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D.C.'s Data Problem
Posted on April 1, 2021 by mikethemadbiologist
And I mean the District, not Wor-Shing-Tun.
While most people focus on D.C. statehood as a way for Democrats to gain two Senate seats (and a House seat), it actually would make a difference in the lives of D.C. residents. If you're even remotely a data nerd, one of the constant frustrations is that D.C. is left out of analyses. The fifty states will be discussed and analyzed, but D.C. is ignored*. Granted, D.C. has more people than two states, and is fairly close to several others in population. In terms of GDP, D.C. is not small at all, and, of course, we not only have taxation without representation, but extreme taxation without representation.
Right now, D.C. is getting screwed on the vaccination statistics. The CDC numbers include things like allocations to federal agencies, which have no plans to vaccinate D.C. residents. The only trustworthy data from CDC appears to be the percent of residents who are partially or fully vaccinated, as that number is based on the residency of the vaccine recipient.
This might sound minor–it's not like when Congressional Republicans prevented D.C. from having needle exchanges, leading to hundreds of unnecessary HIV infections–but the problem is no one in D.C. really knows if we're doing a good job of vaccination. That is important. In fact, a surface perusal of the data would incorrectly lead one to conclude D.C. is doing a poor job (boldface mine):
Ultimately, about one-third of all vaccine doses administered thus far within the District—more than 94,000—have gone to out-of-staters. Another wrinkle is that vaccine allocations for the roughly 141,000 people who work at the federal agencies within D.C.'s borders come out of the District's population-based ration, even though the District doesn't administer those doses. The upshot is that D.C.'s population-based vaccine allotment—44,440 this week, the third-smallest allocation in the country, after Wyoming and Vermont—likely falls short by one-third to one-half. How could that happen?
Because D.C. isn't a state. If a federal agency isn't serving a state well, it can expect to hear complaints from that state's congressional delegation. But D.C. doesn't have a congressional delegation. It has one delegate to the House of Representatives, Eleanor Holmes Norton, who is one of the very best members of Congress—but who is not permitted to vote on the House floor. Norton can vote in committee, but she doesn't sit on the House Appropriations Committee, so she can't bring HHS to heel by threatening to cut its budget. No D.C. delegate has ever sat on Appropriations. Were Norton to chair some other House committee, she might have the means to intimidate HHS, but no D.C. delegate has ever held a full committee chair, either. When District residents complain of "taxation without representation," this is what they're talking about.
Blame HHS for the fact that the District has inoculated so few of its residents; the department is not giving the District enough vaccine doses. Blame Congress for resisting D.C.'s demands for statehood, which would give the capital more clout in such situations. As for D.C.'s poor efficiency record at delivering the few doses in its possession, the city government's performance may not be quite as bad as it looks.
Ankoor Shah, who's leading the vaccination program in the District's health department, believes that the CDC's 72 percent efficiency statistic is just wrong. Here's how Shah explained the problem to me: The doses allotted for D.C. are deposited into three buckets.
Bucket 1 is the D.C. health department. "D.C. has complete control over that," Shah said.
Bucket 2 consists of community health centers and pharmacies that have partnered with the federal government through two programs managed by the CDC and the Health Resources and Services Administration, a unit of HHS. The District has a supervisory role here, but in practice, Shah, told me, "it's more a collaboration, because we can't make those strategic decisions for them about how to order doses."
Bucket 3 consists of federal agencies located inside the District. These agencies receive vaccines for employees who work in the city. The District has no supervisory role here at all, and Shah told me he's been unable to glean from the CDC any information about how many doses are being assigned to these agencies and how many are being used. "That's a black box," he said. (For what it's worth, the federal agencies' vaccination performance across all 50 states is a respectable 79 percent.)
The reason the CDC's efficiency score for the District is so dismal, Shah said, is that the CDC includes all three buckets in the denominator (total vaccine doses delivered in D.C.) but only Bucket 1 and Bucket 2 in the numerator (total vaccine doses injected into arms). I asked the CDC press office to confirm this assertion, and to clarify, percentage-wise, how D.C.'s vaccine allocation is divided among the three buckets, and what proportion of each bucket gets used. This query, made by email and in repeated telephone calls, went unanswered over three business days.
The District finally addressed the garbage-data problem on Monday, by releasing a breakdown of Bucket 1 and Bucket 2. Bucket 3 remained a black box, but for the first time it was possible to assess what was going on in the first two buckets. The District's overall efficiency was, by this reckoning, a still underwhelming 76 percent, putting it in the bottom third among the states.
But the D.C. health department's own vaccinations—Bucket 1—are efficient. The health department has gotten 85.3 percent of the doses it's received into people's arms. That's better than California and New York (78 percent), better than the adjacent states of Maryland and Virginia (78 percent and 82 percent, respectively), and better than the national average (78 percent).
D.C.'s overall efficiency is poor because of Bucket 2. The community health centers and pharmacies that partner with the federal government have received 17 percent of the District's allocation (not counting the opaque Bucket 3), but they've failed to administer most of these. When I say "most," I mean quite literally "the large majority." Bucket 2's efficiency rate is a dismal 21 percent….
In the meantime, some D.C. residents are giving up on their city altogether and crossing into Maryland, where more groups have become eligible for vaccination and residency is not always required. The state isn't exactly advertising this fact, but word is slipping out. It beats waiting.
And this kind of thing happens far too often. Statehood can't come soon enough.
*Unless you want to say something nasty about Black people or Democrats, then opinions are like assholes (everybody has one).
1 Response to D.C.'s Data Problem
Pingback: When D.C. Becomes a State, Our Wards Need to Become Counties | Mike the Mad Biologist


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Go read this harrowing story about the team cleaning up Airbnb's biggest disasters
When Airbnb works smoothly, the platform can feel like simply an eclectic hotel chain. But the app is a huge, high-stakes experiment in trusting strangers, and that can come with a heavy price. An article from Bloomberg journalist Olivia Carville makes that price vividly clear, delving into the workings of Airbnb's safety team — the group that cleans up after Airbnb users' most horrific experiences, including sexual assaults and murder.
The Bloomberg article cites interviews with current and former Airbnb employees, who describe an intensely stressful balance of helping customers and protecting Airbnb's public image. It reports that Airbnb spends around $50 million annually in payouts to hosts and guests. Airbnb says most of that money…
← Nintendo is releasing a Zelda-themed Game & Watch handheld
Nintendo is remastering the first two Advance Wars games for the Switch →

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


fine hand made stone points.
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Surge in executions in Iran - The Australian :: http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/latest-news/surge-in-executions-in-iran/story-fn3dxix6-1227104645544
Pistorius prosecutors to appeal verdict and sentence - Irish Examiner :: http://www.irishexaminer.com/world/pistorius-prosecutors-to-appeal-verdict-and-sentence-294214.html
Neil Patrick Harris takes hosting talents to NBC variety series - Reuters :: http://in.reuters.com/article/2014/10/28/television-neilpatrickharris-idINKBN0IH03920141028
Hostage in video claims Syrian city of Kobani is under ISIS control - CNN :: http://www.cnn.com/2014/10/27/world/meast/isis-british-hostage-syria-kobani/
Washington state school gunman texted victims to meet at cafeteria: official - Reuters :: http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/10/27/us-usa-washington-shooting-idUSKBN0IG1ZB20141027
White House ponders life with a Republican Senate - Politico :: http://www.politico.com/story/2014/10/2014-elections-republican-senate-112214.html
David Cameron reacts to Leeds jogger encounter - BBC News :: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-29792929
Doctors Worry Ebola Quarantines Could Keep Them From Fighting Disease - Huffington Post :: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/10/27/ebola-quarantine_n_6057138.html
Redskins End Cowboys' Six-Game Winning Streak - New York Times :: http://www.nytimes.com/2014/10/28/sports/football/nfl-roundup.html
Ailing Toronto Mayor Ford wins council seat - USA TODAY :: http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2014/10/27/toronto-new-mayor/18038505/


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Language proficiency for pilots
1. TESTING SYSTEM
The Romanian CAA (RCAA) uses an in-house English language proficiency testing system for aeroplane and helicopter pilots. This testing system complies with the requirements laid out in (EU) Regulation 1178/2011and PAC-FCL edition 1/2021.
The test consists of an interview with a candidate and an examiner which contains listening comprehension exercises. The interview is recorded and the assessment is done by two RCAA qualified examiners.
The test consists of four parts: the first part contains a series of general aviation related questions and a description of two aviation related photos. The second part contains an ATC –pilot recording of an abnormal situation followed by a series of aviation related questions. The third part contains three ATC-pilot recordings followed by questions. The fourth part contains a recording of an aviation incident that must be summarized by the candidate followed by a series of open questions. The test takes around 25 minutes.
2. TEST SITTINGS
English language proficiency test sittings are scheduled annually and they can be downloaded at the following link: TEST SITTINGS.
Changes to the annual test sittings will be posted on RCAA official website in due time.
The language proficiency level is revalidated within 90 days before the expiry date. In this case, the new validity period is calculated from the date of expiry. In case of level renewal, the new validity starts from the date of the examination.
3. APPLYING FOR A TEST
In order to apply for a test, applicants shall send the application form at the following email address: elp@caa.ro .The deadline for submitting the application form is 5 working days prior to the beginning of the test sitting. The application form can be downloaded here: APPLICATION FORM. The application form must be accompanied by a copy of the identity card.
Candidates will be scheduled for the test only after the payment of the examination fee has been completed.
Each applicant will receive an email, 2 days prior to the beginning of the test sitting, with details regarding the date and time of the test.
Applicants must confirm their attendance.
4. TEST RESULT
The final test result will be sent by email to each candidate within 10 calendar days from the date of the test.
5. TEST FEE
The exam fee is 113 euros plus VAT according to the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure Order (OMTI) no. 1305/2012. The exam fee must be paid prior to the exam via bank transfer.
If a candidate requests to be tested at a date that does not correspond to the test sittings scheduled annually by RCAA, the exam fee is double in accordance with OMTI no. 1305/2012. Urgency test sittings are organized based on applications from candidates and depending on the availability of RCAA examiners and examination rooms.
For additional information, please contact : elp@caa.ro
6. APPEAL PROCEDURE
A candidate may appeal the exam result. In order to do this, the candidate shall send a written appeal at elp@caa.ro , not later than 3 working days from the date of the notification of the test result.
The test will be re-assessed by a different examiner than the ones initially involved in the assessment. The examiner will issue the final test result.
The result of the appeal will be notified to the applicant by RCAA, not later than 15 days from the date when the appeal was filed.
The decision of the appeal committee is final.
7. MUTUAL RECOGNITION OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY CERTIFICATES OBTAINED IN OTHER EU MEMBER STATES (according to the provisions of PAC-FCL ed.1/2021, Part 1, chapter 7, point 7.4)
The initial assessment of the English language proficiency for pilots is done exclusively within the Romanian CAA.
If a candidate has taken the English language proficiency exam within RCAA, they cannot take the same exam in another language testing centre certified by RCAA or in another EU member state (for example, in order to obtain a higher level or due to various personal reasons, etc.).
For holders of EASA pilot licences, for level revalidation and renewal only, the Romanian CAA endorses certificates obtained in other EU member states , provided that the difference between the level held and the level obtained is not higher than two levels.
Level 6 certificates are endorsed only following a supplementary assessment within the Romanian CAA.
In order to endorse an English language proficiency certificate obtained in an EU member state, the applicant shall send at elp@caa.ro the following documents :
(a) a copy of the English language proficiency certificate issued;
(b) a copy of the CAA approval certificate of the language assessment body where the assessment was performed.
Following the submission of the documents above, the Romanian CAA shall verify the authenticity and relevance of the documents by asking official confirmation from the language assessment body and the national competent authority of the EU member state where the assessment was conducted.
The applicable fee for language proficiency certificate endorsement is 20 euros plus VAT, according to OMTI 1305/2012, as amended and supplemented.


