text:
Susan Estrich commentary: The weaponization of #MeToo
Summary: The problem with the judicial system today is not that it is wrong but that it is slow. There was a time, not so long ago, when a woman claiming sexual assault had trouble getting anyone's attention, no matter the validity of her claim. But the courts have changed; the rules have changed; and the consequences of conviction have drastically changed. The problem is that these changes have also been accompanied by a tendency to rush to judgment at the first charge, not in the courtroom but in the public trial that takes place at warp speed in both mass and social media.
Susan Estrich commentary
Tribune graphic
Opinion by Susan Estrich
The nasty emails have started to come in, as I knew they would. "Why are you representing a rapist," they begin, and forget about all that Clarence Darrow stuff. "Why you?"
For starters, I'm not, and there is a very good reason why it's me.
Normally, I would ho-hum a story about a billionaire being accused of rape by a younger former model. No, normally I would assume it was true, the presumption of innocence be damned, because it so often is and because I'm one of those who have been arguing for decades that women should be believed. But I went to college with this particular billionaire, and I just couldn't believe it.
So, I did something that most people wouldn't begin to know how to do: I read all the papers. I read the complaints, and I read the answers, and it seemed perfectly clear just from reading them that a movement I deeply believe in was being hijacked, plain and simple. Reading the direct quotes from the "victim" professing love and then demanding $100 million for her silence, collecting almost $10 million before deciding she wanted even more, never even mentioning sexual assault in her demands until she brought suit seven years later. It made no sense or, rather, it made the worst kind of sense. I offered to help.
That's why me.
Then it got worse. It always saddens me when I see a woman — usually a woman with problems — falsely claim rape. It happens —not nearly as often as women who were raped fail to report it, which continues to be a much larger problem. But it happens. And it also happens that people like me, in the rush to right past wrongs, can believe what we should not. That is what happened to me in the case of the Duke lacrosse team, where I joined a chorus of those who wrongly rushed to judgment.
But I never would have believed her had not the district attorney, for selfish reasons, decided to adopt her story. And I never would have been reading about my old friend being accused of rape had she not found backers — lawyers, public relations people and the disappointed suitor for the top job held by my friend — to support her.
Maybe her lawyers believed her at the outset. But how could they continue to believe her when confronted with her own words, inviting him to come by and "tuck her in" and bring wine, sending love the next day and asking to see him again and again. Are we lawyers nothing but scribes who wrap lies in pleading paper to protect them from scrutiny?
And a disappointed suitor willing to turn on the man who made him a billionaire out of bitterness and anger after being spurned by the board of the company? How dare he be using the movement built literally on the backs of so many women for his own palace intrigue.
The problem with the judicial system today is not that it is wrong but that it is slow. There was a time, not so long ago, when a woman claiming sexual assault had trouble getting anyone's attention, no matter the validity of her claim. But the courts have changed; the rules have changed; and the consequences of conviction have drastically changed. The problem is that these changes have also been accompanied by a tendency to rush to judgment at the first charge, not in the courtroom but in the public trial that takes place at warp speed in both mass and social media.
And because of that, the movement as a whole becomes vulnerable to hijacking, which is precisely what has happened to my client, Leon Black.
Susan Estrich can be reached at sestrich@wctrib.com.
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Related Topics: COMMENTARY
Susan Estrich is an American lawyer, professor, author, political operative, and political commentator. She can be reached via sestrich@wctrib.com.
When Katie Pinke directed her daughter to a beef expert in preparation for her speech meet, it made her think about the need for trusted ag sources of information.
By Katie Pinke
Cal Thomas: The other side of fame
From the commentary: Lisa Marie's father loved her, so far as he seemingly understood love. He just never appeared to grasp its full meaning.
By Cal Thomas
Nicholas Goldberg: 50 years after Roe, the fight for abortion rights is starting over
From the commentary: The most that can be said on this sad anniversary is that the fight for reproductive rights will continue, despite the court's ruling. For another 50 years, if that's what it takes.
By Nicholas Goldberg Los Angeles Times


Clément "Kaposhipi" Ruggeri, of the FFXIV EU Community Team, left us a post today that explains why certain changes were made in 4.55. He also confirms Season 13's start date.
Your focus will be keeping your team topped off with Cure I, Cure II and Regen, while reacting to bursts with Protect, Divine Benison and Tetragrammaton.


text:
Museum collection – TIC Nanos
TIC Nanos
In harmony with nature.
Nanos plateau
A Museum Collection of Analogue Transmission Techniques on the mountain of Pleša (1,262m) is located at the Nanos transmission site.
The first measurements of audibility in a VHF field were made with a 30W transmitter on the Nanos platueau between 1953 and 1954. Because of the potential to reach a large part of the Primorska and Notranjska regions, a Slovenian radio station began broadcasting in 1955, joined by an Italian television channel in 1957.
At first only a small house was erected, and then, in 1962, a modern facility was built. In the old part of the complex, various devices for the transmission of sounds and pictures were put on display.
Since the results of the measurements made between 1953 and 1954 were promising, a VHF radio station began broadcasting with a 250W Rohde & Schwarz transmitter at a height of 1,245m, in 1955.
In 1957, an Italian TV channel started to broadcast with a 100W RCA transmitter. The channel was picked up by the Italian transmitter Belvedere, above Trieste. The transmission tower was 20m high.
Technicians working on Nanos lived in a nearby mountain hut. Later, they obtained a RCA microwave connection with the mountain of Krvavec, and also began to broadcast a channel of Slovenian TV within Yugoslavian Radio-Television (JRT).
MUSEUM COLLECTION OF THE ANALOGUE BROADCASTING ON NANOS
From 1953 to 1954, the first measurements of audibility in VHF field were made. In 1955, from an antenna at a height of 1,248 metres, a VHF radio station started broadcasting, while in 1957 a TV channel from Italy began broadcasting, which in the beginning supplemented the JRT programmes (Yugoslavian Radio-Television).
On 19 July 1960, in Belgrade, at the proposal of RTV Ljubljana, a decision was made to start to build a "modern facility, in which all the transmitters, a generator, a transformer station, a workshop, a garage and a room for technical staff will be located". A transmission tower of 50 metres in height was supposed to be built as well as a 10 kV underground cable of 1300 metres in length for power supply was expected to be installed.
On 15 December 1962, there was an opening ceremony of a new transmission site. Two radio stations and one television channel were broadcast. A microwave connection served as a connection between Krvavec and Trst (Trieste). A 60 kVA diesel generator was available as a reserve power supply.
On 4 February 1969, a hurricane-force bora wind knocked over the antenna tower. Later measurements and comparisons demonstrated that the wind had blown at speeds over 240 km/h.
On 29 November 1969, work on a newly built tower ended. In 1970, new FM and VHF antenna systems and dishes for microwave connections were installed. A new 3 kW Rohde&Schwarz VHF transmitter was also put to use. At the end of that year, a Philips UHF transmitter with a power of 20 kW with Klystrom was installed. At the time, this transmitter was one of the most advanced ones in Europe, designed for stations of the Italian ethnic community living in Slovenia.
On 11 November 1970, broadcasting of colour TV for TV SLO was tested for the first time at the transmitter. After installation of Phillips transmitter, we commenced with regular broadcasting of the colour test and test channel from the TV Koper studio; test broadcasting started on 28 December 1970, and regular broadcasting since 28 July 1971.
In the 1970s and '80s, the channel network expanded to the FM spectrum; we broadcast three channels of RA SLO and two of RA Koper-Capodistria. The transmitters started to regularly broadcast in stereo. During this time, a new energy-efficient building with three generators and stronger transformers was also built. The microwave network expanded.
To 1991, new lines of sights towards Slavnik, Beli Križ, Tinjan, Koper, Skalnica, Kanin and Krim were set. In 1984, a new line of sight was set, which previously had run across a very dangerous area.
In 1991, the transmission sites of RTV Slovenija were attacked in Slovenia's ten-day war of independence. The Nanos transmission site experienced two air raids. The UHF antenna distribution system as well as a large part of the waveguides for microwave connections were destroyed. Later, a new tower for radio transmitters was built and in 1992, an extension to the existing building on Nanos was constructed.
In 1993, all VHF transmitters were exchanged for modern semiconductor transmitters; later, the same was done for TV-transmitters.
In December 2010, RTV SLO started to broadcast TV programmes in DVB T digital technology and entirely ceased use of analogue transmitters. Some of them can now be found in the museum.
ATENNA SYSTEMS ON NANOS TRANSMISSION SITE
In transmission sites at high attitudes, radio and television transmitters as well as microwave connections operate in the field of high frequencies or small wavelengths. The characteristics of these electromagnetic waves are such that they are not able to travel over the obstacles and rebound from them. Thus, the transmitting antennas are placed on the peaks, visible at great distances.
5 kW Rohde&Scwarz UHF radio transmitter, used from 1972 to 1993. It broadcast the RA SLO 2 channel. It was one of the first to be made with the modern semiconductor technique of transistors and integrated circuits. It is much smaller than its predecessors, yet sensitive to the thunderbolts frequently occurring on Nanos.
A view on the transmitting hall with transmitters, which still operated as a reserve until changeover to the digital broadcasting system in 2010.
5 kW SIEMENS TV-transmitter, used from 1976 to 1999 (since 1996 only as a reserve transmitter). It served for transmission of the TV SLO 1 signal. The power stage in the transmitter was made in the IMP factory.
20 kW PHILIPS – Swedish TV-transmitter from the 1971. It broadcast the Koper-Capodistria channel. It was designed for programmes for Italian national community living in Slovenia. It was installed in the time when Italians still had not decided on the SECAM or PAL colour system. Due to the popular Koper-Capodistria TV channel, and since it covered a large part of Italy, Italians were buying TVs for PAL system in large numbers.
In 1990, a 20 kW IMP TV transmitter started to broadcast the TV SLO 2 channel in the area of Primorska. This was the strongest transmitter made by this producer. In later years, it was operating as a reserve, until the changeover to digital broadcasting in 2010.
The Marconi microwave connection enabled the mutual connection of transmission and RTV stations from the beginning of the 1960s.
3 kW VHF ROHDE&SCHWARZ radio transmitter. It was used from 1970 to 1993, broadcasting the RA SLO 1 station. The transmitter is the last one from the series with tubes, and represents a prime example of the mechanisms and electronics of this technology.
RTV Slovenia
Municipality Vipava
TIC Podnanos
TIC Vipava
Turistično društvo Podnanos
031 615 036 (Stojan)
041 562 250 (Cecilija)
Projekt Muzejska zbirka analogne oddajne tehnike na Nanosu je sofinanciran s pomočjo Evropskega kmetijskega sklada za razvoj podeželja
Za vsebino informacij je odgovorna Občina Vipava.
Organ upravljanja za Program razvoja podeželja RS za obdobje 2007-2013 je Ministrstvo za kmetijstvo, gozdarstvo in prehrano.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Sometimes Israel and I would rehearse in his apartment working with a drum machine and a keyboard that I could pull out chords and sounds from. His daughter and friends would be playing on the other side of the room from time to time but all that didn't matter because Israel and I would be focused on each other kind of having a musical discussion then working up the arrangement.
I never realized when I recorded these that I'd be sharing most of them with you. So I've taken this rehearsal track and with a drum machine for tempo, cross faded to the final mix to show the difference. It was always amazing for both of us to see a song come to fruition.
this shows how far a song travels before you hear it…….
Looking for the right color M&M. Israel and I had built a list of over 60 songs to approach. Everyone was an adventure. The real raw stuff and the work ups bring me back to the moment. There were no limits to our creativity………….
He was so fun to work with and so focused.
Jon, you brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for posting this. This is one of my most favorite songs of his, especially on "Alone in Iz World".
Jon, mahalo nui loa!!! LOVE IT…….
This song brought me to tears! I mean literally! And I am a tough one to do that. It makes me realize all the more how much I missed out on a great man and wish I knew him. Mahalo with all of my heart for sharing this! I can't say any more!
Danke, so sprudelnd in mir.


