Are those offered by your employer, school, or requiring institution such as the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) via Hopkins International. These sessions are also recommended for those taking the TOEIC test for self-assessment. Institutional test administrations may be done onsite (in your premises) or at Hopkins' Head Office in Makati.
If the TOEIC test is required by your employer, school, or agency, you may talk to the TOEIC Coordinator for the nearest available test date in your premises or register online for the test sessions in Hopkins' Makati office. See test dates available for 2014.
Note: The registration deadline for institutional testing sessions in the Philippines is always on the Wednesday one week before the test (7 days before the test date). For example, if you want to take the TOEIC Speaking and Writing test on Wednesday, March 21, you must register and submit requirements no later than Wednesday, March 14.
You are only allowed to change your test date once.
Your preferred new test date must be within three (3) months from the first original test date.
Fill-out the Request form for Refund or Change in Test Date.
Inform you if your request has been approved or not.
Give you your Confirmation Letter for the new test date.
Cancellation of test registration must be done no later than three (3) working days prior to test date. The count for the three-day notice does not include the day of the test or the day of your request.
Minimum base amount for refund is P500.
Refunds shall be in Philippine Peso for half of the total amount subject for refund. The balance is retained to cover expenses for processing your registration and holding a seat for you at the test center.
Refunds shall be made to the person concerned via check payment. No cash refunds allowed.
Check refunds must be picked-up in person. For those requesting direct deposit to their personal bank account, incidental bank charges will be taken from the refund.
If you agree with all the abovementioned conditions, fill-out the Request form for Refund or Change in Test Date.
E-mail the completed form together with your proof of payment (deposit slip or Hopkins-issued receipt) and Valid ID used during registration.
Within three (3) working days, a notification e-mail will be sent to the email address you used for the request to inform you if your request has been approved or not.
Processing period will be two-weeks from date of approval.
An email will be sent informing you if your refund is available for pick-up and/or deposit slip as proof of payment for your refund.
You must bring your Valid ID used during registration to take the test. You will not be admitted to the testing room without this identification. No other types of identification will be accepted.
You cannot bring your bag, pencil case, writing utensils or any other materials into the testing room except for the ID. We will provide a separate room where you can leave your personal belongings. Please leave at home any belongings that you do not need for the test.
We will provide you with a pencil with eraser to complete the test. You cannot bring your own pencil or eraser into the testing room.
You will not be permitted to put any personal materials on the table in the testing room.
Arrive early! Be sure to check the time that the test starts. Your Confirmation Letter that will be e-mailed to you will specify how early you need to arrive at the test site. At some sites, the doors are locked ten minutes before the test starts. You will not be admitted if you are late so be sure to get to the test site early.