Prunes and blackcurrants, coal smoke, tobacco and tar with dark chocolate running along, drawing out some earthy and woody notes as a wee nutty note also enters the background.
Dried blueberries and sticky toffee, sweet oily mouthfeel followed by the oak led leather, together with sprinkles of ginger and nutmeg. The mid-palate coveys some almond chewiness that grows a tad bitter.
Long, lasting, chocolate, coffee beans, fares oaky.
For me, this is a familiar GDSC that would make one smile, I find the darker and earthier profile quite attractive but I suppose this may come across as a bit rough for some..
P.S. Cheers Clifford for the wee dram, it's much appreciated.


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Rudy Gay fuming over 'dirty play' that injured jaw
Sam Amick
MADRID — Rudy Gay didn't look like a player on the verge of winning his second FIBA gold medal. As Team USA's practice was coming to an end Saturday, the Sacramento Kings forward sat with a solemn look in his courtside seat.
His smile isn't the same these days, through no fault of his own.
Gay took a vicious elbow to the top of his mouth in the third quarter of Team USA's Thursday win over Lithuania, and the damage done by big man Darjus Lavrinovic will be coming home with him after Sunday's gold medal game against Serbia and this FIBA World Cup comes to an end.
"I've got a fracture in my jaw, a broken tooth and am going to probably need a root canal," Gay told USA TODAY Sports. "The top is where I got hit. It's painful. It's uncomfortable, and it still bleeds, so I've got to continuously gargle. It is what it is, man."
There was come confusion as to the extent of the damage, however, as a team official said Gay's injuries include a chipped tooth and bruising around a tooth socket but did not include a fractured jaw. Nonetheless, Gay is not thrilled about how it all went down.
While Gay had to leave the game because of the hit, he voiced his displeasure with the Lithuanians in the handshake line after the game. That sparked a shouting match between the two teams and included USA coach Mike Krzyzewski waving his arms amid the chaos and trying to play peacemaker.
"I think (the elbow) had a little bit to do with (the situation afterward)," Gay said. "It was a dirty play, man. It was a dirty play."
Two days later, Gay still wasn't sure which of the Lavrinovic twins had delivered the blow, Ksistof or Darjus.
"I don't even remember," he said of the 34-year-old bruisers who stand 6-foot-11 with stocky frames and stout chins. "I couldn't tell them apart."
Long after the skirmish died down, Gay had to get his mouth worked on until 2 a.m. Friday morning in Barcelona before flying to Madrid hours later. He's fine to take part in Sunday's game, though it remains to be seen if he can suffer through a smile should Team USA get the gold as is so widely expected.


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namespace Kris\LaravelFormBuilder\Filters\Collection;

use Kris\LaravelFormBuilder\Filters\FilterInterface;

