go 2 miles to the Echo Hills sign; turn left onto Echo Hills Drive; proceed down the gravel lane in the center of the fork in the black-topped Drive; continue straight down over a cattle guard and through an open metal gate to "Benglari" and parking above the pond. Walk down to the pond.
Please RSVP for further directions and other logistical suggestions and details.
P.S. Bring activity ideas, too.
Spring/Summer 2012 Group Outings and Other Events
Outing participants are to ALWAYS RSVP to the designated Outing CONTACT no later than the night before an outing begins for updates and participation plans. Occasionally, an outing may be revised or canceled depending on the nature and number of RSVPs. Participants are also to sign a liability waiver, a copy of which can be previewed at http://www.sierraclub.org/outings/chapter/forms/ . Non-members may also participate. Many Outings include options. Explore and Enjoy as YOU like! :)
March 29, Thursday
Pre-"Red Gold" Movie Outing
Our Sierra Group was contacted by Dr. Katherine McCarville about co-sponsoring a "Red Gold" movie program after hearing about it at the Iowa Conservation Education Conference in early February. Therefore, we are giving this program timely coverage in our newsletter. Since many of us are "free-as-a-bird", so to speak, we are offering an outing to explore parts of our Northeast Iowa domain earlier that same day. Here goes:
Meet at about 10:30 AM at Echo Valley State Park near the eastern edge of West Union on Echo Valley Road. (Carpool at 8:30 AM from Dubuque, or from along the way by RSVP CONTACT, by meeting at the Menards Parking Lot just west of Dubuque. Route will be US 20 past Dyersville/Manchester/Masonville; north on IA 187 past Lamont/Arlington; then north on IA 150 past Fayette to West Union.) At Echo Valley SP, make a further plan: like maybe hike there; and/or visit Gilbertson Conservation Education Area; or go to the Thelman Wildlife Area or the Wildwood Nature Center (anyone know anything about these two?); or visit the Upper Iowa University Geology Department. Bring or plan on a quick-stop lunch. Attend the 3:30-5:30 program. Have dinner somewhere in Fayette. Return to the Menard's parking lot near Dubuque.
RSVP CONTACT: Dick Worm
April 28, Saturday
Ram-Hoffman Hollow Wildlife Area Trek
Meet at 9:30 AM at the Area parking lot lcoated a short way to the right where Voyager Road/Hubbard St. reaches the Little Turkey River trout stream 2 miles east out of Colesburg. Or, carpool from Asbury HyVee lot across from Culver's at 8:30 AM. Will explore the separate Unit to the southwest on a tributary of the Little Turkey. Bring snacks or a lunch and beverage and other normal hiking aids.
RSVP CONTACT: Jim Fahrion
May 6, Sunday
Whitewater Canyon Trek
Meet at 12:30 PM at the Whitewater Canyon Wildlife Area parking lot. (Follow signs from US 151 at County Rd D-53 located about 1.5 miles southwest of the Sundown Road intersection or 1 mile northeast of Fillmore County Park golf course. Visit the Lost Canyon "Valley of Caves", the old CCC Dam, woodland/prairies, and scenic overlook.
RSVP CONTACT: Gary Thompson
May 12, Saturday
Catfish Creek Clean-Up, Mines of Spain
Meet at 9 AM at the Canoe Launch on Mines of Spain Rd on southeast edge of Dubuque. Bring your own canoe/kayak/PFD; or RSVP for canoe provision; OR, as importantly, plan to walk the shoreline. Bring gloves, insect repellent, sturdy shoes, long-legged pants (nettles). Finish by noon; or bring a lunch and help sort and clean recyclables there or at the stockpiled stash at Dick Worm's Faraway Farm's "Benglari."
Denny Garcia Cave Concert at Natural Gait's Ion Exchange near Marquette
Meal at 6:30 / Concert at 7:30, $30.00
Reservations required: 563-535-7314 or 877-776-2208 or ntrlgait@acegroup.cc
Check TNGhappenings.com or TheNaturalGait.com for directions and details. The unique concert setting is a long, bluff-face cave reached by a steep, rope assisted trail. Snacks and beverages are sold at the cave during the concert. The acoustics are awesome! Make a day of it by meeting at the Ion Exchange cave concert trailhead site at 1 PM for hikes on Yellow River SF and/or Natural Gait trails.
June 2 - 3, Saturday - Sunday
Float Trip and Camping on the North Fork Maquoketa River
This kayak/canoe float trip will go from Dyersville to Cascade with overnight, vehicle accessible camping at a private cabin just south of Worthington. Meet in Dyersville at 9:15 AM at 3rd Ave. SE and 1st St. SW, 2 blocks southeast of the Cathedral at a city ball park, for a 9:30 AM shuttle to the cabin site of vehicles and camping gear, including trailer campers; or meet there in Dyersville at 10 AM with your kayak or canoe to begin the 5-6 hour, 9-mile float to the cabin (from where a shuttle could return you to your vehicle in Dyersville.) A first day halfway point start is possible at a bridge about 2 miles west on the graveled Rockville Rd. located off IA Rt. 136 about 3 miles south of US 20 or 2 miles north of Worthington.
Bring all your own food and camping gear. However, during your RSVP to Bill, you MIGHT learn that he will prepare some Dutch Oven meal items. Directions to the Don and Annette Evens cabin, if individually needed, can be obtained from Bill. Also, double check with Bill regarding the nature of the "good lane" trailer camping access.
Sunday's continuation of the trip will go to just north of Cascade and end with a Class 1 rapids... which could get you wet!
This trip is featured in the new edition of Paddle Iowa. A route map can be obtained in advance from Bill or at the start of the trip.
RSVP CONTACT: Bill Jamison
June 23, Saturday
National Wildlife Federation's "Great American Backyard Campout"
If you would like to participate and need a big backyard, you would be welcome to primitive camp at any one of a variety of locations at Dick and Jane Worm's Faraway Farm that Friday and/or Saturday night. Camping location options include: on the pond's dam; at one of a variety of sites on the Mississippi River bluff; on the edge of a prairie; or in the woods. Dick even has a variety of tents that could be made available. Bring some loppers and Dick could also aim you toward some easy to find invading Autumn Olive bushes that you could lop away on to your heart's content! :)
Contact Dick Worm by June 7 (or after June 18).
July 7 - 14, Saturday - Saturday
10th Annual Project AWARE River Clean-up: Iowa River from Dows to Marshalltown
For information about Iowa's national award-winning river clean-up project and to register for the 2012 Project AWARE, visit the web site http://www.iowaprojectaware.com/ . Over 90 miles of the Iowa River in central Iowa will be the benefactor.
You need not have your own canoe (which will hold more debris than a kayak) because canoes will be provided as needed. the only cost to a participant is the option for utilizing catered meals. Camping gear is shuttled from campsite to campsiste along the route at no charge. A shuttle service between the beginning point and end is available. Participants can spend from one day to the entire week on the project. Evening programs provide interesting and entertaining opportunities throughout the trip.
Come to our April 24 program/meeting to learn more from those of us who have participated for the full week in as many as 6 of the past 9 yearly events.
Posted by White Pine Group at 12:08 AM 1 comment:
To "pointedly prod" northeast Iowans to enjoy, explore, and protect our Jackson, Dubuque, Delaware, Clayton, Fayette, Howard, Winneshiek, and Allamakee counties.
Picture Window theme. Theme images by Xaviarnau. Powered by Blogger.