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The Libya Observer
Interior Ministry forms committee to investigate fake ID numbers
The New Times – Rwanda
Zimbabwe gets free clinic for people with albinism
ANGOP – Angola
Angola, Russia seek strengthening cooperation
African Daily Voice
Kenyan President joins Ethiopians in victory celebration
TAP – Tunisia
Tunis hosts 36th session of Arab Interior Ministers' Council
South Africa and France strengthen bilateral relations
New Vision – Uganda
Uganda needs more nuclear pharmacists, says expert
Daily Trust – Nigeria
National Identification Number: National Identity Management Commission begins enrolment of Nigerians in South Africa
Egypt Today – Egypt
Egypt mulls launching shipping lines to increase trade exchange
Egypt publishes framework of Sovereign Wealth Fund
Daily News – Tanzania
JNIA's Terminal 3 new impetus to tourism, national economy
THE construction of Julius Nyerere International Airport (JNIA)'s Terminal 3 in Tanzania's commercial capital, Dar es Salaam, has been completed by 95 per cent.
It is expected to be completed by 100 per cent in May this year, thanks to the government's push to have it completed as soon as possible and up to standard.
This is after taking into account delays caused by lack of funds. Terminal 3 will create many opportunities for the government and nation!
This is due to the fact that the new facility will also facilitate the setting up of other facilities and services at and around JNIA.
When Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa toured the construction site to inspect its progress on Friday, he reiterated the government's stand to have it finished as agreed and, therefore, he pushed for preparations to make it start operating immediately after being handed over by the Dutch contractor, BAM Group.
With the number of planes, we have today and those privately owned, there will be more flights at JNIA and this has implications for advertising Tanzania to other nations, local tourism and foreign exchange.
The completion of Terminal 3 will obviously put the facility in the right position in terms of having a standard and multi-purpose international facility.
The facility, however, will be able to accommodate 24 large planes and handle six million annual passengers, including parking lots, access roads, platforms and a taxiway.
This will be more than double of the current annual traffic, which according to last year's statistics (March), stands at about 2.5 million passengers.
Expansion of JNIA is part of the government's plan to transform the country into a regional hub and boost the country's tourism sector and economy.
This means that improved JNIA infrastructure translates into new air transport links; both domestic and international and - more foreign exchange earnings.
According to last year's Bank of Tanzania (BoT) statistics, tourism is Tanzania's biggest foreign exchange earner, brought in the country about $2.4 billion last year.
With these developments, there will be a big difference in air services for more visitors to come and visit tourist attractions. This, of course, will put us on the world map as our planes will not only be domestic, but also international flights.
For that matter we have every reason to feel proud of the stage we have reached at the moment, especially when Terminal 3 is handed over to the government in May.
Industry-based university training taking shape in Rwanda
By: Kenneth Agutamba
The Government of Rwanda, with partners such as the Canadian High Commission in Kigali, Mastercard Foundation and the International Development Research Center are restyling university training through a unique industry-based program at the African Institute of Mathematical Sciences (AIMS).
Dubbed, AIMS Co-operative Masters degree in mathematical sciences, the 18-month program currently taught at three AIMS centres including Rwanda, Senegal and Cameroon, offers students work-Integrated Learning,assimilating class-based education into an authentic, work-based context.
For years, many an employer in Rwanda, and in Africa by extension, have complained about the quality of graduates that universities are churning out these days, whom they find wanting and unready for the labour market. The issue has always been attributed to 'skills-mismatch to available jobs.'
It's that mismatch that the AIMS Industry Initiative seeks to address through the AIMS Co-operative Masters degree in mathematical sciences, with support from the MasterCard Foundation.
On Wednesday this week, I attended the graduation of ten students from six African countries including four from Rwanda, who pioneered the course some eighteen months ago, as they received their certificates at a small but colourful ceremony held at the AIMS Centre in Kigali.
Sighs of relief, experience of joy, and hope in the future, as the graduates, armed with that light hard-paper printout called the transcript as well as degree certificate, head out to face the world. The academic staff looking on, with admiration, evidence of their own effort.
On the day of graduation, the AIMS Centre compound in Remera fit its Pan-African profile as family and friends of the ten graduating students from six different countries joined to witness the once in a lifetime moment for those that are lucky to pursue their academic dreams that far.
There were ten of them; four from Rwanda, and one each, from Chad, Madagascar, Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania and Nigeria. When one of them, Sylvera Massawe from Tanzania, was asked to deliver a speech on behalf of her colleagues, it immediately emerged that the institute has not only trained mathematical scientists but great orators too!
"Graduating means we are winners! We thought, tried and we have achieved. May we approach other life challenges with this attitude of trying, and never be afraid of failure. To quote one of the great scientists we aspire to be, Albert Einstein; a person who never made a mistake never tried anything new," she said.
The nature of their training will be a great asset as they set out to face those life challenges. Each of the students, right after their ordinary classroom coursework undertook a six-month internship practice with recognised companies in Rwanda, where they were handed problems to solve.
It is that industry experience that makes the Coop-Master's program a special one as it means by the time they graduate, the students have been tasted, by subjecting them to real challenges to which they are required to find solutions, using mathematical science approaches taught in classroom.
Unlike traditional university training that focuses on student grades and scores from classroom course works, the Coop Master's program instead focuses on the student's ability to apply theoretical knowledge to finding solutions to real industry problems.
The approach is also helping change the poor perception that many Rwandan companies have previously had towards internship. It is the whole idea behind industry initiative; a partnership between local companies and AIMS Rwanda that offers Coop Master's students an opportunity to get hands-on experience until close mentorship and regular supervision.
Organisations in public and private sector, including Rwanda Revenue Authority, AC Group, Ecobank, Bank of Africa, Saham Insurance, and I&M each worked with one of the students, assigning them advance solutions to some of their organizational problems.
The other companies that have committed to actively support the industry initiative include Bank of Kigali, Equity Bank, National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, Rwanda Energy Group, Airtel-Rwanda, MTN-Rwanda, RwandAir and KCB-Rwanda.
It is expected that as more companies support the Industry Initiative by opening their doors to students that are keen on testing their problem-solving abilities, the longstanding challenge of 'jobs-skills mismatch' will ultimately be solved as more of Africa's youth gain relevant skills that facilitate their transition from studies to meaningful employment opportunities.
The Guardian – Nigeria
History rewritten, future reassured!
By: Yahaya Balogun
"People who live in difficult circumstances need to know that happy endings are possible" – US Supreme Court Justice, Sonia Sotomayor. With unblemished gratitude and joy, we want express our appreciation to those who have made our story possible.
Nigerian voters sent a loud message through our collective voice on February 23, 2019. We have decided to consolidate the gains of the last four years through the resilient posture of President Muhammadu Buhari. Buhari is a representation of our collective dream.
The irrepressible Nigerians are the winners; and Nigeria is a work-in-progress. Nigerians are collectively matching ahead into the promising future with unhindered optimism.
The story we wrote on the Election Day through overwhelming decision was history rewritten, future reassured. We are jettisoning the naughtiness of yesterday to move into the promising tomorrow.
Our collective decision through the ballots but not the bullets has renewed our courage of convictions for a brighter future.
Nigeria is a great country imbued with people of impeccable credentials. We can only unleash our potentials by eradicating the nuances of corruption from the malfeasance system.
President Buhari must begin to get the ball rolling to solve our mundane self-inflicted problems in Nigeria. No time to waste at all.
The import of the last general elections is premised on a loud collective clamor for the good of all Nigerians.
The voice of the people is the voice of God, and we hope the President understands this sacred loud voice.
Nigerians are unequivocally demanding for five major immediate things from Mr. president to transform their lives, which include:
Creating job opportunities for the teeming young Nigerian population.
Security of lives and property.
Constant power supply and unprecedented infrastructures.
Good roads and modern rail system.
All-inclusive government with inclusion of some impeccable and qualified opposition party members.
Continue war on corruption with deterrent; and no sacred cows.
The president must engender peace and collective true love among the polarized people of Nigeria.
Better days are ahead of us, there's a bright light at the end of our dark tunnel. We should jettison collective pessimism to building a great optimism for our collective good.
Nigerians are all winners in the impending progress of Nigeria. Corruption is a loser. No Nigerian is a vanquish, all anti-corruption campaigners are victors. We are all victors moving into the promising future.
In the words of an anonymous famous disabled American athlete at the Olympic: "After the rain comes sunshine; after darkness comes the glorious dawn. There is no sorrow without its alloy of joy; there is no joy without its admixture of sorrow. Behind the ugly terrible mask of misfortune lies the beautiful soothing countenance of prosperity.
So tear the mask!" On February 23, 2019, we all collectively tore the masks of hopelessness, cynicism, contradiction, corruption, fear and despair off our faces.
We are etching into the promising (tomorrow) future through the planned nuances of NEXT LEVEL! God bless you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Home > node > Classical CDs Weekly: Christmas CDs, Part 1
Classical CDs Weekly: Christmas CDs, Part 1 | reviews, news & interviews
Classical CDs Weekly: Christmas CDs, Part 1
Seasonal delights: a rarely-heard Christmas opera, plus carols ancient and modern
by Graham RicksonSaturday, 12 December 2015
Music for a whileÅsa Maria Mikkelsen
Hindemith: The Long Christmas Dinner American Symphony Orchestra/Leon Botstein (Bridge)
Hindemith's delectable pantomime Tuttifäntchen remains one of my favourite seasonal discs, and now we have the first English-language recording of one of the composer's last works. The Long Christmas Dinner is a single act opera written in 1960 in collaboration with Thornton Wilder, an adaptation of his 1931 play. This is a highly affecting, gently moving piece, compressing 90 years into 50 minutes; Wilder and Hindemith show us the rise and fall of a middle class family through a sequence of seasonal junkets. One of the work's many charms is hearing just how well the pair complement each other. Wilder's unfussy libretto is matched by Hindemith's transparent, lyrical score – technically brilliant and deftly scored, the voices are never overwhelmed. It mostly sounds like vintage Hindemith, though neo-classical Stravinsky and Copland must have been influences.
There's a wistfulness at the heart of the opera."Time flies so fast..." sing the characters in the central trio, and Wilder's text makes frequent references to the need to remember, though, as with all family occasions, any gravitas is offset by humble chit-chat. Characters are born, grow up, move away, argue and die (offstage) before our ears. It's the stuff of life, and intensely moving. Highlights include a wonderful sextet and a touching, melancholy final scene. This live performance is faultless. Sara Murphy and Jarrett Ott are especially good in multiple roles. Conductor Leon Botstein keeps the piece moving, with excellent orchestral playing. The Long Christmas Dinner deserves a professional UK staging. But, until that happens, buy this disc. Great notes and full libretto provided, though the packaging is unnecessarily bulky.
December Celebration: New Carols by Seven American Composers (Pentatone)
John Rutter might seem to have the market in singable contemporary carols sewn up, but he's not the only composer who can churn them out. This beautifully recorded anthology, sweetly performed by the Californian Volti Chorus under Dawn Harms, is a mixed bag, though the high spots are memorable. There's little information given about the background to the disc, other than Pentatone stating that "Gordon Getty inspired us with his composition of delightful new carols to invite a group of American composers to celebrate the season in music." Getty's four secular carols are indeed delightful, each one short and witty. "Candles on the Tree" is superb, its list of pre-Christmas tasks set to insistent, catchy music. It's hard to resist a number which rhymes cream cheese, chick peas and "someone find the mint, please." Equally lovable is a carol by Joan Morris and William Bolcom, its text adapted from The Wind in the Willows, with a typically breezy, diatonic piano accompaniment.
Mark Adamo's "The Christmas Life" sets a poem by Wendy Cope, though the warmth of the text doesn't translate to the music. Jake Heggie's On the Road to Christmas is a six-part cycle for soprano and strings, including an imaginative reworking of Good King Wenceslas and an austere, haunting version of "I Wonder As I Wander". Heggie's concluding Christmas Time of Year is lovely, the string backing just the right side of schmaltzy. Luna Pearl Woolf's "How Bright the Darkness" is delicious, as is "Posada", from David Garner's Three Carols. But John Corigliano's "Christmas at the Cloisters", written for baritone and a very creepy Hammond organ, could cause nightmares. Skip instead to Getty's sweet, bell-laden arrangement of "Silent Night". Soprano Lisa Delan and baritone Lester Lynch impress, as do choral and orchestral forces conducted by Dawn Harris. All handsomely performed and well-engineered.
Music for a while: Canticles of Winter (Grappa)
This Norwegian offering, though, is much earthier and more intense. You don't need a crack choir and syrupy orchestral forces to conjure up the spirit of Christmas. Tuba, squeezebox and a single vocalist can be far more potent. Stian Carstensen's chilly, wheezy accordion playing on this disc is brilliant, the effect of his playing neatly summed up by David Nice's sleeve note: "you're more likely to shiver in the cold than be warmed by the fireside". Which shouldn't imply that these downbeat, slightly crumpled carol performances aren't consoling; this downbeat, stately disc has moved me as much as any Christmas disc in years. The entry of the pedal steel during singer Tora Augestad's matchless delivery of "In the bleak midwinter" is gorgeous, as are the weary banjo chords which appear halfway through an equally beautiful take on the Wexford Carol. Other well-known numbers include a tender, spare Coventry Carol and a disconcertingly lovely version of "In dulci jubilo".
The rarities are more alluring still: the magnificent, downbeat Dutch/Norwegian carol "Kirken den er et gammelt hus" boasts some lovely trumpet playing from Mathias Eick, who also shines in "Mitt hjerte alltid vanker". Schubert's "Gute Nacht" from Winterreise has an entirely winning folksy informality. We get beguiling arrangements of Bach, Handel and Dowland. The very best is saved until last, with a wonderful take on Purcell's "Now winter comes slowly". A disc for life, not just Christmas.
It's the stuff of life, and intensely moving
find The Long Christmas Dinner on Amazonfind December Celebration on Amazonfind Music for a while on Amazon
Our Town, Almeida Theatre
DiDonato, Heggie, Brentano Quartet, Milton Court
theartsdesk in Stavanger: A touch of Fröst
A Christmas Carol, Noël Coward Theatre
more Classical music
Pick of the BBC Proms 2019 Our classical music/opera reviewers choose their favourites from the next eight weeks
Londinium, Griffiths, St John's Waterloo review - a choral Grand Tour Leading London choir demonstrate imaginative programming and committed singing
Classical CDs Weekly: Jupiter String Quartet, Bruce Levingston, Paul McCreesh Newly-commissioned chamber music, a thought-provoking piano recital and a spectacular choral anthology
Alder, The Mozartists, Page, Wigmore Hall review - a Mozart feast for eyes and ears Period-instrument thrills and a state-of-the-art soprano
'A product not only of his era but also of his travels': Ian Page on Mozart's cosmopolitan education The Mozartists' main man on how an early life moving around Europe shaped a genius
The Anvil, Royal, Purves, BBCPO, Gernon, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester - disturbing, baffling and moving This commemoration of the Peterloo Massacre is the kind of art that Manchester loves
Chetham's Symphony Orchestra, Chetham's Chorus, Threlfall, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester - a thrilling triumph Truly awesome Mahler is the highspot of Chetham's 50th anniversary year
Classical CDs Weekly: Dove, Leighton, Martin, Vaughan Williams Two very different British composers, and a pair of mass settings
theartsdesk in Treviso - cultural patronage, Italian style High-level attention to detail in the Fondazione Benetton's support for the arts
London Mozart Players, Davan Wetton, St Giles Cripplegate - rousing Shakespearean revel Summer Music in City Churches festival closes with a celebration of the bard
Classical CDs Weekly: David Matthews, José Rolón, Shirley Smart A new English symphony, Mexican piano music and a transcontinental cellist