/**
 * Class BaseName
 *
 * @package Kris\LaravelFormBuilder\Filters\Collection
 * @author  Djordje Stojiljkovic <djordjestojilljkovic@gmail.com>
 */
class BaseName implements FilterInterface
{
    /**
     * @param string $value
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     *
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    public function filter($value, $options = [])
    {
        $value = (string) $value;
        return basename($value);
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    /**
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     */
    public function getName()
    {
        return 'BaseName';
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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21-Oct-2015 12:40 PM
Ethiopian Airlines plans further growth in Asia and US, starting with Chengdu and New York
Ethiopian Airlines is planning further long-haul network expansion in 2016 with new destinations in Asia and North America. The expansion is made possible by the delivery of Ethiopian's first batch of 343-seat A350-900s along with additional 270-seat Boeing 787-8s.
New York is in line to become Ethiopian's fourth destination in North America in Jun-2016, joining Toronto, Washington Dulles and recently launched Los Angeles. Ethiopian is also looking at Chicago and Houston, which could be launched in 2017.
In Asia Ethiopian is planning to launch services to Chengdu, Ho Chi Minh, Jakarta and Singapore. East Asia has been the main driver of Ethiopian's rapid expansion in recent years – with two destinations added in 2015 for a total of nine – and will continue to be a focus as Africa's largest airline doubles its fleet over the next decade.
Ethiopian has doubled long-haul fleet and network in just four years
Ethiopian currently serves 13 long-haul destinations using a fleet of 30 widebody passenger aircraft. Four years ago Ethiopian operated only 15 widebody aircraft, 10 767s and five 777-200LRs, and had only six long-haul destinations including one in North America and five in East Asia.
Since the beginning of 2012 Ethiopian has added 18 widebody aircraft including 13 270-seat 787-8s, four 399-seat 777-300ERs and one more 321-seat 777-200LR. It has so far phased out only three of its 767s, which Ethiopian configures with 223 seats. (Ethiopian has a two class configuration across its widebody fleet with 24 business class seats on all its 767s and 787s and 34 business class seats on all its 777s but only the 787-8 currently features a lie-flat product.)
The doubling of the widebody fleet has enabled the launch of services to Kuala Lumpur, Los Angeles, Manila, Sao Paulo, Seoul Incheon, Tokyo Narita and Toronto. Hangzhou was also replaced with new service to Shanghai.
Los Angeles, Manila and Tokyo were all added in 1H2015 as three 787-8s and two 777-300ERs were delivered. Los Angeles is served thrice weekly via Dublin, Manila thrice weekly via Bangkok and Tokyo thrice weekly via Hong Kong. All three new destinations are currently served with 787-8s.
See related report: Ethiopian Airlines 2015 outlook: more rapid expansion as it becomes Africa's largest airline
Bangkok, Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Sao Paulo and Shanghai are Ethiopian's only long-haul destinations served non-stop in both directions. Kuala Lumpur is currently served via Bangkok while services to Toronto and Washington Dulles stop in Dublin but return non-stop on the eastbound sectors. (The new Los Angeles service stops in Dublin in both directions.)
Five years ago only Bangkok was non-stop while Guangzhou, Hangzhou and Hong Kong were served via Bangkok or Delhi. Ethiopian began serving in 2011 Beijing, which was launched as a non-stop. Sao Paulo was launched in 2013 with a stopover in Lome but was upgraded to non-stop in May-2015, improving connection times in the fast growing China-Brazil market.
Ethiopian also uses some of its widebodies to supplement its narrowbody fleet on medium-haul routes to Europe and India as well as on some of its routes to the Middle East and within Africa. (Europe is six to seven hours from Addis Ababa while India is five to seven hours. Ethiopian's longest African routes are also about five to six hours.)
Ethiopian plans more widebody orders
Ethiopian plans to again double its widebody fleet over the next 10 years – as well as its total fleet – under its Vision 2025 long-term business plan. Ethiopian currently has commitments for six additional 787-8s, two 787-9s and 14 A350-900s. The six 787-8s and 12 of the A350-900s have been ordered directly from the manufacturers while two of the A350-900s and the two 787-9s have been sourced from leasing companies.
Ethiopian Airlines fleet summary: as of 19-Oct-2015
On Order*
Total: 73 4 43
Airbus A350-900XWB 0 0 14
Boeing 737-700 4 0 0
Boeing 737-8 0 0 20
Boeing 737-800 14 0 0
Boeing 757-200(ETOPS) 1 0 0
Boeing 757-200(F)(ETOPS) 1 0 0
Boeing 757-200PF 1 0 0
Boeing 767-300ER 7 0 0
Boeing 777-200LR 6 0 0
Boeing 777F 5 0 1
Boeing 787-8 13 0 6
Boeing 787-9 0 0 2
Bombardier DHC-8Q-402(NG) 11 0 0
de Havilland of Canada DHC-6-300 3 0 0
Note: *orders including commitments for new aircraft with leasing companies
Source: CAPA Fleet Database
Ethiopian plans to place orders in the near future for about 10 more 787s and 15 to 20 777-8Xs, raising its passenger widebody commitments to almost 40 aircraft. The widebody passenger fleet will roughly double to 60 aircraft by 2025 once factoring in the retirement of the remaining 767s and some of its existing 777s, which will be replaced by 777-8Xs.
Ethiopian is not planning to expand its relatively small 777-300ER fleet, which it generally uses on high density routes to China and during peak periods to North America. Ethiopian CEO Tewolde GebreMariam told CAPA on the sidelines of CAPA's World Aviation Summit in Helsinki on 07-Oct-2015 that the airline does not have a need for more 777-300ERs as the A350-900s are suitable for its denser long-haul routes.
Ethiopian to operate A350s in high density configuration
Mr GebreMariam said Ethiopian plans to configure its A350-900s with 343 seats, giving it a significantly higher density option with 27% more seats than its 270-seat 787-8s. The 777-300ERs will still have 55 or 16% more seats but Ethiopian does not see its routes generally requiring 400-seat aircraft, particularly when factoring in opportunities to add frequencies.
With 343 seats, Ethiopian is now in line to have the highest density configuration among initial A350 operators. The five A350 operators – Qatar Airways, Vietnam Airlines, Finnair, Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific – have all configured their A350s with about 300 seats or slightly less. Qatar, Vietnam and Finnair are now operating the new type while Cathay and SIA plan to place into service their first A350s in 1Q2016.
See related reports:
A350 update: Qatar Airways only operator, but Vietnam Airlines, Finnair and Cathay firm up plans
Finnair's A350 delivery brings more growth to Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. Now to attract other airlines
Ethiopian expects to receive its first A350 in May-2016. Deliveries of an additional batch of six early model 787-8s is slated also to begin in Jun-2016 while Ethiopian's two 787-9s will be delivered in 2017.
The six additional 787-8s have already been manufactured but are heavier aircraft which Boeing had issues placing before announcing a deal with Ethiopian in Jun-2015. Ethiopian struggled with initial reliability issues with its 787-8 fleet but Mr GebreMariam told CAPA that dispatch reliability has improved and is now close to 99% with an average daily utilisation rate of about 13hrs. "Overall we are very satisfied with the airplane," he said.
The 787-8 now accounts for about 27% of Ethiopian's international seat capacity, more than any aircraft type in the carrier's fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines international weekly frequencies and seat capacity by aircraft type: 19-Oct-2015 to 25-Oct-2015
Ethiopian.png" alt="" width="670" height="400" />
Note: Q400 figure is estimated as Ethiopian has two configurations for its Q400 fleet
Source: CAPA – Centre for Aviation & OAG
Ethiopian plans to use the A350-900s on similar routes as the 787-8s. Mr GebreMariam expects the A350-900 will have similar or slightly more range than the 787-8 from Addis Ababa. Ethiopian is now able to operate its 787-8s non-stop from Addis Ababa to Beijing and Sao Paulo but the high altitude of the Ethiopian capital precludes operating non-stops to North America.
Ethiopian plans to initially deploy the A350-900 to China and North America. Ethiopian is planning to add capacity to both China and North America in 2016 as the additional 787-8s and first batch of A350-900s are delivered. Mr GebreMariam said New York is now in the 2016 plan with services likely to begin in Jun-2016.
Ethiopian to launch New York, followed potentially by Chicago and Houston
Ethiopian currently operates only 13 weekly services to North America, including seven to Washington Dulles, three to Toronto and three to Los Angeles. Mr GebreMariam said Ethiopian is now looking at launching services to Chicago, Houston and New York with New York or Newark first in line.
Chicago and Houston are both hubs for its alliance and codeshare partner United as is Newark. While Ethiopian already has more destinations in North America than any African carrier it sees opportunities for further growth. New routes, particularly if supported by United, should enable Ethiopian to increase its share of the North America-Africa market.
Ethiopian is now the sixth largest airline in the North America-Africa market based on non-stop seat capacity. But the biggest opportunities for growth will likely come from carrying passengers that are now flying to East and Central Africa on European or Middle Eastern carriers rather than passengers that are now flying on the existing non-stop options. Ethiopian is one of seven African airlines serving the US but it is the only East African carrier.
North America to Africa non-stop capacity by carrier: 19-Oct-2015 to 25-Oct-2015
Total Seats
Percentage Capacity Share
1 DL Delta Air Lines 8,796 24%
2 SA South African Airways 8,116 22%
3 AT Royal Air Maroc 5,822 16%
4 MS EgyptAir 4,448 12%
5 UA United Airlines 3,066 8%
6 ET Ethiopian Airlines 2,700 7%
7 AH Air Algerie 1,920 5%
8 W3 Arik Air 1,406 4%
9 VR TACV 402 1%
Note: Ethiopian's service from LAX excluded as it operates via Dublin
CAPA – Centre for Aviation & OAG
For the North American market Addis Ababa is not well positioned as a hub for all of Africa as it is for the Asian market. But it is well positioned to offer connections throughout East Africa and Central Africa.
Connections to other parts of Africa also are still viable in some cases despite significant backtracking as most African markets are not well served generally. For South America Addis Ababa is also well positioned for connections to Asia.
Ethiopian could expand Dublin hub as expansion in US continues
Ethiopian has not yet decided if it will serve its three planned new US destinations non-stop eastbound or with a stopover in both directions, which would enable it to take advantage of fifth freedom traffic. "We are now measuring the size of the traffic whether it makes sense to fly direct from or need to stop in Europe," Mr GebreMariam said. "If the market is not big enough to begin with then we can stop both ways in Dublin."
The new Addis Ababa-Dublin-Los Angeles flight has performed well since it was launched in Jun-2015, giving Ethiopian confidence it can succeed in other Dublin-US markets. Ethiopian achieved an average load factor on the Addis Ababa-Dublin-Los Angeles route of 75% to 80% in the summer 2015 season with a significant number of passengers embarking or disembarking in Dublin.
Ethiopian at the same time also changed the westbound stop of its Toronto and Washington flights to Dublin. There are now three Ethiopian departures from Dublin within a span of less than 30m on some mornings, a time Dublin Airport affectionately refers to as Ethiopian hour. "Dublin is becoming a very popular hub for us," Mr GebreMariam said.
Dublin is keen for Ethiopian to further expand the hub with stopovers in both directions for its future US routes. Toronto and Washington are purely technical stops – although still good business for Dublin – and are unlikely to have eastbound stops in future as they are large enough local markets to support non-stops.
Dublin-New York would represent a different and perhaps more challenging market than Dublin-Los Angeles, which is not served non-stop by any other carrier. Aer Lingus, American, Delta and United all serve the Dublin-New York market and Ethiopian will likely not be able to partner with United on the route due to restrictions with United's trans-Atlantic joint venture with the Lufthansa Group and Air Canada. But Dublin-New York is a much bigger local market and Ethiopian will have one year of building its brand in the Irish market by the time it launches New York.
Dublin-Chicago is served by American and Aer Lingus while Dublin-Houston currently does not have any non-stop service.
Ethiopian plans further expansion to China with new Chengdu service
In Asia expansion to China is a high priority for Ethiopian with additional capacity to Guangzhou and new services to Chengdu.
Ethiopian currently operates daily flights to Beijing, Guangzhou and Shanghai. Guangzhou is served with 777-300ERs and Shanghai with 777-200LRs while Beijing will also be served with 777-300ERs from late Oct-2015.
Mainland China is already Ethiopian's largest market by seat capacity and will account for about 8% of its international seats in its northern winter 2015 schedule. When including Hong Kong, greater China will account for almost 10% of Ethiopian's international seat capacity this winter.
Ethiopian is not planning to add capacity to Beijing as its partner Air China is launching three weekly flights from Beijing to Addis Abba in early Nov-2015. Ethiopian will codeshare on the new Air China-operated service and is keen to eventually expand its partnership with Air China to a joint venture.
Guangzhou has always been Ethiopian's largest market in China as Guangzhou attracts more African traders than any other Chinese city. Ethiopian carries a large volume of passengers from Guangzhou to destinations throughout Africa as well as to Brazil.
Guangzhou is currently Ethiopian's largest long-haul route with 5,586 weekly return seats (based on capacity data for the week commencing 19-Oct-2015). Ethiopian is confident the market is large enough to support a second frequency and is seeking additional slots at Guangzhou to support the additional flight, which could be added in 2016 along with Chengdu.
Chengdu will be Ethiopian's gateway in central and western China and will be served non-stop from Addis Ababa. Ethiopian will be able to plug into Air China's hub in Chengdu, where Air China accounts for about 29% of domestic seat capacity, according to CAPA and OAG data.
Air China currently links Chengdu with over 50 domestic destinations. Chengdu is geographically well positioned for connections throughout China. Air China does not have a hub in Guangzhou or Shanghai and Beijing connections for most domestic destinations requires backtracking.
Ethiopian expects China to continue to be a huge growth market over the next 10 years as economic ties between China and Africa continue to expand rapidly. Services to more secondary destinations are likely, particularly if the new Chengdu route proves successful.
Ethiopian has emerged as the largest African carrier in China. The local Ethiopia-China market is relatively small but Ethiopian has successfully positioned Addis Ababa as one of the main hub in the broader fast-growing China-Africa market despite intense competition from hubs in the Middle East.
Africa-China non-stop seat capacity by carrier: 26-Oct-2015 to 1-Nov-2015
1 ET Ethiopian Airlines 16,758
2 MS EgyptAir 5,140
3 CZ China Southern Airlines 2,520
4 MK Air Mauritius 2,392
5 AH Air Algerie 1,440
6 DT TAAG 1,020
7 CA Air China 933
Ethiopian plans SE Asia growth with Singapore, Ho Chi Minh and Jakarta services
Ethiopian is also by far the largest African carrier in the broader Asian market with 11 destinations including two medium-haul destinations in India and nine long-haul destinations in East Asia. Mr Tewolde said Ethiopian is planning to resume service to Singapore and launch Ho Chi Minh and Jakarta.
These three new Southeast Asian destinations would grow Ethiopian's network to 13 in East Asia, including six in Southeast Asia (Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Manila are already served) and seven in Northeast Asia (Beijing, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Seoul, Shanghai, Tokyo and in future Chengdu). Ethiopian's network plan envisions serving Singapore non-stop while Jakarta and Ho Chi Minh will be launched via Singapore or Bangkok.
Kuala Lumpur and Manila are currently served via Bangkok with four of Ethiopian's seven weekly Bangkok flights continuing onto Kuala Lumpur and the other three to Manila. Opening Jakarta or Ho Chi Minh via Bangkok would therefore require additional Addis Ababa-Bangkok flights, which Ethiopian previously operated, or upgrading Kuala Lumpur and/or Manila to non-stop. But a more logical option would be to support Singapore with a behind destination, particularly as Singapore is usually liberal at providing fifth freedom rights.
Ethiopian initially planned to launch Ho Chi Minh via Bangkok in Sep-2013 but dropped the route prior to the launch. Singapore was initially planned as a non-stop route from 2013 but ended up launching in late 2013 as a tag with Bangkok.
As CAPA previously outlined, Singapore did not perform well as a one-stop destination, resulting in Ethiopian cutting Singapore from an initial four weekly frequencies to three and subsequently two. The Bangkok-Singapore tag was then dropped entirely in late 2014. But Ethiopian believes Singapore can work as a non-stop destination, particularly with connections to Australasia from Star Alliance partner Singapore Airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines to continue Asia expansion with Singapore non-stops, giving Changi a needed boost
Ethiopian Airlines to give Singapore Changi and Singapore Airlines an important link to Africa
Ethiopian even started to sell in early 2015 thrice weekly non-stops from Addis Ababa to Singapore launching 02-Apr-2015. But the service was quietly pulled before it was launched.
Singapore is still a priority for Ethiopian as it sees Singapore as a key hub for Australasia as well as secondary destinations in Southeast Asia. A one-stop via Bangkok did not enable Ethiopian to access Singapore as a hub. But as CAPA has previously analysed it will be hard for Singapore to work without a stronger partnership with Singapore Airlines (SIA).
Mr GebreMariam said during a panel discussion CAPA's 07-Oct-2015 World Aviation Summit that Star's bigger members "lack an interest in Africa". He said Ethiopian is trying to convince its alliance partners to expand in Africa, particularly in the Asia-Africa market.
SIA now places its code on Ethiopian flights from Bangkok and Dubai to Addis Ababa and beyond Addis Ababa to seven destinations within Africa. But SIA often is not receptive of partners expanding in its home market, particularly if the partner operates regional routes with fifth freedom rights.
It will be difficult to sustain a non-stop service to Singapore without a tag flight to a market such as Jakarta, which would provide additional traffic and improve utilisation of a 787-8 that would otherwise sit several hours in Singapore. But Ethiopian will also need SIA's support to make Singapore work as it will need feed from offline destinations including Australia. As Ethiopian discovered in 2014, serving Singapore one-stop is not sufficient for providing convenient connections beyond Singapore.
Ethiopian's rapid expansion in Asia has continued in 2015 with Manila and Tokyo
While Ethiopian pushed back resumption of Singapore from 2015 to at least 2016 it continued to expand its Asian network with the launch of Tokyo Narita in Apr-2015 and Manila in Jul-2015.
Tokyo has performed below expectations in the first six months but Ethiopian is confident the route will start to perform better. "It's a bit of a challenge," Mr GebreMariam told CAPA. "It's in the route development stage and it will take us some time to develop a recent load factor."
Ethiopian was able to secure in Aug-2015 local traffic rights to pick up passengers on the Hong Kong-Tokyo sector, which should aid efforts to improve the load factor. Ethiopian also hopes to expand its partnership with All Nippon Airways (ANA) and the two Star carriers told the World Aviation Summit that they would consider a joint venture in future.
Asia now accounts for about 30% of Ethiopian's international ASKs, more than any other region. Ethiopian's rapid and successful expansion in Asia was cited by CAPA's panel of independent judges in selecting Ethiopian as the 2015 Airline of the Year.
See related report: Ethiopian Airlines, IndiGo, Qantas, Athens, Budapest, Vancouver, IBS receive awards at CAPA dinner
In handing the award to Mr GebreMariam on 07-Oct-2015 in Helsinki CAPA also cited Ethiopian's ability to establish a Pan-African operation and thrive in an increasingly important emerging market where most airlines have struggled.
Ethiopian CEO Tewolde GebreMariam receives CAPA's 2015 Airline of the Year award and discusses the carrier's remarkable growth and emergence as a leader in the African aviation sector
Source: CAPA TV
Ethiopian has bright outlook as network expansion continues
Ethiopian has been consistently profitable over the last several years, including a net profit of about USD170 million in the fiscal year ending 30-Jun-2015 (FY2015). Ethiopian generated about USD2.4 billion in revenues in FY2015, compared to only about USD300 million in FY2009, and aims to grow its revenue base to USD10 billion by 2025.
Ethiopian has already emerged as the largest airline group in Africa with an active fleet of almost 80 aircraft and a network of more than 100 destinations (includes airline subsidiaries). Ethiopian plans to expand the overall fleet to 150 aircraft by 2025 and has been on a shopping spree for more turboprops and narrowbodies along with new widebody models.
The long-haul growth achieved and planned is impressive but would not be possible without the establishment of the largest regional network within Africa. Ethiopian is continuing to expand regionally with more capacity and new destinations such as Yaounde in Cameroon (launching 25-Oct-2015) Duban in South Africa (launching 16-Dec-2015). Ethiopian also continues to look at investment opportunities to complement its stake in Togo-based ASKY and Malawian. It is particularly keen to establish or invest in an airline in Central Africa, which Ethiopian sees as an underserved region with huge potential.
New routes such as Chengdu, New York and Singapore would not be possible without the strength of the Addis Ababa hub. Ethiopian has had a remarkable run over the last several years but it is just starting to scratch the surface when it comes to network opportunities.


