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My All-Time Saints Defense
As I put this team together I didn't realize how difficult it would be. My guidelines, they had to play for the Saints for at least 5 years, so no Wes Chandler or Sharper (thankfully). Early memories of Archie Manning or Derland Moore can alter one's opinion, but I tried to be subjective. This is my list alone so here goes my greatest defensive Saints players.
We have to go a 3-4 alignment for reasons that should be obvious. I put La'Roi Glover at nose, I know that wasn't his position (3 technique) but for my purposes this is where he had to go. He had 50 sacks for the Saints, his best year was 2000 when he had 17 sacks, 67 tackles and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Year. Will Smith is one DE, he had 67.5 sacks as a Saints and this is a no- brainer. During the Super Bowl season he had 13 sacks, and in the playoffs intercepted Kurt Warner recently minted Hall of Famer. His tragic loss on April 9,2016 will never be forgotten, a great Saint. Wayne Martin is my other end, another slam dunk. The first rounder played 11 years for the Black and Gold and finished with 82.5 sacks, five year of ten or more and 12 forced fumbles.
No we go to the linebacker group, and how do you separate the greatest squad in NFL history? You don't! All four Dome Patrol second level men make my list. Vaughan Johnson had 8 years with New Orleans, his best season 1993 where he caused four forced fumbles, 5 sacks and 110 tackles. An unsung guy who was as hard hitting as any in the league. Sam Mills the other middle backer, played 9 seasons in the Crescent City. In 1992 he had 3 sacks, 1 INT, 4 forced fumbles and 130 tackles! He had over 900 stops for the Saints he was our London Fletcher, too small and too slow. Unfortunately, he lost his battle with cancer at the young age of 45. Now we have OUR Lawrence Taylor, number 57 Rickey Jackson! He terrorized offenses for15 years, 13 with the Saints. He accumulated 115 sacks in New Orleans, in 1992 he had 6 forced fumbles, 13.5 sacks and 66 tackles. Other teams had to scheme to deal with 57. The entire Dome Patrols' linebacker corps want to the Pro Bowl in 1992. The four of them went to a combined 18 Pro Bowls.
Now the secondary, although not a true corner, he did play some and you can't leave Dave Waymer off the list. His 19 interceptions were at the time number one on the list when they didn't throw a lot. Sammy Knight was one of my all time favorite players. Undrafted out of USC, hey played from 1997 to 2002. In six seasons the ball hawking safety had 28 interceptions. He wasn't fast or big but he was really good at football! The other safety Tom Myers out of Syracuse, 10 years as a Saint. He caught 36 passes from the other team and had 15 fumble recoveries. He was the first to be named first team All Pro. Then the other corner Tracy Porter, who had two of the biggest plays in Saints history. In the NFC Championship he intercepted Brett Favre to end the Vikings drive and propel the Black and Gold to their only Super Bowl appearance. Then versus Peyton Manning and the Colts he had another interception, big time players make big time plays on the biggest stage. For good or ill that is my defensive group.


A new analysis proves that TJ's is consistently 21% more affordable.
According to Deutsche Bank analyst Karen Short, Trader Joe's sells the same products as Whole Foods, but at price tags that are 21% lower. And apparently that price gap continues to grow, leading Short to believe that TJ's is slashing its prices, Fox6 Now reports. Both companies declined to comment on their pricing strategies.
After testing a mix of 77 perishable, private label products, and even some non-food items, Short found that TJ's offered the lowest price on 78% of the products tested. More specifically, Trader Joe's private-label goods were 15% cheaper than Whole Foods' 365 Everyday Value branded products.
Of course, your personal preference is what's most important, but if you're strictly looking to save money, the results might just be worth considering.


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Q: How can "have" & "had" be used together?
I have had two kids since 2005.

I am confused with this sentence. How can "have" & "had" be used together?

A: I have had two kids since 2005.
The sentence, as commented by Sander, is the present perfect. You have used the present perfect with since to talk about something continuing up to the present. Had is the past participle of "have", which is a stative verb.
You can say "I have two kids", but you cannot say "I have two kids since 2005". Your sentence must be in the present perfect. See a few more examples as follows:
I have known him for two years/since 2013.
I have had this house since 2010.

A: That's two different problems for you, I guess.
First is the "strange" double word have had. Here you simply have the same pattern as I have eaten, I have seen, I have done. The first, have is still the auxiliary verb you always use in the perfect tense, the second, had is the appropriate form of to have. I have + eaten is completely analogous to I have + had, it's the same pattern, you just happen to use the verb to have instead of to eat.
Second, the fact that whenever you use since in a sentence like this, English simply forces you to use the perfect tense instead of the simple one.
Yes, the sentence I have two kids, as you ask, is a perfectly correct one, no problem about it. It just has a different meaning: I have two kids simply means that you have two kids. I have had two kids since 2005 has a different meaning. With this sentence, you can have more than two children. In the time period since 2005, the number of your children had increased by two (eg. two were born before 2005, two after 2005, now you have four children).

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


" People are our Greatest Asset "
At Blue Chip, we recognize that talent is an unparalleled asset and capturing this energy and enthusiasm has shaped our success. The nerve center of all our activities is our proficient and qualified manpower, offering customized solutions to specific needs of clients.
Blue Chip's philosophy of "Grow and let grow" gives professionals the freedom to discover their true potential. As a result, we have a highly skilled workforce of people who grow with us. We provide real-time professional training to arm our people with the technology of tomorrow and keep them abreast with the trends of today. The various specialized courses and opportunities offered to them enable them to face boldly the rapid changes in the industry and stimulate their personal development. Budding professional can discover their capabilities and grow with the company to become experts in the field.
Human Resource Development has been a qualitative force that has nurtured, strengthened and driven the company. A company that believes that "people make all the difference".