The sessions nearest and dearest to our mission at Standish circled around the topic of managing children's procedural pain, fear and anxiety. Although an uphill battle still lies ahead, it is so exciting to collaborate with other professionals who feel as passionately as we do about reducing pediatric pain. It was truly a magical, educational and inspirational weekend for attendees and vendors alike. Thank you to the Association of Child Life Professionals, keynote speakers, those who prepared and taught sessions, and to the volunteers and leaders foraging the way in this dynamic field.


The powerful, dark Reaper is one of the many Characters found in Overwatch. Able to teleport across large distance, and dealing massive damage in a single shot, he is a truly terrifying character to go toe to toe with. For more on him, his skills and ways to play him, continue reading down the page.
Reaper is an Offense hero with powerful short to medium range damage. His shotguns can nearly one hit kill weaker characters if they make the mistake of getting to close to him. He is also good at traversing the map thanks to his invincibility and teleporting skill.
However, with that said, Reaper does suffer at range, as his shotguns only work in close quarters combat. He is also one of the slower moving characters, making it tough for him to chase faster characters down.
Hellfire Shotguns: Reaper's main weapons, these twin shotguns deal extreme amounts of damage, but only at close ranges. They fire at a decent pace, but their accuracy quickly falls off if the enemy is more than a dozen feet away from you.
Wraith Form: Reaper turns into a spectral enemy, making him invincible. While in this form he can still move, but cannot shoot his weapons. Great for getting into, or out of a tricky situation, or for setting up his Ultimate.
Shadow Step: Mark a location, and after a moment, teleport to it. Useful for traversing large gaps, or getting higher up in the map. Shadow Step takes a few seconds to complete however, leaving Reaper vulnerable to attacks.
Death Blossom (Ultimate): Reaper starts spinning in a circle, emptying his shotguns into any enemies nearby him. While doing this, he dishes out tons of damage in a circle around him, however he can still be shot and killed while spinning.
Your strength lies in your guns. Get as close as possible to your target to maximize the damage. With a headshot at point blank range, you can outright kill 150-200 health characters in one shot.
Wraith form is not only good for getting out of bad situations, but when timed correctly, can be used to evade ultimates, and other powerful skills. Even a sticky bomb tossed on you from Tracer does no damage if you're in Wraith form.
Shadow Step allows you to cross vast distances, but also leaves a telltale sign of where you're going. Try to use it when no one is looking, or aim it so you end up in a spot that can't be seen.
Death Blossom is amazing when clearing out a capture point. Although you're still vulnerable during the Ultimate, if you can sneak in and activate your Ultimate, everyone will begin dying before they even know what's going on.
Reaper's damage falls off heavily. Even at a dozen feet away, his damage diminishes greatly. This means any medium to long range character can deal with him.
Wraith Form allows him to get out of tricky situations, so make sure not to burn everything you have on him until you know he's used Wraith Form. Characters that can give chase are handy in these situations, like Genji, Hanzo or Soldier 76.
Tracer is a terrible counter for Reaper, even though at first glance her speed might seem favorable. Her low health and close fighting style make her a bad choice.
Due to his massive, close range damage, most tanks are a bad option for fighting him.
Below are all the skins that can be purchased/unlocked for Reaper.


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Q: Issues with presenting collectionview I want to present a view controller when a user taps a button.
However I get the error message:
UICollectionView must be initialized with a non-nil layout parameter
However I'm sure I set my layout in my viewDidLoad...
Any suggestions?
Here's the code.
Here's where I present the view controller
func handleLogout(){

    print("logout")

    let loginController = LoginController()

    present(loginController, animated: true, completion: nil)

}

Here's login controller viewDidLoad
override func viewDidLoad() {
    super.viewDidLoad()

    let layout:UICollectionViewFlowLayout = UICollectionViewFlowLayout.init()

    collectionView?.setCollectionViewLayout(layout, animated: true)
    collectionView?.delegate = self
    collectionView?.dataSource = self
    collectionView?.backgroundColor = UIColor.white
}

If anything, I think I might have to initialize it before I present it. Not too sure how to do that.

A: Turns out I was right in suspecting that the collectionview had to be initialized before presenting.
That's done like this
    let layout = UICollectionViewFlowLayout()

    let loginController = LoginController(collectionViewLayout: layout)

A: func collectionView(collectionView: UICollectionView, layout collectionViewLayout: UICollectionViewLayout, sizeForItemAtIndexPath indexPath: NSIndexPath) -> CGSize {
    let cellSize = CGSize(width: 90, height: 120)
    //
    return CGSizeMake(cellSize)
}

func collectionView(collectionView: UICollectionView, layout collectionViewLayout: UICollectionViewLayout, insetForSectionAtIndex section: Int) -> UIEdgeInsets {

    return UIEdgeInsetsMake(top: 20, left: 10, bottom: 10, right: 10)
}

A:
UICollectionView must be initialized with a non-nil layout parameter

It say you need to use initWithFrame:collectionViewLayout: to initiate your collectionView programmatically

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


We've had the privilege of working with many accomplished clients who have successfully navigated the numerous challenges that entrepreneurs and business owners face every day. Some of them have been generous enough to share their personal stories with us, so that business owners like you can benefit from their knowledge and experience.
Whether you are starting, growing or exploring a transition of your business, we can help you along the way.


Happy New Year! Well, what's left of it… half-hearted apologies for being such a lazy fart lately. But bear with me, behind the scenes I have compiled a collection of truly shocking New Zealand shocks… err… shots. Which I will unleash in the next two weeks.
Oh, and this silly project is going to turn two years old on January 22. Some say two shots to the head would be the appropriate congratulation… I say: pfft!


The abortion decision often takes place under pressure from a number of people or circumstances. After an initial feeling of relief, many women begin to experience problems. It is normal to grieve, as a serious loss has occurred.
Whatever the role you played in the abortion decision, you may experience symptoms similar to post-traumatic stress disorder.
Support for women is available in a one on one conversation. Healing and restoration occurs best in the context of a supportive and confidential environment. Please contact Front Royal Pregnancy Center to make an appointment or for more information. All calls are confidential.


The negotiation between the Egyptian government and the IMF is going smoothly, said the Minister of Finance Mohamed Moeit, during his speech at the third annual MENA investor conference, organized by CI Capital on Sunday. He stressed that the next IMF loan tranche worth $2bn will be disbursed to Egypt soon.
Egypt should have received the $2bn loan tranche last December but the IMF delayed the disbursement until discussions of some details about the country's planned reform measures were over.
Moeit added that his ministry aims to expand the tax base, so it agreed with Ernst & Young to finish a study for simplifying the tax procedure.
Furthermore, Moeit said that the average growth became higher and more resilient, the market is more flexible, and foreign currencies are available, referring to the government plans to increase the efficiency of the business sector and launch comprehensive social assistance packages.
"In the past period, there were many changes in the petroleum products' prices, which helps in achieving the government plans to reduce the fuel subsidy and increase spending on social programmes," added Moeit.
Unemployment rates declined to more than 9% recently, and there will be a further decline in the fiscal year (FY) 2018/19, mentioned the minister, adding that the overall deficit will decline to 7% by the end of FY 2019/20 compared to 8.4% by the end of the current FY.
The minister noted that he will travel to South Korea and China to promote foreign bonds for the Asian investors, adding that a delegation from the finance ministry has travelled to Japan and Singapore for the same purpose.


KLOC-6 is a so-called fullerene ketolactam. These fullerene ketolactams have a LUMO level approximately 0.2 V below that of PCBM, making them much stronger electron acceptors. For certain applications, this is highly desirable, e.g., when the LUMO level of the electron-donating polymer is lower. Because of the low-lying LUMO level, KLOC-6 may be a possible replacement for PCBM in some systems.