Finding a mortgage broker (or mortgage advisor) in Sticker will work to help you analyse your situation and pick the best mortgage option that satisfies your demands. Mortgage brokers in Sticker are taught in the subject and are regulated by licences. Brokers offer the borrowers distinct strategies from various lenders. They can be employed by a corporation or can work independently. People searching for a mortgage loan hire these professionals to help them find what they are trying to find. They find loans consequently and understand the market, their client's needs. Mortgage brokers in Sticker are generally in continuous contact with various lenders so they have a variety to choose from.
Mortgage brokers in Sticker help you comprehend all the mortgage related information that's required. First of all, there are many types of mortgages available, and each of these have technicalities and many different parameters that could be very confusing for a lay person. A good mortgage broker in Sticker also clarify the various types of deals available in the marketplace and will help sort out all this advice. The broker can allow you to narrow down the information to eventually choose which mortgage is best for you once all the information is sorted out. It is difficult to learn all the legalities linked to mortgages, this really is where the broker steps in to assist you to cope with the legal facets of the mortgage.
Agents can help you get a much better deal on your mortgage. They may be usually well connected within the business and are aware of the methods of the marketplace. They will help you to get an excellent interest rate on your mortgage which will save a fortune in the lengthy operate. Hiring a mortgage broker in Sticker also saves lots of time. Trying to find the right mortgage deal can be quite time consuming, and this variable can cut down drastically.
Brokers help you to get the finest suitable mortgage for your unique needs. Everyone has diverse needs as it pertains to mortgages, mortgage brokers in Sticker help get great deals which will benefit the borrower. The paperwork can also be substantially reduced by hiring a broker. You usually have to just fill out one application and hand it for your broker, who will then show this to various lenders. The broker normally organises other paper work that could be very vexing. This makes the whole procedure much more easy to cope with as a mortgage broker in Sticker specialises in these processes. Additionally, due to their contacts, deals that go through brokers are accepted much faster than deals which are managed otherwise.
Another factor that is significant is that the broker operates for you. This makes not the mortgage organisations and them favour you. This level reinforces the reality that the broker will focus on getting you the most useful deal possible. Dealing directly with businesses can be difficult, and they may maybe not always have your best interests in mind. Instead they may be focused on making profits. A mortgage broker in Sticker is paid to be help the borrower get the most readily useful out of a deal and a good broker guarantees this is done.
The mortgage market is not small with banks, lending institutions and investor teams competing for your own company. Add mortgage brokers in Sticker to the mixture and it might feel like finding a mortgage is a procedure that is baffling. Yet, a mortgage broker in Sticker that is good should be someone that helps you browse industry, not complicate your perspective. Here are eight recommendations on finding a broker that is good.
1. Shop around. You might be entering into a business relationship. Do not hesitate to talk to several mortgage brokers in Sticker just as you would research other specialist services. This is the greatest method to get to know them and the deals they offer. Just tell them that you are doing research so it's clear that you're not yet committed.
2. Get your own credit records. Pull your own credit report before embarking on a gathering with different brokers. What this means is your credit score will not be obtained many times by various brokers.
3. Be sure they're certified. Mortgage brokers in Sticker need to compose qualifying exams that, as a broker, certify them in turn. Certification varies across states and nations. Do your research to ensure that any broker you take some time to match has satisfied with the legal requirements to call him/herself a mortgage broker.
4. Understand their company and the broker. Mortgage brokers in Sticker can function independently, or they symbolise an organisation. Sometimes, a bank may be even represented by brokers. So that you can be certain you are supplied a bundle that is correct for you versus a product that bank or their business is attempting to sell inquire their background.
5. Seek out those who need to learn more . Just as a physician would not make a diagnosis until he or she understood your state and all of your symptoms, mortgage brokers in Sticker should have a clear notion about your scenario. Keep clear of a broker who is keen to offer loan packages to you instantly. Ideally, they should be fully apprised of your goals and situation before seeking a mortgage that best fits you out.
6. Discover the way the broker gets their money. Up front, request the broker to show you how they have been paid. This way, you've got an understanding of all the transactions that they help you with. Be skeptical of brokers who require money upfront to be provided by you.
7. Discussion their method. Do not be afraid to discuss the system in order to make a suggestion that the broker uses. Mortgage brokers in Sticker may support you in this course and will make commission on products that are certain. Comprehending their formula will help you uncover a broker who's working in your very best interest.
8. Set them immediately. Avoid being frightened to ask them what kinds of bundles are currently available or will be in the future if you are interviewing brokers. An excellent broker should be up to date on existing deals and rates. They should likewise have a finger on the pulse of what institutions might be offering in the foreseeable future.
There are great mortgage brokers and there are not so good mortgage brokers. Following these tips and doing just a little research will help you find a great mortgage broker in Sticker who'll locate the best mortgage for you.
Please note that this can be an overall guide and you are consistently better off talking to a specialist mortgage broker in Sticker to discuss your mortgage requirements in more detail.