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Cynthia Ann Ingels (Meek)
Born: 28 Jan 1827
Birthplace: Gallia, Ohio
Death: 23 Jul 1906
Buried: Bonaparte Cemetery, Van Buren, Iowa
Spouse: Isaiah Meek
Married: 26 Dec 1844 in Van Buren, Iowa
Father: Joseph Ingels
Mother: Nancy Crooks (Ingels)
Children: Nancy A. Meek (Boyer), Hugh H. Meek, Phoebe L. Meek, Mary Ellen Meek, Byron F. Meek, Kirk L. Meek
Cyntha Ingels Meek.
Cyntha Ann Ingels was born near Galliopolis, Ohio, June 28, 1827, and died July 31, 1906 at 2:20 A. M., aged seventy-nine years, one month and three days.
At two years of age she with her parents came to Columbus, Indiana, and there resided until she was fifteen years old. On with the westward tide in 1842 they came to Iowa settling on the Des Moines river two miles above Bentonsport at a place called Columbus, now non-existing.
At seventeen years of age she was married to Mr. Isaiah Meek of Bonaparte, Iowa, where she has lived sixty two years. To them were born three sons and three daughters, viz., Hugh, Kirk, Byron and Mrs. T. W. Boyer of Bonaparte, and Mrs. John S. Moore and Mrs. W. B. Daniel of Keokuk, all of whom are living. Mr. Isaiah Meek preceded his wife in death fourteen years ago last April.
The parents of Mr. Isaiah Meek first came to Bonaparte July 31, 1837, sixty-nine years ago, the parents on the wife's side arriving five years later, sixty-four years ago; so that on both sides these people rank among the pioneers of the state.
Of the privations and hardships of these early settlers none of us may know, hence we cannot fully appreciate the consequent thus bequeathed us in the many superior advantages and privileges we now so much enjoy.
We are the reapers of benefits upon which we bestowed no labor, hence now so much greater are our obligations to likewise develop and improve if we would have the proportionate consequent to bequeath to those who come after us, neither are we excused though we have but one talent allotted to our share; for of him who had but one as well as of those who had the two and live was it required.
The home of Mr. and Mrs. Ingels was always a place for the Methodist itinerant to lodge and rest. A home where the Methodist preacher found a welcome and made a preaching place, that being the time before school houses and churches. Mr. Ingels himself was a Methodist exhorter who in those days held meetings and filled appointments of preaching in the absence of the minister in charge. Reared in such a home it was but natural, being well disposed, that this daughter should early incline to be religious, so it was that very early in life she untied with the Methodist Episcopal church, to which as a faith and practice she has always adhered.
Mrs. Meek is the last one of ten children to depart this life, the last one preceding her, a brother, who died in California about two years ago.
Of Mrs. Meek and encomiums or eulogy would be useless. All that was good, true and noble in the life of woman can truly be said of this pioneer mother who has journeyed on to the silent land from whence there is no return.
"Her Memory , like a cloudless sky;
Her Conscience, like a sea at rest."
Source: Entler Scrapbook, vol 3, Iowa Historical Library, Iowa City, IA
DEATH OF MRS. MEEK
WIDOW OF THE LATE ISAIAH MEEK IS CALLED HOME AT A RIPE OLD AGE
Mrs. Cynthia Meek of Bonaparte, wife of the late Isaiah Meek, died at her home Monday night, July 30, 1906. she has been ill of stomach trouble for several weeks past and two days ago grave fears wree felt for her recovery and the distant members of the family were summoned. She died peacefully surrounded by all her sons and daughters.
Mrs. Meek is survived by three sons, Hugh H., Kirk L. and Byron F., and three daughters, Mrs. Nancy Boyer, Mrs. Phebe [E.] Moore and Mrs. Ella Daniel of Keokuk. Nine grandchildren, and two great grandchildren also survive her.
Mrs. Meek was born in Ohio in 1827, her maiden name being Cynthia A. Engels. She was united in marriage to Isaiah Meek at Bonaparte in 1844. She was a pioneer, having lived there since the settlement of the town. Her charitable deeds are countless a[nd] many of them unknown except to [the] one who received them.
The funeral services will be held at her late residence Thursday afternoon at 3 o'clock.
Mrs. Cynthia Ann Ingels Meek - Born near Galliopolis, OH June 28, 1827. Died July 31, 1906, age 79 years, 1 month, 3 days. At 2 years of age moved with parents to Columbus, IN, lived until 15 years of age. To Iowa in 1842 near Bentonsport at village called Columbus. At 17 years of age married Isaiah Meek of Bonaparte where she lived 62 years. Born 3 sons and 3 daughters: Hugh, Kirk and Byron; and Mrs. T. W. Boyer of Bonaparte; Mrs. John S. Moore and Mrs. W. B. Daniel of Keokuk, all of whom are living. F-Bonaparte Cem., Bonaparte.
Source: Redhead Collection of Obituary Extractions, Donnellson Public Library, Donnellson, IA.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Sexy Daisy Ridley Hot Bikini Pictures Will Make Your Mouth Water
June 8, 2020 Rocky ACTRESS
Daisy Ridley is an English actress, also known by her birth name Daisy Jazz Isobel Ridley. She was born in Westminster, London, England on April 10, 1992. She is the daughter of father Chris Ridley, a photographer, and mother Louise Fawkner-Corbett, a banker. Ridley has two older sisters Kika-Rose Ridley, a model, and Poppy Sophia Ridley. She completed her graduation from Tring Park School for the Performing Arts in Hertfordshire.
Ridley started dating to actor Charlie Hamblett in May 2014 and the couple separated in 2016. Later, she began a relationship with actor Tom Bateman in 2017 and the couple got engaged in June 2019.
Daisy gained fame for her role as Rey in the movie Star Wars The Force Awakens in 2015, and she also famous for her Rey's role in the movie Star Wars The Last Jedi in 2017. She started her acting career with Fran Bedingfield's role in the television series Casualty in 2013, and she made debut her career in films with Jo's role in the short film Lifesaver in 2013. Ridley also played a memorable role as Hannah in the movie Scrawl in 2015, and she also appeared as Jessie in the television series Youngers in 2013. She also starred as Hannah Kennedy on the television drama series Silent Witness in 2014.
Full Name Daisy Jazz Isobel Ridley
Nickname Daisy Ridley
Date of Birth 10 April, 1992
Place Of Birth Westminster, London, United Kingdom
Residence Westminster, London, United Kingdom
First Film Scrawl (2015)
First Television Show Casualty (2013)
Best Known Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015)
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These beautiful pictures of Daisy Ridley will only add fuel to your fiery nerd-crush fire. Vote for the best Ridley photos in this list, so that is the hottest start. While we're talking about her performance and actress, this curated image gallery will show some of the sexiest Daisy vibrant pictures you'll love. In addition to the mind-blowing images that will show you the Daisy Ridley red carpet portrait, pictures of Daisy on the beach, and photos taken from his promotions and magazine shoots. That she can carry any dress in style.
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I grew up in a rural area outside of Gig Harbor, Washington called Vaughn. My family had seven and a half acres which seamed like a vast wilderness at the time. We didn't have many neighbors and it took twenty minutes to get to high school. Thirty minutes to town. I still live in a small cabin on the property hoping to build my own dream log home on an acre and a half that I own near by. The area is mostly middle class working families but the social spectrum is running more and more to the comfortable side. Gig Harbor has attracted a lot of money over the years especially to water front properties. There are two local high schools with popular sports programs. People work hard and enjoy the quality of living in the Gig Harbor area.
As a young person, did you have a "big dream" as an aspiring model…. If so, what type of modeling?
My aspiring dreams as a young person were to play in the NFL or go to the Olympics. I also dreamt about fishing and hiking in exotic and wild places.
I never had a "big dream" as an aspiring model. I pursued it based on the support and encouragement I received from family and friends that I could be successful at it. The industry sounded fun and exciting and I had the confidence to give it a try and be successful. The chance to get to participate in active and athletic photo shoots, meet new people and stay motivated to stay in shape was too much to argue with.
At what age/time did you first make an attempt in pursuing a career in the modeling industry? How encouraging or discouraging was the modeling industry when you first pursued it?
I graduated from the University of Idaho in the spring of 2001 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and majored in Marketing. I attended under a full athletic scholarship to play football. I played wide receiver, kicker and punter. I first made an attempt at a modeling career in the fall of 2001. I was 23 years old. I visited Sports Unlimited from a referral in Seattle and have been working consistently ever since. I would say that the modeling industry was very encouraging. I started booking good jobs right away.
I have been a model for ten years.
I am fortunate enough to have many highlights in my career. I was lucky enough to participate in a national commercial for Merrill shoes. I was paid to trail run all day. That's one great thing about fitness modeling. You get paid to work out sometimes. I have also worked for Under Armor, Adidas, and Hammer Strength by Life Fitness. As well, I have been the poster boy for a national Nike campaign at Champ Sports.
I was the body for Nike Pro Compression for two years and participated in there Global sales meetings for four years. I have rappelled from the rafters of the Oregon Convention Center onto the runway for a Columbia Sportswear fashion show. I have worked for REI on a couple occasions and got to visit North Carolina with them. I shot a poster for New Balance which sits in 24hour fitness gyms all over. I have been on a Macy's shopping bag and also did a runway show for Tommy Hilfiger. I've been lucky enough to work for a wide variety of companies. My experiences have been great with all of them.
If you could give advice to an individual who aspires to have a career in the modeling industry, what would you say?
Be realistic in what image you represent. Stay in shape, be well groomed, be polite and courteous, be punctual, be a great navigator, and be confident and relaxed as possible, patient and determined. Don't take anything personal, have thick skin. You will not book them all.