The 2018 BMW 5 Series has few faults, which helps it secure a top spot in our rankings. Its powerful engines and athletic handling make it a joy to drive, and its high-class interior and sophisticated technology make it a pleasure to ride in.
In the luxury midsize car class, the BMW 5 Series is one of the best vehicles you can buy. The well-rounded 5 Series excites with its powerful engines and lithe handling. Moreover, it pampers occupants with a smooth ride, handsome cabin materials, comfortable seats, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Factor in excellent fuel efficiency and an abundance of safety features, and it's easy to see why the 5 Series was a finalist for our 2018 Best Luxury Midsize Car for Families award.
If you have room in your budget, buy the BMW 5 Series. It has fantastic crash test scores, a comfortable cabin with advanced technology, a solid predicted reliability rating, and performance that driving enthusiasts will adore.
The Lexus GS and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class give the 5 Series a run for its money. The GS has more standard safety features than the 5 Series, and the E-Class offers a classy interior with cutting-edge technology.
Though the 5 Series was redesigned for the 2017 model year, the car sees some significant changes for 2018. BMW introduced a plug-in hybrid model, a diesel model, and two high-performance M-branded versions for 2018. The new 530e iPerformance can go 16 miles on electric power only and gets up to 72 mpg-e combined. The diesel-powered 540d yields an efficient 26/36 mpg city/highway. The M550i boasts a 456-horsepower V8 engine, along with all-wheel drive, an adaptive M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes, and aggressive design elements. The M5 ups the ante even further with its 600-horsepower V8 engine.
If you're not interested in any of these new models, consider saving money by shopping for a used 2017 5 Series. If you're after the hatchback Gran Turismo (535i GT), a 2017 model is your last chance; BMW ditched it for 2018. To learn more about older models, check out our reviews of the 2015 and 2016 BMW 5 Series. If you decide an older model is right for you, check out our Used Car Deals page to learn about savings and discounts on used vehicles.
Our comprehensive BMW 5 Series review includes evaluations from 16 automotive professionals, along with concrete data such as fuel economy, safety features, and reliability ratings. To help you find the best match for you, we compare these details with other luxury midsize sedans like the Volvo S90, Jaguar XF, and Audi A6. This 2018 BMW 5 Series review incorporates applicable research for all model years in this generation, which spans the 2017 and 2018 model years.
Our goal at U.S. News & World Report is to provide you with accurate, jargon-free information so you can make the best buying decision for you. We've been rating cars since 2007, and our Best Cars team has more than 75 years of combined automotive knowledge. To prevent bias or favoritism, we use a third party for advertising, and we don't accept expensive handouts from automakers.
With its starting price of $52,650, the BMW 5 Series sedan is one of the pricier models in our luxury midsize car rankings. In addition to the base 530i trim, this car is available as the 540i ($58,200), the 540d ($62,000), the M550i ($73,900), and the M5 ($102,600). The plug-in hybrid 530e has a price tag of $52,650, but some shoppers may be able to lower this by $4,668, thanks to a federal tax credit. BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system is standard in the 540d, M550i, and M5. It can be added to the other trims for about $2,300. For great savings at your local BMW dealer, check out our U.S. News Best Price Program. You can also find manufacturer incentives on our BMW deals page.
Just like the 5 Series, the Audi A6 gets you the finest in German engineering, but it costs a few thousand dollars less. It has one of the nicest interiors among luxury midsize cars and outstanding performance. Additionally, it has a few more standard features than the BMW, including heated front seats and leather upholstery. The Audi's ride can occasionally feel jarring over rough pavement, but it's mostly smooth. The big difference between the two is predicted reliability – the A6 has a rather poor rating. Go with the 5 Series.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a posh interior and a plethora of advanced safety technology, with available near-self-driving features. Most comparable 5 Series and E-Class models are similarly priced. Still, the 5 Series is the better value. It delivers better all-around driving performance and rates higher for predicted reliability. You'll also spend less on gas, thanks to the highly efficient 530e and 540d models.
Which Is Better: BMW 5 Series or Lexus GS?
The Lexus GS has a long history of excellent reliability. It offers a ton of features, including an infotainment system with a 12.3-inch screen, smartphone integration, and an extensive list of advanced driver assistance features. Although the Lexus has an opulent cabin and engaging performance, the 5 Series is even better inside and out, making it a superior choice. However, keep in mind that the Lexus costs about $6,000 less. So, even if you're on a stricter budget, the GS will satisfy your craving for a luxury car.
The 5 Series holds five people, and its front seats are extremely comfortable. With either 16 or 20 ways to adjust the front seats, it takes little effort to find the perfect position. If you don't want the standard synthetic leather, you can upgrade to Nappa or Dakota leather and add contrast stitching for extra flair. The rear seats are relaxing and spacious, though they don't match the level of comfort you get from sitting up front.
Buckling a child safety seat into the back of a 5 Series is trouble-free for the most part. There are two sets of lower anchors – one set on each outboard seat – and a tether anchor for all three rear seats. The hardware is clearly marked, easy to find, and doesn't require extra grunt to use, though the lower anchors can be tricky to maneuver around.
It's a pleasure to spend time inside a 5 Series sedan. The design is modern and sophisticated, and first-class materials are plentiful. Examples include synthetic or genuine leather trimming on the dash, and wood trims with a matte or gloss finish. Build quality is similarly top-notch.
With 18.7 cubic feet of cargo room, the 5 Series sedan can carry more stuff in its trunk than most rivals can. The split-folding rear seat creates a generous amount of space for oversized items, and the available hands-free trunk lid makes loading the back a breeze when your hands are full.
The 5 Series gets an A-plus for technology. In addition to conventional buttons on the steering wheel and in the center of the dash, you can operate the infotainment system using the responsive 10.2-inch touch screen (which has a customizable layout) via voice commands or a control knob mounted between the seats. If you really want to impress your friends, get the available gesture control system so you can reject an incoming phone call and turn up the stereo using only hand motions. Other notable features include a standard navigation system and available Apple CarPlay. For more information, read What Is Apple CarPlay? Then, check out the Best Cars With Apple CarPlay.
Each of the six trims comes with its own powertrain, ranging from a plug-in hybrid to a 600-horsepower V8. The two main engines are the 530i's four-cylinder (248 horsepower) and the 540i's inline six-cylinder (335 horsepower). Neither one is a slouch off the line, but the six-cylinder's extra grunt makes for a more thrilling drive. Every trim comes with a polished eight-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
You'll get one of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class with the 530i's four-cylinder engine. It's rated at 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. That drops to 21/30 mpg city/highway with the 540i's six-cylinder engine. You can save a little on fuel costs with the 530e plug-in hybrid. It can drive about 16 miles on electric power alone and gets 29 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The diesel-powered 540d is another efficient choice in the lineup; it returns 26/36 mpg city/highway.
The 5 Series is gratifying to drive; its steering, brakes, and suspension have been finely tuned to deliver a polished, smooth ride. You can adjust handling to match your driving style with three drive mode settings: Eco Pro, Comfort, and Sport. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and the available xDrive all-wheel-drive system adds extra grip.
The 2018 5 Series has a great predicted reliability rating of 4.5 out of five from J.D. Power.
BMW includes a four-year/50,000-mile warranty with new 5 Series models.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety named the 5 Series a 2018 Top Safety Pick+. The 5 Series has top crash test scores across the board. It also received a Superior front crash prevention rating when equipped with available Frontal Collision Warning with City Collision Mitigation (included in the Driving Assistance Plus package).
Every 5 Series sedan comes with BMW's Active Protection System. When this system detects a possible collision, it protects passengers by automatically closing the windows and moonroof and tightening the front seat belts. It then activates the brakes immediately after the impact to keep the car in place. A rearview camera and adaptive LED headlights are also standard.
Available safety features include a surround-view camera, a night vision camera with pedestrian detection, front and rear parking sensors, parallel park assist, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic braking.
When selecting the best 5 Series for you, start by narrowing down your price range and performance needs. You have the choice between six trims (530i, 530e, 540i, 540d, M550i, and M5). Each is accompanied by a distinct powertrain. Starting prices ranging from $52,650 to $102,600. All 5 Series sedans come with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The 530i – with its turbo four-cylinder engine – is certainly a joy to drive, but those seeking out a more thrilling experience will want to pony up more than $5,500 to get the 540i. Horsepower increases from 248 to 335. In a side-by-side race from zero to 60 mph, the 540i beat the 530i by a full second.
Powering the base 530i is a 248-horsepower four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission. This trim comes with leatherette seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, push-button start, a moonroof, and adaptive LED headlights. Standard tech features includes BMW's iDrive infotainment system, a 10.2-inch high-resolution display, a rearview camera, navigation, 12 speakers, and HD Radio. Pricing starts at $52,650 for the 530i and $54,950 for the 530i xDrive.
The 530e iPerformance ($52,650) is BMW's all-new plug-in hybrid trim. It shares the 530i's standard features, but its powertrain pairs a four-cylinder engine and a single electric motor (248 horsepower, combined). Add an extra $2,300 for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.
The 540i ($58,200) comes with a 335-horsepower six-cylinder engine. Its list of standard features closely mirror those of the previous trims, plus leather upholstery. Pricing starts at $60,500 for the all-wheel-drive 540i xDrive.
The 540d ($62,000) has a 261-horsepower six-cylinder turbodiesel engine and all-wheel drive. Its standard features also mirror the previous trims.
Pricing jumps to $73,900 for the M550i, which comes with a twin-turbo 456-horsepower V8 and all-wheel drive. Other standard features include an adaptive M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes, parking sensors, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system, and a power trunk lid.
The high-performance BMW M5 ($102,600) packs a 600-horsepower V8 and all-wheel drive. Standard features include Active Driving Assistant (an option in all other trims), which bundles forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
Whether you are driving or being driven, the 2018 BMW 5 Series is a delight. Its engaging performance adds flavor to the chore of everyday driving. The base engine combines spirited acceleration with outstanding fuel economy, and its available six- and eight-cylinder engines deliver an exhilarating amount of power. Inside, the cabin is replete with first-class materials and user-friendly technology, treating travelers to a quiet, comfortable ride. The 5 Series' starting price is higher than most, but if you can afford it, this sedan is worth the money.


