text:
1980s Teen Sex Comedies
Private Resort (1985) – A Review
Leslie Easterbrook opens her closet and discovers a naked Johnny Depp.
"What are you doing?!?!?"
"What do you mean, you left us your key!"
"Are you crazy! My husband will kill us both if he finds you here!"
"What are we going to do???"
"Well, get dressed!"
"I can't! Your husband is sitting on my clothes!"
"Oooooh…."
Hey, if you ever wondered what it would be like if the stars of Northern Exposure and the Pirates of Carribbean franchise had to hide a half-naked woman from Andrew Dice Clay in a hotel room – then Private Resort is the movie for you!
Actresses who go onto great fame sometimes have some tawdry secrets they hope get forgotten in the mists of time. Jobs they took when times were rough and they were willing to take any role that came their way. They were young, fresh faces and just hoping that maybe this poorly written role in this cheap production their agent got them an audition for would lead to their big break – or at the very least help pay their rent for the month.
There's a laundry list of actresses who took on roles in embarrassing movies and some who went the extra mile and willingly went au natural for the sake of art – or that paycheck.
Most of those early notorious films will never show up on their highlight reels at the Oscars. You can bet they won't be showing clips from Fire on the Amazon at Sandra Bullock's career retrospective.
While they might find those early lean years embarrassing and have regrets about them today, those moments where they showed the world their birthday suits will never truly be forgotten. Fans, the internet and movie collections will always help preserve them for posterity.
As too with male actors, they also can have some unmentionables they would rather see buried and never get unearthed. Some early embarrassing moments in their careers that might have seemed like a good idea to take at the time. Once establishing some creditability in their latter years, those early gigs are something less likely they would put on a resume and more like something they'd want to chuck down a very deep well.
We common folk only have to worry about cheesy high school yearbook photos to stash away, but thanks to cable, VHS, DVD and streaming it's unlikely the transgressions famous actors made a long time ago will ever get hidden away completely.
So this brings us to Private Resort, a 1985 teen/sex/comedy that supposedly both stars Johnny Depp and Rob Morrow wished they could destroy every existing copy of and eliminate it from cinema history.
Yeah, it's a silly, juvenile comedy, but Depp and Morrow shouldn't feel that ashamed of it. Don't worry about it guys, we understand.
Private Resort is something of a conclusion to the 'Private Trilogy'. Producer R. Ben Efraim was the man behind Private Lessons in '81 and Private School in '83. Wanting to keep a good thing going I guess he convinced TriStar Pictures to go for a trifecta and Private Resort was born.
Admittedly this 'trilogy' definition for these three movies is really, really loose. None of the movies have anything to do with each other, they don't resemble one another and the only thing that connects them is they were all produced by Efraim. and they have 'Private' in the title.
I guess we could call it a crappy attempt at a teen/sex/comedy cinematic universe. They probably would have managed it better today.
Anyway, Depp and Morrow play Jack and Ben two horndogs on the prowl who have just arrived in sunny Florida for a vacation at this Private Resort (I read most of the movie was filmed at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida). They only have one thing on their mind – getting laid. There's no loftier motivations, no moral that needs to be learned, they just want to score with some girls. Simple enough huh?
But let's complicate things for our heroes. Also staying at this resort is Hector Elizondo and wife Leslie Easterbrook. Elizondo is a criminal known as the 'Maestro' and is planning to steal a valuable necklace off the throat of ditzy rich widow Dody Goodman (Grease and Splash fame).
Jack and Ben have their eyes on the granddaughter of Goodman Dana (Karyn O'Bryan) and a resort waitress Patti (Emily Longstreth). This is where a bit of romance takes shape. Morrow stands up against the waitress' mean supervisor who treats her bad and she's all thankful to him. Those are the scenes that are meant to give the movie some genuine heart I think, along with a supposed romantic montage of them frolicking around on the beach, riding bikes and laughing hysterically.
In between that there is a barrage of slapstick involving mistaken identities, awkward misunderstandings, miscommunications, a religious nut, foiling the Maesto's plans, the German resort barber, the angry put upon stiff head of resort security, a bottle of quaaludes, the guys running around buck naked, sight gags aimed at a fat girl, Morrow in drag and of course guys being attracted to him, politically incorrect gags of Asians with cameras, a Jeff Spicoli knock-off, a lot of running around, pratfalls, slaps, and goopy items spilling on the dopey older folks, along with of course young gals showing skin.
I said Depp and Morrow shouldn't be too bothered by this movie, but that doesn't mean it's any good. This is a very generic, silly '80's teen/sex/comedy. Here, you'll find all the staples of the genre you could hope for. There's an aerobics scene. A shower scene. The idiotic guy falling into the pool. The little kid who's always trying to get an eyeful of some naked girls.
And oh yes, plenty of lovely, archetypal 80's young ladies strolling through scenes wearing bathing suits and baring their all. The movie certainly delivers on that obligatory ingredient. In fact, Private Resort contains one particular gal who left an impact on me ever since seeing this movie oh so long ago late night on cable. But I'll get to her in a bit.
What's funny about a lot of the comedy situations in this, is that they are so incredibly contrived and forced. I don't exactly expect realism in a teen/sex/comedy, but if you're going to get goofy than make it payoff!
Here, it's a full blown silly farce, which is fine…if it had some laughs. A lot of the scenes might have been mildly amusing had they gone on for a minute or two. If you're not getting any chuckles out of this scene the movie would move onto the next one.
Here, these scenes go on way too long and they try to drain every drop of humor out of them- unsuccessfully I have to say. They couldn't even sustain most of these gags for a minute, it's really tiring seeing some of them drag out to the full blown five minute mark!
We get it, Elizondo is sleeping and Morrow just gave him a bad hair cut. We get it, they have to sneak out Clay's comatose girlfriend out of their room before he sees her. We get it, the resort security guy is chasing a naked Morrow. This is the best comedy the movie can come up with and if this stuff isn't doing it for you it's going to feel like a real haul. They didn't try to come up with much of a story to sustain the runtime in this.
One odd thing about a lot of the wild, chasing around scenes is they don't come off particularly like unrestrained hilarity because they're put together so shoddy. The music that accompanies a lot of the running around scenes (usually in the same hallway over and over again) doesn't help add to the wackiness that is supposed to be taking place. Even if they threw in that Benny Hill song it would have made these scenes move better! It ends up being pretty lifeless.
By the time Elizondo is shooting his gun at the guys I was just watching with barely any interest. It's one of those simplistic things where the bullets only hit windows and fruit buffets while Depp and Morrow scramble around and act all panicked.
These are one of those teen/sex/comedies that were disposable entertainment as soon as it came out. Most of the movies in this genre didn't have any loftier ambitions other than making some quick cash and inevitably didn't have a long shelf life.
They don't contain that much other than insipid comedy broken up every ten minutes or so by a girl losing her top. There are some of these movies that hold up, but most of them are barely worth watching today, other than for nostalgic purposes.
I bet if most of these teen/sex/comedy movies got released today they would get crucified. Adam Sandler might have been mocking them. They don't contain much more value than once upon a time sitting late at night watching them on cable and waiting for some boobs to show up. They don't exactly age well. Mostly you had to be the right age and living at the right time to appreciate them on some kind of level. It's not like if you put one on today you'll get to see exquisite filmmaking take place.
Sure, you got the novelty of seeing Depp and Morrow young and hungry in a movie they would never go near today. Plus, they show off their butts – that might be an allure to female viewers. To their credit they're no better or worse than most of the young actors who got hired in these kind of movies back then. There's just not a lot going on here to hold your attention from the thin comedic scenarios that the movie has.
Elizondo is fine as the put upon Maestro. Most of the gags he gets are getting hit in the balls by a golf ball, Morrow giving him a bad haircut and him getting mad, him getting kneed in the groin by Goodman, you know it's that kind of stuff. I suppose he handles it as well as you can expect.
I will say he is a very diverse actor. It was hard for me to believe that this was the same man who played the deadly Mr. Grey in The Taking of Pelham One Two Three as I watched him feel up Morrow. Hey, the man has range!
More slapstick comes from the hotel security guy. He also gets left in these asinine predicaments. He's the unfortunate victim of getting his clothes ripped apart, getting slapped through a series of misunderstandings and falling into that pool. And Goodman does the thing of 'oh my goodness an old lady is doing or saying that!'-type of nonsense. I guess some might get a chuckle of seeing her get high on quaaludes and hitting the hotel barber with a riding crop. Someone must of thought that scene was funny.
There's Andrew Clay (he wasn't using his Dice name at the time). His scene really started to annoy me honestly. His big thing is to have sex with this girl while away from his girlfriend, so through a series of circumstances the guys offer him their hotel room to use. The rub is that Depp was getting ready to have sex with Clay's gal played by the star of H.O.T.S. Lisa London.
For comedy sakes Clay keeps coming out of the bedroom to complicate the guys attempts to sneak London out. So he comes out for cigarettes, then for a drink, then for rubbers. The logic part of my head started yelling – 'Are you here to screw this chick or interview her???'
I know I shouldn't have used any of my logic tool during this movie. It prevented me from getting into the spirit of some of it. Shame on me!
The story and comedy is not exactly stellar, so let's get to the boobs.
The big name actress attached to Private Resort is Leslie Easterbrook. Thanks to her buxom figure, being in the tail end seasons of Laverne and Shriley and her memorable role as Sgt. Callahan in the Police Academy flicks she's gained a decent-sized fanbase.
Those devoted followers are probably well aware of Easterbrook's nude appearance in this. It's not exactly a full blown skin show. It's her wearing a sheer negligee, but you're able to enjoy her ample form better than in any other movie she appeared in. You certainly get an eyeful.
I read when filming Easterbrook wasn't aware that the negligee would reveal that much. I don't quite understand that. There's closeups of Depp laying right under her boobs while she's laying in bed wearing that negligee, so him staring at her naked boobs seems to be the joke. I don't see how anyone didn't see that it was so sheer while they filmed, but in any event she wore it and fans of hers should feel lucky.
She doesn't get much screen time as the Maestro's wife Bobbie Sue, but she's certainly fetching when she shows up. She's the attractive older woman in this. She's almost like a precursor to Jennifer Coolidge as Stifler's Mom in the American Pie movies.
As is required there are the string of young actresses, models and extras who parade around in their bikini's, aerobic outfits and to drop their clothes to show some skin. Some are even lucky enough to be given lines!
Vickie Benson in Private Resort
Out of all the ladies in Private Resort the one that always stood out to me was Vickie Benson. Billed as 'Bikini Girl', she has three brief scenes each consisting of run-ins with that security guy. And in all her scenes she's there as sexy eye candy showing off her bodacious bod!
They're not exactly side-splitting scenes. I mean, the final punchline of each is the security guy getting slapped. However, she has always stuck in my head because I was always impressed by her commitment to portraying the role of 'Bikini Girl' and making her a fully realized character.
Ok, you got me! It's because how gorgeous and sexy she looks!
It's one of those little T&A standout scenes from a sex comedy. Benson kind of has a Lea Thompson/Howard the Duck-look to her with her rocking 80's hairdo. She has that same cute kind of face that Lea did. I always thought that Depp and Morrow should have tried to go after 'Bikini Girl' rather than their leading ladies, but maybe they missed her while they were running around this resort.
Apparently Benson's acting career never took off. According to her IMDB page she did continue acting after Private Resort. She played 'Party Girl' in My Chauffeur, 'Waitress' in The Wraith and 'Salesgirl' in Mortuary Academy (I never even heard of that movie!). Her last credited acting role is from 1990 in Fertilize the Blaspheming Bombshell. I have no idea about that one either. It sounds….interesting.
I couldn't find any other information about her other than her brief IMDB page. My guess is at some point she left acting altogether and went on with her life away from the cameras. I'm curious as to whatever became of her.
That's the funny thing about these teen/sex/comedies – these movies were pored over by a whole generation of kids on cable, they watched them constantly to get titillated, their temperatures would skyrocket from an actress who worked one or two days, maybe even only a few hours on the movie, kids wouldn't even know her name, but she'd leave a lasting impression on them and then that actress would disappear completely. The only thing you knew about her was that she was a stunning figure, was the highlight of a lousy movie and you waited for her scene to arrive.
Maybe those women would rather forget about their early movie experiences and are just creeped out by the idea that there are still those out there who remember them and can re-watch their brief, unclothed performances. It could be like Depp and Morrow they wished they could destroy all the evidence of their movie.
I wonder if these former actresses and models from 1980's teen/sex/comedies who did those nude scenes have some kind of club or group. An oasis they can go to where they all help each other and provide support to work through their cinematic indiscretions that their haunted by.
In the end other than the most basic, shallow appeal Private Resort is not a very good movie. It's a really clumsy, frivolous flick. This was an ideal skin flick back in '85, but today there's not much in it to hold your interest.
I will say some of the shots of the resort do look nice. You do have the whimsical appeal of Depp and Morrow as young actors in a T&A movie, Easterbrook's chest looks fine and it does contain the most memorable screen appearance in the brief acting career of Vickie Benson, but don't watch this expecting much more than that.
One final thought on Private Resort (I can't believe I had this much to say about it already!) and it's in regard to the original movie poster. It's a nice little design, the girls all laying on their stomachs with the title of the movie on their backs. They knew exactly how to sell this to its target audience. Right away you know what this movie is going to be about.
But the two guys laying there aren't Depp and Morrow. I understand they weren't big names at the time, but it always seemed like a bit of cheat that they used male models or whoever these guys are on the movie poster instead of the actual stars. This oversight was corrected when the movie hit DVD and the cover was redesigned to prominently feature Depp's young unmistakable mug.
I bet he just loved that.
Tags: 1980s80's sex comedycomedyHector ElizondoJohnny Deppnudityreview
Revenge of the Nerds (1984) – A Review
Zapped! (1982) – A Review
Hardbodies (1984) – A Review
CKulik says:
I try not to listen to Hollywood gossip, but it seems eerie your review for this embarrassment of a movie is coming out during Depp's scandal (for what it's worth, I actually think he is less guilty than she is). I remember staying late one night watching this dreck; even SCREWBALLS and SPRING BREAK have a lot more nostalgic value than this massive cinematic turd. The only decent thing I can say about it is that it's inoffensive, but I certainly don't blame the stars. (I loved Rob Morrow as Albert Brooks brother in 1996's MOTHER, but he's been good in other stuff). As far as these teen-sex comedies, you have truly reached the bottom of the barrel. Just out of curiosity, do you ever intend on doing the PORKY'S movies, or have you been saving them for last after all this time?
Destination Tokyo (1943) – A Review
Tragedy In Colorado At A Midnight Show of The Dark Knight Rises
Harrison Ford To Return as Han Solo in The New Star Wars!
No Time To Die Delayed Again – April 2021
Blue Thunder (1983) – A Review
Hazy Memories
The Mask of Zorro (1998) – A Review
The Mummy (2017) – A Review
The Incredible Burt Wonderstone (2013) – A Review