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Black Velvet Canadian Whisky
Black Velvet Reserve 8 Year Old
Black Velvet Reserve is the 8 year old expression from Canada's second best selling (as of 2013) whisky. Originally called Black Label, the name was changed just after the end of the Second World War to reflect the velvet texture it was perceived to have.
Black Velvet Whisky
Black Velvet first came out of the barrel in 1951. The brand was initially known as "Black Label," but after Jack Napier, the original distiller, sampled the first batch, he changed the name to Black Velvet to reflect its uncommon velvety taste and smoothness. It's sold in over 55 countries around the world. Using crystal clear Canadian water, plus the finest rye, grains, and corn, the whisky is painstakingly distilled, blended at birth, and put up in premium oak barrels to gently mature.
Grant's Ale Cask Scotch
"Our Ale Cask is the only Scotch to be finished in barrels that once held ale, giving it an irresistible creamy maltiness. To those who brewed the beer and built the barrels, we say #IOU. We wouldn't have this amazing dram without you. Not only perfect for bringing to friend's houses for big sporting occasions, like the boules championships, but also great for saying 'cheers for teaching me to dance' or 'thanks for lending me your horse.'"
Grant's Sherry Cask Scotch
We think a personal touch is important. That's why our Master Blender and his team journey to Spain each year to handpick the finest Oloroso sherry casks. That, and for the paella. The whisky is then finished in these special casks for months, giving it a truly distinctive, rich flavour. The perfect gift for a friend who knows you well, and likes you anyway.
Senator's Club Bourbon
Senator's Club Blended Whiskey is an extra smooth blended whiskey. As with other blended whiskeys, this variety is straight whiskey blended with neutral spirits to create a more neutral whiskey. With no aroma or flavor being too overpowering, this extra smooth blended whiskey has malleable qualities that make it ideal for mixing. Use it to make your favorite cocktails or mixed drinks that allow the other flavors to shine through.
Imperial Whiskey
Imperial has had something of a stop-start history. It was founded in the town of Carron in central Speyside in 1897 by Thomas Mackenzie, who also had a share in both Talisker and Dailuaine (Carron's other distillery). Imperial was initally built as a second distillery for Dailuaine, and the name 'Imperial' was to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, which occurred the same year.
Jim Beam Bonded Kentucky Straight American Bourbon Whiskey
Jim Beam Bonded is a no-age-statement straight Bourbon whiskey from Jim Beam, the bestselling Bourbon makers from America. It is distilled, matured and bottled as per the parameters laid out by the Bottled-In-Bond Act of 1897.
Laphroaig Quarter Cask Malt Scotch
Laphroaig is a distillery on Islay, a small Scottish island renowned for its whiskies – many of which are heavily peated. It is considerably old (1815), and has used a slightly different technique in the crafting of this particular whisky. The whisky is first matured in bourbon casks (Maker's Mark), and then matured in small casks (quarter casks) which allow 30% more surface area contact than regular casks. This allows for faster, and different, aging of the spirit. It's a pretty unique technique in whisky
Glen Grant Malt Scotch
Light and apple fresh is the character which defines Glen Grant and this desire for delicacy has been present ever since 'The Major' took charge in the late 19th century.
Send a raven – Scotch has officially entered the realm. Johnnie Walker is proud to present this limited-edition Scotch whisky, inspired by the most enigmatic and feared characters on the hit HBO® show Game of Thrones - the White Walkers.
VAT 69 is a simple, pleasant blended scotch, utterly lacking in complexity, but with its own virtues nonetheless. The scotch enjoys a mid-gold color in the glass, and the nose is syrupy sweet, with crisp woody notes. On the palate, the syrupy all-spice flavored sweetness retreats into the background, partially replaced by peat smoke and tannin-rich woody flavors. The finish isn't very long, but it is smoky and warm.


see the international registration information pack to find out more about what you will need to apply to register as a pharmacist in Great Britain.
Meeting these criteria does not necessarily mean you will gain entry to the UK or find employment.
Before you start the qualifying process you should carefully consider information provided by the UK Borders Agency (UKBA) to see whether you will be able to get the necessary visas and work permits. Unfortunately we are not able to answer questions about these issues.


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Best of Roadside PEZ: Valencia'20 Stage 4 – Road to Nowhere
Alastair Hamilton	 Jan 2, 2021
There was little or no chance of seeing a top race in 2020, but before 'lockdown' our man is Spain, Alastair Hamilton caught the mountainous stage 4 of the Volta a la Comunitat Valenciana. He didn't make the ultra-steep summit finish, but there was still a lot to take in 'Roadside'.
John's Canadian Black & White Photo Gallery!
John Thomson	 Dec 28, 2020
John Thomson's favourite collection from 2020, with the added atmosphere of black and white images shot on film. All from Canada in the 80s and 90s - Classic work from John.
John's End of Year Photo Gallery
John Thomson has dragged his archives for another of his classic photo galleries of the stars of cyclocross and road, even with a mountain biker thrown in. A real mix from Canada in the 90's up to Europe in 2019.
Gent-Wevelgem – The Classic Photo Gallery
Alastair Hamilton	 Oct 11, 2020
The former "poor cousin" of the Tour of Flanders has gained new status in recent years with its move from a mid-week race slot to its own Sunday, and has become a better race where the real kings of the cobbles show up to do serious battle. We've scoured the Cor Vos archive to present this collection of the best Wevelgem photos from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
WORLDS'20 PEZ Roadside: Ale in Imola!
Alessandro Federico	 Sep 29, 2020
PEZman in Italy, Alessandro Federico, was facing the bleak situation of a no 'Race Chase' season, but the 'new normal' rearranged season gave him the 2020 World road championships on his doorstep. It would be rude not to go 'Roadside'. Here is his photo gallery of a day in Imola.
Le TOUR'20: One Day To Go!
Alastair Hamilton	 Aug 28, 2020
Just one day to go before the delayed 2020 Tour de France departs from Nice, in the south of France, for stage 1. The teams' presentation of the 107th Tour de France took place on Masséna square in Nice in style but in front of a limited number of people due to Covid-19 restrictions.
The Tour de France Publicity Caravan Photo Gallery
Tour Caravan PeloPics: The Tour de France publicity caravan is the hight point of the race for many people, after the riders of course. In 2020 there will not be a Tour caravan, sad, but a necessity in these times of Covid-19. To get the Tour ball rolling for next Saturday here is our Tour de France PeloPics Collection:
Milan-Sanremo: The Classic Photo Gallery
Alastair Hamilton	 Aug 7, 2020
PeloPics: The re-scheduled Milan-Sanremo is this Saturday, so here is a 'Best Of' Sanremo photo gallery. It was a tough job sifting through the Cor Vos collection, but these pics stood out for different reasons. Enjoy!
John's Strade Bianche Photo Special!
John Thomson	 Jul 21, 2020
At long last the 2020 race season will restart. The first big race is the Strade Bianche, over the gravel roads of Siena on August the 1st. To whet your appetite for the white roads Classic, PEZ photographer, John Thomson has emptied his photo files to compile his favorite Strade Bianche shots.