Err I already was but I will be inactive for a while... Sorry schools started.. Its like this every year. Sighh Well I got mid terms to prepare for. Its grade 9 the year where you gotta focus to get into the nice streams in highschool. I doubt getting good marks in grade 9 is THAT hard but still I'ma focus. I'll be on when I can. Thanks for your understanding. Also Tomorrow My internet is being cut. We're getting new service in my dad's new home once we move there ( abt next week ) I'll be active when i can so don't count me out just yet! Thanks.... GO ORB!
As I said somewhere else. School is KILLING my time on comp. I'll try my best to be on though..
just a question... If its put on hold can I do a different coliseum match? Either way.... THIS MATCH IS ON HOLD.
its fine. DAMNIT... sighhh well we'll see what happens with the battle.
Kaoru quickly drew his beam rifle out. He counter fired at the beams. As his beam collided with his opponent's beam it made a small explosion. All the beams were gone but the anti armor missiles were headed strait towards him! Quickly he un - activated his variable phase shift to save his energy. " How was that.... " He said on an open channel. Without phase shift or thrusters his energy was fine. Quickly he ran a little farther from the buster.
http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/47052713/ this one. Its small on that so can you like send me a full size? pwease..
Kaoru noticed his battery going down. Maybe overusing thrusters wasn't smart after all. He zoomed down towards the earth and made sure that he had a nice landing. He knew this was what the enemy wanted. The enemy was a long range type. He could of course retaliate with his Scylla but his energy would drain fast. Kaoru wasn`t even in firing range! He could do nothing besides hopefully evade the attacks sent to him. He would wait out the enemies energy. After all those cannons that the enemy held were real drainers too. `` Come on fire... `` Kaoru said in the open channel. Kaoru wondered what his opponent would do. If he was lucky the opponent would fire a barrage of beams and use up most of his energy. He readied himself for anything.
As the referee had started the match Kaoru saw the bleep on his sensors. Quickly flew through the sky towards the enemy. He already had his 60mm beam rifle out. Once he at a fair distance he fired two beams from his beam rifle. Quickly he transformed into his mobile armor form. and flew strait for the buster. He flew behind of the buster and quickly charged then went onto the mobile armor attack form. He blasted the buster with the Scylla energy cannon. Then reverting back to MS form he held his beam rifle in ready. " Lets have some fun... " Kaoru said to his opponent The two beams flew at his opponent. Kaoru waited to see how his opponent would react. It was important to observe his enemy's style and to keep a watch on his energy bar. It didn't seem too drained though he had to be careful.
Kaoru launched from the base that he was in. He started his thrusters and zoomed through to the grasslands where he would soon fight. He sat in his Aegis waiting for the Buster to appear. Once the Buster appeared there would be a fight. It would most likely destroy and burn all this grass. The wind rushed past the grass. Kaoru propelled himself higher, this way he would see when his opponent arrived. While he waited he ran some OS checks. He hoped that everything was fine. After all there would be a devastating fight. Once he was sure that everything was OK he drew he beam rifle in wait. He wondered how long the fight would be. I wish I had ate something before going out here... Oh well its too late now.
Re: One on One Fun!
So I can post this in the battle place now right? Well I'm guessing I do... I'll introduce myself first..


At Our Wilton Trust we have launched the next phase of our fundraising!
We are raising funds to fit out our flats ready for veterans to move into in Autumn 2018. With 44 flats to completely equip this is a huge goal!
Veterans coming to live with us may come straight from living on the streets or from hostels or other temporary accommodation and so will have very little of their own so it is vital that we provide them with the essentials that they will need to begin their journey to independent living.
We hope that schools, organisations and individuals will consider sponsoring individual packs or donating towards a pack.
We would love to hear from you, please email admin@ourwilton.org for further details of how you can donate or get more information for your school or business.


We invite you to discover Avignon, city of the Middle Age, capital of Christianity in the 14th century in an original way.
The night owls of Avignon is a journey in the history of the city at night. Be enchanted by the lights that illuminate the most emblematic buildings in the city.
"Vincent gave us a taste of his nighttime tour, sharing fascinating stories about buildings that we passed. His knowledge of the history and culture of Avignon was amazing. We ended in an artisanal beer bar with a great selection. End to a great day.
"J'ai redécouvert la ville avec des petites rues que je ne connaissais pas, des détails sur des monuments que je n'avais jamais vu. Vincent a une connaissance approfondie de la ville et de son histoire. De plus, il sait animé les tours avec des anecdotes intéressantes et des blagues autour de l'histoire.
"Excellente initiative ! Merci à Vincent pour nous transmettre sa passion et ses connaissances ... le tout dans un style décontracté mais professionnel.