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Q: Test Functions Passed as Props to Component I have a table component which is using Antd tables. To highlight a row , I am passing a function :
rowClassName={(record, index) => record.id === props.highlightRow ? classes.Highlight : ''}

Now my test coverage shows that this line is not covered in testing.
enter image description here
How do I do this?

A: it('should highlight row when id matches highlightRow', () => {
  const className = shallow(<YourComponent highLightRow="testId" />).find(Table).prop('rowClassName')({
    id: 'testId'
  });

  expect(className).toBe(classes.Highlight);
});

it('should not highlight row when id does not match highlightRow', () => {
  const className = shallow(<YourComponent highLightRow="newId" />).find(Table).prop('rowClassName')({
    id: 'testId'
  });

  expect(className).not.toBe(classes.Highlight);
});


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LAZOVIC'S BRILLIANT INDIVIDUAL DISPLAY GUIDES SERBIA TO 3-1 VICTORY OVER CHINA
Home / Slider / LAZOVIC'S BRILLIANT INDIVIDUAL DISPLAY GUIDES SERBIA TO 3-1 VICTORY OVER CHINA
Reigning Olympic champions China, fielding the second-string squad, succumbed to their fifth loss at the 2021 FIVB Women's Volleyball Nations League in Rimini, Italy following their stunning four-set loss 22-25, 18-25, 25-20, 22-25 to Serbia on Monday.
China were playing without captain Zhang Changning, one of the key players in the Rio Games-gold-winning team who recorded the all-time fifth-best scoring performance at a VNL match on Sunday with 37 points in the China-Belgium encounter. Belgium saw off the tough rivals in gruelling five sets.
Captain Katarina Lazovic scored a match-high 26 points for Serbia including 22 attacks and 3 aces, while Sara Caric collected 22 points including 20 attacks. Li Yao led China with 13 points, with Yang Hanyu and Liu Xiaotong scoring 12 points apiece.
Serbia's Katarina Lazovic said at the virtual mixed zone: "I'm proud of my team, because we showed again how we can play after a very difficult and bad game yesterday. We got up and forgot about yesterday focusing on this match. We entered the court with totally different energy and we fought hard. It's very important.
"We are a young team, China also have a young team, but in important moments we were better and we knew what we can do. In Serbia we have this attitude that we always want to win and always show our best. I wanted to help my team and my team helped me a lot. In the third set we had some moments when we couldn't find our game. For us service is very important, when we serve well we can do big things, but when we have easy service we cannot play our game. Especially against China who had a perfect reception," she added.
China did not attend the mixed zone.
Related links of AVC
AVC Website: click www.asianvolleyball.net
AVC Facebook: click www.Facebook.com/AsianVolleyballConfederation
AVC Twitter: click: https://twitter.com/avcvolley
AVC Instagram: click: https://www.instagram.com/avcvolley/?hl=en
AVC Youtube: click: Asian Volleyball Confederation
AVC WeChat: Asian Volleyball Confederation
MIGHTY USA PROVE TOO STRONG FOR KOREAMAYU ISHIKAWA: "WE FOCUS ON WHAT WE HAVE TO DO"

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Q: What is the max size for an array to be uploaded using gl.uniform1fv? Is there any limit on the above call? Is that limit different for WebGL 1.0 vs WebGL 2.0?
If there is no limit, would there be a reason to use that vs Textures for input  data?
thanks

A: For vertex shaders the maximum size is specified by the gl.MAX_VERTEX_UNIFORM_VECTORS parameter.
Minimum for WebGL 1 is 128.
Minimum for WebGL 2 is 256.
gl.getParameter(gl.MAX_VERTEX_UNIFORM_VECTORS);

For fragment shaders the maximum size is specified by the gl.MAX_FRAGMENT_UNIFORM_VECTORS parameter.
Minimum for WebGL 1 is 16.
Minimum for WebGL 2 is 224.
gl.getParameter(gl.MAX_FRAGMENT_UNIFORM_VECTORS);

You can quickly check these limits in your browser on the Webgl Report site.
Note: Other uniform variables decrease that limits and for example a mat4 uniform in a shader counts as 4 uniforms.