Characteristic member of the I.K.C. Kla'Diyus crew. A pilot rated on many designs, he enjoyed the new tactics made possible by the ability to attack while under cloak.
• Navigation • Physics • If on a ship, it is RANGE +1.


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Feds giving agriculture business accelerator Bioenterprise $2.5M
Guelph, Ont.-based Bioenterprise to use federal funding to expand its offering of commercialization services
by Canadian Manufacturing Staff
Bioenterprise
CAIP
federal financing
GUELPH, Ont.—A Guelph, Ont.-based not-for-profit agriculture business accelerator is receiving as much as $2.5 million in federal funding to expand its offering of commercialization services.
The funding through the Canada Accelerator and Incubator Program (CAIP) will be used by Bioenterprise Corp. to help Canadian agriculture entrepreneurs develop their business plans and identify new international markets to sell their products and services.
The funding will be provided to Bioenterprise over five years and must be matched on a one-for-one basis, according to the National Research Council of Canada (NRC).
"(This) announcement will ensure Canada's promising start-up businesses have the resources they need to grow, innovate and create jobs right here in Guelph," Public Works and Government Services (PWGS) Minister Diane Finley said in a statement.
Finley was in Guelph to make the funding announcement.
"The financial support provided by the government through CAIP will allow us to provide commercialization services across Canada to entrepreneurs and companies engaged in agriculture, food and bioeconomy initiatives," said Dave Smardon, president and CEO of Bioenterprise.
Launched in 2003, Bioenterprise has worked with hundreds of companies to get off the ground or expand.
To find out more about Bioenterprise, log on to bioenterprise.ca.
To find out more about CAIP, log on to the NRC website.
Feds funding Atlantic Canadian accelerator Propel ICT
Feds give $4.84M to boost innovation in Ontario's Wellington region
Feds earmark $13.5M for start-up funding
Feds provide $6M for genome research in agriculture and healthcare
Teachers' buys larger stake in snack maker Shearer's Foods
Deficits needed to solve oil crisis, Alberta premier says


Turner Ad Sales announced today a newly enhanced sales division designed to streamline and simplify agency and client partnerships. The redesigned sales unit will represent Turner's portfolio of assets more effectively and identify solutions that drive client business results. Utilizing data to inform powerful insight-led client partnerships spanning audience targeting, branded content, social & mobile capabilities and enhanced consumer environments, this client-first approach is designed to deliver robust ROI across the company's leading entertainment, kids, young adult and news platforms and screens.
• AudienceNOW: Announced in the Upfront, this audience-based selling product builds on what was accomplished with TargetingNOW, leveraging the company's in-house predictive modeling tool CAE (Competitive Audience Estimates) to find the best schedule for the brand's target audience across the entire day and portfolio.
• Provable ROI: Building on the success of ROINOW, ProvableROI guarantees success at the front end of the deal with select partners within the Turner Emerging Consumers (Adult Swim, Boomerang, Cartoon Network, truTV) group.
• truTV: Beginning in fourth quarter 2016, truTV will extend the amount of program time during each new hour of original, primetime shows by more than 20%, which will catapult the brand to the lowest average commercial and promo time in all of television.
• Launch Pad (formerly Sociology): This first-of-its kind, Turner-wide team and platform combines the power of Turner's premium branded content with real-time social analytics and promotion. It is designed to maximize a brand's impact across platforms by applying proprietary, actionable insights to a campaign from start to finish.
• Courageous: A branded content studio for marketers utilizing the breadth of Turner's global, multi-screen CNN and HLN brands, combined with capabilities to develop content across the full portfolio.
With a specialized focus on insight selling and data-driven ad products, Turner Ad Sales has announced the formation of a new unit: Client Strategy & Ad Innovation. The group will be made up by two teams with Ad Innovation and Programmatic Solutions charged with developing next generation capabilities-notably around audience targeting and ROI guarantees, while Client Strategy & Development will focus on individual clients and overall category strategy through insight-led sales initiatives. Leading this new group is Michael Strober, previously senior vice president within the entertainment sales division and now promoted to executive vice president, reporting to Speciale.
Through enhanced resources spanning content and social/mobile monetization, Dan Riess, executive vice president of content partnerships will focus on creative, solution-based client ideation across the portfolio. The group will have dedicated teams that align with sales, client and network strategy, and collaborate closely with the Client Strategy & Ad Innovation unit to strengthen opportunities and outcomes for marketers.
As Turner Ad Sales strives to maximize client campaign outcomes, it is also adapting how the sales leadership team will work with Turner's business partners. The division's executive vice presidents – Katrina Cukaj, Joe Hogan and Frank Sgrizzi – will now support strategic conversations across the full breadth of Turner's suite of brands. Each of them will head portfolio sales/client partnership teams, representing Turner's entire portfolio. The division heads will also be responsible for leading conversations across specific agency holding companies, oversee distinct regions and specialize in key categories to provide stronger, more strategic insight-led client solutions. Cukaj, Hogan, Sgrizzi and Riess will all continue to report to Speciale.
"We are very fortunate to have strong, strategic leaders and seasoned executives who will continue to collaborate and share collective resources," Speciale said. "Their valuable work will provide more opportunities for our clients around the 15,000+ hours of premium original content created for our networks and the 4.7 trillion dollars in spending power that our audiences represent annually."
Next month, the Turner Ad Sales team will meet with clients at CES to present the next iteration in ad innovation and content development set to emerge from Turner.