This Bourbon Balls recipe combines nutty pecans, sweet chocolate, and Kentucky's own whiskey to create this traditional Southern holiday favorite.
If you don't have shortening, you can use butter, or just omit it altogether. I don't like the idea of eating wax, which is what paraffin is. I made these for a Derby party and I'm making them again for a bourbon tasting. They were a big hit. I recommend even freezing the balls before dipping them in chocolate.
I made this recipe last Christmas and planning on making it again this year. They taste amazing and were really appreciated by those who received them! They were quite difficult for me to roll into balls even though I chilled well. But well worth trying again. I used Guiardelli semisweet chips with a few parafin flakes rather than butter. I also left the pecan half off until after dipping and then topped them with 1 pecan half.


During the software development period, I started to explore the capabilities of the Raspberry Pi Model B. I quickly realized that for this application, a Raspberry Pi (version 1) running "wheezy" with a 16GB SD card was more than capable of replacing a Linux desktop PC. Using a Raspberry Pi (Rasp Pi) meant reduced hardware costs and gains in energy efficiency, not only making the collection system sustainable but reducing its carbon footprint.
Because both Linux Mint and wheezy are Debian distributions, it was simply a matter of copying the Python script over to the Rasp Pi and changing the file paths. The primary difference was that the serial connection was implemented using a USB-to-serial cable connected to one of the USB ports on the Rasp Pi, compared with the hardware serial port on the desktop.
The initial purpose of this project was to produce a system that allows a user to view the collected data, and because the Rasp Pi was physically located far from the primary users of the dataset, thereby limiting direct access, I decided to make the data available on the network. To achieve this, I opted to go with HTML tables, because the dataset composition was going to remain fixed.
The HTML code to produce the web tables was written into the Python script. Every time the script ran, a text file received the raw HTML code, with updated data values inserted at their relevant positions (Figure 5). The key thing when creating the file was to save it with a .html extension. Once the HTML file was complete, it was stored to the web hosting folder to make the latest data available on the web page.
Figure 5: Tabular data with updated values from the locally stored data.
Initially, lighttpd  was the web server on the Rasp Pi, but I subsequently installed Apache  to push the envelope. Although Apache requires more resources than lighttpd, I found that the additional resource requirements did not degrade the performance of the software on the Rasp Pi. In fact, the project saw a net benefit from the use of Apache, with better security and wider community support, so I have continued to use it.
To enhance the capability of the software and the user experience, time-dependent graphs of some of the datasets supplemented the tabular data presentation. Gnuplot , a command-line graphing utility requiring limited computing resources, facilitated the visualization. With a Gnuplot Python plugin (gnuplot-py) , I added code to the main script to save the data in files for plotting, and the plotting code was also added to the main script.
I could create a file that would be used to generate the Gnuplot graphs.
//code used to generate the graph for the AT (Air Temperature) and DP (Dew Point) graph.
print "06  of  10 completed"
Initially the HTML table and the graphs were implemented on separate web pages, then the HTML code in the Python 2.7 script was updated with some simple Cascading Style Sheet (CSS) files, and the pages were combined into one. Moreover, the thumbnails were now linked to the full image (Figure 6).
Figure 6: Web page for combined HTML table and Gnuplot graphs.


Here, we are going to learn about the fwrite() function of library header stdio.h in C language with its syntax, example.
In the file handling, through the fwrite() function we write count number of objects of size length to the input stream filename from the array named as buffer. Its returns the number of objects that it will write to the file. If fewer number of objects will be written or EOF is encountered then it will throw an error.


The world is projected to have nine billion inhabitants by 2050 and the farms that will feed this rapidly growing population are more important than ever.
"We will have to produce as much food in the next 100 years as we've produced in the last 8,000 years," said Andy Whitman, director of Manomet's Natural Capital Initiative, during a Maine public radio interview last month.
In the face of this increasing demand, however, 21st century farmers are challenged by an unpredictable weather future of milder winters and hotter summers, an earlier spring, unpredictable rainfall and a pollinator shortage. Manomet scientists are working to make global agriculture more sustainable and resilient in the face of climate change.
At the same time, there is a farming operation experiencing many of the same issues right at Manomet's headquarters in southeastern Massachusetts.
The Holmes Farm is located at the Manomet Center's headquarters in Plymouth. For the last three years, Manomet has licensed Jennifer Friedrich to farm the land and restore the property's cranberry bogs. Friedrich has more than 10 years of farming experience and an extensive background working with cranberries.
Friedrich is hesitant to connect any single weather event to climate change, but she said that she has "already seen the effects of climate change" in the time that she has been farming.
To make the Holmes Farm cranberry bogs more resilient, she planted 70,000 "Scarlet Knight" variety cranberry vines in the newly renovated bogs. This variety, created at Rutgers University, was developed to be more resilient in a warming climate, resist disease, ripen early, and keep fresh for an extended time.
Friedrich said the new vines are part of a comprehensive climate change approach that also involves re-using water resources and minimized water withdrawal.
The new cranberry bogs will be maintained for the next two years as the vines grow out. The plants are expected to begin producing in 2015. According to Friedrich, cranberry growers use flash flooding and a heavier nitrogen application to prevent fruit from forming.
Aside from climate change adaptation, the farm also mirrors larger agriculture trends because of a general desire that people have to reconnect to their food production, Friedrich said.
Through a community supported agriculture (CSA) program, residents pay in advance and visit the farm weekly to pick up fresh vegetables and fruit. The CSA currently includes 70 families, most of which live within 5 miles of the farm. The operation distributed over 20,000 pounds of food over 24 weeks.
Signup for the CSA is available by calling (781) 987-4096 or online at www.theedibleyard.com. The farm stand is open to the public, and hours can be found on the website.