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CANDY BARS, GOLFING FOR DOLLARS & HOOPS NUGGETS BEHIND THE SCENES: MEN'S HOOPS PHOTO DAY
aroundthehorns Men's Soccer Dave Giffard, Dennis Castillo Leave a comment
Senior Dennis Castillo looks ahead to a bright future, whether it be on the pitch or pitching designs.
RICHMOND, Va. – Dennis Castillo recalls his freshman year of college as something of a hellacious, Sisyphean labor. His daily slog from dawn until dusk included multiple bus trips, hours of training, unsympathetic professors and traffic. Oh, so much traffic.
Although he's four years removed from that unforgiving grind, Castillo hasn't forgotten those long days and nights. It's through that lens he's learned to appreciate how far he's come and what's still on the horizon.
Today, Castillo is a star, perhaps the brightest on the VCU Soccer team. A gifted defender, Castillo is a three-time All-Atlantic 10 and two-time All-Mid Atlantic Region pick. Castillo spent the summer with the Portland Timbers' U-23 squad and was named PDL Defender of the Year. In May he was called up the Costa Rican U-23 Men's National Team. A pro soccer career almost certainly waits in the wings.
He's also a VCU graduate. Castillo received his undergraduate degree in urban planning in December and is currently enrolled as a graduate student. He spent part of his summer working part-time for a Richmond urban planning firm.
On the field and in the classroom, Castillo leads. A team captain, he hopes to spearhead A-10 and NCAA Tournament runs.
Castillo's future is equally bright, regardless of whether he ends up on the pitch or pitching designs. But it's all built on a foundation in the past, forged through a seemingly endless series of bus trips, conscientious parenting and a love of soccer.
Castillo was in his first year as an architecture student at Universidad Hispanoamericana in his hometown of San Jose, Costa Rica when he caught VCU Coach Dave Giffard's eye. At the time, Castillo's multiple talents were pulling him apart.
Castillo has scored 15 goals, and likely prevented many more, as a Ram.
The United States' marriage of college and athletics is an outlier in the world. Elsewhere, athletes often choose between sport and education, or they spend years balancing the two. It's one of the reasons college athletics in the United States appeal to international student-athletes.
The son of a civil engineer, Castillo spent much of his childhood in and around construction sites. He says his parents, Dennis and Ingrid, weren't overbearing, but they made known their value of education. That was fine by the younger Dennis, who developed a healthy interest in architecture.
Castillo also fostered a passion for soccer, and by his teens he'd become one of Costa Rica's best players, earning time with the country's U-18 and U-20 squads.
But pursuing dual talents separately proved daunting. A typical day as a college freshman meant Castillo would have to wake before 5:30 a.m. in order to catch two buses downtown for training. Afterwards, it was two more buses home for lunch, then back downtown for class until 10 p.m., then back home, hopefully before 11:30.
"I struggled a lot," Castillo says. "You get super worn down."
Giffard first saw Castillo in November of that year. Castillo was looking for an avenue to pursue both academics and athletics. Giffard was looking for a tough left center back. Although Castillo didn't play on the left side, Giffard liked what he saw and returned weeks later to scout Castillo one more time. When he did, Giffard found Castillo, a right-footed player, patrolling the left side.
"He told me, 'you said you needed a left center back, so I'm working on my left foot, getting ready to play left center back,'" Giffard recalled. "He's a right-footed player, but he was making most of the distribution and a lot of the entry passes with his left foot…that would be like a person who shoots right-handed shooting left-handed and doing it because the coach said to you, 'well, the way our offense works, it would be great if there was a guy who could shoot left-handed.' I'd say it's that difficult."
Giffard was sold, and Castillo was in Richmond by springtime.
Castillo's life experiences manifest in many forms, but the most obvious is in the way Castillo leads. His teammates have noticed. They've voted Castillo a team captain four straight years.
"I'm not sure in college sports how many four-time captains you have," says Giffard. "I've never had a freshman captain before Dennis."
While Castillo takes his captaincy to heart, it wouldn't matter if he wore a 'C' on his chest or not, he says. He quickly put to rest any of the coaching staff's concerns as to whether a freshman could lead a team.
"Coach and I and all the staff met with me before [my freshman] season. They thought it would be a lot of weight on me. But the only thing I told them was, regardless of if you give me the captain's title or not, I'm going to be the same guy. That will not put more or less weight on me or more motivation."
Castillo leads with a sense of ease. If he's ever struggled with the responsibility, it would be hard to tell.
Self-aware and circumspect, Castillo says he continues to evolve as a leader. Each year, he says, he's a little different, depending on what the team needs and his own level of understanding. Castillo says serving as a leader means taking positions that are occasionally unpopular. He can be direct, but Castillo often prefers a more diplomatic approach.
"You can't get too close or so in people's faces," he says. "The first thing you're going to get is rejection. You've got to be smart on how you approach players. That's a hard thing to figure out, but with more years you get experience and learn how to approach people."
This season, he says he's been more paternal as he tries to shepherd a roster that includes 19 freshmen and sophomores.
"Right now we have a lot of young guys that haven't been through the fights in games, that don't know sometimes what it takes to get a win or to get ready for games or the habits you have to have in order to have success," he says. "We have a lot of great pieces. [People know] I'm not lying because anybody can see it."
The Rams (3-6-1) have shown their youth at times while playing arguably the nation's toughest non-conference schedule, but there are plenty of reasons for optimism. VCU has opened conference play unbeaten (1-0-1).
Even as he leads the Rams into A-10 play, Castillo is balancing. His future in soccer appears on firm footing, and there's a very real chance he could play in the Olympics and/or the World Cup one day. But even as he became a pro prospect, he never stopped preparing for life after soccer. Castillo's strongest leadership performance has been leading his own life.
When he's not on the field or in class, Castillo has spent his fall working long distance for an Indiana architecture firm.
"I had to," he says of his academics. "You learn that in soccer…you can never be so sure. Even big names that have had a lot of success. It could be performance. It could be injuries. It could be a lot of things. You can struggle at any point throughout your career."
Giffard isn't surprised by Castillo's level-headed approach. He's come to expect it.
"All the personal qualities he possessed when we recruited him were ones we felt like would be really good additions to the team and the program and our family at the time," he said. "Four years later, it turns out all those qualities were good additions to the team and the program and our family."


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SPRG Launches "SPRG FCF Scholarship" at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)
Posted by PR Trust on September 7, 2022
Category : Announcements, Awards, FCF Scholarships
Tags : education, FCF, Future Communicators Foundation, Hong Kong, scholarships, students, university
(Hong Kong, 7 September 2022) – Strategic Public Relations Group ("SPRG" or the "Group") has announced the launch of the SPRG Future Communicators Foundation Scholarship ("SPRG FCF Scholarship") today. The four-year scholarship aims to help senior undergraduate students from the School of Journalism and Communication (the "School") at The Chinese University of Hong Kong ("CUHK") to further their communication skills around social justice, sustainability, and civil society.
In partnership with the Future Communicators Foundation (FCF), the Strategic Public Relations Group (SPRG) provides one annual scholarship at US$ 2500 (HK$ 20, 000) for senior undergraduates in the School of Journalism and Communication at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). Scholarships are focused around a yearly theme addressing issues in sustainability, climate, and social justice. For 2022, participants have to make a pitch about how they would communicate ideas around the "Sustainable City" using limited and/or low-cost resources. A selection panel drawn from SPRG, Future Communicators Foundation and the School will choose the winner.
"SPRG always strives to promote development of the PR industry. We believe that the best way to raise the bar for our industry is to provide future communicators with adequate training and exposure," said Richard Tsang, Chairman of SPRG. "The SPRG FCF Scholarship serves an excellent opportunity for students to apply their hard-earned communication skills and knowledge, combined with their passion, enthusiasm and innovative spirit to develop a campaign that advances the environment, public health and social justice. Moreover, we trust that the programme will benefit the community since stakeholders can draw inspiration from the students, who are providing fresh perspectives on building a sustainable future for all of society."
"Sustainability is one of the most pressing topics in today's society," added Allard W. van Veen, Founder of The PR Trust, the 501(c)(6) non-profit organization that administers the Future Communicators Foundation. "I firmly believe that PR professionals can play a more prominent role in promoting sustainability. We hope that the scholarship will help to develop students' social conscience and encourage them to make an impact, in terms of promoting a fair and sustainable world."
"It is our pleasure to be the partner university of the SPRG FCF Scholarship, and even more so since it involves a collaboration with Richard, who is an esteemed alumnus of the School," said Prof. Donna Chu, Director, School of Journalism and Communication, CUHK. "This truly represents a passing of the torch from one generation to the next. We totally agree with FCF about PR professionals' ability to be at the forefront of building a better and sustainable tomorrow. We therefore have high expectations for our scholarship applicants, and trust that they will present some inspiring ideas on addressing social issues."
SPRG attaches tremendous importance to nurturing the younger generations. Indicative of Richard's long-standing commitment to helping nurture young talent, he has been a part-time lecturer at his alma mater for a quarter of a century. In addition, Richard established the CUHK RTCL Scholarship back in 2005. Also, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of SPRG in 2015, a HK$1 million scholarship was created with the School. Apart from providing monetary support, awardees are offered extended internship opportunities at any of SPRG's offices in APAC.
To apply for the SPRG FCF Scholarship, qualified students must make a pitch, requiring a two-page document and three-minute video, on how they can contribute to "The Sustainable City", asking students to imagine what the "Sustainable City" would look like, in respect to environment, health, and social justice. Students will be required to briefly explain how they would communicate these ideas using low-cost, do-it-yourself resources.
Deadline for applications is 28 October 2022. The winner will be announced on 8 December 2022. Submission information can be found at: http://futurecomms.org.
About Strategic Public Relations Group ("SPRG")
Founded in 1995, SPRG is one of the largest public relations networks in Asia-Pacific and the largest public relations consultancy in Hong Kong. Fuelled by a workforce of 250 professionals from 18 offices across the region and complemented by PROI Worldwide partners and other affiliates, SPRG provides one-stop, integrated communications services to clients in over 165 cities globally. SPRG leads the Hong Kong IPO market and has proven its expertise in investor relations and financial communications since its inception. Underscoring SPRG's diverse yet exceptional corporate communications capabilities, it advises clients on public, investor, media and government relations, marketing and digital communications as well as issues and crisis communication management. SPRG is a prolific award-winning agency, not only garnering multiple "Network/Agency of the Year" accolades by authoritative publications and prominent organisations. In addition, it is the only Hong Kong-based PR network to be ranked by PRovoke and PRWeek on their global top-tier lists. Visit www.sprg.asia for more information.
About Future Communicators Foundation ("FCF")
The FCF provides aspiring young professionals with learning opportunities and outreach programs that foster communication skills around sustainability, climate and social justice. The Foundation aims to cultivate tomorrow's communications leaders by providing the financial means to facilitate personal and professional growth. The FCF is administered by The PR Trust, a 501(c)(6) non-profit organization. The Board of Trustees is chaired by Richard Tsang (Hong Kong), and includes Founder Allard W. van Veen (Canada), Andreas Fischer-Appelt (Germany), Peter Finn (USA), and Madan Bahal (India). Visit https://futurecomms.org/ and https://theprtrust.org for more information.
Reference: SPRG launches four-year scholarship with Future Communicators Foundation
Strategic Public Relations Group
Brenda Chan +852 2114 4396 brenda.chan@sprg.com.hk
Chak Yau +852 2114 4395 chak.yau@sprg.com.hk
Website: www.sprg.asia
Member Companies:
Hong Kong | Beijing | Shanghai | Guangzhou | Shenzhen | Taipei | Singapore | Kuala Lumpur | Sydney
FCF Scholarship launch in the Press June 24, 2022
FCF Launches Four National Climate Communications Scholarships in Canada October 5, 2022
Australia's Paul Cheal welcomed to Advisory Council
FCF Launches Four National Climate Communications Scholarships in Canada