The Bible tells us, "blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven", which means heaven that is the true world will become one's own when he discards his false mind completely.
Truth is the world and falseness is man who lives within his mind world which has copied the world of Truth. Therefore, man must cleanse and discard his mind. He must become 'poor in spirit' in order to go to the real world that is heaven.
People do not know what Truth is and what false is. Truth knows both Truth and falseness. However, the false know neither the false nor Truth. People do not know what Truth is, nor do they know what they are being deceived by. When they have a bigger mind and become Truth, they will know the wisdom of the world and will live without death.
Only one knows, speaks, and lives according to what he has within. One who has the universe within him knows the true meaning of the universe. Living as the will of the universe by becoming the universe is true life.
When someone studies well, has a successful career, or deals with difficulties well, people think he is a wise man. However, such successes do not mean that one is wise. True wisdom is to know with the consciousness of God.
Man's mind is made up of illusionary pictures. Consequently, when he throws away these pictures Truth will enter into his mind, and he will know Truth to the extent of what he has discarded. This is enlightenment.
It is the same principle as washing dirty clothes - the more you clean the dirt away, the more it goes back to its original state. A piece of paper, which has been scribbled on, gets cleaner the more the scribbling is erased. Enlightenment is the same as knowing the true state of the paper once it is clean.
You will not die if you abandon them. You will not lose if you abandon them. You will gain something greater. If you do not abandon them you will never reach enlightenment, nor find your self that is at peace.


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Modern Russian tanks are well known for superb mobility and a distinctive, low silhouette, offering as small a target as possible on the battlefield. In the late 1960's, the highly sophisticated T64 tank was produced to replace the Soviets T62 main battle tank. The T64 had the advanced feature of automatic canon loading, that eliminated the requirement for a loader, reducing the crew from four men to three. The T-64 tank; however, proved to be unreliable due to its complicated mechanics, and this led to the development of the T72 tank. The T72, despite its close external resemblance to the T-64, was created in an attempt to simplify the overall design; improve its maintenance capability; and to also enhance productivity. The refined type 2A46 125mm gun with its auto-loading system is capable of firing high explosive or hollow-charge, armor-piercing ammunition. The powerplant is a type V-46, V-12 cylinder, multi-fuel engine. The standard production designated T72M1 uses reinforced frontal armor and incorporates a laser range finder. This versatile tank, which began service a the beginning of the 1970s has been in production for many years, and had been license produced in many of the Warsaw Pact countries. Even during the 1980's when a new T80 main battle tank was introduced to replace the aging T-64, the T-72 series continued to be the centerpiece of the Russian armed forces.
Along with the T-34, the KV series of heavy tanks played a vital role for Soviet forces in WWII. This precision plastic model recreates the KV-1B variant, which was up-armored compared to the original KV-1, on account of fears about improved German weaponry. The bolt-fastened 25-35mm applique armor gave total armor thicknesses of 120mm on the turret front, 110mm on the turret sides and hull front, and 75-110mm on the hull sides. In combination with the imposing 76.2mm main gun and a 550hp diesel engine, this made the KV-1B (manufactured from July 1941) a daunting proposition for enemy units.
• 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit. Length: 194mm, width: 96mm.
• The form of the up-armored turret and hull is captured exquisitely, with the numerous bolts depicted accurately.
• Model can be assembled with commander's hatch in open or closed position.
• The main gun offers elevation and depression.
• Steel road wheels are authentically rendered in plastic.
• Marking Option 1: Aug. 1941, Leningrad (suburb of Luga); Option 2: Summer, 1941; Option 3: Sept. 1941.
• Comes with 1 standing crewman figure.
The T34/85 was built with the aim of overpowering the new and improved German Tiger and Panther tanks which the Russian forces were encountering. It was given a powerful 85mm main gun and a 3-man turret enclosed by cast-iron heavy armor, while the hull featured sloped armor. Nonetheless, it was a relatively lightweight vehicle and thanks to the power supplied by the 500hp V-12 diesel engine was very maneuverable. Around 29,000 were produced between late 1943 and June 1945, and together with its predecessor the T34/76 it provided the impetus for the Russian advance on Berlin.
• 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit. Length: 235mm, width: 88mm.
• The T34/85 form with sloped hull armor is faithfully recreated, including renderings of the rough cast iron finish characteristic of Soviet tanks. Weld joints are also accurately recreated.
• Features moveable long-barreled 85mm main gun.
• Gunner's rail on hull and other details are depicted using separate parts.
• Includes accessory parts such as fuel cans and spare track links.
• Commander and gunner hatches are openable.
• Marking Option 1: April 1945, Berlin (No.204); Option 2: Jan. 1945, Eastern Prussia (No.236); Option 3: July 1944, Minsk (No.145); Option 4: April 1945, Berlin (No.341); Option 5: 1950, Korea (No.321).
This figure model soldier kit recreates a team of four German WWII soldiers taking a rest from the rigors of combat. The accuracy and versatility of these full body figures make them a superb addition to a range of dioramas, or a great partner to one of the many Tamiya WWII German armor kits.
The familiar Jeep was born during WW2 and it is said that it contributed greatly to the allied victory during that time. Following the conflict, this vehicle was widely used by most countries of the world as a small transport for the ground forces and later employed large calibre weapons systems for ground combat support.
The U.S. Army first utilized this small vehicle in ground support firepower, by mounting the newly designed 105mm recoilless rifle in the rear of the Jeep. This weapon was developed to combat heavily armoured tanks and other tracked vehicles; however it was later adapted to anti-personnel operations with the development of anti-personnel shell charges. When the newer 106mm recoilless rifle came into being, it replaced the 105. This weapons system was mounted in the rear part of the Jeep, but could be also dismounted on a tri-pod for fixed use. As the old jeep became replaced with the newer M151 Ford MUTT, the 106 was also adapted to it. When the M151A2 was released during the late 70's, the model with the 106 rifle mounted was called M825. It had a beefed up rear suspension system to accept the rifles added weight of 325kg. Shortly the TOW missile system replaced the 106 recoiless rifles, as the main anti-tank mobile weapons system. Development of the TOW system began in the 1960's as a replacement for the large and heavy recoilless rifles. It was combat tested during the Vietnam conflict and proved its power and accuracy. It was further improved and finally replaced most of the 106's still in service.
This is a 1/35 scale assembly kit model. It recreates the 30cwt truck used by the British Long-Range Desert Group (LRDG) as a command car in WWII. The LRDG was mainly tasked with covert reconnaissance and raids behind enemy lines in the North African theater of WWII; mobility was therefore key to their operations, and the 30cwt (1.5t) truck was a mainstay. It had a range of almost 250 miles and was often deployed as a command car.
The Panzerkampfwagen IV has been described most aptly as the "workhorse" of the German armoured forces in World War 2; with continuous development throughout the war as a fighting tank, the chassis and running gear formed the basis of a number of very important self propelled weapons.
In 1942 the fighting on the Eastern Front was making even greater demands on German armoured resources, as the Soviet Army overcame the setbacks of the successful German campaign in Russia in 1941.
At this time, divisional armour consisted predominantly of the Pz Kpfw III and the Stug III, the later being armed mainly with either the short 7.5 cm gun, 10.5 cm howitzer. The need was for a heavier calibre weapon mounted in an armured chassis, sufficiently powerful for the demolition of big city buildings in the street fighting now bein experienced.
In September 1942 the German Ordnance Dept considered how the problem could best be overcome as rapidly as possible. The 15 cm heavy infantry gun, Model 1933 was a readily available weapon, and some limited experience of it in an armoured role had been gained in 1940 when a small number of Sig 33's were mounted on the tiny Pz Kpfw I chassis. The original success of this limited conversion had led, in 1941, to the decision to build a self propelled version of the Sig 33 on the Pz Kpfw III chassis. This was like a much heavier version of the original Stug III, except that the superstructure was very much higher to accept the greater bulk of the 15 cm howitzer. By the time of the Stalingrad fighting a first pre-production run of 12 of these vehicles was available.
At the beginning of the German Blitzkrieg on the Eastern Front, Russian soldiers were forced to fight hard against the invading Axis forces led by the impressive German Sturmgeschutz III. Barely holding back the advancing German forces just before Moscow, the Russian military quickly began to design assault guns. From these designs, the first finished model came loaded on the T-34 chassis with a secured fighting compartment and was armed with an impressive 122mm howitzer. This tank was given the designation SU-122. Introduced at the Battle of Kursk in 1943, was the newly designed SU-85 which was based on the successful SU-122. It came armed with the D-5S-85A, the 1939 anti-aircraft 51.5 caliber 85mm D-5 gun which was redesigned for anti-tank use. D-5 guns were developed in the same manner as German 88mm anti-tank guns equipped on German Tiger I and Jagdpanther tanks, as both guns were based on anti-aircraft guns. The SU-85's armor-piercing shell weighed 9.02kg, had a velocity of 792m/s, and could knock out tanks with 100mm thick armor at 1000m. The SU-85s hull featured a sloped front armor with the fighting compartment offset to the right. After the liberation of Kiev in December 1943, the SU-85 faced off Panther and Jagdtiger tanks and held its own thanks to its 85mm gun. The sharp style of the SU-85 with its long gun now comes reproduced as a 1/35 scale model. This kit was first released in 1975.
-The arrival of the Russian SU-85 tank, which greatly surprised the invading German forces during WWII, now comes as a 1/35 scale plastic assembly model kit. Length: 235mm.
- The commonly used lower hull of the T34 as well as the large diameter road wheels including the unique pattern of the tracks have been realistically reproduced.
- Belt type tracks included.
- The main gun can be depressed or elevated even after assembly to allow you enjoy a variety of diorama settings.
- Both the drivers and main hatches can be assembled in either open or closed positions.
- Kit includes one figure in a relaxed seated position.
- A rich assortment of accessory parts such as fuel tanks, spare tracks, shovel, blankets etc which can be attached to the hull are included.
- Comparing the SU-85 against the German Jagdpanther (Item 35069) would be enjoyable.
Lastly, it was specified that the tank be equipped with a Maiback HL210, water-cooled, V-type 12 cylinder engine. In May of the same year, M.A.N.'s model was chosen without waiting for completion of a prototype tank. However, there were 2 important modifications. First, in order to meet the military's demand, considerably more than the original 35 ton weight was needed. Second, the military ordered a change in the thickness of the frontal armour from 60mm to 80mm.
Because of these changes, the engine type had to be chanded from HL210 to HL230. Then, in order to accommodate this engine, a much better gear was needed, but mass production began without this last change, which resulted in frequent gear malfunctions and related trouble. This became the Panther's greatest defect. In the same year, Dymler-Benz and Henschel were ordered to produce the Panther. Therefore, production was greatly increased and a total of 6283 Panther Tanks were produced, second only to P2KW-4 in number.
The first mass produced Panther type D was not equipped with a machine gun but after the experience of close battle. A 7.92mm MG 34 was added to the Panther's right front hull armament beginning with its type A. The special feature of the Panther was the left and right driving mechanism. This created an interchangeability of movements, using the torsion bar system. By 1944, the Panther was further improved from Type A to Type G with a change in its side shape.
Tamiya announces the re-issue of this veteran model, which was last re-released in 2016. The M3 Lee Mk.1 was a medium tank which served as the mainstay of the U.S. Army's tank units from its introduction in October 1941 until it was reduced to limited frontline status in April 1943. It used a limited traverse, sponson-based 75mm main gun and a turret-mounted 37mm weapons as its main firepower. Eventually succeeded by the M4 Sherman, it was also ordered and used by the British military who christened it the "General Lee" after the famous American military figure. Including tanks produced for the British, production of the M3 Lee Mk.1 ran to a total of 4,924 units.
• This is a 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit. Length when assembled: 164mm.
• Features moving 75mm, 37mm and 7.62mm gun recreations.
• The various hatches can be assembled in open or closed position.
• Armor shows off impressive detail with recreations of rivets.
• Vertical Volute Spring Suspension (VVSS) is succinctly depicted.
• Includes one North African theater crewman figure and two sets of markings.
In 1938, the German Army decided to develop an armoured personnel carrier on the basis of the 3-ton half track (HL-KL-9p). Hanomag Hannoversch Machinenbau (AG) in Hannover was ordered to develop the running gear and Bussing-NAG in Berlin was to develop the superstructure to be armoured. Design work was hastened on the model of existing armoured cars and a prototype was completed at the end of 1938. The Germans tested the prototype in the Kumahsdorf Proving Ground and accepted it for mass production. Thus was born the Armoured Personnel Carrier Hanomag Sdkfz 251/1 which, we may safely say, was a synonym for the German mechanized corps that showed activity in all battlefields throughout the war.
About the Model ★This 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit recreates a crew of four U.S. WWII tankers: gunner, loader and two commanders. ★Both commanders are depicted with binoculars; one in both hands, and the other in the left hand, gesturing with the right. ★Figures are depicted in uniform used from early in WWII.