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Home›News›Automotive news›Cadillac showcases its exciting Middle East future at Dubai International Motor Show
Cadillac showcases its exciting Middle East future at Dubai International Motor Show
Making its first appearance in the Middle East, the Escala Concept car formed the centerpiece of the Cadillac stand at this year's Dubai International Motor Show (14-18 November) as visitors received a tantalizing glimpse at the future direction of the brand.
The future is certainly bright for Cadillac, with the Escala amplifying its new design DNA and the brand currently introducing industry-leading technologies such as Super Cruise. But the show also provided an opportunity to view new models that are set to entice today's buyers: the redesigned XTS sedan enjoyed its regional launch, alongside 2018 versions of favorites like the Escalade, CT6 and XT5.
Designed to be both a driver's car and an indulgent flagship sedan, Cadillac's Escala showcases future design and technical systems, including a prototype 4.2-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine, and is a concept for a more expressive, expansive companion to the current range-topper, the CT6.
The large 4-door sedan features an expansive lift-back design, and at 5347mm is 163mm longer than the CT6. The new face of Cadillac design will begin appearing on production models soon and includes a new expression of Cadillac's signature vertical lighting – thin, deep-set organic light emitting diode (OLED) elements give it a sinister look. This is complemented by a three-dimensional precision pattern in the grille design and 22-inch wheels with two layers of spokes.
Three very thin, curved OLED screens feature prominently in the front, consolidating the traditional "cluster" of driving gauges into one integrated unit. Like all Cadillac models today, the interior is assembled using hand cut-and-sewn techniques, but is further inspired by suiting material used by Cadillac's fashion industry partners. The Escala Concept also offers an insight into the user experience in development for future models, with new designs for connectivity and control.
Speaking about Cadillac's display at DIMS, Andrew Lipman, Cadillac's Global Communications Director, said: "We wanted to demonstrate our commitment to our customers and fans in the Middle East, and what better way than by revealing a concept car that lays the blueprint for the future of the brand.
"Starting with the launch of the first ever XT4 in 2018, we will bring a new Cadillac to market every six months, a total of five vehicle lines in the space of just two years. And these models will feature some of the most advanced technology in the automotive industry," he added.
Super Cruise is a prime example of these advancements. With the ability to take control at any time, it offers the first true hands-free driving experience. Super Cruise takes control in situations like more mundane highway commuting, while in all other conditions the driver can take the wheel to enjoy the vehicle's exhilarating performance.
Cadillac also unveiled a raft of 2018 models that are set to take the Middle East by storm, most notably the elegant 2018 XTS, which was represented by the XTS Platinum version. Making its regional debut at the show, this redesigned sedan showcases a new generation of Cadillac design and technology,
A new styling approach applied to the 2018 XTS range is communicated through a refreshed front and rear look, with all-new LED headlights and taillamps, fenders, front and rear fascias and grille. An improved chassis provides even greater ride comfort, while enhanced technology delivers a next-generation Cadillac user experience, a dynamic platform that can be adjusted over time to meet a customer's evolving connectivity needs. With functionality similar to smartphones, the new user experience system provides customers with easier access to the most common features. The more intuitive operation includes a Summary View in which all key applications – climate, audio, phone and navigation – are displayed on one screen.
Two other 2018 models to benefit from Cadillac's new styling and design were also shown off at the show: the CT6 and XT5. Rounding off the display were the 2018 models of the brand's flagship large SUV – Escalade, and the ATS-V and CTS-V models from Cadillac's acclaimed high-performance V-Series.
The 2018 CT6 has all the size, prestige and technology of a large luxury sedan, while offering the driving dynamics and efficiency of a mid-size sport sedan. Built with one of the industry's most advanced body structures, the CT6 is equipped with an Active Chassis system and either a 3.0L Twin Turbo or 3.6L V6 engine. Hi-tech features include Enhanced Night Vision, Advanced Park Assist and Rear Camera Mirror – an industry first application of full-display technology, combining camera technology with the conventional inside mirror to project an unobstructed view in the mirror.
The XT5 combines spacious luxury and high-tech convenience features to create the perfect crossover. A lightweight construction elevates efficiency and driving performance while the all-new design and structure increases interior space without adding bulk. The 2018 XT5 is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine and advanced all-wheel drive, as well as advanced features such as a rear camera mirror, Apple Carplay & Android auto compatibility, and front- and rear-seat USB capabilities.
Visitors were also able to experience the brand's flagship model, the 2018 Escalade, which features a new 10-speed automatic transmission and bold new interior and exterior color options. The Escalade has long defined spacious premium driving with its modern design, powerful capabilities and sumptuous amenities that keep luxury firmly in the driver's seat.
Combining luxury and power in one machine, the Cadillac CTS-V sedan is powered by a supercharged 6.2L V-8 engine, that delivers 640 hp (477 kW), 630 lb-ft of torque (855 Nm) and is mated to a paddle-shift eight-speed automatic transmission. For 2o18, it introduces Apple Watch integration, two additional USB ports in the rear console and a new range of colors.
Joining the CTS-V will be the 2018 ATS-V, with its track-honed design, chassis and suspension elements which complement the car's 3.6L V6 twin-turbocharged powertrain to provide true track capability, performance and driver control without modifications or special procedures. New for 2018, an advanced next-generation Cadillac user experience with embedded navigation is now available.
Speaking at the show, Christian Soemmer, Managing Director of Cadillac Middle East, commented: "With new models hitting the market and new facilities set to open in the near future, now is an extremely exciting time for Cadillac and its customers across the Middle East.
"Over the last year we have brought global brand initiatives to the region and created local activities that reflect Cadillac's core values, such as the 'Arabs of New York' campaign which celebrates the entrepreneurial Arabs of our home city. Furthermore, next month sees the arrival to Dubai of 'Letters to Andy Warhol' – a traveling exhibition, part of a global multi-year partnership between Cadillac and The Andy Warhol Museum. All of which is helping us to connect more closely with people who share our outlook and aspirations, in particular a younger generation of car buyers who share our passion."
TagsArab Motor WorldArab TuningAutomotive NewsCadillacDubai International Motor showEscala ConceptGeneral MotorsNewsNews Ad TagPress Release
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The REAL Battle Over America's Banking System - Washingtons Blog
The REAL Battle Over America's Banking System
The battle to reform the American banking system needs to include reimposing the barrier between investment banking and depository banking (Glass-Steagall), pay incentives based on what is best for Americans and not just the top executives, the end of too big to fail, and other changes which are frequently discussed by financial writers. These are vital issues.
But there is more to the battle for reform than you might know.
New York Versus the Rest of the Country
If you are happy with the banking system, and don't think it needs to be reformed, then you probably work for one of the banks headquartered in New York.
Indeed, the banks outside of New York have acted much more conservatively, used more conservative capital ratios and less leverage and gotten less involved in credit derivatives and other speculative investments.
Buy a banker in the Midwest a drink, and he will probably rail against the giant New York banks for causing the financial crisis, costing the smaller, better run banks a lot of money and huge fees, and driving many smaller banks out of business.
And even within the Federal Reserve, what the New York Fed and Bernanke are saying is wholly different from what the heads of the regional Fed banks are saying. The Fed banks in Philadelphia and Kansas City and Dallas and elsewhere disagree with what the New York Fed and Fed's Open Market Committee are doing. See this and this.
So the battle isn't between bankers versus outsiders. It is between the giant New York money-centered banks and the rest of the country.
Reserve Requirements
Congresswoman Kaptur said last week:
We used to have capital ratios. We need to get back to them. Ten to one. For every dollar in your bank, you can lend ten. You know what J.P. Morgan did? A hundred to one. And then with derivatives, who knows how much?
Remember, Milton Friedman - the monetary economist worshipped as the guy with all of the answers in the latter part of the 20th century - advocated for 100% reserves.
Friedman has been deified as the economist to follow. But his views on reserve requirements have been completely ignored.
Goldman Using Taxpayer Dollars to Buy Stock in China?
As everyone knows, Goldman became a "bank holding company" in September, to be able to access funds from the Fed at essentially zero percent interest.
But in a new interview with Bill Moyers, Simon Johnson noted that in August of 2009, Goldman switched again - to a "financial holding company".
Johnson says that being a financial holding company means that Goldman can borrow money from the Fed at essentially no cost, and then invest it in any thing it wants. For example, Johnson says that Goldman has bought a large share of the stock of a Chinese automaker. Johnson says that if the investment succeeds, Goldman will reap the profits; but if it fails, the taxpayers are on the hook.
Banks Have the Power to Create Money
Congresswoman Kaptur also said last week:
Banks have the power to create money. And decide how much that is worth.
What is Kaptur talking about?
Here Comes the Judge
Well, in First National Bank v. Daly (often referred to as the "Credit River" case) the court found that the bank created money without having the reserves:
[The president of the First National Bank of Montgomery] admitted that all of the money or credit which was used as a consideration [for the mortgage loan given to the defendant] was created upon their books, that this was standard banking practice exercised by their bank in combination with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneaopolis, another private bank, further that he knew of no United States statute or law that gave the Plaintiff [bank] the authority to do this.
The court also held:
The money and credit first came into existence when they [the bank] created it.
(Here's the case file).
Nobel Economists, Congressmen, the Fed and Treasury Agree
Still confused?
Well, let's hear from some top economists.
As PhD economist Steve Keen pointed out recently, 2 Nobel-prize winning economists have shown that the assumption that reserves are created from excess deposits is not true:
The model of money creation that Obama's economic advisers have sold him was shown to be empirically false over three decades ago.