Remember the famous gag by noted cheapskate Jack Benny? A robber demands, "Your money or your life." Benny hesitates, then replies, "I'm thinking. I'm thinking."Today, the pharmaceutical industry has a gun at our heads, demanding our money or our lives. This time, it's no joke.
Because drug companies operate as US government-supported monopolies, brand-name drug prices are limited only by the vigor of manufacturers' greed. With prices soaring way beyond affordability, it's little wonder that hundreds of thousands of uninsured seniors have turned North in desperation.
Like every other industrialized country in the world except us, Canada decided years ago that drug companies inherently abused the monopoly power given to them by government patents. Canada had created an industry – outside the free market and fundamental to the health and well-being of citizens – practicing widespread extortion.
Unlike the US today, Canada and the others would not permit such an outrage. They acted instead to promote the general welfare, negotiating prices with the pharmaceuticals so that life-enhancing drugs would be both affordable and profitable. In other words, fair.
The result? Drug prices worldwide are a fraction what we pay here. Even though Canada's prices are higher than world averages, Americans buying there save 45 percent on average. Often more. Example: Pfizer's Lipitor – the world's most prescribed drug – can cost a quarter the US price.
In 2002, Pfizer's return on revenue was 28 percent (after paying for ads, R&D, etc.). That's five times that of ExxonMobil, nine times that of Wal-Mart, 31 times that of General Motors. It is by far the most profitable major company in the most profitable industry in the world. And the most selfish.
When Pfizer discovered that it was losing around $60 million in Lipitor sales to Canada – this on a $9-billion product – they sprang to action. To safeguard "the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply system," Pfizer* banned exports of all their pharmaceuticals to the US. Today, Canadian pharmacies selling to US customers have been blacklisted.
Let's look at this "integrity" issue.
Lipitor, like most pharmaceuticals, is manufactured abroad, Ireland in this case. From there it goes directly to one of about 20 Canadian wholesalers who sell only to registered Canadian pharmacists. All this under the watchful eye of Health Canada, a highly respected independent regulatory agency. When I receive my drugs, they are still in the original tamper-resistant manufacturer's packaging complete with expiration date.
Compare that with our US system in which hundreds of wholesalers buy and sell with little oversight, and a regulatory body known primarily as a toady for Big Pharma. Your pills come in little brown containers with no expiration date, no telling where they've been.
Contrary to everything Big Pharma and their FDA bootlicks would have us believe, counterfeit drugs are virtually unknown to Canadian licensed pharmacists. Of the dozen with whom I spoke, not one could recall ever hearing about bogus drugs found in a registered Canadian drug store.
Let me tell you something about these folks. Because I accept their advertising at the Suddenly Senior Website, I personally know about 40 Canadian pharmacists. Without exception, these men and women see their relationship with US patients as nothing less than life saving. They know that many prescriptions they fill for us would never otherwise be used to mend and enhance our lives. We couldn't afford them.
The only "problem" I see is my government placing thuggish and fanatical profiteering over your good health and mine.
I'm told that many Canadian drug stores will run out of Lipitor and other Pfizer products in a matter of months. Greed has so blinded Pfizer that they'd rather lose millions in Canadian sales than part with a nickel in US profits. And to hell with Americans who find their bloated prices unaffordable.
Ask your doctor about substitutes. For example, Pravastatin, Lovastatin, and Simvastatin are all generics with cholesterol-busting qualities similar to Pfizer's Lipitor.
Quit buying Pfizer products altogether, including over-the-counter Benadryl, Cortisone, Desitin, e.p.t., Listerine, Lubriderm, Neosporin, Rolaids, Sudafed, and Visine.
Call Pfizer's toll-free consumer hotline at 1-800-223-0182 and share your views to the live operator.
With their minds as closed as Jack Benny's safe, impacting Pfizer's greed may be the only way to remove their deadly gun from our heads.
* GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, Lilly and Wyeth are taking similar actions.


According to an article published with The Daily Beast, the Mexican shore is full of mysterious beaches. Among these, a donut-shaped islet on the Pacific coast of Mexico. The island has a hidden beach, in a hole drilled into its central core and has been baffling geologists due to the presence of volcanic stone.
There haven't been any human settlements on the volcanic Marieta Islands for over five million years. When conservationists surveyed the offshore rocks they discovered a natural marvel. There is a hidden beach, carved into the rounded core of the island, and invisible from the shoreline. It takes a bird view to reveal this hidden gem along with its sparkling waters and empty dune.
It is hard to imagine a beach encapsulated within the hard volcanic rocks. According to experts, erosion always proceeds from the top, so the interior of the island, before it was hollowed out, was likely made up of what we know as 'explosive' rocks—fragments belched up by volcanic activity. These stones erode more quickly, while the island's thick exterior shell is made of a substance that is less susceptible to decay.
What we people need to know is that excessive tourism can lead to a more rapid destruction of this unique natural marvel. Every day, hordes of tourists invade the island. Although tourists aren't allowed to climb on the islands, according to the national park laws, they gain access to the hidden beach through a submarine tunnel. You can swim across the long passageway, once the tide recedes without any scuba gear.
Once inside, there's plenty of space to sunbathe or relax under the crown of arcing shrubs and rocks high above.
Photos of this hidden beach went viral thanks to social media. Ever since, it has become a popular fascination for tourists. Beware as you might be stepping on sacred ground. In fact, the Huichol Indians believed it was the holy place where Father Sun and Mother Ocean united.


text:
El Archivo Internacional de Mujeres en Arquitectura (IAWA) fue creado en 1985 como programa del College of Architecture and Urban Studies y de las Bibliotecas Universitarias de Virginia Tech.

Propósito
El propósito del Archivo es documentar la historia de las mujeres en arquitectura adquiriendo, preservando, almacenando, y poniendo a disposición de investigadores los papeles profesionales de arquitectas, arquitectas del paisaje, diseñadoras, críticas e historiadoras, urbanistas y los registros de las organizaciones de las mujeres arquitectas.

Colecciones

El IAWA recoge los papeles de mujeres que practicaron arquitectura en un momento donde había pocas mujeres en el campo (antes de 1950) y para llenar vacíos en la disponibilidad de materiales de fuentes primarias para la comprensión de la historia social de las mujeres. En octubre de 2006 el archivo contaba con más de 34 metros cúbicos de materiales en las 298 colecciones en el IAWA, los cuales están albergados en las Colecciones Especiales de las Bibliotecas Universitarias de Virginia Tech.

Como parte de su misión para actuar como centro de información sobre las arquitectas del  pasado y presente, el IAWA también recoge y cataloga libros, monografías y otras publicaciones escritas por o sobre arquitectas, diseñadoras y urbanistas.

El archivo empezó coleccionando primeramente los papeles de mujeres pioneras en arquitectura. Hoy, el IAWA incluye materiales que documentan generaciones múltiples de las mujeres en arquitectura. Las colecciones incluyen material de arquitectas relevantes como Gae Aulenti, Diana Balmori, Louise Blanchard Bethune, Sarah Pillsbury Harkness, Eliana Cárdenas, Doina Marilena Ciocănea, Cristina Grau, L. Jane Hastings, Eleanore Pettersen, Sigrid Lorenzen Rupp, Hanna Adamczewska-Wejchert, Elizabeth Chu Richter, Beverly Willis, Jane Hall Johnson, Ingeborg Kuhler, Mária Dombai, Stanisława Nowicka y Henrietta May Steinmesch.

El IAWA también compila información biográfica. Hay información disponible en la Base de Datos Biográficos, de aproximadamente más de 650 mujeres que representan 48 países y 42 estados norteamericanos. El Archivo contiene unos 57 metros cúbicos de material, divididos en 450 colecciones. Esto incluye aproximadamente 150 importantes colecciones de manuscritos (materiales de fuente primaria que no se han publicado previamente) que documentan los legados de las mujeres arquitectas individuales, de organizaciones y de exposiciones importantes. Los recursos adicionales incluyen aproximadamente 300 colecciones más pequeñas de investigación y referencia, que contienen materiales biográficos, fuentes previamente publicadas y una pequeña cantidad de fuentes primarias inéditas de otras mujeres y asociaciones de mujeres.

Aproximadamente 1200 imágenes de 28 colecciones, han sido escaneados y es disponible acceder a través del VT ImageBase.

Consejo
El IAWA es dirigido por un consejo que incluye arquitectos, urbanistas, diseñadores industriales y de interiores, bibliotecarios, archivistas de todo el mundo. La directora de las Colecciones Especiales o su delegada es la Archivista del IAWA y forma parte del Consejo.

Premio de investigación Milka Bliznakov
El Premio de investigación Milka Bliznakov (Milka Bliznakov Award and Research Prize) fue establecido en 2001 a honor a la fundadora del IAWA, Dra. Milka Bliznakov (1927-2010). El IAWA invita a personas arquitectas, becarias, profesionales, alumnado, e investigadoras para contribuir en la investigación sobre mujeres en arquitectura y campos de diseño relacionados. Esta búsqueda, en concierto con los esfuerzos de preservación del IAWA, ayuda a llenar el actual vacío del conocimiento histórico sobre los logros y el trabajo de mujeres que dieron forma al entorno construido.

Ganadoras del Premio de investigación Milka Bliznakov

2017, Rixt Hoekstra: "Regarding De Stijl through a Gender Perspective: The Work and Life of Han Schröder (1918–1992)" y Kirat Kaur Pandher: "Indian Architects: A Proposal for Directed Expansion".
2016, Dra. Inés Moisset, ""Women Architects on the Web"  y Dra. Tanja Poppelreuter, "Refugee and émigré female architects before 1940".
2015, Claire Bonney Brüllman, "The Work and Life of Adrienne Gorska" y Sarah Rafson, "CARY (Chicks in Architecture Refuse to Yield)"
2014, Meredith Sattler, "Early Technological Innovation in the Systems Approach to Environmental Design: Situating Beverly Willis and Associates' CARLA platform [Computerized Approach to Residential Land Analysis] within the developmental trajectory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)."
2013, Robert Holton, "Natalie De Blois - - The role and contribution in the design of three pivotal SOM projects completed in New York City between 1950-1960: the Lever House, the Pepsi-Cola building and the Union Carbide."
2012, Andrea J. Merrett, "Feminism in American Architecture: Organizing 1972-1975."
2011, Lindsay Nencheck, "Organizing Voices: Examining the 1974 Women in Architecture Symposium at Washington University in St. Louis."
2010, Inge Schaefer Horton, "Early Women Architects of the San Francisco Bay Area."
2009, Patrick Lee Lucas, "Sarah Hunter Kelly: Designing the House of Good Taste."
2008, Martha Alonso, Sonia Bevilacqua, y Graciela Brandariz, "Odilia Suárez: The Exemplary Trajectory of an Architect and Urbanist in Latin America."
2008, Despina Stratigakos, "A Woman's Berlin."
2008, Milka Bliznakov Premio Commendation, Lori Brown, Feminist Practices [exposición].
2007, No se otorgó premio.
2006, Milka Bliznakov Premio, Commendation, Eran Ben-Joseph, Holly D. Ben-Joseph y Anne C. Dodge "Against All Odds: MIT's Pioneering Women of Landscape Architecture."
2005, Carmen Alonso Espegel, "Heroínas del Espacio."
2005, Isabel Bauer, "Architekturstudentinnen der Weimarer Republik".
2005, Bobbye Tigerman, "''I Am Not a Decorator' Florence Knoll, the Knoll Planning Unit, and the Making of the Modern Office."
2005, Milka Bliznakov Honorarium, Joseph Chuo Wang.
2004, Dorrita Hannah, "uun-housing performance: The Heart of PQ".
2004, Janet Stoyel, "Sonicloth."
2003, Barbara Nadel,"DSecurity Design: Achieving Transparency in Civic Architecture."
2003, Ozlem Erkarslan, "Turkish Women Architects in the Late Ottoman and Early Republican Era 1908-1960."
2002, Elizabeth Birmingham, "Searching for Marion Mahony: Gender, Erasure, and the Discourse of Architectural Studies".
2001, Claire Bonney, "The Work and Life of Adrienne Gorska".

Exhibiciones y reuniones organizadas
 Fire in the Library: A Conversation with the 2016 IAWA Group conducido por Paola Zellner.
 Fire in the Library: A Conversation with the Recipients of the 2016 Milka Bliznakov Research Prize: Tanja Poppelreuter y Florencia Marciani
 2015 18ª Congreso de la Union Internationale des Femmes Architectes
 Exhibición de fotografías y documentos recuperados de una ciudad japonesa después del terremoto y el tsunami de 2011 (2013)
 Exhibición en Japón (2011) FOR THE FUTURE - The Pioneering Women in Architecture
 Exhibición (2010): Glass Ceilings - Highlights from the International Archive of Women in Architecture en el Virginia Center for Architecture
 Exhibición (1989): That Exceptional One
 Simposios anuales desde la fundación del Archivo.

Referencias

Enlaces externos
 Guía de las Colecciones de IAWA
 Historia de las actividades
 IAWA Centro en Virginia Tech

Diseño industrial
Diseño de interiores
Organizaciones de mujeres de Estados Unidos
Organizaciones de arquitectura

Archivos de Estados Unidos
Organizaciones de mujeres en ciencia y tecnología

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Die IODD (IO Device Description) beschreibt Sensoren und Aktoren. Sie enthält Informationen zu Identifikation, Geräteparametern, Prozess- und Diagnosedaten, Kommunikationseigenschaften und den Aufbau des Anwender-Interfaces in Engineering Tools. Sie besteht aus mehreren Dateien: Einer Hauptdatei und optionalen externen Sprachdateien (beides in XML-Format), und optionalen Bilddateien (im PNG-Format).

Struktur
Die IODD entspricht in der Beschreibungsstruktur der ISO 15745 (Industrial automation systems and integration — Open systems application integration frameworks), wobei als Besonderheit sowohl das Device Profile als auch das Communication Network Profile in einer Datei vereint sind.

Gemäß der in ISO 15745 definierten Struktur sind in IODD die Basisobjekte DeviceIdentity und DeviceFunction für die Gerätebeschreibung vorgesehen. Das DeviceIdentity-Objekt beinhaltet Identifikations-Texte zur Anzeige gegenüber dem Anwender und Identifikations-Nummern zur automatischen Erkennung von Sensoren und Aktoren (IDs) in der Anlage. Es lassen sich mehrere Varianten beschreiben, die sich bezüglich Parameter, Prozess- und Diagnosedaten und Kommunikation nicht unterscheiden, aber in ihrer Bestellnummer. Damit wird erreicht, dass die hohe Vielfalt der mechanischen Ausprägungen, die Sensoren und Aktoren auszeichnen,
nicht zu einer hohen Anzahl von Gerätebeschreibungen und einem hohen Verbrauch an Identifikations-Nummern führt. Das DeviceFunction-Objekt ist Träger aller weiteren Informationen, sofern sie nicht zum Kommunikations-Profil gehören. Es beinhaltet die Beschreibung der Parameter, der Prozessdaten, der Diagnosen, und des Aufbaus des Anwender-Interfaces.

Das eingebettete Communication Network Profile ist leicht austauschbar; dadurch kann IODD einfach zur Beschreibung von Sensoren und Aktoren mit anderer Kommunikationsschnittstelle als IO-Link erweitert werden.

Sprachunterstützung
Alle Texte können mehrsprachig angegeben werden. Dazu werden in der eigentlichen Gerätebeschreibung nur Textmarken eingetragen. Separate Textlisten (je unterstützter Sprache eine) nehmen die Zuordnung der Textmarken zu den sprachabhängigen Texten vor. Gewöhnlich werden alle Textlisten in der Hauptdatei untergebracht. Bei nachträglicher Übersetzung in zusätzliche Sprachen können Textlisten auch in separaten Dateien nachgeliefert werden, damit die Hauptdatei unverändert bleiben kann.

Standarddefinitionen
Alle vom IO-Link Standard vordefinierten Parameter und Diagnosen sind in einer Datei "IODD-StandardDefinitions[Version].xml" mit derselben Syntax wie die IODD beschrieben. Diese Standard-Parameter und -Diagnosen werden nicht in der IODD selbst beschrieben, sondern nur von dort aus referenziert.

IODD Checker
Das Tool "IODD Checker" prüft nicht nur die Schema-Konformität, sondern darüber hinaus auch alle Regeln der IODD Spezifikation, die sich nicht per XML Schema prüfen lassen. Nach bestandener Prüfung stempelt der Checker die IODD. Diese Prüfung ist verpflichtend. Engineering Tools akzeptieren nur gestempelte IODDs und sparen sich damit die Implementation der Prüfungen.

IODDfinder
Als zentrale Datenbank für IO-Gerätebeschreibungen betreibt das IO-Link-Konsortium ein IODDfinder-Portal, um dem Wunsch von Anwendern der IO-Link-Technologie entgegenzukommen, einen zentralen Zugriffsort auf IODDs aller marktgängigen IO-Link-Geräte zu bekommen. Er ermöglicht darüber hinaus einen direkten Anschluss von Engineering- und Parametriertools. Entsprechende Softwaretools erhalten über das Internet einen Zugang auf diesen herstellerübergreifenden Datenpool, was dem Nutzer einen automatischen Zugriff auf alle betriebsnotwendigen Beschreibungsdateien seiner IO-Link Geräte gewährleistet.

Spezifikation und Guideline
Die IODD Spezifikation, eine IODD Guideline mit Beispielen sowie der IODD Checker wurden vom IO-Link Konsortium erstellt. Zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt ist die Version V1.0.1 aktuell, die zur Beschreibung von Devices nach IO-Link Spezifikation V1.0, sowie von Devices nach IO-Link Spezifikation V1.1 im V1.0-Kompatibilitätsmodus dient. Die zukünftige IODD V1.1 dient der Beschreibung von Devices nach IO-Link Spezifikation V1.1 und ersetzt daher nicht die V1.0.1.

Weblinks
 Homepage des IO-Link Konsortiums
 Download-Seite des IO-Link Konsortiums mit Zugang zur aktuellen IODD-Spezifikation
 IODDfinder-Portal

Schnittstelle (Software)
Abkürzung


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By: Scott Reed, Sports Editor - Updated: 1 week ago
PRUNTYTOWN—After a lopsided victory over South Harrison in mid-December and then having a few weeks off to enjoy the holidays, the TCMS boys' basketball team was back in action on Monday as they hosted Westwood Middle School at TCMS.
The Knights' JV team would start off the evening with a solid win, defeating the Warriors by the score of 37-21. TCMS's Kenny Humphries would dominate the paint, scoring 14 of his teams' 37 points, while Gavin Hess also had an outstanding game, finishing with nine points and hitting a three pointer along the way. Rounding out the scoring for the Knights were Adrian Joyce (5), Cody Cook (3), Austin Mayle (2), and Nathanial Bailey (2). Leading the Warriors in scoring was Glen Brown with six points and Joey Smith with five points.
In the varsity matchup, the game would remain close throughout, as Westwood would lead 4-3 after the first period and 17-12 at the half. The second half would see both teams play dead even and Westwood hold onto their five-point halftime lead to win by the score of 38-33.
For the Knights, Isaiah Vanscoy and Isaac Lough would score 24 of their teams' 33 points, with Vanscoy finishing the game with 13 and Lough finishing with 11. Also having strong games were Jacob Maier with five points and Harrison Maier with four points. The Warriors got help from just about everyone, as seven players scored three or more points on the evening.
The Knights will be back in action tonight as they head to Elkins Middle School for a 6:00 p.m. tipoff, then they'll hit the road again the very next day with an away contest at Belington Middle School on Thursday, also scheduled for 6:00 p.m.
Bearcats swim at quad meet versus Marion County
Close games ends in loss for the GHS Bearcat Basketball team
WVU versus Kansas Recap
The Lady Knights hit the hardwood for three games in four days


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Siblings win national business competition
Published: 21 March 2018 at 12:00
Anglia Ruskin students show their acumen to win contest for the third time
A brother and sister team representing Anglia Ruskin University displayed their business acumen to win a national student business competition held at IBM's headquarters.
Krisztian and Cintia Papp had already battled through two rounds to get to the final of the Universities Business Challenge (UBC), where competitors have to make decisions on a simulated business and make as big a virtual profit as possible.
They were victorious in the grand final, where they took on teams from nine other institutions including the University of Sheffield and the University of Liverpool, at the London head office of competition sponsor IBM.
The team from Anglia Ruskin's Faculty of Business and Law topped the final table with a virtual profit of £27,889,896 during the final. It meant Anglia Ruskin students won the event for an unprecedented third time.
Krisztian, 31, is a part-time MSc Accounting and Finance student, while Cintia, 24, is studying full-time for a degree in BSc Tourism Management. It is the first year that postgraduate students were permitted to take part in the UBC.
Cintia said:
"UBC has been an amazing opportunity and an extremely beneficial experience for both of us. We have learnt so many useful skills on how to run a business, work as a team even under pressure and other valuable employability skills.
"After a long day of pressure and exercises we were pleased to be announced as winners. I will never forget the feeling and the happiness that we felt, especially as it meant Anglia Ruskin became the first university in the history of UBC to win three times."
Professor Gary Packham, Pro Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law at Anglia Ruskin, said:
"We are very proud that our students continue to benchmark themselves favourably against students from other UK universities. The UBC is an excellent way in which students can develop and showcase their enterprise and employability skills.
"We pride ourselves on developing collaborative, imaginative and ambitious graduates who will become inspirational, responsible and entrepreneurial leaders."


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Home » News » Engaged Buddhism » Ugandan Buddhist Monk Offers Mindfulness Meditation as an Antidote for Violent Crime in Jamaica
Ugandan Buddhist Monk Offers Mindfulness Meditation as an Antidote for Violent Crime in Jamaica
By BD Dipananda
Ven. Buddharakkhita gives a talk on mindfulness meditation for a radio station in Jamaica. Photo from Uganda Buddhist Centre – UBC Facebook
Venerable Bhante Buddharakkhita, a Ugandan Theravada Buddhist monk and founder of the Uganda Buddhist Centre (UBC), has issued an earnest call for Jamaicans to practice mindfulness meditation to reduce the level of violent crime in the Caribbean island nation, which recorded at least 1,600 murders in 2017.
"Now when you meditate it can change other people, so mindfulness meditation will reduce conflict and crime rate in Jamaica," Ven. Buddharakkhita told the Jamaica Observer in an interview while visiting country as a guest of Jamaica's Burmese community.
During his stay, Ven. Buddharakkhita delivered Dhamma talks in New Kingston, the commercial district of the capital, from 17–29 December. He also appeared on television shows to give teachings on 19 and 21 December. The public appearances were organized by the Theravada Buddhist Association of Jamaica.
Born into a Catholic family in Uganda in 1966, Ven. Buddharakkhita, whose given name is Steven Kaboggoza, has been practicing meditation since 1993. In 2002, he ordained as a Buddhist monk in the Theravada tradition at the Tathagata Meditation Centre in San Jose, California. He now spends much of his time traveling the world to give Dhamma talks and teach meditation. He has also authored the book Planting Dhamma Seeds: The Emergence of Buddhism in Africa (Sasana Abhiwurdhi Wardhana Society, 2006), which tells the story of his religious and spiritual work in African communities.
Ven. Bhante Buddharakkhita. From jamaicaobserver.com
While in Jamaica, Ven. Buddharakkhita also sought to dispel the misunderstanding that one cannot be a Buddhist and a Christian simultaneously. "Being African and born in Africa and seeing African tradition and being born as a Christian, a Roman Catholic, I want to appeal to my fellow brothers and sisters in Jamaica that being a Christian cannot hinder you from practicing meditation," he said. "So I appeal to the Jamaican people if they can find a way how they can seek how to cultivate inner peace so that they can overcome suffering and stress and translate it to the society." (Jamaica Observer)
Ven. Buddharakkhita observed that if inner-city communities in Jamaica had an opportunity to learn mindfulness meditation, then they would come to know and understand their internal "enemies" and make their "mind a good friend," enabling them to transform the lives of their friends, relatives, and the community at large. (Jamaica Observer)
"When one person meditates and if the population of Jamaica is 2.5 million, that's one person less confused. If another person keeps on meditating that's two people less, three people, five people," Ven. Buddharakkhita explained. "That will take a long time. Let us take a look at this from a practical point of view: it might take 50 years, but 50 years that's already 50 people who are not going to get into problems, so that's the first thing." (Jamaica Observer)
"Without that, you can spend a lot of money on police, on army with guns to prevent crime, [but] it's not going to be very effective. What is effective is to start from inside and then we work outside," he added. (Jamaica Observer)
Ven. Buddharakkhita with staff of NewsTALK 93FM. From Uganda Buddhist Centre – UBC Facebook
To emphasize the benefits of a meditation practice, the venerable monk cited as an example the US city of Washington, DC, where, he asserted, crime rates declined 25 per cent as a consequence of a meditation initiative—a result that he insisted could be replicated in Jamaica. "They brought 100 meditators to Washington DC and the crime rate reduced 50 per cent to 25 per cent [sic] . . . this is a documentary movie," he related. "So I just feel that the Jamaicans in general don't know much [yet] about mindfulness meditation." (Jamaica Observer)
Meditate to Fight Crime (Jamaica Observer)
Bhante Buddharakkhita Visiting Jamaica (Uganda Buddhist Centre)
Venerable Bhante Buddharakkhita: "Planting Dhamma Seeds in Africa" (Ho Center for Buddhist Studies)
Uganda Buddhist Centre – UBC (Facebook)
Tags: Bhante Buddhara, Buddhism in Jamaica, buddhism in uganda, buddhist meditation, crime, dharma teachers, Jamaica, Kingston, kkhitaBuddhism in Africa, meditation, Mindfulness meditation, social engagement, theravada buddhism, Uganda, violence, violent crime
BD Dipananda
Summary of the Exegesis on the Three States of Mind, Part Four
The King of the West: Kōmokuten Iconography
Just a Little Awareness!
Dr. Eliot Tokar: Cultivating Tibetan Medicine in the West
Saṅgharāj Dr. Dharmasen Mahāthērō (1928–2020): The Life of the 12th Supreme Patriarch of Bangladesh
Beijing-approved Panchen Lama Elected Head of Buddhist Association of China in Tibet
Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan's King and Queen Expecting Second Child
Nepal Hosts Second International Tipitaka Chanting Ceremony in Lumbini
Senior Thai Monk Offers a Buddhist Perspective on Dealing with COVID-19
Dalai Lama Hosts 33rd Mind & Life Conference: Reimagining Human Flourishing


Arthur J. Gallagher, in partnership with Liberty Mutual Insurance, is offering a complimentary Healthcare seminar to help recognize and reduce risk in the healthcare industry. The training covers a variety of safety and health topics specific to exposures faced by healthcare workers.
This seminar is designed for Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management Services and their clients who want to help reduce risk within their operation. Complimentary continental breakfast and lunch will be provided. Please register early as seats are limited.
If you have any questions email us at Risk Control Learning or contact our Training Specialists at 877-588-2016.


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Alabama Lands 2022 Offensive Lineman Dayne Shor
Joe Gaither
Joe Gaither Published: July 31, 2021
Photo Courtesy of @BamaOnline247 on twitter
The Alabama Crimson Tide has landed the commitment of 3-star offensive lineman Dayne Shor. Shor is considered the No 38 tackle in the nation in his class and the No. 36 prospect out of the state of Georgia according to the 247Sports Composite. He is the 14th member of the 2022 Alabama recruiting class and joins Tyler Booker as the second offensive lineman in the class.
The 6-foot-6, 295 pound tackle out of Alpharetta, GA., was primarily recruited by wide receivers coach Holmon Wiggins and offensive line coach Doug Marrone. His addition to the Alabama class leaves the Tide with the No. 3 ranked recruiting class and the No. 1 class in the SEC.
Shor played with his fellow offensive linemen Tyler Booker at IMG Academy in 2020.
Shor chose Alabama over Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas A&M, Tennessee and many others. He took an official visit at the end of June when the NCAA allowed the resumption of in-person recruiting. He also took a self-guided tour of the campus on his own.
His commitment becomes the third prospect to join the Crimson Tide class this week joining Shawn Murphy and Kobe Prentice.
LOOK: 30 fascinating facts about sleep in the animal kingdom
50 Most Popular Chain Restaurants in America
YouGov investigated the most popular dining brands in the country, and Stacker compiled the list to give readers context on the findings. Read on to look through America's vast and divergent variety of restaurants—maybe you'll even find a favorite or two.
CHECK IT OUT: See the 100 most popular brands in America
Filed Under: alabama football, Dayne Shor
Categories: Alabama, News, Sports


When our friends ask where we plan to send my son Jacob for kindergarten, I stonewall.
They usually stop looking concerned somewhere around "Go ahead, child". And force a tentative smile. Usually.
But it's coming. In less than six short months, Jacob will be in kindergarten. (Which is really weird. Because he only emerged from the womb about a week-and-a-half ago. Not to mention, there is still far too little in his college fund. And you know the slippery slope of education. You send them to kindergarten and next thing you know they're JUST BEGGING to go to middle school, high school, college . . . it never ends.) Let me correct that. Jacob will be in kindergarten ASSUMING we actually get around to registering him. Somewhere. The question is where. As I have mentioned previously, we have been trying to sell our house. For a year. So it's still a total mystery where we'll be living in September.
Anyway, I've been feeling like it was time to get in gear. And do SOMETHING. So, a few weeks ago, I called the school department in our town and asked when and how to get Jacob registered.
Local School Department Receptionist (chuckling): School registration? Gee. Not for months.
Me: Could you be a little bit more specific? I just want to make sure I don't miss it.
Receptionist: Hey, Hal! When will we be doing registration for kindergarten?
Hal (in the background): Wonh-wa-wonh-wonh-wonh-wonh.
Receptionist: Yeah, not for months. Maybe this spring. Why don't you check back in then?
Me: This spring . . . so maybe in April or May?
Receptionist: Okay, sure. Let's say May.
RIGHT. Not feeling really confident about this. Just to give you some perspective, the town next to ours did their registration LAST MONTH. Lots of Jacob's little friends live there. And their parents are currently awaiting word about which of the neighborhood schools their child will be assigned to. Apparently our district is a bit more "laid back". So nothing to do until spring. Except . . .
Consider charter schools. Much to my husband Dan's delight there is a charter school just down that road that provides bilingual education. You can choose the English-Spanish or English-Portuguese tracks. Half the day is taught in each language. We put in an application. And went to an open house with Jacob and our one-year-old, Emma. When I told Jacob what we would be doing that morning, he said this.
Jacob (annoyed): But I already speak Porchi-guese.
Jacob (saying vaguely Portuguese-sounding words): Cinco seis verd comid frango . . .
Me: Hey, Dan– Jacob already speaks Portuguese.
Dan (yelling from down the hall): Make sure you speak it at the open house.
Me (to Jacob): Please don't.
When we got to the open house, Jacob was pretty jazzed up. Both to speak his Portuguese and tour the school. Unfortunately, first we had to sit through a slide show. I was bored. Jacob was annoyed. Mostly at the content. Which he considered to be blindingly obvious.
Presenter: This slide shows a map of the countries represented by our faculty.
Jacob (eye roll): WE KNOW. Of course THAT'S A MAP!
After several suggestions from Jacob that we "JUST LEAVE", the slide show finally ended. (Gracas a Deus.) Then we were assigned to Mr. H, for a tour of the school. We walked into a classroom that was filled with signs, displays and books in Spanish. Right next door was an exact replica with everything in English. Bilingual immersion. Mr. H couldn't say enough good things about the school. Or the immersion program. And just offered one caveat: he doesn't speak a word of Spanish or Portuguese. Lost a little credibility there, Mr. H.
Jacob spent most of the tour playing with a bead necklace of mine that had broken. And jumping two footed around the Spanish classroom. When we finally left the building, I asked, "What do you think of that big kid school?" Without hesitation he said, "I think I should go THERE!" That said, the boy feeds off novelty. Strongly suspect he would have had the same reaction after touring a juvenile detention center.
So, for now, we wait. Wait to find out if Jacob got a spot at the charter school. Wait to find out if we will be moving to a new town anyway. And, wait to find out if they ever decide to open public school registration in our (current) town.
Of course, we could also consider the option of home schooling . . .
No seriously. We've got to get this kid registered.


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Endgame Director Admits One Unexpected Scene Brought Him to Tears
Avengers: Endgame has many emotional scenes. However, there is one in particular that made co-director Joe Russo tear up and it probably isn't what many Marvel Cinematic Universe fans are thinking of. Opening weekend of the epic movie saw thousands of MCU fans crying in theaters as Natasha Romanoff died, Tony Stark died, and Steve Rogers went back in time to live with the love of his life. Those moments aren't the ones that made Russo cry though.
Instead of those heavy hitting moments of Avengers: Endgame, Joe Russo's came towards the beginning of the movie and they involve Clint Barton and his family. Barton is having a pleasant day with his family and about to have a nice meal when the Decimation happens. Barton's family turns to dust and disappears. Russo had this to say about the scene.
"I've got four kids, and it's a very tragic scene to open the movie with. It's one of the few scenes in the movie that actually makes me tear up when I watch it, because I think about my own family. And then you think about what would happen to you, as a father. You'd become very self-destructive."
Clint Barton's scene was originally going to be in Infinity War, but the Russo Brothers, along with screenwriters Stephen McFeely and Christopher Markus decided it would be best to leave it for Endgame. It's the scene that sends Barton over the edge as he goes on a murderous rampage, only to return five years later after Natasha Romanoff hunts him down with the help of Rhodey. Using that moment for Endgame allowed for the events of Infinity War to feel more real and urgent.
Clint Barton, aka Hawkeye, has a pretty rough story arc in Endgame. He loses his family at the beginning and then has to choose between his life or Natasha Romanoff's while they're on Vormir to get the Soul Stone. Ultimately, Romanoff throws herself off of the cliff and Barton is devastated. Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely have said they nearly had Barton sacrifice his life, but they later decided to go with Romanoff. Thankfully, Barton is reunited with his family by the end of the movie.
Related: Relive Most Emotional Endgame Moment as Cast Share New Photos & Set Video
Avengers: Endgame is an emotional rollercoaster for MCU fans and it's nice to see the creators behind the movie were affected by it too. It's the end of an era and the Russo Brothers are taking a bit of a break from Marvel Studios in order to work on other projects that won't consume years of their lives like Endgame and Infinity War did. They were able to help bring two massive movies to the big screen, which will more than likely go down in history as some of the best comic book movies ever made. You can check out the rest of the interview with Joe Russo over at Empire.
Topics: Avengers Endgame, Avengers


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Benjamin S. Piper, Associate
Benjamin S. Piper
bpiper@preti.com
Ben practices with the firm's Litigation and Environmental Practice Groups. He represents clients, from individuals to large public and private companies, in state and federal courts, mediation and arbitration. He has experience with a wide variety of complex litigation, including commercial disputes, environmental and professional liability, and intellectual property claims. His media practice includes representation of the news media in First Amendment, defamation and privacy, and freedom of information matters.
Before joining Preti Flaherty, Ben served as law clerk to the Honorable John A. Woodcock, Jr. at the United States District Court, District of Maine. While in law school at the University of Wisconsin Law School, he served as Managing Editor of the Wisconsin International Law Journal.
A native of Falmouth, Maine, Ben now lives in Portland with his wife Erin.
University of Wisconsin Law School (J.D., cum laude)
Georgetown University (B.A., cum laude)
U.S. District Court, District of Maine
U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts
U.S. Court of Appeals, First Circuit
Recognized in 2014, 2015 and 2016 New England Super Lawyers as a "Rising Star"
Civic Involvement
Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maine
Friends Council, Steering Committee
Chairman of the Alumni Admission Program Committee for the state of Maine
Dan Cardillo Charitable Fund
Race Coordinator for the Annual 5K Walk/Run
Rippleffect
Fundraised, and rappelled down the side of Portland's largest building, in support of 2015 Rappel for Rippleffect campaign


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who do business in – or with – Africa.
Fast-changing mining conditions require customised chemical processing solutions.
Dark Fibre Africa CEO Thinus Mulder on providing access to fast network infrastructure and the potential of new technologies.
Pieter Jordaan, Weir Minerals Africa sales director: rest of Africa and Middle East, on how the company is perfectly placed to supply pumping equipment for the continent's mining sector.
expanding its African footprint through renewables.
An intra-Africa approach, emphasis on top-quality products and agents, and commitment to social responsibility has seen Invincible Valves go from strength to strength says its MD Pam du Plessis.
Through its investment in connectivity, Angola Cables has created a communication system that links global networks, partners and content providers with the continent, says CEO António Nunes.
says Grit Real Estate Income Group CEO, Bronwyn Corbett.
Companies need to adopt adequate protocols to mitigate cyber threats, says Bryan Hamman, territory manager of Arbor Networks.
enhanced by a strong new business strategy, says its CEO, Wray Carvelas.
on the continent, says its CEO, António Nunes.
helps provide for African trade expansion, says its CEO, Kutoane Kutoane.
for development, says David Murphy, Yahsat's chief commercial officer.
manufacturer's competitive strength on the continent.
is truly pan-African, says Chris Wood, CEO of WIOCC.
geoscience and survey services, says its chairman of the board of management and CEO, Paul van Riel.
partnerships and innovative products and services to tackle Africa's challenging mining industry.
landscape in Africa, says Bigen Africa COO Anton Bomhoff.
within the private sector, says its MD Cedric Masoned.
Montsi Investments, partner to Damen Shipyards Cape Town.
will drive African businesses to prosper on a global scale.
to date says CEO Suphajee Suthumpun.
under the guidance of Dr Snowy Khoza.
Samsa, the South African Maritime Safety Authority, is leading efforts to protect the continent's oceans.
At its helm is Commander Tsietsi Michele.
As the recession has hit, so funding has been curtailed for many African NGOs. How have they adapted to continuing their work?
to improve the lives of others.
Despite much instability, Nigeria is enjoying remarkable growth - and more is predicted.
After decades of bitter hostilities and a 'divorce' from the North, South Sudan has its work cut out for it on its new development path beyond oil.
For centuries Africans have been expressing themselves through their unique and inspiring music.
Safety Authority presents the same rewarding challenges face by any ship's captain.
With a new constitution in place, Kenya is sprinting ahead with its Vision 2030 plan.
supporting journalists in danger and ensuring that freedom of speech remains free.
potential to be a major producer of alternative and eco-friendly diesel, but is it ready?
like Frannie Léautier of the African Capacity Building Foundation, who are making huge strides.
As Zambia emerges as a potential breadbasket and energy giant in Africa, Kerry Dimmer investigates this landlocked country's success story.
he faced prepared him for his latest tour de force, the revival of Samsa.
is both admired and respected by his staff.
driven navigator with a product basket that hard to resist.
Chairman and CEO of Arianespace.
Bank as Africa's preferred financier.
Africa's diverse variety of ecologically sensitive areas is of great appeal to global tourists but is that enough to ensure paradise forever?
intending to drive economic development in the Kalahari.
a big heart and, as Kerry Dimmer discovers, big arms when it comes to welcoming Africa trade agreements.
The true value of water is life itself. This is more so in Africa than any other continent, as water wars, scarcity and quality affect not just how the population lives, but how it dies. Kerry Dimmer investigates the largest pending humanitarian catastrophe of our time.
MATCH Hospitality AG - FIFA's world-wide exclusive rights holder of the Official Hospitality Programme.
An abundance of natural resources does not always translate into wealth for a nation.
Kerry Dimmer looks at some of the past and present issues facing Nigeria, one of Africa's giants.
required to produce a more meaningful, if not productive, journey?
economic benefits of trade with this Mediterranean powerhouse.
and declare yourself ready for the onslaught of new business opportunities that are sure to follow.
John Cruise has been brought on board to head up SRR.
If you accept that tourism enhances the natural pride of a country, why not use it as an antidote to poverty?
Africa has the highest number of danger spots on the continent and in most cases where there is conflict, there is a war raging for the creation of a stable democracy. It is within this mayhem and darkness that many journalists become victims. The news becomes a victim and the very people who write the headlines become the headline.


In the final post in the Backup section of our Accidental DBA series, I'm going to a look at backups using virtual machine (VM) snapshots, which are popular among VM administrators but may not be the right solution for your SQL Server recovery needs, depending on your RPO and RTO requirements.
There are also many other VM backup tools available; this is just a brief list of the ones that come immediately to my mind. Additionally, many of the traditional backup products like Symantec NetBackup also support VSS-based backups of virtual machine images as well. VSS integration is required to provide an application-consistent backup of the databases contained within the SQL Server instance. This ensures that disk I/O activity is quiesced (frozen) properly prior to the snapshot being created. Any snapshot functionality that does not use VSS may leave SQL Server in an inconsistent state, and this may include standard VM snapshots that can save the VM memory and device state to disk without quiescing through VSS, unless specifically configured to do so.
VM snapshot-backup solutions are popular with VM and server administrators because they standardize the backup implementation across the enterprise and remove the need for application-specific backup configurations. While this is generally a benefit, there are other considerations that should be evaluated when it comes to relational database management systems (RDBMS) like SQL Server. I specifically say RDBMS here because these same considerations need to be applied to any RDBMS and not just SQL Server for backups. Below are a few of the considerations that you should keep in mind while evaluating whether to use VM snapshot backups for SQL Server.
One of the features provided by VM backup solutions is the ability to perform a point-in-time restore of the virtual machine image, or even the files contained within the VM. While it is true that you can restore to a point in time, that point is simply the last snapshot backup point for the VM being backed up. Depending on the frequency of the backups that are occurring, this might meet your business recovery requirements, but it doesn't provide the same capabilities as native SQL Server backups, which provide the ability to restore to any point in time using a combination of the latest full backup of the database, and all of the transaction log backups since that full backup (using the full recovery model, or the bulk_logged recovery model with some restrictions). If you are not currently using the full recovery model for databases and also taking transaction log backups at regular intervals, the point-in-time recovery provided by VM snapshot backups can reduce the risk of data loss over only performing daily full or differential SQL Server backups of the database, depending on the snapshot backup interval configured for the VM.
Depending on the tool being used for VM backups, it may or may not be possible to restore a single database from the VM backup without first having to restore the entire VM image from the backups to obtain access to the database files contained in the image. Some tools do allow guest-OS file indexing of the VM backups which allows for individual files to be restored from the VM backup without having to restore the entire VM image. Other tools also offer the ability to mount a VM backup as a VM that is boot-able to allow for object-level recovery of individual tables through data transfers back to the production VM SQL Server.
For databases that use the full or bulk_logged recovery models, transaction log clearing only occurs when the log is backed up using SQL Server native backup commands. The VSS backup will not cause log clearing to occur inside of SQL Server on it's own. Some of the VM backup tools offer options to perform transaction log clearing, but you need to be very careful with these options, especially if you have concurrent SQL Server backups being performed for the VM. The way that certain tools clear the transaction log during a VM snapshot backup is to issue a subsequent command to the SQL Server, BACKUP LOG <database_name> TO DISK ='NUL', which dumps the transaction log records to nowhere, essentially throwing them away completely and breaking the log backup chain for any native SQL Server backups being performed. If you are still using native SQL Server backups, it is recommended that the VM snapshot backups be configured to not truncate the transaction logs for the databases.
While VM snapshot backups can provide a simplified method of backing up SQL Server VMs, there are some trade-offs that exist when using them that should be considered to ensure that you are going to be able to meet your business RPO and RTO requirements. The ability to restore a VM, database files, or even an individual object inside of a database to the point-in-time of the last snapshot backup can help minimize the data loss associated with a crash or accidental deletion of data inside of a database.
However, contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to restore to an intermediate point-in-time that exists between the VM snapshot backups, so if that level of recovery is needed or expected, you will still need to perform SQL Server native backups of the databases. Paul explained how to get near zero data loss using SQL Server backups in his post The Accidental DBA (Day 8 of 30): Backups: Planning a Recovery Strategy.
This level of recovery currently can only be accomplished through the use of SQL Server native backups.
I totally agree with you! The point is your recovery strategy even in a VM-World. In many cases we are using NetApps Snapmanger for SQL and SQL Server native backups on high priority mixed (OLTP/RDW)database system types.
Thanks. Good stuff. A question: During the few minutes that SQL I/O is FROZEN, what is the impact on the SQL instance? Can transactions start and end? Can pages be read from and written to disk?
I see in other blogs mention of people doing multiple SQL VSS backups during the day. *If* SQL is locked for a minute or so during each VSS backup, then wouldn't the resulting user impact be a problem?
This is totally an "It Depends" scenario, that is based on the target environment, because we've seen scenarios where the freeze of I/O causes problems, but those are often considered edge cases because it is often not a problem, but YMMV (your mileage may very) depending on the transaction load at the point in time where the I/O is frozen.


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Chelsea midfielder reveals he could leave the club during the summer transfer window
Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas admits "anything can happen" this summer in respect to where he will be playing his football next season.
The Spaniard was bitterly disappointed not to start Sunday's FA Cup final against his old club Arsenal.
He came on in the 61st minute of the game as the Blues lost 2-1 at Wembley.
"I was in great form and it was a shame I didn't start the game," he told the BBC.
"I thought I was playing very, very well in the last few months.
"Of course every player wants to play more, it is in the genes of a winner and I am one of them. I'm here for whatever the team needs.
"Sometimes it is all about the coach's decision. I don't think I could have done much more this season, it is the coach's decision and you have to respect that.
"[My future?] Anything can happen but I have always said I feel very, very loved by the fans here. It is all about trying to change the manager's decision."
"Chelsea confident that a deal will be done" - Blues to secure mo ...
Chelsea are confident that Leicester City midfielder Danny Drinkwater will join before the end of the day.
Official: Midfielder signs three-year contract with Chelsea as tw ...
Chelsea midfielder George McEachran has signed his first professional contract with the club.
More Chelsea Transfer Rumours
"He is heading to London and Stamford Bridge to sign for Chelsea" - Blues close in on Arsenal and Manchester United target
Four-year contract agreed: Chelsea have agreed terms to sign Antonio Conte's fifth summer signing
Three-year contract already signed: Chelsea officially announce agreement with impressive midfielder
"Antonio Conte wants last-minute operation" - Chelsea have already tabled an offer to sign defender
Confirmed: Chelsea have made an official bid to sign Bayern Munich international star
Done deal: Chelsea sign up rising star after medical is done and paperwork finalised
The very latest Chelsea news.


text:
Modern Style: Minimalist With Splash of Color
Staging, Design & Architecture
By: Melissa Dittmann Tracey
Whites, blacks, and grays are the staple of the modern home style, but work in accents in bright, primary colors.
© Fotolia.com and Getty Images
A modern home style is all about minimalism. Midcentury modern, a style popularized in the 1950s but whose roots go back to the '20s, is the focal point of the modern style movement. It tends to feature open spaces that are light, clean, and organized. The style ironically is referred to as "retro"—the opposite of modern.
© PJ & Company Staging and Interior Decorating
Common features: Color is used in moderation in midcentury modern homes. The walls are often white or neutral shades of black and white. Primary colors typically are reserved for accents or to create focal points, such as colorful abstract wall art. The modern look tends to have clean, straight lines and no additional detailing on furnishings. It's most often used for open floor plans and areas where there is a lack of moldings or trimming on windows, doors, and walls.
What to watch out for: Midcentury modern homes sometimes evoke a cold, sterile feeling. But adding texture such as plush fabrics—think fur throws and sheepskins—and greenery can help soften the look.
Professional staging tip: We chose neutral furnishings with clean lines paired with colorful accent pillows and other stylish accessories to enhance the home's unique architectural features and help buyers emotionally connect with the home. —Patti Stern, PJ & Company Staging and Interior Decorating, Cheshire, Conn.
© Photos Courtesy of: (top to bottom) Hayneedle, Houzz, Houzz, Walmart, Allmodern
Accessories to Consider
Sculpture: Incorporate a sculpture with modern style. This hero sculpture features rock-climbing figures in a distressed bronze finish. $32.55
Retro clock: Accentuate your space with this black-on-white contrast wall clock made of 100 percent recycled material. $87.99
Abstract artwork: Add a splash of sunny yellow color to your otherwise neutral modern backdrop. This canvas features three separate panels and is gallery-wrapped around a one-inch solid wood frame. It measures 36 inches by 28 inches. $97.84
White blossoms: Add plants to the mix—and if it's not real, get a good imitation. This floral arrangement is 56 inches tall and tucked inside a coordinating vase for a white-on-white, clean look. It's also available in gray. $100.99
Sunburst mirror: Hang an accent mirror to brighten up a space and create a focal point. This sunburst mirror could be the starlight of a room, featuring golden spindles connected to smaller circular mirrors. $199.99
Melissa Dittmann Tracey
Melissa Dittmann Tracey is a contributing editor for REALTOR® Magazine, editor of the Styled, Staged & Sold blog, and produces a segment called "Hot or Not?" in home design that airs on NAR's Real Estate Today radio show. Follow Melissa on Instagram and Twitter at @housingmuse.
Content by Melissa Dittmann Tracey
Content with Melissa Dittmann Tracey


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Back to the Bay.net
News and Spoilers
A Mother's Treasure Is Her Daughter
Episode Downloads / Asking For Episodes / Viewing Episodes Online
By Guest lollypop,
February 10, 2010 in The Vault
Danni02
I love how close you have Charlie and Ruby.
Poor Ruby. It must be awful for her.
Update soon.
lollypop
One Week Later
Ruby lay in the hospital bed staring at the ceiling. It was about the only thing she could do lying on her back. Every now and again a nurse would come in and help to turn her on her side so she wouldn't develope bed sores or blood clotting. It was a routine that occured every two hours. Rachel had explained that it was necessary, but it just made Ruby feel even more hopeless.
"So Aden suggested that we go for a walk along the beach, which started off great until some summer holiday kids came up and soaked us with water ballons", Nicole rambled on.
Charlie sat the other side of the bed and laughed at Nicole's story. It had been a while since she could remember laughing. Too long. She sat up and flicked a strand of hair behind her shoulder and looked at Ruby, who was still staring at the ceiling. She grabbed a hold of her hand and gave it gentle squeeze.
"Hey, are alright? Your awful quiet", she said. It was a stupid question to ask someone who had just been told that they may never walk again, but she knew she had to keep Ruby's spirits up.
Feeling the squeeze in her hand Ruby snapped out of her trance like state and looked down at Charlie. She wanted to tell her that she was fine. That everyting was fine, but it would be a lie. So she did what she though was necessary. She twisted the truth.
"Yeah I'm just nervous about this rehabilitation session is all", Ruby said, trying to convince both her mother and Nicole that she was fine.
A nurse walked into the room, carrying an insulin kit with her. She placed it down on the nurses worktop at the end of the room and then turned back towards the patient.
"Alright, why don't we get you changed into some workout gear for your rehab session today", the nurse said in her enthusiastic nurses tone.
Nicole looked at the nurse and then back at Ruby, realising that this was probably not something her friend would want her to see. She picked up the juice bottle she had brought in with her and her handbag and stood up.
"Ok, no offence Rubes, I love you and all but seeing you naked, not something I wanna see anytime soon", Nicole said sarcastically. Both girls laughed at the joke and Nicole bent down and gave Ruby a kiss on the cheek, waved goodbye to Charlie and left the room.
The nurse walked over to the far side of the bed and took the bed controls in her hand, pressing one of the buttons to shift Ruby into an upright position. Charlie stood up and walked over to where she had left Ruby's bag earlier that day and pulled clothes she thought were appropriate for a strenuous session. She made her back over to the bed and placed the clothing on the side railing next to Ruby. The nurse picked up the t-shirt and looked at Ruby.
"So do you want mum here to give you a hand?", she asked.
"Yeah..." Charlie begun.
"....No...!", Ruby said cutting her off.
Charlie looked down at Ruby when she heard her answer. She didn't understand the problem. Ruby never had a problem changing in front of Charlie before. They used to do it the whole tme when they were sisters and they tried on clothes. Maybe that was the problem, Charlie thought to herself. Maybe Ruby wasn't comfortable doing that kind of thing in front of her now that they were no longer sisters. Or was it something else.
"Alright, well what if mum waited outside until you're ready?", the nurse said trying to make the situation feel a little less uncomfortable.
Ruby didn't say anything, she just nodded her head at the nurse. She turned to Charlie who had a look of rejection on her face. She grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze to show her that it wasn't her that was the problem. In a way Charlie felt relieved when Ruby did it. But she hated that Ruby was pushing her away when all she wanted to do was help. She squeezed Ruby's had back and gave it a quick kiss.
"Ok, I'll be outside", she said smiling at Ruby and then leaving them to it.
Charlie walked outside and closed the door behind her. She let out a sigh and rubbed her hand across her forehead in a frustrated manner. She was trying to be supportive for Ruby but she just didn't know what exactly to do or what she could do. Sometimes it felt more like Ruby was helping her through this rather than it being the other way around. She tried to be a mother to her but at times, she felt more like a failure. Charlie waked across the corridor and sat on one of the empty chairs. She sat back and leaned her head against the wall and closed her eyes.
"Hey", a quiet familiar voice said.
Charlie's eyes sprung open to find Angelo standing in front of her. He was actually out of uniform which was strange. Charlie looked down and swallowed hard. She remembered waht she had said to him the last time they spke and she knew that she had been harsh. But she couldn't help it. She was angry with him and the feeling just wouldn't go away.
"What do you want?", she said, looking him straight in the eye with a face that was expressionless.
"How's Ruby?", he asked hoping to soften the conversation. Talking about Ruby usually softened any other conversation they had ever had.
"How's Ruby?", Charlie repeated, her voice getting high pitched. At that moment a patient wheeled past in a wheelchair and stopped at the nurses station. "Do you see that", Charlie said pointing at the patient, "That is Ruby's life from this point on, right there. No more running around the bay with her mates or attempting to go surfing with Geoff even though she can't surf. That's it for her and all because you wanted to play the knight in shining armour", she yelled at him. Grabbing the attention of the nurses standing at their station.
"Charlie, please. I was just trying to protect you and Ruby, I never thought this would happen", Angelo pleaded looking his girlfriend in the eye and trying to take hold of her hand. But Charlie backed away.
"Yeah well a lot of good that's done", Charlie lowered her head held her hand up wiping away a stray tear. She brushed past him and walked towards Ruby's room door. She stopped and turned back to look at Angelo who looked at her with hurt expression. "I will never forgive you for this Angelo", she said. With that she opened the door and entered.
Angelo stood there stunned. He couldn't believe what he had just heard. The one person left in the bay who didn't treat him like dirt now hated him. How could this have happened. One minute they were blissfully happy and now she couldn't bear to look at him. Angelo stood looking into the room. He watched as Charlie helped the nurse lift Ruby from the bed and into the wheelchair. The nurse grabbed the pillow off the bed and placed behind Ruby's back for comfort. Angelo couldn't bear to watch anymore. With one last glance at Charlie he walked down the corridor and left.
Charlie positioned the pillow in a way that felt right to Ruby. When it was okay, she crouched down to Ruby's level and place a comforting hand on her daughter's arm. Ruby looked down at the wheelchair. It was the first time she had ever sat in it and she felt very strange. She could feel herself getting emotional and the tears welled up in her eyes as she realised that this was real. Charlie looked up at her daughter and noticed the tear run down her cheek.
"Hey, it's going to be ok. I'll be right here every step of the way", she said. Charlie leaned forward and wrapped her arms around her daughter. Ruby latched onto her as if for dear life and let out the tears she had been holding back. She was about to realise how much of an adjustment her life was going to need.
Great update!
This must be so hard for all of them.
Hoping there is a away for Charlie and Angelo to sort things out....
callyha
Location: <the cabbage patch>
Great update.
Poor... everyone!
Inactive User
Amazing update. So sad and well-written. Poor Ruby More soon please
Charlie walked back down to the rehabilitation unit in the southern end of the hospital. It had been two hours since Ruby went in for her first session and it felt like it had been going on forever. Ever since the the shooting, the kidnapping, even as far back as the whole Grant drama, Charlie had been having serious seperation anxiety issues with regards being more than a few feet away from Ruby.
With everything that had gone on Charlie now understood the challenges of actually being a mother. She realised that, although she tried to be a strong presence in Ruby's life as her sister, she really had no idea just how much worry a parent feels for their child. How much they would do for their child. Until now. Peering in through the glass panel outside the physical workout area, Charlie glanced at her daughter as she struggled through her first session with a determination Charlie had never witnessed in another human being before.
The physio who had been working on Ruby spotted Charlie watching from outside and gestured for her to come in, to which she more than oblidged. She walked in the door and walked across the room, glancing around at all the other patients who were in Ruby's position. When she got where Ruby was being worked on she sat down on one of the chairs that was right beside her. Watching the doctor lift Ruby's leg and press it to her chest, saw her daughter flinch slightly. She reached down and stroked Ruby's hand. Giving her an encouraging smile as she tried to breath through the pain in her lower back.
"Ms. Charlie Buckton?", a voice said from beside where Charlie was sitting.
Charlie turned in her seat and looked up to find a middle aged woman hovering over her with a file craddled in her arms. She released Ruby's hand from her grasp and stood up to greet the woman.
"Yes, I'm Charlie. And you are?" Charlie asked shaking the woman's hand.
"I'm Dr. Jameson, I'm a phsychiatrist here at the hospital. I talk to patients who have been through traumatic ordeals and who have life altering injuries and conditions", she explained. "Basically I talk to patients before their first session. Somewhat of a cleansing of the soul session to free their mind of anything that may be blurring their vision and preventing them from moving forward and accepting their circumstances, which I conducted with Ruby today".
Charlie looked at the woman in confusion. What was she trying to say? That Ruby needed phsychological help? In a way Charlie felt slightly insulted that a trained professional felt the need to talk to Charlie about her own daughter. But at the same time their was a part of her, deep down, more upset than anything because she couldn't bear the though of Ruby opening up to a stranger and not to her.
"Right. So is there anything I should be worried about?", Charlie said trying not to sound to eager to get the information out of the woman.
"That's the thing", Dr. Jameson said taking a seat next to Charlie. "Ruby wouldn't communicate with me on a personal level. She felt uncomfortable which is very natural in these cases. She does however feel she can open up to you and it's in Ruby's best interests that she does so I would ask you to encourage her to confide in you", the doctor finished.
Charlie nodded at the doctor and gave her a quick smile. She watched the woman stand up and leave as she sat there digesting the information of the conversation that had just taken place. When she turned back around the physio had just placed Ruby back into her wheel chair and was praising her for a good first session to which Ruby gave him a half hearted smile. Charlie stood up and walked over to her daughter and gave her shoulders a gentle squeeze before wheeling her out of the rehab center and down the corridor.
The five minute trek from the center to Ruby's room was quiet. Neither said a word to each other. Both just remained lost in thought. Charlie thinking about having a serious heart to heart with Ruby and Ruby thinking about confiding in Charlie. Both knew that the thinking part was the easiest part. It was the follow through that would be the difficult part. Finally they reached Ruby's room and within seconds two nurses had arrived to help Ruby into her bed which was positioned in a way that Ruby was sitting upright as opposed to lying flat on her back which she had grown tired of.
With one quick check of Ruby's blood sugar levels, the nurse recorded the data and reconnected Ruby's IV line and both nurses left the two women by themselves. Charlie walked over to Ruby and sat herself firmly by her daughters side on the bed. She looked her in the eye and she could tell that Ruby knew what was coming. So she decided to take the plunge and just start the conversation.
"So Rubes, you know you can talk to me about anything right? Anything at all.." Charlie was about to continue when Ruby suddenly intervened.
"Mum, I know the phychiatrist told you what I said in the therapy session", she said. Ruby looked down at her hands nervously as she tried to find the words so she could tell her mother how she was feeling.
"Hey it's ok, come on you can tell me", Charlie said Ruby's face in her hands and then dropping them and taking a hold of Ruby's hands.
"It's just when I found out I was paralysed I just felt so angry and I couldn't stop thinking about how my life was ruined", Ruby said, her voice shaking with emotion as a tear slid down her cheek. "But then today when I heard you and Angelo fighting, I realised, that this is ruining your life too. I'M, ruining your life....", she said trailing off.
"What? Rubes no...", Charlie said in state of shock horror, but she was cut off by Ruby who continued on.
"....which is why I'm going to go to the rehabilitation programme in the city. I can work on adjusting to this and you can carry on with you life without being weighed down by me", she stated.
Charlie stiffened as she listened to what Ruby was saying, heart breaking as she watched her daughter unravel before her.
"Ruby you are NOT weighing me down. What's brought this on?" Charlie asked squeezing her daughters hands to try and stop them from shaking.
"Who'd want to live with a diabetic, paraplegic rape concieved teenager? I wouldn't be surprised if you felt disgusted by me, ashamed even....." Ruby said as she began to sob uncontollably.
The tension in the room was servere. Charlie looked at her daughter with a look of unbelieveable shock. How on earth could Ruby think so such a thing. She loved her more than life itself.
"No, no, NO!", Charlie exclaimed. She grabbed a hold of Ruby's shoulders and looked her straight in the eye. "Rubes you are THE most precious thing in my life. I love you so much it hurts. I don't care how you were concieved or where you came from, that doesn't matter to me. I'm not disgusted by you or ashamed. I am incredibly proud of you and I don't want you to ever think or feel otherwise. You are my daughter, my flesh blood. You're everything to me and I could care less whether or not you can walk. Because I love you. I've always loved and I always will and nothing, I mean nothing will change that. I am going to be here for you no matter how hard or how difficult this gets, do you hear me?" she said wiping the tears from Ruby's face.
Charlie took one last glance at Ruby's pained expression and then pulled her into her embrace. Holding onto her for what felt like an eternity. It was at that moment that Charlie understood just how powerful a mothers unconditional love for her chil was. Because at that moment while Charlie sat their holding her daughter in her arms, she felt the rest of the world fade away.
Can Ruby adjust to her condition in the real world away from the hospital?
Will Angelo's attempts of a reconciliation be welcomed by Charlie?
Great chapter.
Loved the mother/daughter scenes. So sweet.
More soon please
Nice chat between Charlie and Ruby.
Poor Ruby, thinking all that!
Poor Charlie!
Returning from the hospital canteen with a hot cup of coffee, Charlie found herself yawning uncontollably for what seemed like the hundreth time that day. She'd been staying most nights working on a surprise for Ruby with the help of Ross, Morag, Leah and almost everyone else in the bay. It had been weeks since the accident and with the progress Ruby had been making in physio, her doctors decided that she could continue her recovery in the comfort of her own home and was being discharged that evening. Charlie reached Ruby's room door but stopped outside when she heard Geoff and Ruby talking inside.
"I can't say I'm surprised. I always had a thought in the back of my mind that you would eventually follow this path. I just wished it would be further down the track", Ruby said sounding disheartened.
"Rubes, it's nothing to do with you. Being a missionary, it's something I've always thought about doing and seeing all you've gone through, it's made me realise that there are a lot of people out there who need help who aren't getting it and I want to be the one who they can turn to", Geoff stated matter of factly. "Ruby I love you, and I wish the circumstances had been different, but this is something I need to do".
"I know, I want you to do this, if it's what makes you happy. Who know's, maybe one day we'll be reunited", Ruby said through a nervous tear filled laugh as if what she was saying only lived in fairytales.
Charlie's heart broke for her daughter as she listened outside the room. But at the same time she was incredibly proud of how dignified Ruby was being about the whole situation. Just then Geoff opened the door and walked out into the corridor looking upset but at the same time relieved at how well Ruby had taken it. Charlie smiled at him, and he smiled back. She was disappointed that he and Ruby had broken up, but at the same time she realised he was doing it for reasons she couldn't argue with. Geoff was a good man and she was grateful Ruby had been blessed to have had him in her life. Even if it was brief.
As she watched Geoff disappear down the corridor she took a swig of her coffee and walked into Ruby's room and looked at Ruby as she wiped away the last of her tears. Picking up the tissue box on the table at the end of the bed she handed a tissue to Ruby and sat on the edge of her bed stroking her arm. Ruby looked up at Charlie and gave her mother a reassuring smile that she was okay. Charlie responded by smilin back.
"You seem at peace with the decision", she said cupping Ruby's hand in hers.
"I am. I'll admit I didn't want Geoff to leave. But this is something he has to do you know, and I don't want to stand, or wheel, in his way", Ruby said with a mock laugh, "He deserves to be happy and maybe it'll give me the opportunity to focus on myself and my recovery".
"I'm really proud of you, you know that", Charlie said giving her daughter a comforting hug. "Hey, this should be a happy day, you're finally breaking out of here", she said sarcastically.
"Oh God, I know. I can't wait to get home to my own bed. Even just being home with you and hanging out with Xav, Nic and Annie. You know I never realised how much I could miss that", Ruby said matter of factly.
Charlie smiled as Ruby thought of all she missed while she'd been confined to the hospital. This was the longest she'd ever been in and she could safely say she never wanted to see another hospital in such a serious basis for the rest of her life. Ruby looked up at her mother who had a big grin on her face and she noticed the twinkle in her eye. She knew that look, it ususally meant Charlie was hiding a something.
"Well I'm glad your looking forward to going home so much because.......I have a surprise for you", Charlie said excitedly.
Ruby's eyes lit up. She could feel the curiosity building inside her and she was just about to beg Charlie to spill when Rachel walked into the room holding Ruby's discharge.
"Good news, I've talked to your cardiologist and all the physio has excellerated your recovery from your heart operation, your physio is overjoyed with your progress and the dietician is very happy with how you're managing your diet for your diabetes. In all I'd say you've been a star patient" Rachel said as she checked off Ruby's medical chart. "Now if mum here will would sign on the dotty line you are free to go".
Charlie took the discharge form from Rachel and signed the bottom of the page smiling at Ruby when she was done. She could see her daughter almost bursting with joy when she realised that she was now officially free. Rachel laughed as Ruby let a small "yes" and gestured out the door for the male nurse to come and help Ruby. Within seconds the nurse walked in with Ruby's new custom wheelchair.
The new wheelchair offered Ruby a more comfortable seat and better back support. The bars were purple one of Ruby's favourite colours and there were no arm rests in the way of Ruby pushing the wheels. The chair also provided a smaller set of back wheels connected to the back which would allow Ruby to lean back and manage steps with less hassle. It also in Ruby's opinion made it easier to rate a boys rear end for a different angle.
The nurse lifted Ruby into his arms and placed her in the chair, adjusting the foot rest to match her her height for comfort. Charlie smiled at Rachel and thanked her and walked down the corridor after Ruby who was in a rush to get out of there and find out what her surprise was. When they got to the car Charlie opened the passenger door and watched in awe as Ruby, using the door frame and the passenger seat, lifted herself into the car and placed her legs one after the other into the car. Charlie meanwhile folded up her chair and put it in the backseat and then climbed into the driver's seat.
"Soooooo, what's my surprise?", Ruby asked before Charlie had a chance to draw breath.
"You'll just have to wait until we get home to find out", Charlie said, her smile growing as Ruby looked at her with a pleading look.
Ruby couldn't contain her excitement. She was dying to know what her surprise was and no matter what she did she couldn't get the answer out of Charlie. Ruby was lost in her own little world as she stared out the window. But she was snapped out of her trance when she noticed Charlie had taken a different route and driven down a street she had only ever been down a couple of times all the while she had been living in Summer Bay, but it was a street she remembered liking because of it's proximity to the beach and homely feel.
Charlie pulled the car up into the drive of one of the houses, a white house. Ruby turned and looked at her in confusion. Charlie smiled back at her and then got out of the car and removed Ruby's wheelchair form the backseat and walked around to the passeneger side and unfolded the chair placing it beside the car and opened the door helping Ruby into the chair. Once Ruby was in it, Charlie closed the door and proceeded to push Ruby's chair up to the front door and then fondled the keys until she found the key she was looking for.
"Mum, what are we doing here?", Ruby asked looking at her, really confused.
Charlie opened the door and pushed Ruby inside....
"SURPRISE!!", everyone shouted when they seen Ruby enter the living room.
Ruby looked up in shock and looked around the room. It was completely decorated with new furniture and and photo frames dotted around of Charlie, Ruby, friends and family as well as portraits on the walls and a plasma screen television. Charlie watched her daughter look at everyone, including Ross and Morag, and everything in shock. Then she pushed Ruby from the living room down the corridor and stopped outside a door with 'Ruby's Room' on it. She opened the door and gestured for Ruby to go in.
After looking at everyone, Ruby wheeled herself into the room, which could only be described as shabby chic, and began to cry tears of joy. Charlie walked into the room and kneeled down in front of her daughter and smiled at her.
"Welcome home baby girl", she said as the two Buckton women engulfed each other in a tight embrace.
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