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Republicans block voting rights bill using the filibuster that the Dems are trying to amend, setting up 'nuclear option' face-off to lower the threshold: Manchin and Sinema expected to defend 60-vote status quo
Mystery as FBI agents descend on Rep. Henry Cuellar's mansion in an 'ongoing investigation': Texas Democrat who slammed Biden and Harris over border chaos says he will 'fully cooperate'
Brianna Kupfer's 'killer' is arrested at Pasadena bus stop after member of the public called 911: 31-year-old was out on $50,000 bond for 'firing weapon into a car' when he stabbed the UCLA student to death as she worked in LA furniture store
Olympic champion Caitlyn Jenner says trans UPenn swimmer Lia Thomas should NOT compete against biological women ahead of NCAA's board meeting to review its rules Thursday
Proud Boys leader condemns members who destroyed property in Capitol riot and admits he does NOT think the election was stolen - as he says he had to testify in Roger Stone's trial for Russia probe
Enrique Tarrio refused to walk back a post he made moments after the Capitol riot that showed politicians hunched over
'I'll celebrate the moment that the government fears the people,' Tarrio said. '[But] at that point I didn't have all the information that was coming in'
Tarrio condemned the actions of the various Proud Boy members who have been detained for their part in the riots, particularly Dominic Pezzola
'I don't believe that the election was stolen,' he said of the 2020 election, going against his longtime pal Roger Stone
The Proud Boy leader remarkably has access to Stone's phone, even on occasion helping him with his social media posts
By Matthew Wright For Dailymail.com
Proud Boy leader Enrique Tarrio condemned insurrectionist who stormed and destroyed the Capitol but relished in members of the government 'fearing the people.'
In a Thursday interview with CNN, the chairman of Proud Boy refused to walk back a post he made moments after the Capitol riot that showed politicians hunched over as they hid from the fanatic Trump supporters.
'I'll celebrate the moment that the government fears the people,' Tarrio said. '[But] at that point I didn't have all the information that was coming in, why they were cowering.'
Enrique Tarrio refused to walk back a post he made moments after the Capitol riot that showed politicians hunched over as he condemned the members of the Proud Boys who stormed the Capitol
"I will celebrate the moment that the government does fear the people," says Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio in an exclusive interview with @sarasidnerCNN. https://t.co/qpyiPFl2Dc pic.twitter.com/Aasm74qm2R
— Anderson Cooper 360° (@AC360) February 26, 2021
'I condemn the actions. I don't think he should have done that,' Tarrio said of Dominic Pezzola, who broke a window at the Capitol. 'I think that it was completely wrong but the other seven individuals were trespassing'
Tarrio failed to show sympathy for the politicians, claiming their 'only worry in life is to be reelected.'
The Proud Boy leader was not in attendance for the rallies or riot on January 6, having been detained just days prior for burning a Black Lives Matter flag in Washington D.C. and having illegal rounds of ammunition on his person.
Tarrio condemned the actions of the various Proud Boy members who have been detained for their part in the riots, particularly Dominic Pezzola for using a police shield to break a Capitol door window. There were at least eight members who were charged that Tarrio knew, CNN reports.
'I still have the chemical burns on my face.' Capitol Hill... Nine Oath Keepers 'members' are charged with 'planning and...
The Proud Boy leader remarkably has access to Stone's phone, even on occasion helping him with his social media post
'I condemn the actions,' he said. 'I don't think he should have done that. I think that it was completely wrong but the other seven individuals were trespassing.
'I think they got caught up with the entire crowd and they made a poor decision to go in there.'
Many Trump supporters and Proud Boy flunkies in attendance for the storming of the Capitol did so under the belief that the election had been rigged and stolen.
Enrique Tarrio, the high-profile leader of the Proud Boys
Enrique Tarrio is a high-profile figure who organizes and leads the right-wing Proud Boys.
As Trump supporters challenged the Republican's election loss in often violent demonstrations, Tarrio stood out for his swagger as he led crowds of mostly white Proud Boys in a series of confrontations and street brawls in Washington, D.C., Portland, Oregon, and elsewhere.
The Proud Boys, founded in 2016, began as a group protesting political correctness and perceived constraints on masculinity.
It grew into a group with distinctive colors of yellow and black that embraced street fighting. In September their profile soared when Trump called on them to 'Stand back and stand by.'
Tarrio, based in Miami, became the national chairman of the group in 2018.
In November and December, Tarrio led the Proud Boys through the streets of D.C. after Trump´s loss. Video shows him on December 11 with a bullhorn in front of a large crowd.
'To the parasites both in Congress, and in that stolen White House,' he said. 'You want a war, you got one!' The crowd roared. The next day Tarrio burned the BLM banner.
<!- - ad: https://mads.dailymail.co.uk/v7/us/news/none/article/other/mpu_factbox.html?id=mpu_factbox_1 - ->
Tarrio, however, is not in the same boat. 'I don't believe that the election was stolen,' he said.
The sentiment is at stark opposition with that of longtime Trump loyalist Roger Stone, a pal of Tarrio's. Stone was seen in D.C. on the day of the riot but not at the Capitol. He has not been charged in connection to the riot.
The Proud Boy leader remarkably also revealed during his interview on CNN that he at one time had access to Stone's phone, even on occasion helping him with his social media post.
'A couple of times when I went to go see him, I would help him with a social media post and things like that,' Tarrio said.
Tarrio even had to testify in front of grand jury when Stone was on trial for lying to Congress during its investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. Trump would eventually commute his prison term before pardoning his pal on Dec. 23.
While on trial, Stone was said to have threatened the judge in the case by taking to Instagram and posting a photo of her with what appeared to be a target.
'I actually testified in front of a grand jury but that picture was brought up on a Google search,' Tarrio claimed. 'The cross hairs, its not a cross hair. It is actually the logo of the organization that wrote the article.'
He added: 'I had nothing to do with it.'
Tarrio repeatedly worked undercover for investigators after he was arrested in 2012 on fraud charges, according to a former prosecutor and a transcript of a 2014 federal court proceeding obtained by Reuters.
The records uncovered by Reuters are startling because they show that a leader of a far-right group now under intense scrutiny by law enforcement was previously an active collaborator with criminal investigators.
Tarrio, 36, in an interview with Reuters, denied working undercover or cooperating in cases against others. 'I don't know any of this,' he said, when asked about the transcript. 'I don't recall any of this.'
Law-enforcement officials and the court transcript contradict Tarrio´s denial.
twitter.com/AC36...
Proud Boys leader says he condemns members who destroyed property in Capitol riot
Olympic champion Caitlyn Jenner says trans UPenn swimmer Lia Thomas should NOT compete against biological women ahead of NCAA's rules review meeting on Thursday
Kim Kardashian's beau Pete Davidson thinks Kanye West's lyrical threat is 'totally hilarious'... after the musician rapped that he'd 'beat his a**' in leaked track
Katharine McPhee oozes California style in beige knit sweater and torn jeans as she runs errands in LA
Vanessa Hudgens and her younger sister Stella are ever the fashionable siblings as they pose for a photoshoot .
Ana de Armas gives more than a hint of her midriff in sports bra and leggings while out shopping for perfume in LA