Yes, Virginia, it is true. In the far-distant past, Georgia law required only 11 grades for graduation from high school. When that law was changed, schools switched to the new 12-grade system at various times within a short time window. Baker switched in the school year that began in the fall of 1950.
This means that the Lions who graduated in 1951 had been seniors for two years. They were in the 11th grade, the top grade, in 49-50, and in the brand-new 12th grade, the top grade, in 50-51. Actually, a goodly number of the 11th-grade-seniors in 49-50 were allowed to graduate, after pleading something akin to the NFL hardship case.
I graduated in 1952, the second class to go 12 years. So I never had an option.
We thought we'd have a killer of a football team in 1950, because of our "redshirts." I mean, after all, seniors who can come back with another year of eligibility should be able to do better. 'Twas not to be, however. We got shellacked by Central in the opening game and it went downhill from there. I checked to see just how bad it was, and the '51 Arrowhead didn't even list the games, the scores, or the record. Unfortunately -- or maybe fortunately -- time has erased the details from my memory. Ed Wolfe was the head coach then, and for a number of years following.
Just in passing -- I've been reading all the recent (to me) memories of you guys from the 60's and 70's, and it's been very interesting. Those of us from the Eisenhower years are not, as sometimes thought, incredibly dull and bland -- there are some great memories from those times, too. Maybe if the glorious 2000 reunion takes place, there'll be a moment or two for us oldies to recollect a bit.


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Ryan Ross plays Panic! At The Disco deep cut for the first time since 2011
Alex Darus Published: October 1, 2019
[photo via YouTube]
Solo artist and former Panic! At The Disco guitarist Ryan Ross covered one of his former band's songs at a show on Monday.
Ross performed "Northern Downpour" at a gig in Arizona that he performed with the Dead End Kids Club, alongside Z Berg of the Young Veins. The group is a collective of musicians who perform informal shows in the style of school dances across North America.
Read more: Billie Eilish says upcoming world tour will be "as green as possible"
The band are currently on the group's 1st Annual Fall Ball, which is where Ross decided to treat the crowd with a rarely-heard Panic! At The Disco song.
The P!ATD track has been retired from the group's setlist since 2011 when they last performed it on March 1 of that year in Los Angeles. Now, Ross has brought it out of retirement, and it's the first time a member of Panic! At The Disco has performed it live since.
The track was also one of the last songs that Ross wrote while he was still in the group. He left P!ATD in 2009 for creative differences.
You can see some fan-captured footage of Ross performing the throwback Panic! track below.
You can see the remaining dates for the Dead End Kids Club's tour below and grab tickets here. .
10/03 — Dallas, TX @ Three Links
10/05 — Oklahoma City, OK @ 89th Street Collective
10/06 — Kansas City, MO @ Encore at Uptown
10/08 — Denver, CO @ Lost Lake Lounge
10/13 — Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo
10/28 — San Francisco, CA @ Cafe Du Noro
Disney has unveiled the official soundtrack for the forthcoming Frozen 2 film and it features some very familiar artists from Panic! At The Disco to Weezer.
The Frozen 2 soundtrack will feature seven original songs by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez along with an original score by Christophe Beck.
Stars Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell, Josh Gad, Jonathan Groff and Evan Rachel Wood, will perform new tracks such as "Into the Unknown" and "Show Yourself."
Recruited for the end-credit artists, Panic! At The Disco will cover "Into the Unknown" while Weezer will tackle "Lost in the Woods."
Kacey Musgraves has also signed on to put her own spin onto a Frozen 2 track.
The soundtrack will be released Nov. 15, ahead of the film's Nov. 22 debut. Pre-orders and presaves are currently available here.
You can catch a sneak peek at "Into the Unknown" below.

Check out a new look at Disney's #Frozen2, featuring the brand-new song "Into The Unknown." pic.twitter.com/nNPUu3wIUj
— Walt Disney Studios (@DisneyStudios) September 30, 2019

Frozen 2 soundtrack listing:
"All Is Found," performed by Evan Rachel Wood
2. "Some Things Never Change," performed by Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Josh Gad and Jonathan Groff
3. "Into the Unknown," performed by Idina Menzel (feat. AURORA)
4. "When I Am Older," performed by Josh Gad
5. "Reindeer(s) Are Better Than People (Cont.)," performed by Jonathan Groff
6. "Lost in the Woods," performed by Jonathan Groff
7. "Show Yourself," performed by Idina Menzel and Evan Rachel Wood
8. "The Next Right Thing," performed by Kristen Bell
9. "Into the Unknown," performed by Panic! At the Disco (end credits)
10. "All Is Found," performed by Kacey Musgraves (end credits)
11. "Lost in the Woods," performed by Weezer (end credits)
What do you think of Ryan Ross bringing this Panic! At The Disco track out of retirement? Sound off in the comments down below!
See more: 10 most iconic music video looks
Filed Under: annual fall ball, dead end kids club, live music, Music, Panic! At The Disco, ryan ross, the young veins, z berg
Categories: Music, News, Panic! At The Disco


Product Description: CC Products Bodaway Bowl 48-Inch Round Natural Gas Fire Table - Onyx Finish - C1046.
The Bodaway Bowl Fire Table utilizes steel accent straps and a color-varied finish to create a beautiful focal point for any outdoor space. To ensure unobstructed beauty all around, the fire table is designed with a lifting table top instead of an unsightly side door for accessing your propane tank storage. The 12-inch burner ring produces up to 90,000 BTUs, ensuring plenty of warmth and eye-catching flames. For protecting the burner and included lava rock, the fire table included a locking media lid. The lid also expands the usable table space when the burner is not in use. Leveling feet are included to allow the fire table to stand on nearly any kind of patio surface. The fire table comes with 40 pounds of lava rock. The fire glass shown is not included.