The first economist to establish this was the American Post Keynesian economist Basil Moore, but similar results were found by two of the staunchest neoclassical economists, Nobel Prize winners Kydland and Prescott in a 1990 paper Real Facts and a Monetary Myth.
Looking at the timing of economic variables, they found that credit money was created about 4 periods before government money. However, the "money multiplier" model argues that government money is created first to bolster bank reserves, and then credit money is created afterwards by the process of banks lending out their increased reserves.
Kydland and Prescott observed at the end of their paper that:
Introducing money and credit into growth theory in a way that accounts for the cyclical behavior of monetary as well as real aggregates is an important open problem in economics.
In other words, if the conventional view that excess reserves (stemming either from customer deposits or government infusions of money) lead to increased lending were correct, then Kydland and Prescott would have found that credit is extended by the banks (i.e. loaned out to customers) after the banks received infusions of money from the government. Instead, they found that the extension of credit preceded the receipt of government monies.
Keen explained in an interview Friday that 25 years of research shows that creation of debt by banks precedes creation of government money, and that debt money is created first and precedes creation of credit money.
As Mish has previously noted:
Conventional wisdom regarding the money multiplier is wrong. Australian economist Steve Keen notes that in a debt based society, expansion of credit comes first and reserves come later.
This angle of the banking system has actually been discussed for many years by leading experts:
"[Banks] do not really pay out loans from the money they receive as deposits. If they did this, no additional money would be created. What they do when they make loans is to accept promissory notes in exchange for credits to the borrowers' transaction accounts."
- 1960s Chicago Federal Reserve Bank booklet entitled "Modern Money Mechanics"
"The process by which banks create money is so simple that the mind is repelled."
- Economist John Kenneth Galbraith
[W]hen a bank makes a loan, it simply adds to the borrower's deposit account in the bank by the amount of the loan. The money is not taken from anyone else's deposit; it was not previously paid in to the bank by anyone. It's new money, created by the bank for the use of the borrower.
- Robert B. Anderson, Secretary of the Treasury under Eisenhower, in an interview reported in the August 31, 1959 issue of U.S. News and World Report
"Do private banks issue money today? Yes. Although banks no longer have the right to issue bank notes, they can create money in the form of bank deposits when they lend money to businesses, or buy securities. . . . The important thing to remember is that when banks lend money they don't necessarily take it from anyone else to lend. Thus they 'create' it."
-Congressman Wright Patman, Money Facts (House Committee on Banking and Currency, 1964)
"The modern banking system manufactures money out of nothing. The process is perhaps the most astounding piece of sleight of hand that was ever invented.
- Sir Josiah Stamp, president of the Bank of England and the second richest man in Britain in the 1920s.
Banks create money. That is what they are for. . . . The manufacturing process to make money consists of making an entry in a book. That is all. . . . Each and every time a Bank makes a loan . . . new Bank credit is created -- brand new money.
- Graham Towers, Governor of the Bank of Canada from 1935 to 1955
Monetary reformers argue that the government should take the power of money creation back from the private banks and the Federal Reserve system.
Indeed, PhD economist and candidate for Florida governor Farid Khavari wants to create a Bank of the State of Florida, to create credit without burdening the state and its citizens with high interest charges by private banks.
The state of North Dakota already has such a bank.
The bottom line is that monetary reformers argue that letting banks create credit and money and then charge high interest rates creates massive levels of debt for states and taxpayers. They argue that the power to create money should be reclaimed by the government and taken away from the private banks.
Personally, I agree with the monetary reformers. But even for those who think this is too radical a proposition, the question is whether a system where debt has to constantly and continually expand to keep the economy afloat is sustainable.
The Ever-Expanding Bubble
In a hearing held on September 30, 1941 in the House Committee on Banking and Currency, then-Chairman of the Federal Reserve (Mariner S. Eccles) said:
That is what our money system is. If there were no debts in our money system, there wouldn't be any money.
Indeed, Robert H. Hemphill, Credit Manager of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, said:
If all the bank loans were paid, no one could have a bank deposit, and there would not be a dollar of coin or currency in circulation. This is a staggering thought. We are completely dependent on the commercial Banks. Someone has to borrow every dollar we have in circulation, cash or credit. If the Banks create ample synthetic money we are prosperous; if not, we starve. We are absolutely without a permanent money system. When one gets a complete grasp of the picture, the tragic absurdity of our hopeless position is almost incredible, but there it is. It is the most important subject intelligent persons can investigate and reflect upon. It is so important that our present civilization may collapse unless it becomes widely understood and the defects remedied very soon.
America's banking system needs to be fundamentally reformed.
Tom Dennen October 12, 2009 at 1:55 PM
Google Ellen Brown.
Permanent money.
Monetary Reform.
Tom Hickey October 12, 2009 at 4:34 PM
I'm a great fan of Steve Keen. His book, Debunking Economics, is required reading for everyone who wants to understand basic economics in terms of what's wrong with the orthodox approach and what to do about it.
Steve is a circuitist who studies the economy in terms of the non-governmental financial system. (See Monetary circuit Theory. To get a more complete picture of the economy as whole, It is also important to pay close attention to the interaction of the governmental and non-governmental financial systems. Modern chartalismaka neo-chartalism studies this aspect of the economy.
Bill Mitchell recently conducted a debate with Steve Keen on the differences between these approaches at billyblog. It's in three parts. Here is the first. Steve answers in the comments. Many other commentators are also knowledgeable. This series is a must read, as well as the seminal articles to which Bill links.
Phillip October 12, 2009 at 8:32 PM
Charles Walters(1926-2009),my preferred mentor in all matters agronomic and economic for over 30 years wrote last year "It is willed ignorance that permits the privatization of the constitutional mandate for Congress to "coin the money and regulate the value therof," this by permitting mere business hustlers to take over a sovereign power." For more Charles see www.economy101.net and http://www.acresusa.com/toolbox/reprints/History%20of%20Money_CW.pdf
Government should not have a monopoly privilege to counterfeit money any more than a central bank. If legal tender laws were repealed, the market would choose honest money and the federal reserve would disappear. Someone would have to be pretty naive to trust a gov't to take the place of a central bank and not act in the exact same manner.
The problem is in fact more serious than you portray it to be. Please look at Greg Pytel's seminal article - The Largest Heist in History
When the financial crisis erupted at the end of September 2008, there was an unusual sense of incredible panic among banking executives and government officials. These two establishment groups are known for their conservative, understated approach and, above all, their stiff upper lip. Yet at the time they appeared to the public running about like headless chickens. It was chaos. A state of complete chaos. Within a few weeks, however, decisions were made and everything seemed to returned to normal and back under control. The British Prime Minister Gordon Brown even famously remarked that the government "saved the world."
But what really caused such an incredible panic in the establishment well known for its resilience? Maybe there are root causes that were not examined publicly and the government actions are nothing more than a temporary reprieve and a cover-up? Throwing good money after bad money, maybe?
Money Making Machine
In order to answer these questions we have to examine the basic principles on which the banking system operates and the mechanisms that caused the current crisis.
End Quote
Greg's analysis shows the real reason's why the current crisis occured. All his further articles all connect back to the central thesis outlined in this article.
It would be worthwhile to get your viewpoint on his work.
Vincent-Brian October 19, 2009 at 10:12 PM
One aspect of the current monetary system that I haven't seen mentioned here is the fact that the FED effectively holds title to everything that is paid for with FRNs. Because FRNs are the property of a private corporation, they carry a hidden lien which carries over to anything purchased with them. It is this hidden lien that allows governments to regulate nearly every aspect of our lives, because it is their property they are regulating. Furthermore, because they are the product of a foreign corporation (foreign to the de jure u.s. government if not to the American continent), they are taxed with an excise (i.e. income) tax. Robert Rowan and Ronald McDonald have spelled this out very eloquently in numerous radio interviews, and I am champing at the bit to read their book "They Own it All - Including YOU - Through Toxic Currency". Check out http://www.newpeopleorder.com.
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Is David Bloom Wrong About the Dollar?
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Has the Government Sowed the Seeds for Green Shoot...
PhD Economists and Economic Professors Call For Pr...
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Gold's Performance In Different Currencies
Barney Frank's Bad Loans
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Government Created the Mega-Banks
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The Ongoing Cover Up of the Truth Behind the Finan...
Bank Lobbyists Are Not Only Trying to Kill NEW Leg...
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Congress Removes Authority to Ban Riskiest Derivat...
China's Market Share Soars During Global Downturn
Debunking the "Too Big To Fail" Myth
Gold: The Big Picture
Government Leaders Said Bailouts Were Needed Becau...
Will the Dollar Rally When the Market Next Crashes?
Level of Disagreement Among Economists About Infla...
Simon Johnson Confirms William K. Black's Explanat...
Congresswoman Kaptur: There Has Been a Financial C...
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Bought and Paid For
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Dollar Strengthens, Gold Weakens
Design Changes to Site
What Does It Mean When Even the Guy Who Blocked Re...
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Congressmen Grayson and Paul Ask Senate Banking to...
Questions for Gary Gensler and Henry Hu
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U.S. Suffering Permanent Destruction of Jobs
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text:
Pedro de Portugal (1429-Granollers, 1466). Condestable de Portugal, fue hijo de infante Pedro de Portugal, duque de Coímbra (hijo de Juan I y regente del reino portugués) y de Isabel, nieto de Jaime II de Urgel, como uno de los pretendientes al trono aragonés en el Compromiso de Caspe, llegó a gobernar en Cataluña entre 1464 y 1466 con el nombre de Pedro IV. Se casó con Juana Enríquez.