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Geopolitics: 'Small is beautiful': the key to creating a powerful Europe
Charles Millon
From Scotland and Catalonia to the Basque Country, Lombardy and Bavaria, modern Europe is teeming with regions and provinces demanding greater autonomy, or even total independence. By letting specific power return to local communities and grassroots, not only will Europe rediscover who it is, but also return to its people their means of economic self-development. A new means of decentralised organisation, and possibly more, is the key to the continent's future, marking a return to its identity and to an economy with greater justice and respect for human rights.
A SILENT revolution is taking place in Europe. Obsessed with economic recovery issues and the debt burden, the European Commission and governments are refusing to face up to the problem at hand and meet the challenge before them. This difficulty is the issue of borders. Its complexity is twofold, as it concerns both the continent's external and internal boundaries. Former French President Francois Mitterrand gave this mysterious and far-sighted reply when asked about the issue, 'Europe is wherever there are Benedictine monasteries.' The crisis in Ukraine appears to corroborate this idea at first glance. The genuine internal divide in the country cuts along a boundary between two religions, which are producers of culture. Western Ukraine, which favours Europe, is mostly Roman Catholic and of historically Polish descent, whereas the east is Greek Orthodox, and naturally looks to Mother Russia. These civilisational boundaries are certainly not inviolable, nor set in stone, but a realistic policy for organising the world must take them into account.
Buffer states
Just as the entry of Turkey into Europe – which was fortunately put off, given that Turkey is currently welcoming leaders from the Muslim Brotherhood – mainly posed an issue of civilisation and religion, Europe's eastern border clashes with the historic sphere of the Russian empire. Political engineering would involve dealing with Russian President Vladimir Putin as an equal partner, with neither contempt nor naivety, to redefine the proper areas of influence. These could be moderated by buffer states. However, further removed from this problem, western Europe itself no longer knows who it really is.
From Scotland and Catalonia to the Basque Country, Lombardy and Bavaria, this modern Europe is teeming with regions and provinces demanding greater autonomy, or even total Independence.
Even though the Scottish referendum produced a 'no' vote, the phenomenon remains a serious issue, as British leaders themselves have admitted.
Old Continent
This Catalan independence supporter travelled to Edinburgh to back the Scottish 'Yes' campaign (photo: dpa)
The Assembly of Catalonia decided of its own accord to hold a referendum over independence for the territory, despite objections from Madrid to hold its referendum on November 9. The reaction from the other capitals, both Brussels and the national ones, consisted more of embarrassed silence than an affirmation of principles.
This is because no-one really upholds these principles: the independence of Kosovo and, at another level, the separation of the Czech Republic from Slovakia, have demonstrated that borders, often drawn over the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, are not inviolable.
Whereas in western Europe the process remains within peaceful and democratic limits despite the lack of a clear response, what is happening in central and eastern Europe is indicative of the general troubles of the Old Continent. In Ukraine, faced with the appetites of a naturally imperialistic Russia, the European Union has proved unable to react with calm and diplomacy. Hiding behind the United States, it has been obliged to accept the demands of pro-Russian separatists, losing the game to Vladimir Putin.
So we must face the issue of the end of the Westphalian system of state sovereignty and territorial integrity, which has confused states with nations for three centuries.
Wrong sizes
We must also accept the fact that we never succeeded in replacing the imperial systems which held sway in these regions but collapsed in 1918 and again in 1991.
To understand what is going on, we must admit that the sizes, missions and roles of a large portion of the states of Europe no longer correspond to the modern world. These states are either too small or too large. Yet their citizens now have a thirst to achieve political closeness. This is because a region has its own history, families and distinctive landscapes, which engender immediate familiarity. Why is Europe's future not in line with this model?
What is being expressed through this desire for independence or increased autonomy is a reaction to the hubris which has been rife since 1945. It has sacrificed peoples, their ways of life, roots and local attachments in the name of major industrial, economic or spatial planning projects. Following the three-decades long period of rapid expansion during the post-war boom, due primarily to the low cost of energy globally, Europe awoke with a hangover.
Europe's interest
Now, though it is a little too late, we are rediscovering British economist E. F. Schumacher's adage, 'small is beautiful'. We are also rediscovering what the Austrian philosopher Ivan Illich noted 40 years ago, 'Beyond a certain critical quantum of per capita energy consumption, the political system and cultural context of any Society must decay.'
Instead of setting out to define itself economically in order to find its own identity, Europe would have every interest in reversing its priorities and proceeding in the opposite direction.
By letting specific power return to local communities and grassroots, not only will Europe rediscover who it is, but it will also return to its people their means of economic selfdevelopment, starting with their dignity.
The cases of Germany and France have shown that the most effective administrative levels in many regards are the Lander (German states) and the regions (regulatory regions) respectively.
In transport, culture and education, every region which has conducted experiments with management at these Levels has made gains and restored the confidence of their citizens, who now feel like masters of their own destinies.
Today, with so much talk about participatory democracy, it is time to be truly daring, especially with referendums by popular initiative, which the Swiss already practise.
Nevertheless, it should be stressed that the regions currently demanding separation or independence are wealthy: so the need naturally remains for a higher level of administration to implement an equalisation payment system among the local communities in exchange for specific powers – defence, environment, and certain means of transport.
Paradoxically, it will take a return to the basics to create a powerful Europe capable of intervening in the global order. This is because democracy, though a form of government based on the majority, cannot exist unless it also protects its minorities.
In this sense, the era of centralising states with disdain for local identities has passed. It is time to become politically wiser, which is to say, to reduce our means of control, surveillance and standardisation.
We must have a new means of decentralised organisation, and possibly more.
This is without doubt the key to Europe's future, marking a return to its identity and to an economy with greater justice and respect for human rights.
This report has been written by Charles Millon and made available to our members through the courtecy of © Geopolitical Information Service AG, Vaduz:
www.geopolitical-info.com
Independence movements spreading across Europe
New threat to Spain as Catalonia looks to break away
The consequences of the European Parliament elections
Russia's next move after Ukraine
Radical Islam, not Russia, is Europe's real enemy
© Geopolitical Information Service AG, Vaduz
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"Investors need to engage in costly information acquisition, which leads to information asymmetries. A solution to this could be a central regulator that enforces a consistent application of accounting rules across the EU."
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President ESMT Berlin