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Q: Re-using Mnesia disk files for a different node On a node named node1@localhost I created an Mnesia schema using:
mnesia:create_schema([node()]).
and created a table using:
mnesia:create_table(tab1, [{disc_copies, [node()]}, {attributes, record_info(fields, tab1)}]).
The mnesia directory was set to "mnesia_node1". The directory was created and the DB files were created inside it.
Once the node was stopped, the DB files still exist in the directory. I hoped to re-use the DB as the mnesia DB for another node, node2.
So I started the other node using:
erl -name node2 -mnesia dir "mnesia_node1".
On node2 when I start mnesia and do a tv:start(), I see the tab1 listed in the schema. However, it shows no records. I was expecting Mnesia to use the directory as the location of all DB files.
Is there something I have missed?
Thanks,
Yash

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


When we implement Gamification on our CRM, we expect to take full advantage of it. Right?
In this post, we are going to show you the most common mistakes during this process, so you can be aware and avoid them at all costs. Don't let any small hiccups stop you from getting all the benefits from your new Gamification!
When Gamification and CRM are working together, is very common to use the prize appeal. People become more engaged when they have a tangible reward.
Yet, according to Nicolas Babin, ranked #1 Gamification Guru in March 2018 by Rise Global list's, there is a gap in this technique.
"The biggest mistake one could say is when people game the system, meaning they use gamification to win a prize and in the meantime, they do not fill out the CRM system correctly or honestly", Nicolas pointed out.
When you advertise a very attractive reward, people will do whatever it takes to win (even cheat). Instead of the "achievement" being the most important, the prize itself becomes the main focus.
"To prevent that, it is important to not offer great prices and to ensure borders, so that no one can game the system and cheat", advised Nicolas.
Prizes are useful to establish and align common goals with your team, but It should solely be a recognition symbol for the good work and commitment of the reps.
Some of our clients used to reward their team members with tangible prizes such as concert tickets, trips, etc. This is great, although we have noticed that the most stimulating prize for sales reps is much simpler: recognition.
Displaying their names on Leaderboards generates a constant appreciation internally, for their hard work. This also catches the eye of Managers and C- Level Employees. Imagine the CEO seeing your Big Sale on the screen. That's a real prize.
"The biggest mistake is thinking that gamification alone will solve long-term issues with using CRM (or any service). If the root issue is not understood (why are people not doing what I want them to do) then gamification will often only add a novelty boost in activity.", pointed Andrezj Marczewski, author of Even Ninja Monkeys Like to Play (2015).
As mentioned above, when we acquire a new tool we expect to see the "magic" happening instantly, and forget that it usually starts off as only that: a tool. Like any tool, it needs a context to function. It also needs someone to handle it. It can't do the whole job by itself.
To begin you must ask yourself: why are you using a CRM and why is the CRM important to the company and the company's goals? Once you have these answers, you must communicate them to your team. Then only after that, can you begin to take advantage of Gamification.
We've written about the challenges of implementing a CRM and incentivizing the user adoption. Check it out if you want to learn more about the 10 Deadly Sins in CRM User Adoption.
Pablo Peralta, the founder of one of the biggest LATAM CRM communities, also shared some insights. For him, one of the most common mistakes is "starting with a complex gamification model and using complex gamified dynamics".
A lot of people that have never tried gamification before, try to jump into it using complex techniques and features. This can easily confuse, and create the illusion that gamification is tricky stuff. This can also result in a lot of mishaps.
"Gamification must be implemented in a very simple model. Like giving points to the reps who follow the behavior that you want them to, measuring impact and so on. Then, with time and feedback, starting to introduce badges and other prizes".
According to Pablo, "the best option in corporate environments is to start with the most basic stuff". This means the most basic gamification techniques and methods.
Finally, Pablo suggests that increasing the complexity of the gamification solution is the best route, but to do it slowly. This involves things such as "introducing badges and other prizes".
We talked to Michael Wu, recognized as an Influential Leader by CRM Magazine, and his message to us was clear: short-term techniques are not recommended when it comes to CRM.
He also added, "unlike gamification in marketing and sales, CRM user adoption and employee engagement are both long-term problems. It's pointless to drive adoption or engage employees only for a few months".
Michael advises using strategies that apply more challenging and complex games because they are the most effective in the long run.
Although they present results slowly, they are the ones that drive more complex behaviors. Also, they are able to entertain people for a longer period of time.
According to Karl Kapp, author of The Gamification of Learning and Instruction Fieldbook: Ideas Into Practice (2013).
"One of the biggest mistakes is not integrating the CRM gamification efforts to a larger strategy. If your overall strategy or sales model or prospecting method is ineffective, simply adding on a gamified CRM with points for calling a prospect is not going to magically increase sales.
The first step to avoid this mistake is to establish a baseline strategy.
This is necessary so gamification can "assist" in the process. It must be clear that Gamification does not define the directives of your team and your business.
"An organization needs to clearly have identified steps and activities that lead to success before going off and half-heartedly gamifying the CRM. The organization needs to set clear goals, milestones and trigger events and then weave the gamification solution into the comprehensive effort. Too often gamification is added in total disregard to strategic considerations when it comes to gamifying a CRM. The fix is to work on strategy first, gamification second", conforming to Karl.
For Marigo Raftopoulos, ranked #2 Gamification Guru in March 2018 by Rise Global list's, one of the most common mistakes is "a lack of appreciation of organizations as complex systems". We should not reduce our company's process and complexity.
A company structure is, by nature a complex system. If we want our business to succeed, we need to make sure to align our process as precise as possible. After this, gamification will be the easy part.
"A well-meaning gamified CRM could be encouraging positive desired behaviors such as project collaboration, knowledge sharing or innovation drives. However, the success or failure of that system largely depends on the prevailing culture, work processes or management styles of the organization. For example, a collaborative, knowledge sharing tool will not be optimized in a prevailing organizational culture of secrecy and distrust", Marigo pointed out.
"The lesson here is that gamified CRMs are a technological tool, and not the complete solution", she concluded.
Again, we learn that a company's culture is fundamental. The gamification can definitely be a good choice for changing behaviors, but it would not work by itself.
If you are looking to take your first step into the gamification world, we recommend you look for an easy to use and effective solution.
Nicolas Babin, ranked #1 Gamification Guru in March 2018 by Rise Global list's, and a renowned Marketing and Gamification Consultant.
Andrzej Marczewski, author of Even Ninja Monkeys Like to Play (2015), and Senior Solution Consultant.
Pablo Peralta, founder of Comunidad 365, the biggest CRM Community in Spanish.
Michael Wu Ph.D., named as an Influential Leader by CRM Magazine, International Speaker.
Karl Kapp, author of The Gamification of Learning and Instruction Fieldbook: Ideas Into Practice (2013).
Marigo Raftopoulos, ranked #2 Gamification Guru in March 2018 by Rise Global list's, Strategic Business Advisor and Digital Media Specialist.