Fue titulado rey de Aragón, y reconocido conde de Barcelona en 1464 por el Concejo del Principado de Cataluña, institución creada por la Generalidad de Cataluña durante la guerra civil catalana contra Juan II de Aragón (1463-1466). Luchó contra los Infantes de Aragón en Castilla. Después de perder varias batallas en Lérida, Cervera e Igualada, fue gravemente derrotado en la Calaf (1465).

Como conde de Barcelona sucedió a Enrique IV de Castilla (1462-1463) y fue sucedido por Renato de Anjou (1466-1472).

Escribió una ficción sentimental hacia 1450, la Sátira de infelice e felice vida.

Ancestros

Referencias

Enlaces externos
 Pedro de Portugal, rey de los catalanes (1464-1466) ¿Un príncipe maldito redimido por el arte?, Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, 17 de noviembre de 2016

Pedro de Portugal, conde de Barcelona
Pretendientes al trono de Aragón
Pretendientes al trono de Navarra
Casa de Avís
Condestables de Portugal
Administradores de la Orden de Avis
Principado de Cataluña
Fallecidos en Granollers

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Strangers on Tong Chong Street, by Tom Pearson and Zach Morris, explored what it means for a group of outsiders to descend upon a site and gradually affix themselves to its geography. Charting a course from an ostentatious arrival, through a cautious navigation of unknown territory, and finally to a state of comfortable activity, the work was often biographical of the process and of the individuals while examining notions of strangeness. The architecture of Tong Chong Street was familiar to its daily inhabitants, but it was the performers in the relation to this which establish a dynamic tension, pose a dramatic question, scramble the status-quo.
Hailing from New York, Tom Pearson and Zach Morris sought to find the historical and contemporary commonalities between their home and Hong Kong. In both cases, New York and Hong Kong have always been changing, dynamic, mercantile, and maritime – where denizens gathered in the interest of achieving success, sparking perpetual innovation due to each cities' unique position as a threshold. They felt this is especially relevant to Taikoo Place – a newly reinvented site built upon an effervescent past.
The work began when a motley group arrives, clad in garments simultaneously evoking fashions of the late Industrial Age and contemporary urban couture–in shades of sugary blues, whites, and grays. As they moved about the street, their relationships to the space and to one another developed and unfurled.
In frequently poignant and often humorous moments of group locomotion or ritualized urban routine, there was the familiar feeling of waiting with certainty, moving with clear but separate intentions, of short gestures, and succinct expressions. Music was played live on a portable melodica that is operated by an iron worker's bellows, and the score (both live and recorded) evokes cabaret, industrial sound, music box, and pop. By the time the piece resolved and the individuals had settled into their surroundings, the performers seemed less a part of the past and more of a hybrid between past and present while the strange became more familiar, for both the performers and the audience.
Donna Ahmadi, Elizabeth Carena, Zach Morris, Marissa Nielsen-Pincus, Tom Pearson, Tara O'Con, and Mayuna Shimizu.
Strangers on Tong Chong Street was commissioned by the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation for the Swire Island East Urban Dance Festival, 2007 and was co-presented by the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation and Swire Island East. This project was also made possible by Materials for the Arts/New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and Department of Sanitation; and by Third Rail Projects, with support from individual and institutional donors.