Incandescent Mind is opening submissions on the topic of mental and emotional health. We're looking for poetry, very short prose (under 500 words), and art for an ongoing journal series that presents aspects of mental and emotional health on many levels: from trauma, mental illness, PTSD, anxiety, abuse, to even specific situation issues like divorce, death, loss, physical ailments and disabilities, and to serious marginalization due to race, sexual orientation, economic status, gender, religion, etc. Any and all of the things that put us through fire, but also make us stronger. We want the personal rather than analytical or observational experience.
Submission will now be taken through Submittable (closed 4/3/16). Please submit 1 poetry or prose in a doc/docx file. You may submit up to 3 pieces per submission period. The plan is to select a maximum of 36 pieces of poetry or prose and only one per author per issue. Submissions will close once the 36 slots have been filled. Strongly rated pieces may be considered for the next issue.
We are looking for previously unpublished work, but will be open to considering special pieces. Simultaneous submissions are fine as long as we are notified immediately if work is accepted elsewhere.
Poetry: We're open to style, but want to feel the connection to the topic. We're open to length and form, but keep it under 100 lines (including stanza breaks). We don't prefer rhyming poetry, unless they're very well crafted.
Prose: We'd love to have well written and edited short prose (under 500 words) of fiction, memoir, creative nonfiction, or other on the topic.
Art: We are open to paintings, drawings, photography, digital art, collage, etc in color or black and white, abstract or specific subjects, any mediums that transfer well as a jpeg or png file, and as long as it conveys emotion. Work does not have to be directly related to mental and emotional health, but needs to compliment the feel of the journal. If you aren't sure, send us what you have and we'll let you know! You may submit up to 10 high resolution images. You may submit art in addition to poetry or prose. Please include titles with your images (preferably in the file names).
Include a short, 50 word 3rd person bio with website or social media contact information where people can learn more about you.
We reserve the right to make minor edits to pieces as needed, but may ask for revision for a piece we love enough to see improve. Authors and artists will retain the rights to their individual work. We do not offer payment other than one complimentary contributor copy. Additional copies can be ordered at a discounted price.