text:
So what does a Chinese Company Want with Gay Hookup Software Grindr?
Leave a Comment / Women's Choice Dating review / By admin
We n 2016 whenever a mostly not known Chinese business fallen $93 million to acquire a regulating stake when you look at the world's most common homosexual hookup application, the headlines caught people by wonder. Beijing Kunlun and Grindr are not an obvious fit: the previous are a gaming company noted for high-testosterone games like Clash of Clans; the other, a repository of shirtless gay dudes looking for casual experiences. During the time of their particular not likely union, Kunlun circulated a vague statement that Grindr would help the Chinese firm's "strategic position," enabling the app to become a "global platform"—including in Asia, in which homosexuality, though don't illegal, continues to be seriously stigmatized.
A couple of years later on any dreams of synergy include formally lifeless. First, in the springtime of 2018, Kunlun ended up being informed of a U.S. researching into whether or not it ended up being harnessing Grindr's individual facts for nefarious reasons (like blackmailing closeted US authorities). Then, in November just last year, Grindr's brand-new, Chinese-appointed, and heterosexual president, Scott Chen, ignited a firestorm among app's generally queer staff as he uploaded a Facebook review showing he is against homosexual relationship. Now, root say, also the FBI is actually breathing straight down Grindr's neck, calling previous employees for dirt about the class of the organization, the safety of its facts, while the reasons of its manager.
Grindr Founder Joel Simkhai pocketed millions from purchase of this software but enjoys advised company which he now significantly regrets it.
"The larger concern the FBI is wanting to resolve try: the reason why did this Chinese organization order Grindr if they couldn't develop they to Asia or get any Chinese benefit from they?" says one former software executive. "Did they truly expect to earn money, or will they be within the facts?"
The U.S. gave Kunlun a strong June deadline to market to an American suitor, complicating strategies for an IPO. it is all a dizzying turnabout when it comes down to groundbreaking app, which counts 4.5 million daily energetic people a decade after it was launched by a broke Hollywood slopes resident. Prior to the national arrived slamming, Grindr have embarked on an endeavor to lose the louche hookup graphics, choosing a group of significant LGBTQ journalists in summer 2017 to introduce an independent reports website (known as Into) and, a couple of months later, producing a social media venture, called Kindr, supposed to neutralize the accusations of racism and publicity of system dysphoria which had dogged the software since their beginning.
"exactly why performed this Chinese providers purchase Grindr if they couldn't expand it to China or have any Chinese reap the benefits of they?" —Former Grindr personnel
But while Grindr is burnishing the general public picture, the organization's business tradition was a student in tatters. In accordance with former staff members, around the same energy it actually was are examined from the Feds, the app ended up being scaling straight back their security system to save money, whilst scandals like Cambridge Analytica's process on Facebook were renewing fears about private-data exploration. Many LGBTQ staff departed the company under Kunlun's reign. (One former individual estimates a lot of the workforce is now directly.) And staffers continue steadily to present major worries about Chen, that has been working the app enjoy it's something between a freemium video game and a more risque form of Tinder. To ex-employees, Chen appeared to be laser concentrated on consumer activations and failed to seem to appreciate the social property value a platform that serves as a lifeline in homophobic nations like Egypt and Iran. Former staffers state the guy felt disengaged and could end up being heartless in a clueless kind of means: whenever a-row of workers was actually let it go, Chen—who techniques obsessively—replaced her chairs and desks with exercise equipment.
Chen decreased to review for this post, but a spokesperson claims Grindr possess undergone "significant increases" within the last number of years, mentioning a rise in excess of 1 million day-to-day productive customers. "We have significantly more to do, but the audience is pleased about the outcomes the audience is attaining for our people, our society, and all of our Grindr employees," the report checks out.
Scott Chen's myspace
"we leftover because used to don't wish to be their particular Sarah Sanders anymore," he includes.
Grindr founder Joel Simkhai, just who orchestrated the sale to Kunlun, dropped to comment for this post, but one supply states he's heartbroken by how every little thing moved lower. "the guy desired to remain in West Hollywood the site, but the guy doesn't have any personal capital anymore," one resource claims. "He's wealthy, but that's they. So he's come hidden in Miami."
Many workers admit that Grindr's documents may have been intercepted because of the Chinese government—and should they were, there wouldn't be much of a walk to follow along with. "There's no community where the People's Republic of China is similar to, 'Oh, yes, a Chinese billionaire will make this all profit the American marketplace with for this useful facts and never provide to you,'" one previous staffer claims.


text:
It's a girl! Royal baby born in New York City
February 21, 2014 / 8:59 PM / CBS News
NEW YORK - Sweden's Princess Madeleine and her husband, American banker Christopher O'Neill, have welcomed their first child, a daughter.
The baby girl was born Thursday night at New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. O'Neill was present for the delivery, the Swedish royal court said.
Princess Madeleine of Sweden's royal wedding 30 photos
"The Office of the Marshal of the Realm is delighted to announce that H.R.H Princess Madeleine gave birth to a daughter on February 20, 2014, at 10.41 p.m. local time New York," Chancellor of the Realm Svante Lindquvist said in a statement.
Both the 31-year-old princess and her newborn daughter, whose name was not disclosed, are in good health, the court said.
"Everything went well. The mother and child are doing well," royal court spokeswoman Annika Sönnerberg told Sweden's TT news agency.
On Facebook, the new parents posted a photo of the baby's tiny footprint on O'Neill's inner arm.
"I'm overwhelmed!" Madeleine wrote in the posting. The proud papa showed reporters the footprint at a news conference Friday.
Fourth in line to the Swedish throne, Madeleine is the youngest child of King Carl XVI Gustav and Queen Silvia. She holds the titles of duchess of Halsingland and Gastrikland.
She married the London-born O'Neill in in Stockholm on June 8, 2013. The couple live mostly in New York, where the princess works for the World Childhood Foundation, a charity founded by Queen Silvia.
A 21-gun salute was fired in Stockholm, as well as other locations across Sweden, to mark the baby's birth.
"Today is a day of great happiness and thankfulness. We are filled with great joy. We now hope that Princess Madeleine and Christopher will be able to enjoy this unique time with their young daughter in peace and quiet," the king and queen said in a statement.
The baby is the second grandchild for the king and queen. Crown Princess Victoria and her husband, Prince Daniel, have a daughter, Princess Estelle, who turns 2 on Sunday.
O'Neill decided to keep his U.S. citizenship and declined to accept a Swedish title on his marriage. It wasn't immediately clear whether his new daughter would be given a title or be included in the royal succession.
The child would be barred from the succession if she is not raised in Sweden or if she is brought up as a Catholic, O'Neill's religion.
It's been a busy winter for royal births. In January, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II became a great-grandmother for the third time when her granddaughter Zara Phillips gave birth to Mia Grace Tindall.
Mia is the first child for Phillips, 32, and her rugby star husband Mike Tindall -- and the perfect age to play with her second cousin Prince George, son of Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, the former Kate Middleton.
Charlotte Casiraghi, the 27-year-old daughter of Monaco's Princess Caroline and granddaughter of the late movie icon Grace Kelley, and her 42-year-old boyfriend, French actor and comedian Gad Elmaleh, welcomed son Raphael in December.
First published on February 21, 2014 / 8:59 PM


Against these great benefits, it is really important to understand the meaning of the mentor, who can be a great helper and on the top of that, a potential person for cooperation. An effective use of mentor can shorten the learning curve, avoid errors and lead to better results.
But is it possible for a internet home business newbie to find and use mentor effectively? How can he/she find a mentor, and what makes the mentoring profitable for the mentor?
The key is the newbies attitude, his will to really want to succeed. Mentoring is a known techniques from many industries, a known way to transfer and to recycle knowledge.
Now everybody is able to mentor a internet home business newbie, it requires a certain capabilities, a certain state of the mind.
First of all, the mentor must be an experienced internet business marketer, who has already done his success. He knows what is ahead, what dangers there are to loose the money and to go through the wrong way.
A mentor must be strategic person, I mean a person who has a wide view from the internet home business, so that he has lots of different tactics in use,which he then can recommend to the newbie, if necessary.
2.Mentoring Requires A Good Communication.
It is funny, how rare internet home business marketers are willing to communicate. Many subscribe newsletters or other free stuff, but that is not a form of communication, which leads to a good relationships between a newbie and a mentor.
The key is the will to get a mentor, a newbie has just to ask that. A good place to find good candidates are the internet home business forums. There you can also meet other newbies, who can share there tips.
3. An Affiliate Needs A Mental Growth.
The growth is the key word for better results. The best way to grow your skills is to communicate with other people in the internet home business industry. Only by belonging to the group, you will find out what you are and what more should you need.
I remember one affiliate, who was extremely active from the first contact. And I was extremely helpful and polite from the first contact. She asked and asked and I tried to answer as good as I could.
The results was best I have ever experienced. I could stop her to spend money into wrong things and to believe the hypestyle overpromises. She saved her motivation and money and is now doing very well with her army of own affiliates.
So the most profitable tactics in the beginning is to make questions. Why to try to invent the wheel again? The better way is to persuade somebody to tell the successful, working tips and to guarantee the results.
Is This A Good Home Business To Be In?


Kansas City, KS - Sporting Kansas City fan David Browning reportedly nudged his friend Kip and stated, "This one is a goal," for a record 100th time as a corner kick was taken during the recent home game victory against the Chicago Fire.
"This one is a goal!"
"Dave always does this, every time," stated Kip Pzyrnisky. "I've just learned to tune it out."
According to friends, Browning started this trend when he turned to a random person during a watch party for the SKC game against the New York Red Bulls back in 2013.
"He said, 'this one is a goal,' and sure enough... Collin headed in that Zusi service. He's been saying it now on nearly every corner ever since," stated friend Amy Sanborn.
Our reporters spoke to Browning who admitted, "They aren't always a goal, but I feel like they are a goal, so I'm going to keep this thing going."
The Nutmeg News will have more on this as we discover that Browning yells, "GET IN THE HOLE," while golfing.


text:
Q: Получение ссылки на DOM элемент при клике Доброго времени суток. Необходимо, чтобы при клике на любой dom элемент возвращалась его ссылка в формате div#id.class. (c использование библиотеки jquery). Подскажите как можно это реализовать

A:

$('*').click(function(e) {
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  var _this = $(this).context;
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  console.log(tag + id + _class);
})
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  width: 50px;
  height: 50px;
  background: #eee;
}
#id2 {
  background: #c0c;
}
.class {
  width: 50px;
  height: 50px;
  background: #0cc;
}
div {
  float: left;
  margin: 10px;
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
X-ray Binaries
Quasi-periodic oscillations in short type II bursts from the Rapid Burster
Monthly Notices of the RAS March 1991. 1991MNRAS.249..300L.
Lubin, L.M. and Lewin, W.H.G. and Tan, J. and Stella, L. and van Paradijs, J.
EXOSAT SATELLITE, POWER SPECTRA, STELLAR LUMINOSITY, STELLAR OSCILLATIONS, STELLAR RADIATION, TYPE 2 BURSTS, X-ray binaries
Quasi-periodic oscillations in low-mass X ray binaries
January 1991. 1991heaa.conf..251L.
Inproceedings
Lewin, W.H.G. and van Paradijs, J. and van der Klis, M.
LUMINOSITY, PERIODIC VARIATIONS, POWER SPECTRA, SPECTRUM ANALYSIS, STELLAR MASS, STELLAR OSCILLATIONS, STELLAR SPECTRA, X RAY SOURCES, X-ray binaries
High-Energy Astrophysics. American and Soviet Perspectives
January 1991. 1991heaa.conf.....L.
ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI, Astrophysics, BACKGROUND RADIATION, CONFERENCES, COSMOLOGY, GALAXIES, GAMMA-RAY: BURSTS, GRAVITATIONAL LENSES, INFRARED ASTRONOMY SATELLITE, INFRARED RADIATION, mass, MOSCOW, OBSERVATORIES, OSCILLATIONS, Pulsars, QUASARS, SUPERNOVA 1987A, UNIVERSE, X-ray binaries, X-rays
Millisecond radio pulsars in globular clusters
Monthly Notices of the RAS November 1989. 1989MNRAS.241...51V.
Verbunt, F. and Lewin, W.H.G. and van Paradijs, J.
BINARY STARS, GLOBULAR CLUSTERS, MASS TRANSFER, Pulsars, RADIO FREQUENCIES, Star formation, STELLAR MASS ACCRETION, WHITE DWARF STARS, X-ray binaries
A search for quasi-periodic oscillations in 4U/MXB 1735-44
Monthly Notices of the RAS May 1989. 1989MNRAS.238..851P.
Penninx, W. and Hasinger, G. and Lewin, W.H.G. and van Paradijs, J. and van der Klis, M.
COMPANION STARS, HORIZONTAL BRANCH STARS, MAIN SEQUENCE STARS, PERIODIC VARIATIONS, STELLAR LUMINOSITY, STELLAR MASS, STELLAR OSCILLATIONS, VARIABLE STARS, X-ray binaries
X-ray sources in globular clusters of other galaxies
October 2005. 2005AIPC..797...23L.
Lewin, W.H.G. and Verbunt, F.
ELLIPTICAL GALAXIES, GALAXIES, Globular clusters in external galaxies, globular star clusters, SPIRAL GALAXIES, X-ray binaries, X-ray sources (astronomical)
Simultaneous X-ray and optical observations of GX 339-4 in an X-ray high state
Makishima, K. and Maejima, Y. and Mitsuda, K. and Bradt, H.V. and Remillard, R.A. and Tuohy, I.R. and Hoshi, R. and Nakagawa, M.
accretion disks, ASTRONOMICAL SPECTROSCOPY, BLACK HOLES (ASTRONOMY), OPTICAL THICKNESS, SPACEBORNE ASTRONOMY, STELLAR MASS ACCRETION, VISIBLE SPECTRUM, X-ray binaries
H0538 + 608 – A bright AM Herculis-type X-ray source
Astrophysical Journal, Letters March 1986. 1986ApJ...302L..11R.
Remillard, R.A. and Bradt, H.V. and McClintock, J.E. and Patterson, J. and Roberts, W. and Schwartz, D.A. and Tapia, S.
CIRCULAR POLARIZATION, EMISSION SPECTRA, LATE STARS, MAGNETIC STARS, SPECTRAL LINE WIDTH, SPECTRUM ANALYSIS, STELLAR LUMINOSITY, STELLAR MASS ACCRETION, STELLAR SPECTROPHOTOMETRY, VISIBLE SPECTRUM, WHITE DWARF STARS, X-ray binaries
1H 0709-360 – A cataclysmic variable with an orbital period inside the 'period gap'
Astrophysical Journal August 1990. 1990ApJ...359..204T.
Tuohy, I.R. and Remillard, R.A. and Bradt, H.V. and Brissenden, R.J.V.
ASTRONOMICAL PHOTOMETRY, cataclysmic variables, CIRCULAR POLARIZATION, DWARF STARS, ECLIPSING BINARY STARS, LINE SPECTRA, PULSE MODULATION, SYNCHRONISM, X RAY SOURCES, X-ray binaries
Discovery of three new RS Canum Venaticorum-like counterparts to HEAO I X-ray sources
Astrophysical Journal April 1987. 1987ApJ...315..273B.
Buckley, D.A.H. and Tuohy, I.R. and Remillard, R.A. and Bradt, H.V. and Schwartz, D.A.
CHROMOSPHERE, EMISSION SPECTRA, HEAO 1, RADIAL VELOCITY, STELLAR ACTIVITY, STELLAR LUMINOSITY, STELLAR MODELS, STELLAR SPECTRA, VARIABLE STARS, X-ray binaries
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text:
using System;
using System.Collections.Generic;
using System.Linq;
using System.Text;
using System.Threading.Tasks;

class LeapYear
{
    static void CheckForALeapYear(int year)
    {
        if (DateTime.IsLeapYear(year))
        {
            Console.WriteLine("Leap");
        }
        else
        {
            Console.WriteLine("Common");
        }
    }
    static void Main()
    {
        int year = int.Parse(Console.ReadLine());
        CheckForALeapYear(year);
    }
}


text:
The Best Reviewed Books of the Week
Featuring Alan Hollinghurst, Marilynne Robinson, Wu-Tang, The Wire, and more
March 16, 2018 By Book Marks
1. The Sparsholt Affair by Alan Hollinghurst
(8 Rave, 4 Positive, 3 Mixed)
"…the immense assurance of the writing, the deep knowledge of the settings and periods in which the story unfolds, the mingling of cruel humour and lyrical tenderness, the insatiable interest in human desire from its most refined to its most brutally carnal, grip you as tightly as any thriller … It's a wonderful structural device, this layering of similar situations on top of each other like a series of transparencies that cumulatively portray a culture as it exists in time as well as in space."
–James Lasdun (The Guardian)
2. Back Talk by Danielle Lazarin
(6 Rave)
"Danielle Lazarin's first story collection, Back Talk, is a marvel of its kind, and it's marvelous precisely in its Munrovian shiftiness, its ability to bend form and turn the story into something that is temporally and emotionally elastic … That's the territory that Back Talk most regularly and brilliantly charts: the subjunctive, the conditional, the future, the world of desire and its many complications."
–Anthony Domestico (The San Francisco Chronicle)
3. Happiness by Aminatta Forna
"Happiness starts out as a novel about coincidence — chance encounters, twists of fate — and turns into one about coexistence: how to overcome intolerance, accept differences and live in harmony. What could have been a strident, speechifying polemic is instead a subtle, considered yet deeply resonant tale, one which sensitively and intelligently highlights connection over division and kindness over cruelty."
–Malcolm Forbes (The Minneapolis Star Tribune)
4. Force of Nature by Jane Harper
(3 Rave, 5 Positive)
"Harper's writing style is hypnotic, and if there was ever any doubt as to whether or not she'd be able to carry on the success of her critically-acclaimed debut novel, she silences doubters in a big way with this book … Force of Nature is beautifully written, and features a hair-raising plot that'll have readers questioning how well they really know those around them. Harper's character development continues to be her strength, but her well-rounded skill set is on full display throughout."
–Ryan Steck (The Real Book Spy)
5. The Sandman by Lars Kepler, Trans. by Neil Smith
"With its tight, staccato chapters and cast of dangerous wraiths lurking everywhere, The Sandman is a nonstop fright. It's able to shift its focus frequently with no loss of tension … the book's greatest tension comes from wondering whether either Joona or Saga [the detectives] is any match for this near-supernatural monster, who can implant thoughts in his victims' heads or turn up as an apparition just staring into their windows. Scared yet? You will be."
–Janet Maslin (The New York Times)
1. I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
"…[a] meticulously researched, uniquely evocative nonfiction opus … With unflinching self-awareness, McNamara captures the adrenaline rush that accompanies each potential lead and the crushing disappointment that follows when most inevitably hit a dead end … The true crime genre has been criticized for exploiting trauma, but McNamara's attention to specific details humanizes but doesn't overexpose her subjects … I'll Be Gone in the Dark is narrative true crime journalism at its very finest, a complex, multilayered, chilling portrait of a faceless monster, and a remarkable tribute to the woman who, up until her last day, believed she would one day have him in her crosshairs."
–Amelia McDonell Parry (The Village Voice)
2. What Are We Doing Here? by Marilynne Robinson
"In essays that challenge our current myopia, Robinson praises our past and our potential. She sheds light. She muses. She quotes great thinkers and poets. She marvels. There is always in these essays the sense of the divine behind every human encounter … Not all the essays are easy. Her ruminations are meandering and deep — ideas river off, etymologies are explored, histories examined. The reader will do well to keep her paddle in the current, for it is well worth the ride."
–Christine Brunkhorst (The Minneapolis Star Tribune)
3. The Cadaver King and the Country Dentist by Radley Balko & Tucker Carrington
"…a superb work of investigative reporting … Messrs. Balko and Carrington combine expertise, industry and outrage into a searing narrative. And while one unreservedly hopes that The Cadaver King and the Country Dentist will spur reform in Mississippi's system of justice, there is reason to doubt it will."
–Nancy Rommelman (The Wall Street Journal)
4. Raw: My Journey Into the Wu-Tang by Lamont "U-God" Hawkins
"Hawkins's fight to get his bars up to scratch after coming out of prison is strangely poignant, even in this context. The bigger story, though, is his life. He writes with a mixture of braggadocio, insight, pride and weariness about the years leading up to the Wu-Tang … A breakdown, sobriety and therapy have had a role in the making of this memoir, which should have an audience in hip-hop fans and policymakers alike."
–Kitty Empire (The Observer)
5. All the Pieces Matter: The Inside Story of the Wire by Jonathan Abrams
"[an] excellent oral history … All the Pieces Matter renders the making of 'The Wire' in enough rich detail to please even its most ardent fans … The picture that emerges is one in which 'greatness'—the arc from pilot episode to best TV series of all time—is contingent on an almost infinite number of factors, from financial considerations and casting decisions to critical reception, timing and plain dumb luck … All the Pieces Matter offers a reminder that the very definition of 'greatness' is itself circumstantial, subject to shifting mores, changing tastes, industrial constraints, popular interests."
–Matt Brennan (Paste)