Dwaraka Engineerings, one of the leading manufacturers of Precision Machined Elevators Parts and Assemblies in Chennai, India, celebrated November as Quality Month. The theme of the month was "QUALITY STARTS WITH ME". Mr. S Rajasekaran, Chairman NIQR Chennai Branch was the Chief Guest for the celebrations on 6th November 2015. He visited the shop floor including the TQM corner and interacted with the associates. He addressed the employees and shared with them many of Quality concepts like COQ, FORM, FIT, and FUNCTION.


text:
Tokyo 2020 Games shot in the arm for aging nation
Sep 8, 2013 at 9:02 AM Sep 8, 2013 at 9:08 AM
TOKYO (AP) — A half-century after the 1964 Tokyo games heralded Japan's reemergence from destruction and defeat in World War II, the city's triumphant bid to host the 2020 games is giving this aging nation a chance to revive both its sagging spirits and its stagnating economy.
"In most competitions, if you don't win a gold medal, you can also win maybe a bronze one," Tokyo Gov. Naoki Inose told reporters in Buenos Aires after the International Olympic Committee chose his city to host the 2020 summer games. "In this battle, there was only the gold."
Hundreds of Japanese athletes and officials gathered downtown for the early morning announcement shouted "Banzai!" jumping up and down and hugging in unusually demonstrative reactions to the announcement the International Olympic Committee had opted for Tokyo's guarantees of safety and stability, despite the festering nuclear crisis in its northeast.
Japan's capital defeated Istanbul in the final round of voting at the International Olympic Committee meeting in Buenos Aires, after Madrid was eliminated in the first round.
The decision suggests IOC members were convinced by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's reassurances that radiation leaks from the nuclear plant wrecked in the March 2011 earthquake and tsunami disaster pose no threat to Tokyo or the games.
The 1964 games were relatively bare bones by today's standards.
"There were no facilities, no food to eat; no barbells; no place to practice. That was what it was like," said Yoshinobu Miyake, a featherweight weightlifting gold medalist at the 1964 games who recalls walking the streets of Tokyo with a crooked barbell in hand, looking for a place to practice.
"But still, we had to win — so it was a country that managed to go on with just a hungry spirit, a Japanese spirit," he said.
To prepare for the 1964 games, Japan rushed to build expressways and introduced its first high-speed "Shinkansen" bullet trains. The games won it worldwide recognition for its growing affluence and economic power, and were a turning point for the country's athletics, as it captured 16 golds, 29 medals in total, trailing only the United States and Soviet Union.
This time, many here consider the Olympics a symbol of recovery both from economic stagnation and from the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that left more than 19,000 people dead or missing on Japan's northeast coast.
"From here on, things will get better," said Yoko Kurahashi, 65, whose high school was just across the street from Tokyo's Metropolitan Gymnasium, the site for the 1964 games gymnastics and water polo competitions.
"This will help invigorate us," Kurohashi said as she stood outside Tokyo city hall with her 94-year-old mother-in-law watching hundreds of other Tokyo residents celebrating with gold streamers and balloons.
Japan is counting on the games to boost both the economy and morale. Two decades after its economic ascent was cut short by the bursting of its financial bubble, its population shrinking and rapidly aging, it can use all the help it can get, said Yukio Takahashi, who was jubilant as he took his morning walk with his wife in a suburban park that was a main 1964 Olympic venue.
"This will help us to not lose confidence," Takahashi said. "It gives us a goal, something to strive for."
Surveys showed 70 percent of Tokyoites favored the bid.
Hosting the 2020 games could yield positive economic effects of over 4 trillion yen ($40.4 billion) and create more than 150,000 jobs, according to some estimates, more than half of it new demand for construction, sales of Olympics-related goods and purchases of new televisions and other appliances.
Hosting the Olympics offers a strong excuse for pork-barrel-style construction projects. In reality, greater Tokyo, home to 35 million people, is facing a major overhaul of its aging infrastructure anyway, nowhere more so than in crumbling sports venues due to be refurbished for the 2020 Games.
The government hopes to boost visits by foreign tourists to 30 million a year by then, from the 8.36 million who came to Japan last year.
Improving consumer confidence is vital for the success of Abe's economic recovery strategy, which hinges on stimulating inflation by pumping more money into the economy, keeping interest rates near zero and improving Japan's competitiveness through a wide range of reforms.
Already, Olympics hopes have lifted share prices in construction, real estate and tourism-related companies.
Whether the Olympics, seven years away, would bring the sort of boost needed right now remains to be seen. Unless Japanese companies, long wary of betting on a shrinking domestic market, step up investments and raise wages, price hikes are more likely to discourage rather than spur more spending in the long run.
The ultimate economic impact from holding the games varies from city to city. The 2008 games were a strong plus for Beijing, yielding an impressive new airport, subway lines and other welcome infrastructure. London's 2012 games likewise were a boost for the British economy.
But the Bird's Nest stadium, the centerpiece of the 2008 games, stands neglected as a $500 million souvenir. In Athens, many of the venues from the 2004 Olympics are desolate and weed-infested, and the Greek economy is in crisis.
Although Japan has a national debt amounting to twice the size of its economy, Tokyo itself has a $4.5 billion "reserve fund" for infrastructure projects for the games. Japan's status as the world's third-biggest economy and its strong links to Olympic sponsors were additional strengths. The huge Asian market was another draw for the IOC.
Such assets outweighed concerns over leaks of radioactive water from the tsunami-crippled Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear plant. But they also will add to pressures on Tokyo to resolve the crisis.
"We have made promises," Abe said after the decision. "Now we have a responsibility to meet those expectations."
Associated Press writer Emily Wang contributed to this report.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


HomeWhat we doEnvironmentEnergyLondon Heat Map - helping decentralised energy projectsWhat is the London Heat Map?
What is the London Heat Map?
The heat map is an online tool you can use to find opportunities for decentralised energy (DE) projects in London.
Local councils can use the map to help develop energy master plans. These can in turn help shape DE policies in local development frameworks and climate change strategies.
Developers can use the map to help them meet the decentralised energy policies in the London Plan.
We'll be updating the map regularly alongside the Energy for London programme.
The Mayor wants to ensure that 25% of London's energy supply comes from decentralised energy (DE) by 2025.
To achieve this aim, in 2008 we created a decentralised energy programme to support and quicken uptake of district heating.
Our initial focus was on finding opportunities for district heating networks through heat mapping and energy masterplanning. We also wanted to build capacity within local councils to run DE projects. Finally, we wanted to ensure planning policies encouraged DE in new developments.
From 2011, we continued our support through the Decentralised Energy for London programme, with support from the European Investment Bank's ELENA facility.
By the end of July 2015, this programme had helped bringt 13 DE projects to market and attracted over £100m worth of investment.
This was succeeded in April 2016 by Energy for London (EfL). This programme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. It will help London to bring in large scale DE projects and make huge carbon dioxide savings.
Explore the interactive London Heat Map.
Who uses the Heat Map?
Explanation of how different groups in London use the heat map.
Download the carbon calculator tool, publications, reports, user manual and data from the resource library.
We are always looking to hear from users. Give your feedback on how we can improve the London Heat Map.


text:
Home » Real Estate Resource » Vacation Spots that Are Great for Full-time Living Too
Vacation Spots that Are Great for Full-time Living Too
By Jamie Richardson | August 29, 2017
TwitterFacebookLinkedIn1Buffer1PinterestCopyReddit
We often visit a place for either a summer or winter vacation and wish we could live there all year round. For many people that just remains a dream, but for the more adventurous ones who are willing to move to a new city or state, it can become a reality.
Here a few vacation places that double as an interesting new home base.
The five boroughs of New York receive fewer mentions than Manhattan, but the majority of people who live in this vast city stay in one of these boroughs. While the tourists flock to the attractions of Manhattan with its theater district, Empire State Building, and it's many museums, locals enjoying a slower-paced existence outside of the hustle and bustle of the big smoke.
When settling outside of the Manhattan area, the prices of real estate become far more reasonable. What costs several million dollars in Manhattan is available for six figures elsewhere. The square footage of indoor and outdoor space is much more generous and when researched intelligently, the neighborhoods feel safer for kids.
The city of Boston offers visitors plenty to feast their eyes on. Whether it's their undying love for the Red Sox sports team, dining on oysters or the views around the city, tourists enjoy the eclectic mix and specificity that is Boston.
Looking beyond local attractions, in recent years the city has become modernized with new real estate popping up all over. Neighborhoods that previously weren't that safe to walk around in the evening have been transformed into redeveloped places to spend time with loved ones or the family without worrying about anything.
Portland is attractive to people moving into the city. The access to water is certainly one interest with kayaking being popular here. Walking with a loved one across the cobbled stones on the streets around the Old Port is a pleasant thing to do some evenings too.
What's noticeable for people who wish to own real estate in a place that's not overrun with busy nightlife or raucous behavior is that Portland has a reputation for being mellow. The laid-back lifestyle and affordable real estate are creating converts out of transplanted people who've chosen to make the city their home.
The big resorts see summer and winter visitors' eager to explore all that Jackson Hole has to offer. The surrounding areas offer excellent views into the distance with incredible views from isolated properties offering complete privacy. There's also more urban living available when choosing to live closer to daily activities. While you can still enjoy the abundance of nature close by. There is a good selection of schools nearby too.
The real estate in Jackson Hole, Wyoming is affordable for the area. There are ranches, houses, and even business premises for sale for people who wish to move and setup a new business in the area.
Finding a great new place to live with affordable real estate isn't the easiest thing to do. We hope this run-down of some of the better places to vacation and move to peak your interest.
Jamie Richardson
Jamie is a 5-year freelance writer who enjoys real estate. He is currently a Realty Biz News Contributor.
Latest posts by Jamie Richardson (see all)
5 Tips To Consider When Buying Property Abroad - January 27, 2023
How To Use Pens To Connect With Your Customers - January 22, 2023
Moving House On A Budget: 5 Tips To Make It A Reality - January 18, 2023


text:
All Information about Law News
Case Lawyer
Case Attorney
December 4, 2022 Loki
Grand jury A body of citizens who hearken to evidence of criminal allegations, which is offered by the prosecutors, and decide whether or not there could be possible cause to consider a person dedicated an offense. Exempt belongings Property that a debtor is allowed to retain, free from the claims of collectors who don't have liens on the property. Executory contracts Contracts or leases under which each parties to the agreement have duties remaining to be carried out.
Most types of ADR aren't binding, and involve referral of the case to a impartial get together corresponding to an arbitrator or mediator.
This does not imply your listening to shall be finished in half-hour though.
What to call the Judge depends on the kind of the Judge and the courtroom you might be in.
Public defenders – Represent defendants who can't afford an attorney in legal matters.
For additional info, please contact the Supreme Court in the county the place you reside before attempting to file your divorce papers. The alleged conduct questioned in Cunha's disbarment just isn't isolated. However, providing legal help relies on available sources and personnel.
Federalism additionally plays a main position in figuring out the authority of case law in a selected courtroom. As a end result, a judgment rendered within the Ninth Circuit will not be binding in the Second Circuit but will have persuasive authority. However, choices rendered by the Supreme Court of the United States are binding on all federal courts, and on state courts relating to problems with the Constitution and federal law. Historically legal professionals in most European international locations had been addressed with the title of doctor, and nations outdoors of Europe have usually adopted the follow of the European nation which had policy influence through colonization. The first university levels, starting with the law faculty of the University of Bologna within the 11th century, have been all law levels and doctorates.
Better Understand Your Authorized Problem
Jurisprudence – The research of law and the construction of the authorized system. Inculpatory evidence – Evidence which tends to show the defendant's guilt. Felony – A crime carrying a penalty of greater than a year in jail. Exculpatory evidence – Evidence which tends to indicate the defendant's innocence.
CaseFleet's case administration software program empowers attorneys to build successful cases with tools for reviewing proof, organizing facts, and identifying trends. Costs and expenses can get significant, particularly if settlement doesn't happen till close to trial. The lawyer's last proportion with all fees, prices, and bills might find yourself totaling between 45 and 60{3e472f223d8452e925dfb00ddf263ad9028c03824168062189712d6357c16798} of the settlement. The Law Library lawyers can not give authorized advice nor assist with contested cases. Travis County has necessary case review for uncontested family law circumstances without legal professionals.
However, most legal aid offices won't deal with employment discrimination circumstances. Some workplaces do take instances where individuals have been denied additional time pay or been subjected to harmful working conditions. Depending on the sort of case that you have, some civil rights organizations could be fascinated within the case. See our resources web page for more details about nationwide, state, and local groups that present help. It is frequent practice for the settlement examine to be sent to the lawyer.
Speak To A Lawyer
Equitable Pertaining to civil fits in "fairness" quite than in "law." In English legal historical past, the courts of "law" may order the payment of damages and could afford no other remedy . A separate courtroom of "fairness" may order somebody to do something or to stop to do one thing (e.g., injunction). In American jurisprudence, the federal courts have both authorized and equitable energy, but the distinction continues to be an essential one.
A concurring opinion agrees with the decision of the bulk opinion, however provides further comment or clarification or even a wholly different reason for reaching the identical outcome. Only the majority opinion can serve as binding precedent in future circumstances. Federal public defender organization As supplied for within the Criminal Justice Act, a corporation established inside a federal judicial circuit to symbolize criminal defendants who can't afford an enough defense. Each group is supervised by a federal public defender appointed by the court docket of appeals for the circuit. Federal public defender An lawyer employed by the federal courts on a full-time basis to provide legal protection to defendants who're unable to afford counsel. The judiciary administers the federal defender program pursuant to the Criminal Justice Act.
From time tracking to accumulating fee and everything in between, MyCase simplifies an otherwise difficult process with complete end-to-end billing, saving your firm treasured time month after month. During the post-trial stage, one or both of the parties may attraction the judgment that was entered at trial, or the profitable get together may attempt to acquire the judgment that was entered. Learn about civil instances – the usual of proof the court docket makes use of, common forms of civil circumstances filed, and the levels of a civil case. Make certain to gather the contact data of all other motorists concerned within the accident. This contains private information corresponding to names, telephone numbers, license plate numbers, as well as their insurance coverage info. This shall be essential later on as you search compensation for resulting damages.
Probation – A sentencing different to imprisonment during which the court releases convicted defendants under supervision as long as certain circumstances are observed. Plea deal – Agreement between the defendant and prosecutor where the defendant pleads guilty in exchange for a concession by the prosecutor. It might include lesser charges, a dismissal of costs, or the prosecutor's advice to the choose of a more lenient sentence. When a mistrial is asserted, the trial must begin again, beginning with the choice of a new jury.
"attorney" Vs "lawyer"
Seychellois Lawyer Drops 'Missing $50m' Case, International Law Agency Cries Foul
Legal And Tax Updates
Representing Yourself In A Civil Case
White & Case Llp Worldwide Law Agency, Global Legislation Practice
Attorneys' Fees In Your Private Harm Case


text:
Der Kairostein, auch bekannt als Kairo-Fragment Nr. 1 (Kurzbezeichnungen: C1, K1), ist eines der beiden größeren Bruchstücke des Annalensteins der 5. Dynastie, welcher insgesamt zusammen mit dem Palermostein und anderen kleineren Teilstücken ursprünglich die Namen der Könige (Pharaonen) aus prädynastischer Zeit bis zur 5. Dynastie (2504–2347 v. Chr.) enthielt. Dieses Teilstück bekam seinen Namen aufgrund seines jetzigen Aufbewahrungsortes in der Sammlung des Ägyptischen Museums von Kairo, in welcher sich zusammen mit dem Kairostein noch vier weitere Teilstücke (Kairo-Fragmente Nr. 2–5 / C2–C5 / K2–K5) desselben Annalensteins befinden.

Grundlagen – Annalenstein
Siehe auch den Hauptartikel Annalenstein der 5. Dynastie

Ehemalige Form
Bei dem ursprünglichen Annalenstein handelt sich um eine schwarze Dioritplatte, deren Maße wohl 220 × 140 cm betragen haben. Aus unbekannten Gründen ist das Artefakt in mehrere Fragmente zerbrochen. Die beiden größten Fragmente werden aufgrund ihrer Ausstellungsorte "Palermostein" und "Kairostein" genannt, ein deutlich kleines Fragment (P1) befindet sich im Petrie Museum of Egyptian Archaeology in London. Die vermutliche Gesamtbeschriftung wurde von Wissenschaftlern in verschiedenen Varianten aus allen bekannten Fragmenten und den darauf befindlichen tatsächlichen Teilbeschriftungen letztlich nur rückerschlossen. Alle Fragmente sind daher noch heute Gegenstand einer nicht abgeschlossenen Forschung auch und besonders zur ursprünglichen Gesamtbeschriftung des Annalensteins und möglicher Interpretationen derselben.

Ehemalige Gesamtbeschriftung
Die Steintafel ist vorder- und rückseitig beschriftet, wobei vor allem die Vorderseite in modern wirkende, horizontale Tabellen und Zeilen aufgegliedert ist. In der obersten Zeile sind die Namen prädynastischer Herrscher in rechteckigen Vignetten eingetragen. Darunter folgen sämtliche Pharaonen der 1. bis 4. Dynastie. In den freien Zwischenzeilen, welche die Tabellen trennen, sind die Herrschernamen nebst Titeln und Kartuschennamen eingetragen, sowie die Namen der jeweiligen königlichen Mutter. Die Namen der Könige sind stets so positioniert, dass sie exakt mittig über der zugehörigen Tabelle stehen. Direkt darunter werden von rechts nach links in schmalen Fenstern die wichtigsten Jahresereignisse, z. B. das Horusgeleit und die Viehzählung, aufgelistet, aber auch besondere Geschehnisse. In einer sehr dünnen Extrazeile unter jedem Fenster wird der jahresaktuelle Stand der Nilschwemme angegeben.

Die Herrschertabellen enden stets mit der Angabe, in welchem Kalenderjahr der König verstarb. Die Jahreszählung für den Nachfolgekönig beginnt danach aber nicht mit der Regierungsübernahme, sondern nennt nur das Jahr, in welchem der jeweilige König den Thron bestieg. Als Kalenderform wurde der ägyptische Verwaltungskalender gewählt, dessen Beginn immer mit dem 1. Achet I in der ägyptischen Jahreszeit  "Überschwemmung" ansetzte. Nach diesem Prinzip ist die gesamte Front der ehemaligen Gedenktafel aufgebaut. Die Rückseite widmet sich den Königen der 5. Dynastie.

Beschriftung des Kairosteins
Die nach wie vor vorhandene Beschriftung auf dem Kairostein stellt also lediglich einen größeren Teilausschnitt der Gesamtbeschriftung des einstigen Annalensteins dar.

Auf der Vorderseite des Kairosteins sind die Eintragungen für folgende Könige lesbar:

 Djer (neun Jahre)
 Ninetjer (acht Jahre)
 Anedjib (ein Jahr)
 Semerchet (acht Jahre)
 Qaa (ein Jahr)
 Sechemchet (neun Jahre)

weitere Personen:

 Chenethapi (Mutter von Djer und wahrscheinlich die Gemahlin von König Teti I.)
 Batiires (Mutter von Semerchet und wahrscheinlich die Gemahlin von König Anedjib)

Auf der Rückseite des Kairosteins lässt die Einteilung in Fenstern stark nach, teilweise ist die Inschrift dort unvollendet.

Siehe auch
 Königsannalen des Alten Reiches
 Liste der Pharaonen
 Königspapyrus Turin
 Königsliste von Abydos (Sethos I.)
 Königsliste von Abydos (Ramses II.)
 Königsliste von Sakkara
 Königsliste von Karnak

Literatur
 Patrick F. O'Mara: The Cairo Stone: Questions of Workmanship and Provenance. In: Göttinger Miszellen: Beiträge zur ägyptologischen Diskussion. Nr. 168, Göttingen 1999, , S. 73–82.
 Patrick F. O'Mara: The Cairo Stone II. The Question of Authenticity. In: Göttinger Miszellen: Beiträge zur ägyptologischen Diskussion. Nr. 170, Göttingen 1999, S. 69–82.
 Patrick F. O'Mara: Is the Cairo Stone a Fake? An Example of Proof by Default. In: Discussions in Egyptology. (DE) Band 4, Oxford 1986, , S. 33–40.
 Wolfgang Helck: Untersuchungen zur Thinitenzeit (= Ägyptologische Abhandlungen. (ÄA) Band 45). Harrassowitz, Wiesbaden 1987, ISBN 3-447-02677-4.

Weblinks
 Kairo Fragment
 Kairo Fragment – Rekonstruktion/Transkription nach J.D. Degree
 Kairo Fragment (C1) mit weiteren Teilstücken (C3–C5) – diverse Rekonstruktionen/Transkriptionen

Einzelnachweise

Königsliste (Altes Ägypten)
Altägyptische Inschrift
Archäologischer Fund (Ägypten)
5. Dynastie (Ägypten)
Ägyptisches Museum (Kairo)
Archäologischer Fund (Afrika)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
from __future__ import unicode_literals
import frappe, json
from frappe.model.document import Document
from frappe.utils.jinja import validate_template

class StandardReply(Document):
	def validate(self):
		validate_template(self.response)

@frappe.whitelist()
def get_standard_reply(template_name, doc):
	'''Returns the processed HTML of a standard reply with the given doc'''
	if isinstance(doc, basestring):
		doc = json.loads(doc)

	standard_reply = frappe.get_doc("Standard Reply", template_name)
	return frappe.render_template(standard_reply.response, doc)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


'Tis the season to give! Many of our families enjoyed celebrating Thanksgiving last week and we want to continue to encourage the giving spirit. Giving to others or the local community is a simple way to help make the world a better place. It's an effective way to demonstrate love, kindness, and compassion, and it often encourages everyone to feel a strong sense of gratitude.
Giving is an important life skill that parents can help their children start to learn at a young age until they are young adults. There are countless ways that children can give back to their community and develop a strong sense of gratitude.
Scholars with musical or theatrical talents can use their skills to give back! Scholars who can play an instrument, sing, dance or act can use their skills to perform at local community centers, assisted living homes, homeless shelters and much more. Parents can support their children by helping them schedule and arrange a voluntary performance for their community. A live performance is sure to bring a smile to those in the community who may need it most. Plus, this type of performing experience could help talented scholars start their journey to a professional career in entertainment. Live performances are an interactive, engaging and low-cost way for scholars to give back to their community.
Donating is one of the classic ways to give and it's often associated with donating funds. However, scholars can give back to their community by donating other types of goods. For example, parents can help their children gather toys, books, and clothes that they no longer use to give to other children. Or, they could collect and donate canned foods, personal care items, and other non-perishable supplies to help families in need. Donating doesn't have to mean a financial donation. Parents can help children give back to their community by donating a wide variety of supplies.
Some parents may find that their child is artistically gifted. Scholars who enjoy creating art projects can use their talents to create thoughtful gifts as a way of giving back to others. Scholars can create paintings, sketches, sculptures and more to give to children who are sick in hospitals, active or retired military, policeman and fireman, or to elderly people living in assisted living homes. Families with older scholars may want to challenge them to create art that could be auctioned off at a local charitable event. Art projects are a simple, fun, low-cost way that scholars can give back to people within their community.
Of course, scholars can always choose to give financial donations by organizing fundraisers. Families can work together to organize fundraisers and generate financial donations for the charity of their choice. Families with younger scholars may want to help them open a lemonade stand that will donate all proceeds to a specific charity. Or, scholars can choose to collect donations and participate in charitable walks or relays. Older scholars may want to prepare treats for a bake sale or organize a car wash to raise funds for a charity of their choice. Fundraisers may require a bit more supervision from parents, but they are certainly effective ways to give back to local charities.
Scholars can choose to give back to the environment, too! Parents can help their scholars collect and deposit recyclable items. It's no secret that recycling helps save and protect our environment. It helps eliminate litter from local parks, beaches, and neighborhoods and it helps reduce waste in landfills and in the ocean. Families can talk about the different types of items that can be recycled and what they are used to create. Scholars can start by collecting recyclable items at their own home. Then, parents can help them deposit the items at a local recycling center. Once scholars feel more comfortable with the recycling process they can consider expanding by collecting recyclable materials from their friends and neighbors. Recycling is a great way for scholars who are passionate about the environment to give back this month and all year long!


text:
You Are Here: Home Aristocrat » Birds Of Pay
Birds Of Pay Pokie
Some people may think that pokies with a wildlife theme are a bit overdone while others can't get enough of them, but whatever their opinion, few could deny that Birds of Pay from Aristocrat Gaming is a visual treat, with cute animals across the reels giving it lots of appeal.
Eagle-eyed players will note that the game title is a pun, as the main character of the game is a bald eagle who pays out the biggest wins and appears in bonus games to reward extra spins and more. But it's not all about the big bird, as the other animals can also land some nice wins and there's the ever-present playing card icons to make up the lower value prizes.
About Birds of Pay
A beautiful image of a mountainous forest sits behind the reels, and it's so well drawn that it's hard to tell if this is a photo or just done by a very talented artist. Whatever it is, it looks great and sets the theme up very well.
To the side of the reels it states that Birds of Pay has 30 lines, which means there are 30 different ways that symbols can land across them to form a winning combination. Players get paid out any time 3 or more of the same symbol stop across a line on sequential reels running from the left, with 4 or 5 on a line being worth substantially more.
Anyone in a bit of a flap about how to play this pokie should study the paytable which lists how much each winning combination will pay, how the bonus features are triggered, and what happens during them.
The playing card 9 through to A symbols have the lower values, with the 9 for example, paying up to 60x the line bet when it stops right across the reels and the A being worth up to 100x. But it's the animal symbols that players will really want to see and not just because they are very cute, but also because they are worth more.
We see an otter, some kind of prairie dog, racoon, baby deer and a fox, all of which are just as appealing to look at as the forest background and all pulling a face to make them look even better. The fox is the most valuable of the standard symbols, with just 2 being enough for a win of 5x the line bet and a full set of 5 being worth 500x.
Animal symbols can be stacked several high on a reel for a greater chance of lining them up and getting a win, plus there are little animated sequences with each one if they make up a line.
Birds of Pay
5 1 1 5 Birds Of Pay
Bald Eagle Bonuses
The eagle takes pride of place as the most valuable symbol, being worth up to 1500x for a line across the reels and also being the wild, acting as all except the scatter to help complete winning combinations. In normal play, it's surrounded by a square frame, but as we shall see, that can change in the bonus features.
A nest of golden eggs is a scatter symbol, meaning that it can be scattered in any positions, while it will also pay multiples of the total bet rather than just the line bet when 3, 4 or 5 appear. 3x, 10x or 50x the bet will be awarded, followed by entry to a bonus game.
It's an interesting round where players are given 8, 12 or 20 free spins depending on how many scatters triggered them and during which, any wilds in circular frames that appear,will stay in position for 1 or 2 Sticky Wild respins.
Another feature that can be awarded at any time, either in the base game or during the free spins, are the Extra Bonus Wilds, where the eagle can be placed in a random number of positions, plus an extra one in a star-shaped frame will replace a number of other symbols. Up to 15 wilds can appear this way, and once they have all been found, players receive any resulting payouts.
Free to Play Aristocrat Slot Machine Games
Lucky Count
Aristocrat Slot Machine Reviews (No Free Games)
2Can
Aztec Goddess
Butterfly Kiss
Celtic Queen
Crusader's Heart
Dragon's Vault
Fortunes of Atlantis
Genie's Riches
Mammoth Thunder
Moon Drifter
Mr Cashman
Party in Rio
Phoenix Riches
Polynesian Pearl
Shaman's Dream
Shaman's Magic
Stormin' Jackpots
Wild Ameri'coins
Wild Lepre'Coins
Wild Splash
Wonder 4 Stars
Zorro: The Tale of the Lost Gold
While Birds of Pay will surely attract lovers of the natural world, the interesting gameplay and bonus features should bring in flocks of people who have no interest in the subject at all.
Smooth animations, some decent wins even with the playing card symbols and the wild substitutions, all make the base game a pleasing experience, but once the scatter symbol has done it's trick and launched the free spins with sticky wilds, then players should be in for some even better rewards.


This is an app for musicians on stage!
Imagine being able to have all your songs in one place!
or on a foot control, change page to the next song.
Send requests with bluetooth for the next song to the other band members.
Send set lists and songs via bluetooth to other iPads.
You can print set-lists and texts to a WiFi printer.
A simple text editor to write your chords and lyrics.
Import (copy & paste) directly from internet to All My Songs.
be done from your desktop computer and then be uploaded to your iPad.
You can scan directly into the program with the built in scanner.
You can turn pages with a Bluetooth foot controller.
together with a quint and cadence circle.
easier way to handle your notes and lyrics on stage.


A Good Job Well Done. Or Not.
In Praise Of The Older Person?
We'll Meet Again – Or Will We?
Women are delaying the decision to have children increasingly longer due to a myriad of economic, professional and emotional reasons. Jennifer Lipman reflects on this and asks if there is ever a 'right time' to have a baby?
Married for several years, established in my career and healthy, the baby questions aren't new, but the pace has ramped up since I entered my fourth decade. Once, this might have been understandable. But the average age of first-time mothers has been creeping up for decades: 28.6 years in 2015, with more than half of births to women over 30. I'm hardly an anomaly.
But, stepping away from the media hubbub, is there a right time to have a baby? From a biological perspective, the consensus is: yes. This is largely a concern for women, although as Fertility UK director Jane Knight points out, men are also affected by reproductive ageing – but, as she explains, a woman aged 19-26 has twice the chance of pregnancy compared with a woman aged 35-39 years. Generally, she says, it takes longer for older women to conceive; when they do they are more prone to miscarriages and pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure, and caesarean deliveries are also more common.
Equally, says Susan Seenan, chief executive of Fertility Network UK, interventions such as IVF become less effective. "We've done an awful lot in reproductive science but the one thing we can't change is the basic biological fact that the older you get it's harder." And while fertility problems can occur at any age, younger women simply have more time to address them and still have a family of the size they want.
But, as Clare Murphy, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service's director of external affairs, observes, "those risks need to be kept in perspective". Given that last year abortions for women over 35 hit a record high of 29,471, it's clear that natural conception is more than possible in one's thirties and forties.
"It simply isn't the case that your fertility falls off a cliff when you hit 35," stresses Murphy, arguing that the evidence puts chances of conceiving within a year when you are in your late 30s at not far off what they were in your late 20s.
When it comes to an emotional right time, everyone is different. "We all know some mature and capable teenagers and some immature and inadequate 30-somethings," points out Edwards. But for most, the decision is contingent on personality, relationships and career.
Certainly, gone are the days when we left school, married quickly and had a honeymoon baby. Modern women settle down later – marrying on average at 34 – and are better educated and more likely to be pursuing careers than their mothers, perhaps even being the breadwinner. Many want to travel or nurture personal passions, or have children alongside their peers.
Career, certainly, is a key factor for me. Research has found that a woman's lifetime earning potential is significantly boosted by delaying the having of children. It's not only about maternity leave; it's the impact of working part-time on promotion chances, or the prospect of balancing a demanding job with childcare. While men increasingly share the load, not least thanks to shared parental leave, women's careers are more commonly affected.
Crucially, it's not about having it all, but often about being sure you can make ends meet. Parenting is an expensive business – the Centre of Economic and Business Research estimates that it costs £229,251 to raise a child. Yet millennials started their careers during an economic crisis; even now wages are lower in real terms and many are priced out of the property market. For many couples, delaying having a baby is about waiting until they can rent more than a one bedroom flat.
For Jessica, it was like someone flipped a switch. "My biological clock went off with a bang! I'm not someone who goes gooey-eyed over other people's babies but I'd see mums and kids and think, I want that. I'd daydream about being a mum." But, as she acknowledges, everyone feels differently.
Yes, we should be wise to the risks of delaying; as Seenan says, we need better fertility education. But ultimately it's about balance – and a bit of sensitivity to the very real considerations involved wouldn't go amiss. People need to stop asking women about their reproductive plans. "It not only puts a lot of pressure on people who aren't trying, but also on people who are and are not successful," sighs Seenan. "It's upsetting to constantly be told to get a move on. It's a private issue." Hear, hear!


text:
12 ways you're helping us transform communities, in 2019 and beyond
Home/Blogs/12 ways you're helping us transform communities, in 2019 and beyond
Our supporters have helped accomplish some pretty incredible things in 2019. This year, we've created 15 city parks, improved access to trails in 20 communities, conserved 84,855 acres of open space, and transformed 14 schoolyards into green, welcoming places to gather and play.
When you join The Trust for Public Land, you're joining a nationwide coalition that believes in the power of land for people to forge healthier, more resilient, more equitable communities. Want to know more about where we're headed together?
Protect 1 million acres of land
This summer, residents of Bethel, Maine, marked the creation of the Bethel Community Forest—980 acres of new public land with endless potential for trails, wildlife, and education.
We'll keep working with communities across the country to protect 1 million acres of land that support equitable access to the outdoors and local control over the places that matter.
Join us to save a forest near you.
Create 35 new parks
Bozeman residents are getting to know the new Story Mill Community Park—a 60-acre expanse with trails, a dog park, gardens, a playground, and lawns for community events.
Our participatory design process made a space for hundreds of people to contribute time, ideas, and energy to make this extraordinary park come to life. In the coming years, we'll cut the ribbon on 35 brand new, transformative community parks like Story Mill.
Join us to create community.
Open green schoolyards in 20 school districts
We've created more than 250 green schoolyards across the country, giving millions of people a new place to play within a 10-minute walk of home.
Along the way, we've learned a lot about how to make schoolyards work for the entire community. In the coming years, we're looking forward to growing and sharing our green schoolyards expertise with 20 more districts across the country, including Dallas, Atlanta, and Tacoma.
Join us to make recess fun again.
Build 1,000 miles of trails
Since it opened in 2008, the Legacy Trail has offered Sarasota County residents a safe, healthy, fun option for people-powered transit. With two recent purchases of old railways, we're paving the way for the trail to extend nine miles into downtown Sarasota by 2022.
The Legacy Trail extension is one of the ways we'll build 1,000 miles of trails in the next five years.
Join us to blaze new trails.
Protect 1,000 miles of rivers
This year we added 72 acres to the Murphy Wildlife Management Area along the Cannon River in southern Minnesota, creating new public access to the riverfront within an hour's drive of half the state's population.
In the next five years, we'll keep working to conserve clean water and improve access to nature in communities across the country by protecting 1,000 miles of rivers and streams.
Join us to keep our waterways public.
Use data to pinpoint where parks are needed most
The new Woonasquatucket Adventure Park in Providence, Rhode Island, was designed for teenagers, by teenagers, with a bike pump track and a practice area for the local parkour team.
It's a vital place for the neighborhood's kids to play and test their limits—and it's one of the only parks in the neighborhood, where nearly 40 percent of families live below the poverty line. Our comprehensive park access database will help us pinpoint where park investments can make the biggest difference for families and communities in the next five years.
Join us to build parks on point.
Increase community engagement by 75%
This year, we transformed the vacant asphalt schoolyard at Philadelphia's Benjamin Franklin Academics Plus School into a vibrant green space, decked out with cool murals and games that double as math lessons.
At each community schoolyard we create, we'll increase community engagement by 75%.
Join us to put schoolyards to work.
Create new trails funding
Hikers celebrated a major milestone for the Pacific Crest Trail when we protected over 10,000 acres on the Trinity Divide in Northern California in June. The deal closed the largest gap in public ownership along the entire P.C.T.
Your contribution will help increase funding for trails, allowing us to leverage public funding with philanthropic support.
Join us to close more gaps.
Fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund
We scored a major legislative victory in March, when Congress voted to permanently renew the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
But the fight isn't over. In the years to come, we'll keep working with lawmakers and grassroots advocates to secure full funding—$900 million annually—for this critical federal conservation program.
Join us to invest in parks and lands for all.
Engage 50 mayors to advocate for parks
In Los Angeles's Hyde Park neighborhood, the nearest playground was a mile walk on busy streets. So we teamed up with neighbors to envision a safe haven for their families and created the new South Victoria Avenue Park.
Mayors across the country have joined our 10 Minute Walk campaign, making the "100% Promise" to ensure a quality park or open space for all within a 10-minute walk of home by 2050. More than 280 mayors have signed on so far, and in the coming years, we'll engage at least 50 more.
Join us to make the case for parks in your community.
Keep schoolyards 10% cooler on hot days
The yard at Melrose Leadership Academy in Oakland was mostly concrete with almost no shade—dangerously hot in the summer, and not able to absorb and slow any rainwater during winter storms. So we worked with the community to remove pavement and replace it with trees and native plants, which will absorb stormwater and keep kids cool in the shade.
In the next five years, the schoolyards we renovate will stay 10% cooler, reducing the risk of heat illness for students and neighbors.
Join us to keep the cool in school.
New trails in 50 communities
The Piney Creek Trail winds 16 miles through residential neighborhoods in Aurora, Colorado. This year, we helped Arapahoe County build a connection between Piney Creek and the High Plains Trail, growing an interconnected network of safe off-street routes throughout the Denver metro area.
The Piney Creek project shows the success of our Colorado Community Trails Program. In the coming years, we'll establish new trails in 50 communities.
Join us to make great connections.
In the years to come, we'll keep working together to reimagine and realize the power of land for people to create stronger communities that move society forward. And you can help: From now until December 31 your tax-deductible gift to The Trust for Public Land will be matched dollar for dollar. Give today.
Deborah Van Etten
Larry Trover
Is any information available from TPL about Camp Mowana outside Mansfield, Ohio?
Harvey Neese
I am working on a project of mine which starts with a letter to one of my Republican Representatives and will ask her to submit something to the TRCP whom she seems to be close to . It entails informing the president how important our public lands are to the people, our children and grandchildren. The suggestion is for the Representative to make contact with TRCP organization in Wash. DC so that somehow, some way, Mr. Fosburgh could meet with the president and try to explain to him how important our public lands are for the nation. I don't believe Trump will be impeached but he may understand that he will have a problem in the next election. Maybe he can understand this situation and finally, once back away from his attacks on the environment and our public lands.
The following was listed as a 2019 priority project for The Trust for Public Land. Was this land ever purchased and secured for the public? "Rio Tinto-Southern California Status: Purchase Pending The Rio Tinto-Death Valley property is the largest privately owned inholding in Death Valley National Park (DVNP) and one of the largest inholdings in all of the National Park Services' western units. It is also the viewshed of the park's Zabriskie Point, a popular overlook showcasing the area's geologic wonders and kaleidoscope of colors. The Trust for Public land is working with the landowner-a subsidiary of one of the world's largest mining companies-to purchase the land so that it can be protected and enjoyed as part of DVNP for generations to come." Thank you!


text:
Prass is a surname. Notable people with the surname include:

 Aleksander Prass (1891–1932), Estonian politician
 Alexander Prass (born 2001), Austrian footballer
 Brigitte Prass (born 1963), Romanian swimmer
 Fernando Prass (born 1978), Brazilian footballer
 Natalie Prass (born 1986), American singer-songwriter


text:
Home » federal government
Senator Ron Johnson calls on mothers to get government help to staff child care centers | local government
Alexander Shur | Wisconsin State Journal Sen. Ron Johnson, during a town hall call, on Tuesday called on mothers receiving public assistance to help other mothers by staffing child care centers that care for their children.And he said it —…
Coober Pedy residents question delay in government aid after isolated flooding caused food shortages
Supermarket shelves in the remote town of Coober Pedy, South Australia, were left bare after a section of the Stuart Highway flooded last week. Key points:The Stuart Highway remains closed near Glendambo due to floodingResidents of Coober Pedy have been…
Government management of Omicron marred by false assumptions, poor planning
Australia's journey through Omicron is like the Hell Bus Tour. Skewed steering, seat belts forgotten or not working, and driver chatter wanes with stressed passengers.Eventually we'll see the back of the swampy ground on this outback trail. But in worse…
Government management of Omicron marred by false assumptions and poor planning
Australia's journey through Omicron is like the bus tour from hell. Skewed steering, seat belts forgotten or not working, and the crackle of the driver running out with stressed passengers. Eventually we will see the back of the marshy terrain…
Why the LDS Church Social Welfare System Cannot Replace Government Aid
Shelves of food are on display in an area of Welfare Square, a large complex where The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provides food, supplies and services to those in need. (AP Photo / Rick Bowmer) Llast month,…
What government help do we need? | Editorial
There has been a considerable amount of discussion among individuals and on social media regarding the recent winter storms and the different levels of government response.It has been mentioned several times, we are in the unorganized borough - Yes, it…
Bar and Restaurant Owners Call for Government Help | News
Bar and restaurant owners are worried about the long-term effects recent health restrictions will have on their businesses and are asking for direct support from the Quebec government."Enough is enough," businessman and founder of the Union des barreaux du Québec…
Companies disclose limited details of government assistance
After years of resistance, companies in 2022 will for the first time be forced to disclose in their financial statements how much money they receive in government breaks, grants and incentives. But don't expect too many details.The upcoming accounting requirements…
Monday mailbag: government assistance, CFL attendance, rule changes
The 3DownNation Monday Mailbag answers questions from readers across the country every week. You can submit a question by email ([email protected]) or direct message on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. When submitting questions by email, please enter "Monday Mailbag" in the…
Banana growers call for urgent government help
Australian banana growers who have lost up to 100 percent of their crop to cyclonic winds are asking urgent help from the Queensland and federal governments.In a devastating blow to growers who are already struggling with low prices and labor…
US airlines remain in "dire straits" and need more government help – industry group
WASHINGTON, March 2 (Reuters) - The head of a group representing America's major passenger airlines and a senior union official on Tuesday pleaded with lawmakers for a third round of federal government aid, according to testimony seen by Reuters.Since March…
Without government help, airlines will launch massive job cuts on October 1
(Photo by Joe Raedle / Getty Images) Getty Images If nothing changes soon, October will be a brutal month for airline workers. The airline industry has been hit hard by the effects of Covid-19. The federal government has warned people…
Aviation and Aerospace Communities Seek Government Help
Through Ken Pole | March 16, 2020 Estimated reading time 11 minutes, 37 seconds. Canadian aviation and aerospace industries, facing growing economic uncertainty over the continued spread of COVID-19, urge the federal government to ensure the industry and its thousands…


text:
def count_alnum(s):
    alphabetic = 0
    numbers = 0
    def categorize(c):
        if c.isalpha():
            alphabetic += 1
        elif c.isdigit():
            numbers += 1
    map(categorize, s)
    return alphabetic, numbers

print count_alnum('hi7 y7')


anthony's: Evernote… a second chance!
I have had my Evernote account since 2008 when it was private beta release. Back then, I was so impressed by Window's Live Mesh Beta, which allowed me to sync everything to the cloud, I had high hopes (expectation) on Evernote. Unfortunately, I seemed that it had slipped my mind that when it said 'beta', it meant it wasn't ready for Prime Time yet. After a few weeks of test driving, I was left disappointed, and decided not to give it another chance.
Now that I am a proud owner of a non-Blackberry smartphone, I'm ready to give it another try. Let's see if this time around is any better.


text:
Shows & Trends
Make-up & Nails
Lifestyle & Homes
Bazaar at Work
Bazaar at Work Summit 2021
Follow BAZAAR
Harper's Bazaar Luxury Beauty Box
What the 'Keeping Up With The Kardashians' stars looked like in season 1 vs now
It's been 10 years since the show premiered
Kris - season 1
The first-ever episode of KUWTK opens with Kris and her family discussing Kim's booty, or as Kris puts it, "She's like got the jiggles." Kris also introduces herself as Kim's momager.
Kris in 2017
In the past 10 years, Kris has supported her family through weddings, break-ups, pregnancies and business empires and, through it all, she's remained her six children's "proud mama". (At one point, she tried to trademark the phrase, too).
Kim - season 1
Arguably the biggest star of KUWTK, Kim described her family as "the modern day Brady Bunch but with a kick" in the premiere episode. "There's a lot of baggage that comes with us, but it's like Louis Vuitton baggage - you always want it."
Kim in 2017
Through 13-plus seasons, Kim has shared nearly everything about her life on TV, from her relationships to her fertility struggles - to, more recently, her terrifying robbery in Paris in 2016.
Kourtney - season 1
Kourtney's introduction was short and sweet in 2007: "I'm the oldest and the most mature," she told viewers, as clips of her sharing blunt comments with her sisters continued to roll. We wonder if she still has those hoop earrings.
Kourtney in 2017
One of Kourtney's most raw moments on KUWTK came at the end of season 10 when she broke up with Scott after nine on-and-off years together. These days, when she isn't co-parenting her three adorable kids with Scott, she can be seen living her best #vacationlife, which you can follow closely on Instagram.
Khloé - season 1
"My sisters say I'm a bitch, but I always have their best interests at heart," Khloé said on the KUWTK series opener.
Khloé in 2017
Khloé has kept her word from the series premiere and has always prioritised the needs of her family, especially brother Rob, who was her roommate for a number of years. She's also kept busy professionally, launching a denim line, Good American, in 2016; a talkshow called Kocktails with Khloé on FYI; and a makeover series, Revenge Body with Khloé Kardashian, on E! in 2017.
Rob - season 1
Rob didn't get much screen time in the first episode, seeing as it concentrated mainly on Kris's anniversary party and Kim's appearance on Tyra. In the seasons to come, though, Rob would share everything from his relationship with Adrienne Bailon to his bromance with Scott on the series.
Rob in 2016
The success of the show led Rob to compete in season 13 of Dancing With The Stars in 2011; the launch of his own sock line, Arthur George; and in 2016, a spin-off starring Rob and then-fiancée Blac Chyna, called Rob And Chyna. The former couple also documented the birth of their child, Dream, in a special-edition episode.
Scott - season 1
Scott's first minutes on KUWTK were not great: he forgets to cheers with Kourtney at dinner, holds her phone prisoner, and makes fun of her "$5,000 extensions". Enter confessional Kris, who says Scott is cheating on Kourtney. Not a great way to start the show but just look at his young face.
Scott in 2017
It's been a packed 10 years for Scott, who has since called himself a Lord, fathered three children with Kourt, and continues to share his love for modes of transportation on and off the show. Don't have a helicopter ready to go? No problem, Scott also likes to travel by jet ski.
Kylie - season 1
Kylie turned heads in the premiere episode thanks to the few seconds she spent dancing on the stripper pole Kim got for Kris for her anniversary. With Kim and family friend (and Pussycat Dolls founder) Robin Antin watching on, Kylie proclaimed, "Look what I can do!" In an interview with E! 10 years later, Kylie called the act "embarrassing… I wish it never happened."
Kylie in 2017
At just 20, Kylie has built an empire with lip kits that have sold like hot cakes, a Snapchat account that just won't quit, and an attitude that's all about "realising things". In 2017, Kylie became the youngest person to make the Forbes Celebrity 100 list, starred on her own spin-off, Life of Kylie, and got her own wax figure at Madame Tussauds. Then, of course, there are those pregnancy reports...
Kendall - season 1
11-year-old Kendall mostly kept to herself and tended to the family's pet chihuahua on the premiere episode, though at one point, she did make a drink for a fellow party guest. Don't worry, there were plenty of adults around.
Kendall in 2017
In 2016, Kendall ranked as the third highest-paid model in the world, according to Forbes. Kendall, who earned $10 million in 2016, tied for third place with Karlie Kloss, behind second place Adriana Lima ($10.5 million) and Gisele Bundchen ($30.5 million). She's walked for numerous fashion shows for brands including Chanel, Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Versace and Alexander Wang.
Caitlyn in 2017
Since the show first aired, Caitlyn has transitioned. In 2015, she graced the cover of Vanity Fair and spoke to Diane Sawyer on 20/20 to tell her story. To avoid sensationalising the trans experience, we will not run this as a before-and-after.
13 times celebrities shut down interview questions
Emily Ratajkowski: How I Got Here
See a preview of Bridgerton season two
The public can be part of a new royal exhibition
What to know about the Anna Delvey Netflix series
Alex Prager's cinematic view of the pandemic
What is written in the stars this week?
The 10 best books of 2021 (so far)
Can we stop shaming women into having children?
Meet Sky Brown, our youngest Olympic medallist
Will Sharpe is the UK's most exciting new director
Why are we still keeping up with the Kardashians?
The Kardashians as Victoria's Secret Angels
Kardashian-Jenners pose in Calvin Klein underwear
This is how much the Kardashians get paid for one Instagram post
Kim Kardashian makes $1m a minute via fragrance
HARPER'S BAZAAR, PART OF THE HEARST UK FASHION & BEAUTY NETWORK Harper's BAZAAR participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.


View cart "dbell HD Live Wifi doorbell camera (2017 model)" has been added to your cart.
No contracts to sign, No monthly fees dbell HDx2 video doorbell. Once you have your dbell, you are all set.
Connect dbell video doorbell to NVR or NAS drive for 24/7 recording even when your internet is down. dbell works without internet connection inside your home.
dbell app and a compatible iOS®, Android™ or Amazon fireTV .
Live video streaming may be subject to interruptions for reasons beyond dbell's control, like poor wi-fi signal strength, poor mobile network connection, service provider's outage, power failure etc.
dbell doesn't provide monitoring or emergency monitoring service.
dbell doesn't collect GEO location of install. dbell doesn't store any personal information. dbell stores only user name and wifi password in its memory.
Very well packed and all parts accounted for.
The package consists of the Dbell HDx2, a power supply to use during setup, a neat wedge to angle the Dbell if necessary, mounting plate, rain hood, mounting hardware packet, a 110VAC powered bell and instruction booklets.
Important. Read the setup instructions in the manual before attempting to install the Dbell. Follow the sequence in the instruction manual.
The Dbell is not the most fashionable video doorbell,. It looks larger than other video doorbells, but actually is very close in size to others.
The Dbell is satin silver finish. The indoor bell is relatively large, about 8cm square and can be plugged into any AC outlet.
The Dbell HDx2 video doorbell is initially setup in the comfort of your home using the supplied power adapter and your smartphone.
I used an android phone and Google Play Store to download and install the Dbell app.
The app will locate the Dbell HDx2 on your network. Follow the steps on the app and you are connected.
The plugin doorbell ring lasts for 30 seconds. Way too long. I set the ring duration to 5 seconds.
Installing the Dbell HDx2 video doorbell is not all that complicated. The most difficult part is removing the existing doorbell and identifying the two wires ( Trans, Front), disconnecting them and then connecting them together.
Installing the Dbell HDx2 outside might best be done in temperatures above 0 C°.
With the existing doorbell button removed, hold the Dbell HDx2 in place and imagine yourself standing in the doorway.
Would the Dbell HDx2 camera capture a picture of your face or just the side of your head? If the side of your head, then use the neat omni side wedge to position the camera at an angle that captures your face.
If the wires from your existing doorbell button are long enough (about 10cm) installation is easy.
Push the wires through the wedge and back plate and fasten to the wall using the 4 screws from the hardware packet.
Push the two wires into the two slots on the back of the Dbell HDx2, tug on them to make sure they are secure and snap the Dbell HDx2 into the back plate.
There are two very, very tiny security screws (don't drop them) that screw into the bottom of the Dbell HDx2 with the supplied security screw driver and hold the Dbell HDx2 securely to the mounting bracket.
Press to Dbell HDx2 doorbell button.
A live stream form the camera is displayed on your phone. You can talk and listen to the caller from your phone.
Not a 5 rating because of the long ring tone and the loud speaker volume.


text:
Blatant Politicization of the FDA Hurts Its Credibility
Statement of Dr. Michael Carome, Director, Public Citizen's Health Research Group
Note: President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization for the use of convalescent plasma to treat patients with COVID-19. Last week, The New York Times reported that "just as the Food and Drug Administration was preparing to issue an emergency authorization for blood plasma as a COVID-19 treatment, a group of top federal health officials including Dr. Francis S. Collins and Dr. Anthony S. Fauci intervened, arguing that emerging data on the treatment was too weak."
Make no mistake – The FDA's decision to grant an emergency use authorization for COVID-19 convalescent plasma on the eve of the Republican National Convention represents the most blatant politicization of FDA decision making in history.
Such action seriously damages the FDA's credibility during the greatest public health crisis in 100 years. This does not bode well for future FDA decisions regarding COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics between now and election day.
Safe & Affordable Drugs & Devices: Drugs
The Public Deserves Better Than the FDA's Belated Zantac (Ranitidine) Ban
Gilead's Remdesivir Price Is Offensive
Letter: 100 High-Level Leaders Call on Biden to Make COVID-19 Vaccine a People's Vaccine
The Philadelphia Inquirer cites Public Citizen petition questioning legality of naltrexone implants


The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces said on Saturday it had begun the "final battle" to oust the Islamic State group from the last scrap of territory it holds in eastern Syria.
Backed by air strikes by the US-led coalition against ISIS, the Kurdish-Arab alliance has in recent months cornered the jihadists in a final patch of territory in the eastern province of Deir Ezzor.
After a pause of more than a week to allow civilians to flee, the on SDF said Saturday it had resumed the fight to seize the last four-square-kilometre (one-square-mile) patch from the jihadists.
"The SDF have launched the final battle to crush ISIS in the village of Baghouz," the SDF said in a statement.
"After ten days of evacuating more than 20,000 civilians, the battle was launched tonight to exterminate the last remnants of the organisation," it said.
Bali said there could be up to 600 ISIS fighters still inside the pocket, most of them foreigners. Hundreds of civilians are also believed to be inside.
ISIS overran large parts of Syria and neighbouring Iraq in 2014, declaring a "caliphate" in areas it controlled. A series of assaults have left that proto-state in tatters.
More than 37,000 people, mostly wives and children of jihadist fighters, have fled ISIS territory since the SDF intensified its offensive in December, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.


Hope Whispers: So now Im a dog?
So now Im a dog?
"When you feel dog tired at night, it may be because you've growled all day long. ~Author Unknown"
Last week was the another rough week. First the boys got sick. Then my MIL. Then Friday, David actually had to leave work and come home. He was in bed for 24hrs. And when he wasn't in bed, hes was puking his brains out. I was pretty sure we would make a trip to the ER in the middle of the night one day or another, but thankfully, everyone survived. Looks like there is a 24hr bug going around the house. The saddest thing of all was the night the baby was sick. First he came to me and demanded to go into the bathroom. I though he wanted to get into the cabinets, so I redirected him to his pile of toys. He kept insisting on going in there. Eventually he projectile vomited on me. So I go running into the bathroom to get a towel and when I turned around, my baby was holding on to the toilet for dear life. I realized that hes paying attention more than I thought. Hes seen me do it countless times. All night he kept running to the toilet, vomiting and would say goodbye and flush. I felt proud at how grown he is but guilty that he has seen so much at such a young age. If Anthony were to see someone shooting up, he would probably ask them if they used an alcohol swab to clean the area first. Or if they wanted a band aid. He used to insist on sitting with me when I did my own Lovenox injections.
This whole week I have got pretty much no sleep. And God was I a dog. I'm sure there is another word for it though. ;) I was snappy and angry. Every little thing would set me off. I knew I was being so out of order. Then Saturday night Anthony brings me his little sketch pad and says" Look momma, this is you with an angry face! And this is me with a sad face." I went straight to the bathroom and cried my eyes out. Who am I? I have always been the calm and collected one and for the past few weeks I have even been getting on my own nerves.
This morning I woke up to a text that read "Hope you are sleeping well my love." It was 9:30 in the morning and I went back to bed and slept until 11am. Just what I needed to clear my mind and set me straight. Today was a wonderful day. Took FIL out to lunch for his Birthday. I had steak and lobster. Of course because In didn't take my meds this morning, halfway through grocery shopping, I was only half lucid. I had to focus so hard just to get though it. But I made it though the whole day with out raising my voice or arguing with anyone! YAY go me. And now I'm just excited to get on with the new week! I am going to be trying my best to keep my cool and go with the flow. I have always prided myself on being the best wife and mother that I can and the last few week I have failed.
"We plant seeds that will flower as results in our lives, so best to remove the weeds of anger, avarice, envy and doubt... ~Dorothy Day"


The Quality Team is responsible for coordinating University activity to support the institutional strategy, benchmarked against the University's key performance indicators. The Quality team supports and provides expertise to academic and professional staff as well as other stakeholders such as partner institutions and employers, thus promoting shared values, expectations and commitments towards quality assurance and enhancement. This involves reviewing activity, collecting information and identifying both good practice and areas for improvement, to positively enhance the student learning experience. In addition to this, the team is also responsible for interpreting national policy where this relates to quality assurance and enhancement and preparing the University for external audit and review.
The Quality Team also supports a number of committees which form part of the quality assurance and enhancement processes at Aston. You can find more information about these committees on our committees page.
The main Quality Office is currently located on the fourth floor of the south wing in MB408.. However, School Quality representatives are located in their respective School of study. See the "who we are" section for details.
For more information, please visit our A-Z for an indication of more areas where we can provide advice and guidance.
Alternatively, contact one of the team using the 'Who we are' section above or from the CLIPP staff directory.


text:
Fight over St. Joseph County election maps is still unresolved as deadlines loom
SOUTH BEND — Despite looming deadlines and demands by Republican members of the St. Joseph County Council to take quick action on new election maps, there's little sign the county's redistricting dispute will be resolved by the end of the year.
In an interview late last week, County Council President Rafael Morton said the Democrats who control the council still intend to go forward with a lawsuit over the redistricting plan approved by the all-Republican Board of Commissioners, the county's executive body.
And there are still unanswered questions about what comes next if the council hasn't approved new districts by January, when candidates start filing to run for county offices in the 2022 election.
St. Joseph County:Commissioners approve controversial election maps
In November, the commissioners voted 2-1 to pass new election maps that would give the GOP a bigger edge in two of the three commissioner districts, while shifting Democrats and racial minorities to the third.
Those maps would also create more GOP-friendly districts for the council, the legislative body, because three council districts must be drawn within the borders of each commissioner district.
Last week, the three Republican council members – Richard Pfeil, Mark Root and Mark Telloyan – submitted their own proposal for redrawn council districts based on the commissioner maps and called for the council to take swift action.
Telloyan said council Democrats were wasting time with "pointless threats of expensive litigation," and pointed to state law that says county districts shall be redrawn in the year after the U.S. Census, making Dec. 31., 2021, the deadline. He also said candidates would need to know their districts when they begin filing Jan. 5.
The GOP-proposed council maps would give Republicans a shot at breaking the two-thirds majority that allows Democrats to pass ordinances and override vetoes by the commissioners without Republican votes.
The proposal would give Democrats and Republicans each three favorable districts. The remaining three districts would be more competitive, but would present Republicans with a better chance to flip at least one seat.
For example, District A, currently represented by Democratic Councilman Bobby Kruszynski, would see a 10-point swing toward Republicans.
The partisan breakdown of the redrawn district would be about 51% Republican and 45% Democratic, compared to the current 55% Democratic and 41% Republican, according to data available through "Dave's Redistricting," an online mapping tool.
When asked about the maps proposed by his GOP colleagues, Morton noted they were based on the redrawn commissioner districts, which Democratic council members have criticized as potentially unconstitutional.
Commissioners President Andy Kostielney drew the new commissioner maps with help from the law firm of former Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma, a Republican. The maps drew fire from critics who said they were an example of partisan gerrymandering and that they lumped most racial and ethnic minorities into a single district confined to the South Bend city limits.
Though Democrats on the council have signaled they will sue, it's unclear whether they might claim racial discrimination under the U.S. Voting Rights Act or challenge elements of state law governing the county redistricting process.
A recent change to state law gave the commissioners more power by allowing them to pass their own maps without the council's approval. State law also has provisions that single out St. Joseph County by requiring it to set up districts differently than other counties.
Indiana:GOP members of County Council push for quick action on election maps
Kip Tew, an attorney and former Indiana Democratic Party chairman who is representing the County Council, did not return messages seeking comment.
Morton was noncommittal when asked whether the council will take action on the maps proposed by the GOP members before the end of the year, saying it was "still being discussed."
The proposal could be placed on the agenda for Tuesday's council meeting, but that meeting is the monthly "committee" session where the council has initial discussions on bills. Before passage, the proposal would require a formal public hearing, which would normally not be scheduled until January.
The Republican members asked for their maps to get a public hearing Tuesday, with a special meeting the last week of December for passage.
Meanwhile, the council has scheduled a public forum for 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Charles Martin Center to get more feedback on the redistricting process.