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text:
63 More Usual Stuff, Sort of...
Not too long ago, while I was reading Shakespeare Basics for Grown-ups by Foley and Coates, I ran across a most interesting statement in their discussion of some of Shakespeare's late plays, which they refer to as "the Romances." These are, mostly, some of the masque-like plays written, almost certainly to be performed at the Blackfriar's, the "private" theatre used, and owned, by Shakespeare and his friends after 1608. They say, "This theater also allowed for plays that ranged further in time due to the necessity of act breaks for trimming the candles." Think about it. It does make a deal of sense. We have every reason to believe that the earlier plays, at least, were written without formal act and scene divisions. These plays were, of course, written to be performed in the outdoor theatres which sprang up as theatre became professionalized and "business-like," as opposed to the "amateur" religious plays of the Medieval Guilds. Now, as long as plays were performed outdoors, usually having to be done within time limits to satisfy the audience's need to get home before dark, there was no need for acts, the scene divisions were efficiently indicated with an exit and entrance, and the plays had a highly "cinematic" quality to them.
Since the outdoor theatres were difficult to use during the winter, eventually the major companies established themselves with indoor (the so-called "private") theatres, which required candles for light. Candles, of course, require trimming, so it is necessary to pause from time to time to do this. That suggests that the play would have had to be stopped, at least briefly. Playwrights (not known for being completely stupid, at least good ones) would, logically, have quickly developed points where a short pause would not too adversely affect the performance – hence, dividing the already present scenes up into "acts."
As the Roman critic, Horace, for reasons that have never been completely explained, insisted that "No play should be longer or shorter than five acts," it's reasonable to assume that that number was rationalized as the proper number. Elizabethan popular playwrights, however, had been ignoring that dictum for a long time. Now, it may, of course, simply be that editors inserted breaks (to "correct Shakespeare's mistakes") when the books were published, as has been the common thought. Such divisions are certainly present as early as the First Folio and Neo-Classical scholarship would have demanded them to allow plays to be taken as serious literature. Still, it's intriguing to think that there could have been a practical reason for their presence. Certainly, one can't help but be struck at the awkwardness of the placement of some act breaks, especially in many of the early plays. So, it's possible that the use of candles would, ultimately, dictate the need for "Act" divisions.
Is this provable? Of course it's not. But, it does make a degree of sense and would help explain why some of Shakespeare's plays (especially the later ones, after indoor theatres became more widely used) seem much more logical in their act divisions, than is true of some of the earlier ones. I think it's possible that this is a plausible explanation, at least in some of the late plays.
I've recently taken considerable offense at what is becoming a common feature of a fair amount of advertising. That is, the featuring of "Real people. Not actors." Okay, I get the point. These are not paid spokespersons with a script about how great the product is. Of course, if ANY of these people ever appear in a second ad (I think I'm correct here) they will be required to join the union and become that dreaded and (apparently) totally untrustworthy non-person: an "ACTOR." Still, I wish that advertisers would figure out that actors are, in fact, people. At least I don't know of some alien hatchery which produces actors, so that they could reasonably be considered "non-people." Oh, well, I suppose that this too will pass. I just hope that it's sooner, rather than later.
Now, I know that I promised to get back to "more usual stuff" in my last posting, but this whole political thing has me too upset to have come up with more of the "usual stuff." There is this election in about FOUR MONTHS, you see, and I'm already VERY over the whole process. Since it, and related stories, are about the only thing on the news, I don't even have much in the way of robbery, murder, and mayhem to distract me from this political stuff. Now, don't get me wrong, I DO care about politics. Political decisions are about the most important ones we citizens make. After all, the results of an election can have very wide ranging effects which will last for many years.
Still, the Republican Convention is, at this point, almost two weeks away and the Democratic one isn't until after that. And we've been at this for about a year and a half already! The whole thing is too long, too expensive, too divisive, and, frankly, I'm fed up with it! Yes, I do intend to vote (although I won't tell the world who I will vote for), but I wish we could handle this whole process with at least some small measure of dignity, decorum, and intelligence, which doesn't seem to be the case at the moment. In fact, I'm reminded a bit of Coriolanus, but that's another story.
In any event, as a consequence of all this ado, I've been having trouble focusing on the "more usual stuff." So, the rest of this is going to be just a bit of a diversion, based on jokes, etc., which I've been collecting and seem amusing to me at this point in time. At least I'm finding them a bit of a diversion. I hope you do, as well. Enjoy!
General Stuff:
I ate a salad for dinner! Mostly croutons & tomatoes. Really just one big, round crouton covered with tomato sauce. And cheese. And mushrooms. OK FINE, it was a pizza. I ate a pizza.
I just did a week's worth of cardio after walking into a spider web.
A boy asks his granny, "Have you seen my pills, they were labeled LSD?" Granny replies, "The hell with the pills, did you see the dragons in the kitchen?"
Then there's the one about the dyslexic devil worshipper who sold his soul to Santa.
Ban pre-shredded cheese: make America grate again! (Sorry, I couldn't resist.)
I signed up for an exercise class and was told to wear loose fitting clothing. If I HAD any loose fitting clothing, I wouldn't need the class!
Sayings:
Give me ambiguity or give me something else.
I don't like political jokes. I've seen too many get elected.
I was going to give him a nasty look, but he already had one.
Money is the root of all wealth.
Women sometimes make fools of men, but most guys are the do-it-yourself types.
He who laughs last thinks slowest.
A politician is a fellow who will lay down your life for his country.
Tex Guinan
Social Commentary:
I like long walks, especially when they are taken by people who annoy me.
A well-worn one-dollar bill and a similarly distressed twenty-dollar bill arrived at a Federal Reserve Bank to be retired.
As they moved along the conveyor belt to be burned, they struck up a conversation.
The twenty-dollar bill reminisced about its travels all over the country. "I've had a pretty good life," the twenty proclaimed, "Why I've been to Las Vegas and Atlantic City, the finest restaurants in New York, performances on Broadway, and even a cruise to the Caribbean."
"Wow!" said the one-dollar bill. "You've really had an exciting life!" "So, tell me," says the twenty, "where have you been throughout your lifetime?"
The one-dollar bill replies, "Oh, I've been to the Methodist Church, the Presbyterian church, the Baptist Church, the Lutheran Church and to the Episcopal Church." The twenty-dollar bill interrupts, "What's a church?"
I told my son "I want you to marry a girl of my choice!" He said "NO!" I told him she's Bill Gates daughter!!!! He said "OKAY!"
Got in contact with Bill Gates & told him "I want your daughter to marry my son!" He said "NO!" Told him my son was the CEO of the World Bank! He said "OKAY!"
Went to the Chairman of the World Bank & told him to make my son CEO of the Bank! He said "NO!" Told him my son is Bill Gates' Son in Law! He said "OKAY!"
And that, my friends, is the essence of how politics works…
This isn't made up. It's comes from an actual sign we saw on our recent trip:
We saw a sign at the side of the road said, "Purgatory Emporium Antique Mall" which we found amusing. (Bonnie said that the business was probably named by a husband who had had to spend to much time in such places with his wife.)
I discovered later that it is an actual store (see below) and that it was actually named for Purgatory Mountain in Virginia, which it is near.
Questions… Some with answers:
Have you heard the song about a tortilla. Well, actually it's more of a wrap.
Ever stop to think… and forget to start again?
A sign seen for a restaurant: "Peace, Love and Barbecue!" Does this mean that the meat was smoked with pot?
If tomatoes are technically a fruit, is ketchup a smoothie?
Q: How many seconds are there in one year? A: 12 of them: January 2nd, February 2nd, March 2nd, April 2nd, May 2nd, June 2nd, July 2nd, August 2nd, September 2nd, October 2nd, November 2nd, December 2nd.
If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen defrocked, then doesn't it follow that electricians can be delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys deranged, models deposed, tree surgeons debarked, and dry cleaners depressed?
Do Lipton Tea employees get to take "coffee breaks?"
Does the little mermaid wear an algebra?


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