Let's be perfectly honest for just a minute here, shall we? Anyone who's seen me shake my money-maker on the dance floor (if you have not witnessed it, then you should consider yourself lucky) will readily agree that I should actually just stick to writing instead, which requires only my gnarled, stubby fingers to perform a virtual dance over the keyboard. But then, life sure is funny sometimes. The universe works in mysterious ways, and at this particular moment I've been tasked with throwing myself into an assignment that requires full use of my investigative abilities, as I attempt to not only learn about - but break down in roughly a thousand words - a topic that, for the average guy, is fraught with perils that are on par with enduring activities like bookstore-hopping in the presence of that eccentric art school girl you've been trying to hook up with for two weeks. I'm talking about modern dance, fellas. Nothing (besides the collection of glam-metal cassette tapes you keep scattered all over your apartment floor) will make you seem as sophisticated or cultured as dropping strategically-placed morsels of borrowed knowledge about an internationally-acclaimed modern dance company production that curveonline.co.uk calls the "most extended and yet most concentrated dance piece Akram Khan has made in a long time." Damn, that was pretty good stuff already. You see? By working with the material in your hands right now, you could even dispense with articulately artsy conversation as you take lengthy pauses, allowing you to flex your sinewy (yet tastefully emaciated) biceps, and keep yourself looking appropriately quirky by pushing up those oversized nerd glasses that keep slipping down your sweaty nose. Patience, my brothers... the only thing between you and the prize is a clingy thrift shop t-shirt, and carefully selected excerpts from the story below. Now please... take off the ridiculous plastic specs with no lenses in them, and start reading.
Well, let's just say that my ignorance has truly found a supreme opportunity to brilliantly shine. Try not to squint your eyes too hard, as I attempt to break things down in layman's terms for those who, like myself, require a bit of help wrapping our heads around something this meaty! Luckily, I've been given the opportunity to go straight to the top, and consult with one of the official Akram Khan Company UK event organizers for guidance. Here then, is my attempt at giving you a handy intro to the world of modern dance, as it hits the stage right here in Hangzhou.
For those who love modern dance, the Bangladeshi-inspired Akram Khan Dance Company UK needs no introduction. But for those of us newcomers to this genre of art, why does modern dance especially tend to elicit feelings of fear from the uninitiated? Is it really that difficult to understand, or is there a process we should undergo, in order to put ourselves in the proper state of mind?
Modern dance is like poetry. It is full of metaphors, symbols and compressed meaning. I hope the audience will feel from the images and movements that they witness, rather than read the visual dots that they may try to connect, in order to make it more comprehensible experience. Dance is predominantly about feeling something from what they see, and not just reading something from what they see! And for me, theater has always been a place, not to try and understand, but a place to revel in an experience.
Do you feel that Indian Classical Dance has a better chance of developing a large and strong following in China, as opposed to other forms of modern dance? What has Akram Khan Dance Co already learned from past engagement with audiences in China? Have the locals shown great enthusiasm, and has there been particularly good support from expats in China that are glad to see performances of this caliber suddenly within reach?
I am quite sure Indian classical dance will develop further in China, but we'll need to wait and see how much. The audiences in China are still very much into ballet and their own classical dance form, although interest in contemporary dance has increased through the years we have been performing in China. There was great enthusiasm from the locals when we were in Guangzhou last year with Vertical Road. The expats as always, are very supportive.
Does the interpretive process in this performance differ greatly from Chinese productions? What I mean to ask is, for those who are already lovers of Chinese modern dance productions, will this be a new and challenging experience, or are there some basic universal guidelines that apply to productions of this size?
I wouldn't say so. You can see and feel the difference in perspective. People from all over the world use their own cultural references, symbols, and metaphors to interpret what they see and experience. That's the beauty of art.
It is not always what it is, and it allows space for the audience to conjure up their own stories. That's why coming into the theater with your imagination switched on is a necessity.
How does Akram Khan Dance Company proposes to develop a following in the Chinese market?
Firstly, we strive to continue increasing the audience's understanding of our work, and informing audience development. Modern dance is like poetry. It is full of metaphors, symbols and compressed meaning. This is very different to ballet which has a clearer and more accessible and easy to understand narrative. Ballets are more like novels. Therefore when audiences engage with our work, we want them to understand that their interpretation is as valid as ours. They have the power and freedom to let their imagination let it make sense to them. There is no wrong or right answer. I believe the way Chinese people write and read - which is so visual, and references so many natural forces and symbols - they would probably be more open to this approach than the more analytical ways of the west. It's ultimately about trusting who you are, and what things mean to you. We hope by our post-show talks, and written material, that we can encourage Chinese audiences to feel at ease with this type of experience to modern dance. Ultimately, the audience needs to take risks as much as the artist does.
Secondly, we are engaging and communicating with a range of audiences in a very mixed environment. We know that all audiences are different. As an international company, we have been very sensitive to this. But I feel that the nature of our work that combines universal themes with both western and eastern twists have enough access points for everyone. Our motto is excellence and accessibility! I think people from wherever they come from know when they have witnessed something special and well made but equally can feel that it has touched their hearts.
As for a third objective, we work hard to continue developing relationships with venues, in order to support audience development. The relationship with the venue is such an important way to support audience development. Good venues represent their audiences and know best what they want and might be willing to discover. They should know how to talk to them. They are the ultimate gatekeepers, so it only makes sense that cultivating a strong and creative relationship over time with a venue's support is the key driver to ensuring that theatrical experiences are entertaining, challenging, thought provoking, beautiful, and enriching.
That certainly is a lot of info to chew on, so now I'm going to shift gears a bit, and start gazing into this trusty old crystal ball of mine... but it's already looking a little hazy from where I'm sitting. Maybe you have something to say about the future of Akram Khan Dance Company - perhaps with emphasis on the anticipated growth market for performance art of all kinds, along with an overall increased awareness of modern dance - inside China? Could you give us a little peek into any special surprises that might be headed our way?
Hmmm. There is certainly more to come your way, although right now I can tell you that there are no enormous surprises in the works. But if we did have one, I wouldn't want to just go ahead and tell you all about it at this moment! Not being rude, but it would no longer be a surprise... now would it?
Aficionados and newcomers to modern dance are both invited to experience the power, grace, and beauty of Akram Khan Dance Company UK's "Vertical Road" on May 16, 2012 at the Hangzhou Grand Theatr. Those who wish to know more are also encouraged to visit www.akramkhancompany.net for further details.


In the aftermath of Donald Trump's monumental election win in the US it seems that more US investors are now looking towards London for their property investments. Estate agents across London have been very quick to highlight the perceived flight of funds from America to London. However, if you take a step back and look at the situation from a distance, is this really the way it will pan out?
There is no doubt that in the short to medium term there will be some confusion and some alarm at the derogatory comments and controversial policies discussed by Donald Trump during his election campaign. In reality he will not be able to push through some of his more controversial plans as he will have insufficient support amongst other politicians. However, he has promised the US electorate that the US economy would be his main focus although there are concerns of a growing budget deficit in the short term.
We may therefore see some short-term volatility in the US and potential property investors sitting on the sidelines.
In reality the recent devaluation of sterling against such currencies as the dollar has made London property prices even more attractive to overseas investors. There is some confusion and concern about Brexit and how this will pan out but many investors are taking advantage of currency movements to acquire London property. In light of Donald Trump's election success some investors may look away from the US in the short term but if he delivers his promises surely this should be beneficial for the US property market?
Time will tell whether investors decide to leave the US property market en masse but it is too soon to call.
Amid all the mayhem, confusion, name-calling and controversy surrounding Donald Trump's election as president of the USA it is easy to forget he has a history and expertise in the property market which goes back many years. For the first time in living history we have a US president with direct experience of the worldwide property market. It is highly unlikely that Donald Trump will not use this experience and expertise to benefit the wider US property market although how he will do this in the short to medium term remains to be seen.
It is also easy to forget that Donald Trump is a businessman and while he may have encountered difficulties along the way he is still here to tell the story. We have a controversial figure who was been there, done it and has managed to split the US population by race and religion. Can he re-unite the USA?
While some US property investors may well look elsewhere we have seen a deluge of funds into the US property market from the likes of China. The likelihood is that we will see more overseas investment in the US real estate market with investors likely to buy on the "dips". Donald Trump's four-year tenure as president of the USA will likely be "lively" but property investors should look far beyond the short term life of a US president.
Proof that the London property market really is red hot!


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News Sports Go Iowa City Opinion Eastern Iowa Obituaries E-Edition Legals
Iowa farm groups to support water quality alliance
Donnelle Eller
For the Press-Citizen
Three Iowa farm groups launched a new group Monday charged with accelerating the pace and scale of water-quality improvements across the state.
Still, some environmental leaders expressed doubt the approach would be strong enough.
"It looks like a step ahead, but it could be a baby step compared to the bold action that's needed to improve Iowa's water quality," said Craig Cox, a senior vice president at the Environmental Working Group.
The Iowa corn growers, soybean and pork producers associations are each providing $200,000 annually to support the new Iowa Agriculture Water Alliance, said Kirk Leeds, CEO of the Iowa Soybean Association. The farm groups tapped Sean McMahon, who leads the Nature Conservancy's North American agriculture program, to lead the initiative.
McMahon said the alliance can make "meaningful and substantial improvements to water quality in Iowa" and stave off efforts to regulate the state's nearly 90,000 farmers, many of whom raise corn and soybeans. Iowa is the nation's top producer of corn and is second in soybean production.
Some environmental groups have sought regulations to force Iowa farmers to adopt conservation measures that can cut the nitrogen and phosphorus, which contribute to the Gulf of Mexico's dead zone as well as harm Iowa's drinking water.
The state's Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy is designed to cut nutrients by 45 percent, but it is voluntary and has no time line.
Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, a group that's advocated for stricter regulation of livestock operations, quickly criticized the initiative.
"The Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy will not lead to real improvements in Iowa's polluted water quality unless and until it is strengthened with measurable and enforceable water quality standards and tougher and more effective public oversight," said member Larry Ginter, a Rhodes farmer. "That's the bottom line, and all the corporate ag PR campaigns in the world isn't going to change that very basic fact."
Bill Stowe, CEO of the Des Moines Water Works, said McMahon's environmental chops "could bring a bring a different perspective" than past efforts that have led to "no substantive change."
David Osterberg, founder of the Iowa Policy Project, an Iowa City research nonprofit, said it's hard to take the alliance seriously when it makes the announcement with Branstad, who vetoed about $11 million in water quality improvement spending this year.
"The governor has already showed his support with his vetoes," said Osterberg, who released a report last month pushing for state regulations that require farmers to adopt at least two conservation practices from a suite of options. He also recommended the state find a steady stream of conservation funding.
Branstad defended his veto, saying he had to protect taxpayers in the state from overspending and included cuts to programs he supports. And he said he has provided a 26 percent increase in funding for water quality initiatives since taking office.
His gubernatorial opponent, state Sen. Jack Hatch, said he supports the alliance and its efforts.
Donnelle Eller is a reporter for The Des Moines Register and can be reached at deller@dmreg.com.
© 2021 www.press-citizen.com. All rights reserved.