Thought I would show some FAKE PAB`s .
First Hollow PAB in Bronze , very high quality FAKE .
Back of Hollow PAB in Bronze FAKE .
That's a good idea for a thread, Jan.. I hope you don't have too many in the junk box?
Here's another scary one.. The 'Hermann Aurich ' flat back fake.
Yupp ! That is also a well known and good made fake . That have cheated a lot of Collectors , in the starting of their Collecting .
Here is a other dangerous FAKE . Hollow PAB in Silver with Cutout gras area . Made in the same die as the Bronze one showed earlier .
Back of FAKE Hollow PAB in Silver with cutout gras area .
Flatback AS PAB , fake .
Back of AS Flatback PAB in Bronze .
Here is an othe rtype of the Hollow Silver PAB FAKE , silver finish looks most like "mint" . This one is also made in the same die as the other two FAKES showed in this Topic .
Back of Silver HOLLOW PAB FAKE .
One more FAKE , This time a fake made after the SC Juncker / S&L PAB . Badge is made of some modern metall .
Back of FAKE PAB .
The FAKE in a Compare with two orginal PAB than have been model for the FAKE .
Fake to left in photo .
Hollow FAKE PAB in packet of issue .
Back of PAB in Packet of issue . Packet maker marked Wilh. Deumer .
Good work, Jan Arne! Thanks for posting those. We have some new members who will benefit from these pictures.
Here is the notorious "blob" fake. New PAB collectors please take note.
Here is my newly posted Fake Frank & Reif PAB. It has casting lines around the outside and is bent severely.
Here is the back with a huge piece missing where the "Reif" should be. I always had my doubts on this one. Only paid $45 Canadian for it though.
Is it just me or are #14( Jan's ) and #17 (Bob's )the same badge?
Sorry battlecat but that's one very bad PAB IMO...although I will admit it's the first time I have seen this type of fake badge..it's also quite possibly the worst one I have ever seen. Could you post a complete scan of the reverse?
Yupp ! Fake PAB in my Post and Bob`s is the same variant .
Only differens is finnish and that the one I show came in a Packet of Issue ( Also Fake ) .
Thanks for the feedback! Dan, I will try to get some complete scans of the back over the next day or so.


text:
Sklar Wilton > Blog > Define Portfolio Strategy > Everything is Marketing – Not That There's Anything Wrong With That
Everything is Marketing – Not That There's Anything Wrong With That
POSTED BY Amber Hudson ON January 30, 2013
Lesson on when it's your time, be honest and make it big!
By Amber Hudson and Luke Sklar
Here at EIM we've had it with the liars. Lance Armstrong, Manti T'eo, let's throw it back a few years to Barry Bonds and Hugh Grant.
Not to compare the following person to the aforementioned lying narcissists, but we commend Kathleen Wynne for being honest about who she is. Her post as Ontario's new, and first female, Premier is brand spanking new, so we'll withhold judgment on her ability to run our fair province (the word going in is pretty positive). But we commend her for not hiding who she is, a gay woman in politics.
Now, I'm hearing a lot of talk in the media about this aspect of her life, often more than her political acumen. And the interesting thing is I don't think anyone really cares. If the media is hoping to grab attention with this they are about 6 years behind. First the guys made a big splash coming out of the closet (Ricky Martin, Lance Bass, George Michael). It's become so commonplace that by the time Anderson Cooper came out we stifled a collective yawn. Now when it's about a gay woman, thanks to Ellen and Rosie, we all shrug and think big deal, they must have a book coming out. (Jodie Foster sort of did at the Golden Globes with a speech that left viewers wondering all kinds of WTF. Did she? Didn't she? Yes, she did.)
So the lesson, it's about being honest and timing. If you're hoping to make a big splash with your brand, be loud and proud and flaunt those distinctive assets. And do so ahead of the trend as the next one is right behind you. The next trend? According to Toronto Life it's being polyamorous (the technical term for swinging). I can't wait to see who is the first celebrity to hit the Oprah confessional and admit to this one!
Everything is Marketing – You Can't Get Away with Bad Behaviour
Lessons on how to survive public humiliation. By Amber Hudson and Luke Sklar We don't...
Everything is Marketing – Department Store Showdown
Strategic lessons from two department stores. By Amber Hudson and Luke Sklar Did you happen...
Everything is Marketing – A Fish vs A Ghost
Lessons from Finding Dory and Ghostbusters on sticking to your brand's values. I saw Finding...


text:
package course.examples.touch.Gestures;

import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.Random;

import android.app.Activity;
import android.gesture.Gesture;
import android.gesture.GestureLibraries;
import android.gesture.GestureLibrary;
import android.gesture.GestureOverlayView;
import android.gesture.GestureOverlayView.OnGesturePerformedListener;
import android.gesture.Prediction;
import android.graphics.Color;
import android.os.Bundle;
import android.widget.FrameLayout;
import android.widget.RelativeLayout;
import android.widget.Toast;

public class GesturesActivity extends Activity implements
		OnGesturePerformedListener {
	private static final String NO = "No";
	private static final String YES = "Yes";
	private static final String PREV = "Prev";
	private static final String NEXT = "Next";
	private GestureLibrary mLibrary;
	private int mBgColor = 0;
	private int mFirstColor, mStartBgColor = Color.GRAY;
	private FrameLayout mFrame;
	private RelativeLayout mLayout;

	@Override
	public void onCreate(Bundle savedInstanceState) {
		super.onCreate(savedInstanceState);
		setContentView(R.layout.main);

		mFrame = (FrameLayout) findViewById(R.id.frame);
		mBgColor = new Random().nextInt(0xFFFFFF) | 0xFF000000;
		mFirstColor = mBgColor;
		mFrame.setBackgroundColor(mBgColor);

		mLayout = (RelativeLayout) findViewById(R.id.main);
		mLayout.setBackgroundColor(mStartBgColor);

		mLibrary = GestureLibraries.fromRawResource(this, R.raw.gestures);
		if (!mLibrary.load()) {
			finish();
		}

		// Make this the target of gesture detection callbacks
		GestureOverlayView gestureView = (GestureOverlayView) findViewById(R.id.gestures_overlay);
		gestureView.addOnGesturePerformedListener(this);

	}

	public void onGesturePerformed(GestureOverlayView overlay, Gesture gesture) {

		// Get gesture predictions
		ArrayList<Prediction> predictions = mLibrary.recognize(gesture);

		// Get highest-ranked prediction
		if (predictions.size() > 0) {
			Prediction prediction = predictions.get(0);

			// Ignore weak predictions

			if (prediction.score > 2.0) {
				if (prediction.name.equals(PREV)) {

					mBgColor -= 100;
					mFrame.setBackgroundColor(mBgColor);

				} else if (prediction.name.equals(NEXT)) {

					mBgColor += 100;
					mFrame.setBackgroundColor(mBgColor);

				} else if (prediction.name.equals(YES)) {

					mLayout.setBackgroundColor(mBgColor);

				} else if (prediction.name.equals(NO)) {

					mLayout.setBackgroundColor(mStartBgColor);
					mFrame.setBackgroundColor(mFirstColor);

				} else {
					Toast.makeText(this, prediction.name, Toast.LENGTH_SHORT)
							.show();

				}
			} else {
				Toast.makeText(this, "No prediction", Toast.LENGTH_SHORT)
						.show();
			}
		}
	}
}


text:
Q: In right triangle $ABC$, $AC=BC$, arc $DEF$'s center is $A$, if the two shaded segments have the same area, what is $AD:DB$?
I'm working on this question for a math class I'm taking. I don't think it's very hard, but for some reason I can't really get anywhere with it. Since triangle $ABC$ is 45-45-90, I called $AD$ $x$ and $BD$ $y$, then drew line segment $AE$ and tried to find the areas of the shaded regions and set them equal to each other, but I had too many variables.


The SH Connect - simulationHub plugin allows you to export your geometry to https://www.simulationhub.com, an easy-to-use cloud-based CFD tool to test your designs. Once the geometry is exported, the model is available for you to perform CFD analysis of the design using simulationHub's Generic Simulation app.
Generic Simulation app is the most easy-to-use, UpFront CFD app built for designers, innovators, and enthusiasts. Get the CFD results compiled in a report.
The subscription of 'Generic Simulation' app is based on a simulation credits system. After you download the 'SH Connect - simulationHub' app from the Autodesk app store for free, you can select a subscription plan for the app from SimulationHub AppStore. As Generic Simulation app performs CFD simulation to provide CFD results, computational resources are engaged on servers to run the simulations. The subscription plan covers the cost involved in utilizing these computational resources. There are three subscription plans: Trial subscription (free); Monthly subscription (USD 500); Yearly subscription (USD 5000).
1. Trial subscription plan - Free: Trial subscription provides access to the full version of the app for free, but with a limited 5 simulation credits and 15 days validity period. Each CFD flow simulation consumes one credit. This includes the entire CFD process from fluid volume extraction, meshing, simulation and post processing, to report generation. During the trial subscription period, you are eligible to get access to all the features as experienced by the monthly or yearly subscription user. Within the trial period, you can cancel your subscription. You will be auto-subscribed to the Monthly Subscription plan after 15 days of trial, if you haven't previously cancelled it.
2. Monthly subscription plan - USD 500 (meant for light use): In this subscription plan you will receive 100 simulation credits with 30 days of validity. Each CFD flow simulation consumes one credit. This includes the entire CFD process from fluid volume extraction, meshing, simulation and post processing, to report generation. In case you run out of simulation credits within the subscription period, you can buy additional top-up credits as and when needed.
3. Yearly subscription plan - USD 5000 (meant for heavy use): In this subscription plan you will receive 1200 simulation credits with 365 days of validity. Each CFD flow simulation consumes one credit. This includes the entire CFD process from fluid volume extraction, meshing, simulation and post processing, to report generation. Your subscription will end after the duration of one year or after performing a total of 1200 simulations, whichever comes earlier. In case you run out of simulation credits within the subscription period, you can buy additional top-up credits as and when needed.
They call this a beta but I have tried dozens of times over the last few months to get it to work and it doesn't. I have tried to contact their customer support which is a PITA and never got a response. It seems like this must be a stalled project or something. If you guys ever get it working right let me know.