I really dislike people faking photographs and pretending things happened that actually never did.
Obviously, the shadow the Reichsflugscheibe is casting is far too small.
The propulsion system of the Reichsflugscheibe would never had allowed it to get that close to a Zeppelin without pushing it away or severely damaging the gas cell.
The model above is a BV – 107X, it first flew in 1943 at an undisclosed location east of Kyushu with some Japanese scientists present as well. In 1943 there were no working Zeppelins over mainland Germany anymore, although one had been en route to Mars for several months.
I just cross-checked the information above with some of the surviving technicians, they agree with my assertions.
And to make one thing absolutely clear: Anyone who believes any of the statements above absolutely deserves it!


text:
A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation
Jed Paul, Hideki Nakasone, Bita Sahaf, Fang Wu, Kathy Wang, Vincent Ho, Juan Wu, Haesook Kim, Bruce Blazar, Jerome Ritz, Alan Howard, Corey Cutler, David Miklos
Health Sciences Administration
e314-e317
https://doi.org/10.3324/haematol.2018.199646
1Division of Blood and Marrow Transplantation, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA;2Division of Hematology, Saitama Medical Center, Jichi Medicial University, Saitama, Japan;3Division of Hematological Malignancies, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA;4The Emmes Corporation, Rockville, MD, USA;5Division of Pediatrics BMT, Minneapolis, MN, USA and 6Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research, Minneapolis Campus, Minneapolis, MN, USA Funding: this work was supported by National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute grants P01CA142106, CA183559, and CA183560, as well as by an ancillary laboratory study award provided by the Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the National Cancer Institute (#U10HL069294).
Acknowledgments: we also acknowledge the BMT CTN 0201 and 0402 study investigators and participating centers. Support for these studies was provided to the Blood and Marrow Transplant Clinical Trials Network by grant #U10HL069294 from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and the National Cancer Institute. The Department of the Navy, Office of Navy Research and the National Marrow Donor Program also provided support for the BMT CTN 0201 study. BMT CTN 0402 biospecimens were obtained from the NHLBI Biologic Specimen and Data Repository Information Coordinating Center (BioLINCC). Enrollment support was provided by DKMS Germany. Any views, opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not reflect the views or the official policy or position of the above-mentioned parties.
This manuscript was prepared using REDS II-LAPS Research Materials obtained from the NHLBI Biologic Specimen and Data Repository Information Coordinating Center and does not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of the REDS II-LAPS or the NHLBI. HN was a recipient of a grant from Takeda Science Foundation.
10.3324/haematol.2018.199646
Paul, J., Nakasone, H., Sahaf, B., Wu, F., Wang, K., Ho, V., Wu, J., Kim, H., Blazar, B., Ritz, J., Howard, A., Cutler, C., & Miklos, D. (2019). A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation. Haematologica, 104(7), e314-e317. https://doi.org/10.3324/haematol.2018.199646
A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation. / Paul, Jed; Nakasone, Hideki; Sahaf, Bita; Wu, Fang; Wang, Kathy; Ho, Vincent; Wu, Juan; Kim, Haesook; Blazar, Bruce; Ritz, Jerome; Howard, Alan; Cutler, Corey; Miklos, David.
In: Haematologica, Vol. 104, No. 7, 30.06.2019, p. e314-e317.
Paul, J, Nakasone, H, Sahaf, B, Wu, F, Wang, K, Ho, V, Wu, J, Kim, H, Blazar, B, Ritz, J, Howard, A, Cutler, C & Miklos, D 2019, 'A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation', Haematologica, vol. 104, no. 7, pp. e314-e317. https://doi.org/10.3324/haematol.2018.199646
Paul J, Nakasone H, Sahaf B, Wu F, Wang K, Ho V et al. A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation. Haematologica. 2019 Jun 30;104(7):e314-e317. https://doi.org/10.3324/haematol.2018.199646
Paul, Jed ; Nakasone, Hideki ; Sahaf, Bita ; Wu, Fang ; Wang, Kathy ; Ho, Vincent ; Wu, Juan ; Kim, Haesook ; Blazar, Bruce ; Ritz, Jerome ; Howard, Alan ; Cutler, Corey ; Miklos, David. / A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation. In: Haematologica. 2019 ; Vol. 104, No. 7. pp. e314-e317.
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title = "A confirmation of chronic graft-versus-host disease prediction using allogeneic HY antibodies following sex-mismatched hematopoietic cell transplantation",
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AU - Cutler, Corey
AU - Miklos, David
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Trick? Or treat? These tips will keep your Halloween a sweet and safe one.
When choosing a costume with your child, consider the fit, length and your child's ability to safely maneuver in the outfit. Tennis shoes are the best complement to any costume. Be aware of costumes that have loose or flowy aspects, especially around Jack-O-Laterns or other flames. Look for costumes labeled 'flame retardant.' Outfit your costume with reflective tape to ensure visibility on that dark and spooky night. Because masks can block a child's eyesight, consider using makeup to create that scary face. Patch test it beforehand to ensure your child doesn't have a skin sensitivity. Put a name tag with your phone number inside your child's costume.
When decorating your haunted mansion for the night, be mindful of trip hazards. Be sure walkways and stairs are free of obstacles and well illuminated. Consider using a battery operated candle or flashlight inside your Jack-O-Lantern, rather than a candle.
Prior to heading out to trick or treat, be sure your child has a healthy balanced meal to discourage filling up on treats as they walk around the neighborhood. As you venture out to collect the treats, be sure a responsible adult accompanies the children. Carry a cell phone with you. Older children should stick to a parent approved route and know what time they are expected to return home. Trick-or-treating in groups is best. Use sidewalks if available, or stay on the side of the road facing traffic. Stay on well-lit streets and only visit homes that have the porch lights illuminated. Limit your trick or treating to homes or neighborhoods you know.
If you are at home answering the door for the goblins and ghouls that ring the bell, consider offering a healthier option than candy. Be mindful of allergies, especially to peanuts and tree nuts. Great alternatives include non-food treats such as small packages of bubbles, sugarless gum, crayons, stickers or pencils. Food treats that are healthier alternatives to candy include packaged pretzels, popcorn, raisins or snack crackers. Limit candy bars to smaller 'snack size' treats. One treat per child is plenty!
Once your little ghosts float back home with their loot, inspect it for potential allergens, choking hazards and open packages. Once you give the go-ahead, it is ok for your kids to indulge tonight only! Many parents feel that allowing their kids unlimited access to candy on Halloween night makes it easier to ration the remaining candy over time. Once the feast is finished, take all of the candy and store it where kids won't have free reign (or possibly where you won't find it craving a midnight snack!). Consider donating some of the candy your child receives to local hospitals, nursing homes or military bases. Halloween candy can be a learning opportunity too! Have your child sort like kinds of candy. Count the stash, or make a graph depicting the types of candy. Read nutrition labels with your child and identify why candy is a 'sometimes' treat.