The launch of the Global Report on Women in Tourism 2010 was held at Berlin's International Conference Center (ICC) on 11 March 2011 in conjunction with the year's edition of ITB Berlin. Speakers included prominent women Ministers of Tourism, specialists in the spheres of gender, development and tourism affairs and notable business women with extensive experience in the sector. The panel discussion, "Pathways to Success - Shaping the future for women in tourism" provided a forum for these experts to discuss the current state and future prospects for women in tourism.
The Global Report on Women in Tourism 2010 constitutes the first directly visible result of the close collaboration between UNWTO and UN Women (formerly UNIFEM). As the first attempt to map women's active participation in the tourism industry worldwide, the Global Report represents a landmark study in the field of tourism and gender. It focuses on five main areas: Employment, Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Education and Community.
The two UN agencies have worked in partnership since 2008, aiming to bring gender issues to the forefront of the tourism industry, promoting gender equality, women's empowerment and the mainstreaming of gender issues in national tourism policies.


text:
reclining standards
armchair observations on theater, music, and more with your hosts, david fox and cameron kelsall
About Reclining Standards
The Cherry Orchard (People's Light, February 2015) — and the Joys and Perils of Chekhov
By David Fox on February 19, 2015 • ( Leave a comment )
Mary McDonnell and David Strathairn in The Cherry Orchard at People's Light (photo by Mark Garvin)
Last week, I saw The Cherry Orchard at People's Light. Before commenting on that estimable, thought-provoking and often excellent production, please humor me as I share a few more general musings on Chekhov in production – most of which were running through my mind even before I got to the theatre.
I've probably seen more Chekhov plays – in more productions – than those of any writer apart from Shakespeare (and perhaps Tennessee Williams). I've seen all the major plays, and most of the minor ones; I've seen professional productions at all levels, as well as community theatre and college versions; and I've seen several of the most famous works, including Cherry Orchard, by American and English companies.
And every time, I come away thinking the same two things – 1) Chekhov may be the greatest of all 20th Century playwrights; and 2) He's just so damned difficult to get right!
I could go on about this for hours – but here, I'll focus on what I think are the major issues.
These are, of course, Russian plays, and I'm at a disadvantage in not speaking the language. But beyond the words, the bigger problem is the tone.
This is hardly a unique insight on my part – critics often comment on the disjuncture between what Chekhov referred to as his "comedies," and what interpreters and audiences often see more as sentimental dramas, or even tragedies. The frequently found stage direction, "through tears," seems to apply to some of the same lines where characters are also laughing.
I'll admit I don't really understand it, but I do believe it's utterly distinctive, and probably hardwired into the culture. But of this, I'm sure – even for modern audiences used to dark comedies and tonal mixes, Chekhov is a challenge.
Then there's the problem of an ensemble piece that also demands star power. Most of Chekhov's plays were written for Stanislavski's Moscow Art Theatre. They call for large casts, representing communities (families, friends, colleagues), and there are lots of group scenes. It's essential that everyone seems part of the same world.
Yet, virtually every role is a gem, full of rich detail – and we also want to see a kind of star charisma in many of them.
It's a tricky balance. The "All Star Chekhov" I've seen has almost invariable been disappointing, notably Mike Nichols' The Seagull in Central Park, which featured Meryl Streep among many other luminaries. Oh, it was glamorous, all right – but no two actors seemed to be in the same play, and ultimately the whole evening felt like an unfortunate collision between a great playwright and The People's Choice Awards.
Yet Chekhov without standout performances is also missing something.
Can it ever be perfect? In my experience, the closest I've come was a 1998 production of Ivanov, directed by Gerald Gutierrez at the Beaumont Theatre in Lincoln Center. Ivanov is generally regarded as minor Chekhov – but in Gutierrez's deft hands, with a sensational cast of stars (Kevin Kline, Marian Seldes, Hope Davis), somehow this motley crew made you believe they were all in it together, and the balance of comedy and drama felt exquisitely right. (Sadly, the gifted Gutierrez died a few years later, at age 53. Surely, there's something Chekhovian in that.)
There's much to be said for People's Light's handsome, vibrant production of The Cherry Orchard, which features star glamour (guest artists Mary McDonnell and David Strathairn in the sister/brother leading roles of Lyubov and Leonid), seamlessly integrated alongside the fine company ensemble.
First and most important, director Abigail Adams clearly has a deep understanding of this immensely complex work. Throughout, she firmly etches details – multiple storylines, including old love affairs ending, new ones beginning, and business transactions that will forever alter everybody's lives – while also painting the larger picture of a graceful but antiquated world, giving way to a more efficient but harsher modern one.
Adams' also takes note – to a degree I've not seen before – of Chekhov's intent that the play is a comedy. Some of this is very effective – I've rarely seen the quick by-play among the smaller characters register so well.
Mary McDonnell and Olivia Mell in The Cherry Orchard at People's Light (photo by Mark Garvin)
Still, there are many touching moments. McDonnell in particular is responsible for many of them. She's a fascinating Lyubov – less warm than other actresses I've seen in the role, but I'm not sure warmth is what's called for. What McDonnell brings is something odder – still lovely and alluring, with distracted, breathless fragility that is both appealing and off-putting. She's well paired with Strathairn, an aristocratic Leonid who is simultaneously bumbling and somehow noble. Among the other actors, there is especially fine work from Peter Pryor, a brusque but sympathetic Lopakhin; Luigi Sottile, louche and smarmy as Yasha, and Graham Smith, a loveable, funny old Firs. (Adams and company use an excellent adaptation by writer and director Emily Mann, which very occasionally sounds too contemporary.)
I have a couple of reservations. A few performances seem in a different, very much more modern world than the rest of the cast – this is true of Pryor; also of the lovely Olivia Mell as Anya. Both are fine on their own, but too different from the other actors in style. (Very likely this is a conscious choice, since the tension between the old world and the modern one is a significant theme in Cherry Orchard, but I still found it jarring here.) Also, for my taste, there's a too much emphasis on the comedy, which robs a few scenes – the faltering courtship of Lopakhin and Varya, for example – of their poignancy.
Still, this is a production, which, in the details as well as the overall conception, honors both the play, and People's Light. I left thinking that, surely, The Cherry Orchard is the greatest play written in the 20th Century – and that's about the highest compliment I can offer.
Through March 8, People's Light, 39 Conestoga Road, Malvern, PA, (610) 644-3500, www.peopleslight.org
Categories: CITY PAPER, Criticism, Theater
Tagged as: #CherryOrchard, #peopleslightandtheatre
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CITY PAPER
TICKET/PHILADELPHIA MAGAZINE
TIME OUT PHILADELPHIA


WASHINGTON -- Those expecting a fiery farewell speech from U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson might wind up disappointed.
Aides to the bombastic Orlando Democrat -- who lost last week to Republican challenger Dan Webster -- said Grayson has no plans (yet) to walk on the House floor and tell his peers that he's mad about the election's outcome, the state of the Democratic Party and the future of healthcare reform.
Instead, Grayson intends to use his final weeks in office to quietly press for $14.3 million in funding for hometown projects, including $5 million for medical research at Florida Hospital in Celebration and $1 million for emergency generators in Orange County.
Similarly, outgoing U.S. Rep. Suzanne Kosmas, D- New Smyrna Beach, has no grand exit on the calendar. She aims to use the lame duck session that begins next week to wrap up a few pieces of unfinished business, including a last-ditch effort to create a new federal grant program that would help small businesses get started.
"While it is unclear at this point what legislation will come to the floor in the upcoming session, I will continue to look for opportunities to create jobs and help Central Florida's economy," said Kosmas, in a statement. She lost her bid for re-election to Republican state Rep. Sandy Adams.
Working against both lawmakers is a compressed schedule.
Congress returns next week for a just few days before adjourning for Thanksgiving, and it's uncertain how long after that lawmakers will be in session before the new class of legislators takes control in January. Much, if not all, of the remaining time is expected to be spent on two big-ticket items: must-pass federal spending bills and extension of Bush-era tax cuts.
That means most lawmakers, especially outgoing freshmen like Kosmas, will have little opportunity to have their individual bills heard and instead must try to attach them to spending bills or other high-priority measures.
Kosmas' proposal would create a $250-million grant program to help new businesses in "high-growth" industries such as aerospace, clean energy and biotechnology. She says it "will help small companies in Central Florida grow, commercialize their products, and create good jobs in our community."
But finding money for any new program will be a daunting task over the next six weeks.
Emboldened by gains on Election Day, congressional Republicans are pressing leaders to cut spending, and it's likely Congress will pass a 2011 federal budget that's below the amount requested by the White House. As a result, programs important to Florida – like NASA -- could see their budgets reduced by hundreds of millions of dollars or more.
Thousands of Kennedy Space Center workers are expected to lose their jobs when the space shuttle flies its final mission next year, and any reduction in NASA's budget could hinder efforts to develop new space programs that could provide jobs for these employees.
"One of my highest priorities is ensuring that NASA is funded at the authorized levels [of $19 billion]," Kosmas said. "If the Republican pledge to roll back all federal spending goes through, then thousands of jobs on the Space Coast will be at risk, and I will fight in the remaining weeks to ensure that NASA is not cut."
The belt-tightening also could affect how much money lawmakers such as Grayson get for their hometown projects, also known as earmarks. Senate Republicans next week will debate a total ban on earmarks in the next session, and approval of these pet projects could face resistance in the waning days of this session.
For the rest of the year, though, Democrats still control both chambers, and some earmarks are expected to get through.
A top priority for Grayson is $5 million for Nicholson Center for Surgical Advancement in Celebration, which instructs surgeons in new techniques. The money, which would be included in the defense budget, would pay to develop new robotic surgery techniques.
"Robotic surgery offers less invasive and more precise procedures that produce better outcomes," wrote Grayson in his funding request.
If history is any guide, Grayson has a good chance of getting at least some of the money; he snagged $4.2 million for the center in the 2010 budget.
Even as Grayson and Kosmas are planning their swan songs, another outgoing Florida lawmaker is readying a comeback.
Republican U.S. Sen. George LeMieux -- appointed to complete the term of former U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez -- will leave in January when senator-elect Marco Rubio takes office. But LeMieux has hinted he will challenge Democratic U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012.
On his way out, LeMieux will try to solidify his bona fides as a fiscal conservative. His staff said LeMieux plans to deliver a farewell speech in early December on the risks of the mounting federal debt. On Thursday, he came out in favor of a ban on earmarks.
"Next Tuesday, members of the next session of Congress will vote on whether to continue the ban on earmarks," he said in a statement. "While I will not take part in that vote, I strongly urge members to approve the ban and focus on ways to shrink government, end deficit spending, and pay down the national debt."


text:
"What did Abraham think as he led his son Isaac to the sacrifice?"
Scriptural style is almost always objective and distant.
The heroes and heroines in the Scriptures are not idealized but are seen, as it were, from above, in a way that is both more comprehensive and, at the same time, more detached than the standard historical chronicle.
The narrative is also as factual as possible, with no attempt to penetrate the psyche of the characters or to analyze their motives.
The techniques and tricks of dramatists, the revealing monologue, the intimate conversation to explain dreams and longings, a chorus providing background details are all absent in the Scriptures.
It is this almost dry style that gives the Biblical story its impact.
Here, every sentence, every action counts, indicating by means of the most subtle allusions occurrences whose significance resounds in the souls of men and in the world at large.
We see the events, but their implications remain obscure.
We see the outcome of the events, without ever knowing clearly anything of their internal mechanisms.
What did Abraham think as he led his son Isaac to the sacrifice?
How did Moses feel when the Almighty revealed Himself?
We can only guess at the answers to these questions.
In the Scriptures, no word is said about them.
From the Introduction to Biblical Images by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz