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A Forest Divided/Main article
< A Forest Divided
"The past is the past. The future is fresh. You must forget all you have known, no matter how much you loved it, and choose paths that will carry you to a new dawn."
— Bright Stream to the early settlers in A Forest Divided, page 315
A Forest Divided
Official Reprint
Kate Cary[1]
Wayne McLoughlin[2]
Jacket designer:
Megan Stitt[2]
7 April 2015[3]
Hardcover, eBook, Library
The spirit-cats have spoken: to survive, the cats from the mountains must grow and spread like the Blazing Star. The time has now come for all cats to decide where they will live—and where their allegiances truly lie.
Chapter-by-chapter notes
Book cover gallery
Prologue • 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 • 12 • 13 • 14 • 15 • 16 • 17 • 22
Path of Stars
A Forest Divided[3] is the fifth book of the Dawn of the Clans arc. Clear Sky is the cat depicted on the reprinted cover.[4]
Follow your hearts. They will lead you home.
Leaf-bare has fallen once more, threatening all cats with hunger and cold. Meanwhile, the message from the spirit-cats remains the same: in order to survive, they must grow and spread like the Blazing Star. And they must hurry.
Clear Sky is certain that the only way forward is for all cats to band together again, but few are willing to ally with him—and Gray Wing and Thunder can barely look him in the eyes. Tall Shadow is determined to establish a new camp in the pine forest. River Ripple is content near the water. And Wind Runner has made her own home on the moor. The time has now come for all cats to decide where they will live—and where their allegiances truly lie.
Detailed plot description
Looking for a shorter overview? Find one here!
Clear Sky is staring at the number of bodies buried in the hollow of the four trees, coming to the shocking conclusion that the dead outnumber the living. He sees a dark gray she-cat , who welcomes him, saying he came. Clear Sky's heart aches with grief, telling Storm that he did come. He asks why she called him here, and Storm replies that she's tired of waiting. River Ripple, Thunder, Tall Shadow, and Wind Runner join him in this dream. Clear Sky notices that the living stood separately while the dead stood together, and wonders if the spirit cats were the only thing that united them. Storm says that they had told the cats to grow and spread like The Blazing Star, but they haven't yet. Storm queries if fear is holding them back. Clear Sky exclaims never, but doesn't know how more they can spread, adding that they add more cats whenever they can. Another cat tells him that it's not enough, and Clear Sky sees Fluttering Bird, his sister who had died of undernourishment in the mountains. Fluttering Bird tells him that what he's done is not enough. She tells Clear Sky to follow his heart, as it will lead him home. Clear Sky looks around, remembering how they all traveled together, but now they don't share their own prey. She confronts Clear Sky, telling him to follow his heart once more. Clear Sky thinks he understands, promising Fluttering Bird he will draw the cats closer together once more so they can grow strong and spread like the Blazing Star.
Clear Sky visits Tall Shadow's camp , bringing a rabbit he had caught on the moor. He sees Jagged Peak playing with his kits, and Gray Wing calls him a great father. Clear Sky looks at Thunder, wondering if he would ever forgive him for sending him away. He thinks that Jagged Peak was a better father than him, and recalls how Gray Wing raised another tom's kits when he couldn't even raise his own. Clear Sky tries to convince Tall Shadow, Gray Wing, and Thunder to join their groups together to grow and spread like the Blazing Star, saying that was what the spirit cats told him. Tall Shadow asks if he's sure, and Clear Sky realizes that they are rejecting his offer. Gray Wing reminds Clear Sky that he thought they should separate into five groups, just as the Blazing Star had five petals that spread into different locations. Clear Sky states that they didn't agree on that, and the spirit cats want them to join together. Tall Shadow comments dryly about another battle between the two of them, and she says she will establish her own camp in the pine forest when the time comes. Gray Wing murmurs that she isn't the only one who wants to leave, telling Clear Sky that not every cat wants to stay on the moor. Clear Sky tries to convince the others to live in the forest with him, but Thunder growls that they can't pretend the borders Clear Sky had made weren't there, as cats had died over them. Clear Sky, disappointed, leaves the moor. Thunder feels guilty about what he said to his father, and follows him, making sure he gets to the forest safely. Thunder apologizes for what he says, but Clear Sky doesn't answer. A badger attacks the pair, severely injuring Clear Sky. Despite protests from his father, Thunder takes Clear Sky back to the moor so Pebble Heart can treat his wound. Tall Shadow is annoyed that Thunder brought him back, pointing out he's already caused enough trouble for one day. Jagged Peak overhears this, and after a long conversation with Thunder, he brings up the fact that there had been a lot of gossip on the moor about moving to another territory. He tells Tall Shadow it is time to decide once and for all, and he looks at Gray Wing, saying they should cast stones, a way of voting to make decisions.
Tall Shadow claws the circles in the ground, asking if they should make one for Wind Runner's group. Gray Wing shakes his head, saying that Wind Runner wouldn't want anyone joining her group. There are four circles - one for the pines, one for the moor, one for River Ripple's territory, and one for Clear Sky's territory. Tall Shadow drops her stone into the circle for the pines, and Jagged Peak does as well. He looks at Holly, and she does the same, stating that their kits will be safer there. Gray Wing picks the pines, and so does Mouse Ear. Dappled Pelt drops her stone into the circle that marks River Ripple's group. Shattered Ice does so as well. Lightning Tail drops his stone into Clear Sky's pile, and Clear Sky is delighted. Thunder realizes he had chosen it so he could be closer to his sister, Acorn Fur. Sparrow Fur chooses Clear Sky's group, and Thunder can see the grief burning in Gray Wing's eyes. Gray Wing tells her to follow her heart. Owl Eyes picks the forest, and Cloud Spots does as well. Pebble Heart is shocked, asking what he will do without Cloud Spots to guide him. Cloud Spots says that he has nothing left to teach him, and Clear Sky needs some cat to take care of his group. The only cat left to choose is Thunder, and he hesitates for a moment, before choosing Clear Sky's group. Clear Sky thanks him, and Thunder says goodbye to Gray Wing. Gray Wing says that he can't leave Tall Shadow, and Pebble Heart needs him, but he doesn't know how he can be separated from his kits. Thunder reminds him that they aren't kits anymore, and he'll still see them. Gray Wing says it will never be the same, and Thunder silently agrees.
Gray Wing says goodbye to Acorn Fur and Owl Eyes, lying to them that he isn't hurt by their choice. Clear Sky promises his brother that he will look after them. Clear Sky asks if he's sure he doesn't want to come with them, and Gray Wing replies that he's been through so much with Tall Shadow that he can't leave her yet, and Pebble Heart needs him. Cloud Spots says goodbye to Pebble Heart, and Gray Wing feels a flash of jealousy at how fond Pebble Heart is of the black and white tom. Cloud Spots suggests they meet regularly to share what they've learned. As Gray Wing follows the cats who had chosen the pines to their new territory, he scents rogues, and decides to investigate. He hears a tom scold a she-cat, telling her to follow "those cats". He continues, saying he wants her to follow them and he needs to know where they settle. The she-cat asks him why, and the tom, being named Slash, tells her not to be a mouse-brain. He tells the she-cat, Fern, not to betray him. He reminds her that Star Flower had betrayed him, and she was lucky he let her live. He tells Fern that he won't be so soft with her. Gray Wing, bothered by the exchange, goes back to join the traveling group, noticing how Jagged Peak acts like their leader. Tall Shadow is surprised as well, and Holly says it's shocking what a little love can do. Gray Wing wonders if he had been too hard on his younger brother, and realizes it is his turn to cross the Thunderpath. However, he breaks into a coughing fit right in the middle of the road, unable to make it to the other side. Jagged Peak urges him on.
Clear Sky shows Thunder across his territory, heading for the Twolegplace, explaining he wants to see if he can find some kittypet recruits. Thunder comes across Star Flower, who asks why he's on the forest. Thunder, hostile towards her, asks her how she can show her face. He tries to say "after", but Star Flower cuts him off, finishing his sentence for him - "after you killed my father." Thunder asks if Star Flower cares about anything, and Star Flower replies that she cares enough to forgive him. Thunder growls, saying she was the one to betray them. Star Flower replies that he was the one who helped kill her father. Clear Sky interferes, saying that if she wants to blame anyone for One Eye's death, she should blame him. Star Flower asks if he was the one to take One Eye in, and Clear Sky confirms that it was indeed him. Star Flower asks to join his group, and Thunder freezes. Clear Sky denies her request, saying she can't let her join after what her father had done. Star Flower begs Thunder, stating that since One Eye is gone, she doesn't have any cat to help her survive through leaf-bare. Thunder calls Clear Sky, asking if they should give her a chance. Thunder reminds his father that Fluttering Bird wanted him to unite, reassuring him that the more cats they have, the farther they can spread. Clear Sky twitches his tail, saying he can bring her alone, but he would be the one to explain her to his campmates. Thunder thinks of Lightning Tail's expression when he walks into camp with Star Flower, knowing his friend will think he's gone crazy.
Gray Wing hunts in the pine forest, to have Pebble Heart come upon him. Pebble Heart asks if he thought he was Slate, and Gray Wing remembers that the she-cat had promised to visit. Suddenly, Gray Wing has a coughing attack once more. Pebble Heart is able to heal him, and promises him some coltsfoot. Slate visits the camp, and she reports that Wind Runner's kits are doing well. Gray Wing suggests they send out a hunting party, and Slate volunteers to join, but Tall Shadow pointedly states that she has her own group to contribute to. Jagged Peak asks what's going on, and Tall Shadow tells him that Gray Wing is organizing patrols. Jagged Peak points out that he had given up leadership, and he can't just take it back. Tall Shadow apologizes, telling Gray Wing he's not as strong as he used to be, and he needs to let stronger cats take charge. She bluntly tells him he's not their leader anymore, and Gray Wing realizes that Tall Shadow thinks he's weak. Burning with fury, he hears Fern at the camp, knowing she's spying on them Gray Wing, desperate to prove to Tall Shadow that he's not weak, chases after her.
After stalking her quietly, Gray Wing decides to talk to Fern. He asks her if she knows who he is, and reminds her that she had been spying on him for the past half moon. Fern is surprised, not knowing that Gray Wing was one of the forest cats. Gray Wing tells her that Slash is a bully, just like One Eye. Gray Wing tells Fern that she shouldn't let Slash order her around, and Fern says that if she doesn't do what he says, he'll kill her. Fern flinches away from Gray Wing, and he tries to convince her that he won't hurt her. He catches a mouse for her, and introduces himself. Gray Wing asks that Fern do something for him in return. He asks her to persuade Slash that he's wasting his time spying on them. He comes up with ideas - that they are strong, that they are dangerous, and he wouldn't win a fight against them. Fern tips her head, saying that Slash would never believe there were cats he couldn't beat. She says she might be able to distract him. She tells Gray Wing that she would be able to delay Slash's attack, but he would indeed ambush them, saying that her distraction would give them the time they need to prepare for Slash's attack. After Fern leaves Gray Wing, he catches a rabbit. A small kit exclaims that they were hunting that, and his family appears - his half-starved mother and sibling. Gray Wing offers the rabbit to him, but the mother is wary. Gray Wing is able to convince them to eat the rabbit, and the mother introduces herself as Milkweed. She tells him that her tom kit is Thistle, and her she-kit is Clover. She explains that their sister, Bramble, died the other day. Gray Wing suggests they join Clear Sky's group, and Milkweed snorts, asking if he'll kill him just as he killed Misty. Gray Wing explains that Clear Sky had changed, and Milkweed asks him if Clear Sky will hurt them. Gray Wing promises he won't. Milkweed and her kits leave, and Gray Wing falls asleep on the moor.
Gray Wing finds himself in the cavern of the Tribe of Rushing Water. He calls out for Quiet Rain and Snow Hare, but can't find them. Stoneteller appears. Gray Wing thinks she is the only thing left of the Tribe, and he apologizes for leaving. Stoneteller tells him it's not his fault, and to let go of the past, for the future is the only thing he can change. A shriek jerks Gray Wing awake, and he finds Slate battling with a fox. He comes to her aide, and working side by side, they manage to fend the fox off. Slate realizes that Gray Wing is badly injured, and takes him to Wind Runner's camp, so Reed can treat his wounds. Wind Runner, Gorse Fur , and Gray Wing catch up. Wind Runner asks if Gray Wing misses the moor, and Gray Wing replies that he does. He says he feels he has to stay with Pebble Heart and Tall Shadow, although he thinks that Tall Shadow doesn't need him anymore. Wind Runner comforts him, saying it's just because Tall Shadow wants to make her home feel more like hers. Gray Wing looks around, saying he should get home. Slate convinces him to take a nap before he goes, and he obliges.
In the forest, Clear Sky brings prey to his camp. He recalls Thunder looking wistfully at Star Flower, thinking that he still cares for her. Clear Sky decides to patrol his borders, and runs into Star Flower, who makes him loose a piece of prey he was tracking. Star Flower teases him, and Clear Sky thinks she is trying to embarrass him on purpose. Star Flower lulls Clear Sky into a deep conversation. She tells him about how her littermates and mother died, and how One Eye refused to speak of them. Clear Sky tells her that every cat holds tragedy in their heart. She tells Clear Sky that they're alike, and Clear Sky states that he hadn't betrayed anyone. Star Flower tells him that she thinks Thunder, Gray Wing, Jagged Peak, and Rainswept Flower would disagree. Star Flower says that she understands Clear Sky, and she would take some things she had done back. Star Flower murmurs that he knows she doesn't trust me, but she will do what she can to show him he can count on her. She tells Clear Sky that if he trusts her, she will never betray him, just as she never betrayed her father. He tells Star Flower to go back to camp, and he thinks that perhaps he was wrong about her. He realizes that there is more to Star Flower than what meets the eye.
Thunder tries to join a patrol with Clear Sky in order to flatter him, lying that he doesn't know where the markers are. Clear Sky tells him that if he hadn't known that already, he never will. He tells Thunder that every cat needs solitude from time to time, and he's patrolling alone. He leaves, and Thunder thinks that Clear Sky had never wanted solitude before. He orders Lightning Tail to guard the camp so he can follow Clear Sky. Lightning Tail decides to come with him, so Thunder orders Leaf to guard instead. They follow Clear Sky, to see him meeting with Star Flower. Star Flower weaves around Clear Sky, asking him if he took her up on her hunting lesson offer. Clear Sky tells her he doesn't have anything to learn, and Star Flower says they have more in common than he thinks. Star Flower lets her tail slide beneath Clear Sky's chin, and pads around him. She reminds Clear Sky that he was going to give her lessons in leadership, and Clear Sky tells her that before you learn to lead, you must learn to follow. Thunder remembers how he thought Star Flower wanted to be his mate, but she was only spying for One Eye. Star Flower had then said she truly cared for him, but that was after One Eye died. Thunder watches with jealousy as Star Flower invites Clear Sky to enjoy the sun with her. Thunder bounds away, furious. Lightning Tail catches up, and Thunder snarls, saying he should've known that Star Flower didn't feel anything for him. He states that Star Flower is using his father, and Lightning Tail asks what for. Thunder tells him that if she was Clear Sky's mate, she would have power and influence as she was the leader's mate. Thunder orders Lightning Tail to leave, saying he needs to think. Thunder sits down, a deep ache in his heart. He thinks that Star Flower had come back for him, but she cares about one cat, and that cat is Star Flower.
Back at camp, Thunder gets into an argument with Clear Sky. Clear Sky had been limiting hunting patrols so the cats 'don't hunt out' the forest, and so that cats don't take more than their fair share. This causes outrage within the group, as cats are going hungry when there is a perfectly good forest full of food. Clear Sky scowls at Thunder, saying that maybe he should be the leader. Thunder retorts, saying that on the moor, Tall Shadow and Gray Wing treated him like one. Clear Sky snaps at him, saying the forest is different. They have one leader, and that is Clear Sky. Clear Sky mocks the moor group, saying that no cat knew who was in charge, and whenever there was an argument, cats would gossip and no one made decisions. Clear Sky asks if he's this angry about hunting patrols, and Thunder blurts out that he saw him in the forest with Star Flower. Clear Sky is surprised, reminding him that he told him to stay in camp. Thunder tells his father that he isn't as easy to boss around as Owl Eyes. Thunder asks what he was doing with her, and Clear Sky replies that it is none of his business. Thunder tells him that Star Flower is not trustworthy. He tells Clear Sky that he trusted her father, and tells him to look at where that got him. He explains that he's only warning him because he fell for her lies once, and he doesn't want to see her betray Clear Sky as she had betrayed him. He bluntly states that trusting Star Flower will not end well. Clear Sky says that he knew he hurt her, and Thunder asks if that means he'll stop seeing her. Clear Sky does not respond. He leaves, and Thunder jumps after him, only to see Star Flower. Star Flower tells him he scented him when she was meeting with Clear Sky, and Thunder tells her to stay away from his father.
Thunder goes on a hunting patrol with Leaf. Leaf's scathing comments about Clear Sky taking in weak cats who can't hunt for themselves makes Thunder uncomfortable, but he ignores them. When they successfully catch a piece of prey, Thunder exclaims that with more patrols, there'll be enough food for everyone. Thunder goes back to camp, and asks Lightning Tail where Clear Sky is. Lightning Tail replies that he left camp with Star Flower. Thunder thinks that he has something to tell him - something that he won't want to hear.
Star Flower and Clear Sky meet at a place where snakes live. Star Flower weaves around Clear Sky, asking if he trusts her. Clear Sky replies that Thunder thinks he shouldn't. Star Flower says that she is sorry she hurt Thunder, but he is a young cat and will get over it. Clear Sky wonders if he should ignore Star Flower just to please his son, but then he ponders if Thunder really wants him to be alone. Clear Sky goes back to camp, noticing his cats are hungry. He still forbids hunting patrols to go out, and Thunder decides he has had enough. He tells Clear Sky that he won't disturb him, or hunt near his camp. He will live in another part of the forest, but he can't be apart of Clear Sky's group. Leaf, Lightning Tail, Cloud Spots, Owl Eyes, and Pink Eyes offer to go with him. Clear Sky asks to speak with Thunder in private, and he asks his son what he's doing. Thunder tells him that he ignores his advice, so it's pointless for him to be here. Clear Sky asks him if he should get special treatment because he's his son, and Thunder retorts that on the moor, he was no cat's son and was respected. Clear Sky scornfully asks if he's leaving because he doesn't get respect. Thunder tells him he's leaving because he can't stand any of Clear Sky's dumb decisions. Clear Sky tells him he explained why he's not sending out hunting patrols, and Thunder tells him that's not what he meant. He tells him to banish Star Flower from the forest, as she can't be trusted. Clear Sky tells him he can't order him how to lead his group. Thunder tells him he thinks he knows it all, but he doesn't. Thunder and his cats leave. Star Flower tells Clear Sky that a few troublemakers have left, and this is his chance to build the strong, loyal group he has always wanted. She tells him that Thunder won't ever be the leader he was, and Clear Sky lets her words comfort him. He presses against her, thinking that finally, he has a mate worthy of him.
The cats who had chosen to live with Thunder follow him to their new camp, which was found accidentally. It is in a ravine in the heart of the woods. Milkweed had joined them prior to finding camp. Next morning, Thunder goes out on a hunting expedition. He tracks a sparrow and kills it, and a black tom emerges, stating that was his prey. Thunder apologizes, and the tom tells him he is from the mountains. Thunder is immediately interested, knowing how Gray Wing and Clear Sky came from the mountains. He introduces her to an old gray she-cat, and the tom urges her to eat. Thunder realizes that their names are Sun Shadow and Quiet Rain. Thunder wonders if Sun Shadow could be related to Tall Shadow or her brother, Moon Shadow. Quiet Rain asks if Thunder knew any cat called Gray Wing, Jagged Peak, or Clear Sky. Sun Shadow asks if he knows Moon Shadow, saying he is his father. Thunder tells him where Gray Wing and Jagged Peak live, but does not mention Clear Sky. Sun Shadow asks if he knew Moon Shadow again, and Thunder, unable to break the news to Moon Shadow's son that his father is dead, says he will take both of them to Tall Shadow, so she can tell them everything she knows.
Quiet Rain's wounds look as if they need treating, and Thunder suggests they bring her back to his camp. Sun Shadow tells him that she won't wait, especially now that she knows her sons are near. Thunder goes to tell the others that he is leaving, and he runs into Milkweed. He explains to her the situation, and asks if the camp would be okay without him. Milkweed tells him it's okay, and prompts him to go. Thunder finds a new route to the pines, avoiding the usual trek he would have to make as it crosses into Clear Sky's territory. On the way, he asks Quiet Rain and Sun Shadow to tell him about the mountains. From their descriptions, he assumes it sounds cold and barren, and Sun Shadow explains that Stoneteller had found it. They see River Ripple, who asks them why they didn't take the woods. Thunder improvises that he believes the moor would be easier to cross. Thunder introduces Sun Shadow and Quiet Rain, and refers to Sun Shadow as Moon Shadow's son. River Ripple dips his head, commenting that Moon Shadow was a fine cat. Sun Shadow is surprised by his use of the word "was", and Thunder tells him that his father died from a forest fire. Quiet Rain asks if the others are okay, and Thunder tells her that Jagged Peak, Gray Wing, and Clear Sky are fine. He refuses to tell her about the others, thinking that so many are dead. After Thunder explains how Moon Shadow bravely died, Quiet Rain asks if he knows Gray Wing and Clear Sky. Thunder tells her he is Clear Sky's son, and Quiet Rain asks where Bright Stream is. Thunder replies that she is dead, and that his mother is Storm, who is also dead. Quiet Rain asks why they ever came here, as this is a place of death. River Ripple comforts her, saying that this is a place where prey is rich and greenleaf is warm. Thunder, finding some good news, tells Quiet Rain that Jagged Peak had kits. River Ripple adds that Hawk Swoop had them as well. River Ripple tells Thunder that the camp is deep in the forest, and Thunder thinks it might take a while to find. Thunder looks at Quiet Rain, noticing that she is very tired. He hopes they get there soon, but is uneasy about breaking the deaths of so many Tribemates to her.
They find Tall Shadow's camp, and enter. Tall Shadow is surprised to see Quiet Rain, and Holly asks if she knows this cat. Quiet Rain says she knows her well, and Tall Shadow is shocked to see Moon Shadow's son. Quiet Rain asks where Gray Wing is, and the cats stay silent. Holly says he left camp a few days ago, and Quiet Rain asks if he's missing. She is grief-stricken, and Pebble Heart rushes to treat her wounds. Jagged Peak sees Quiet Rain, and instantly rushes over to her, greeting his mother. Quiet Rain looks at his leg, asking what happened. Jagged Peak explains that he fell from a tree, and Quiet Rain exclaims that he is lame. Jagged Peak is hurt, and Quiet Rain asks where Clear Sky is. Thunder tells her that he lives in the forest, and he will take her to see him when she is stronger. Quiet Rain asks Tall Shadow where Gray Wing is, and Tall Shadow repeats that they don't know. Quiet Rain tells her to find him, as she came to see her kin. Thunder wills the two she-cats not to fight, and knows there is more grief for Quiet Rain to face. Tall Shadow seems to understand that too, and looks at Thunder, asking him to find Gray Wing.
At the moor, Gray Wing feels glad that he can help the moor cats hunt. He wonders if his campmates in the pines need help as well, but he remembers Jagged Peak saying that Gray Wing isn't as fast as he used to be. He recalls Tall Shadow accusing him of giving orders ever since he joined them in the pines. He knows that Tall Shadow and Jagged Peak accused him of taking over as leader, and he irritability thinks that they should make up their minds. He realizes that he is accepted here on the moor for who he is. He feels that in the moor, Slate enjoys his company and Wind Runner was grateful for the prey he caught. He knows that on the moor, his breathing has eased as he can run faster, breathe more deeply, and sleep more soundly. But he misses Pebble Heart, thinking the tom might be alone ever since his littermates left. He knows he should go back to him, but thinks that he could go tomorrow. Thunder appears in camp, saying that he had been tracking Gray Wing. Thunder tells him that Quiet Rain is in the forest, and Gray Wing instantly runs to see her. But his breathing slows, and Thunder tries to walk with him. Gray Wing asks why he didn't take her to Clear Sky's camp, and Thunder says that he left his camp and set up his own. Gray Wing accidentally walks into a rabbit trap, and Fern helps him get out. Thunder is suspicious of Fern when Gray Wing tells him she is spying for Slash, and Gray Wing offers her to walk with them as they go to Tall Shadow's camp. At the camp, Gray Wing instantly greets his mother, grateful that she is here as he thought he would never see him again. Quiet Rain asks him what is on his paw, and Gray Wing tells her he was caught in a Twoleg trap. Quiet Rain asks why they ever came to this place, as there is nothing but death and danger. She tells him that they should've stayed in the mountains.
Fern is questioned by Tall Shadow and the others. Jagged Peak asks if Gray Wing is rounding up every stray he can. Jagged Peak's kits scramble up to Fern, asking all sorts of questions. Holly tells them to be polite, and apologizes to Fern for their behavior. Fern says that they have spirit and will grow into fine hunters. Jagged Peak asks Fern if she can prove she is a friend, and Holly says that she can prove it when she's rested and eaten. Tall Shadow agrees, and Jagged Peak asks if they're going to take every stray. Thunder tells him that strays are as loyal as mountain cats. Quiet Rain thanks Thunder for finding Gray Wing, and says she wants to see Clear Sky. Gray Wing tells Thunder to get him, but Thunder protests, saying he's spent all day taking cats from camp to camp. Gray Wing tells him to stop acting like a kit, and to get Clear Sky while Quiet Rain is still well enough to talk. Thunder reluctantly does so, but stops at his camp to tell Lightning Tail. Lightning Tail follows him to Clear Sky's camp, and Thunder finds him, telling him about Quiet Rain. Star Flower offers to come, but Clear Sky tells her to stay at camp, as she is expecting his kits. Thunder takes Clear Sky to Tall Shadow's camp, but unbeknownst to them, Star Flower had followed them. Thunder is annoyed, and Star Flower tells Tall Shadow she is here to help Clear Sky. Clear Sky tells Gray Wing and Jagged Peak that Quiet Rain wants to talk to them. Thunder wonders if Quiet Rain had expected to find her sons united in a prey rich land, and doesn't know what will happen once Quiet Rain finds out the truth.
Quiet Rain asks what happened to her friends. Jagged Peak says that Shattered Ice and Dappled Pelt live besides the river now, and Quiet Rain snaps that she knows that. Clear Sky says that Quick Water lives in the forest with him, and so does Acorn Fur. Quiet Rain asks who Acorn Fur is, and Clear Sky says she is Hawk Swoop 's kit. Quiet Rain asks what happened to Hawk Swoop, and Clear Sky replies that she is dead. Quiet Rain asks how, and Clear Sky says there was a battle. Quiet Rain asks with who, and Jagged Peak replies "with Clear Sky". Quiet Rain asks who fought Clear Sky, and Gray Wing replies that he did. The three brothers explain what happened leading up to the battle - how Clear Sky had left the moor and divided borders and kept expanding them, how talk didn't work, and how they ended up in a battle. Gray Wing tells her that Jackdaw's Cry and Falling Feather died in the battle. Quiet Rain asks what happened to Turtle Tail, Shaded Moss, and Rainswept Flower. Gray Wing and Jagged Peak say that Turtle Tail and Shaded Moss died from a monster, and when it is their turn to answer about Rainswept Flower, they are lost for words. Clear Sky says that he killed her, and he was mad with rage so he was not thinking straight. Quiet Rain orders Jagged Peak and Gray Wing away, and she berates Clear Sky. She hisses, saying she didn't imagine raising a kit to kill his Tribemate. Quiet Rain tells him that he is no kit of hers, and she never wants to see him again. Clear Sky asks for forgiveness, and Quiet Rain says she never will. Clear Sky stumbles out of the den, and Star Flower helps him out. Clear Sky asks if he is a monster, and Star Flower tells him that he is a hero and a leader. She says that he makes tough decisions that others fear, and there is no shame in that. Clear Sky hopes she is right.
Thunder is afraid that Quiet Rain might die, thinking it would be unfair as she had traveled such a long distance to see her sons. Thunder delivers some herbs to Quiet Rain, which she stubbornly refuses to eat. Thunder eats some for her, and she manages to eat as well. Quiet Rain tells Thunder about how Clear Sky had left the mountains, and how she had sent Gray Wing to go after him. Quiet Rain tells him she stayed behind because the mountains were her home, but now she wishes she hadn't come to the woods, as it had caused nothing but trouble, how it had set brother against brother. Thunder feebly tries to defend Clear Sky, and hears Clear Sky talking to Star Flower about Quiet Rain. Star Flower tells him to make peace with Quiet Rain before she -- and Quiet Rain breaks them off, asking who is planning her death. Star Flower introduces herself as Clear Sky's mate, and Quiet Rain berates Clear Sky once more. Thunder realizes where Clear Sky got his arrogance from. Gray Wing and Jagged Peak ask to come in, and her sons offer her prey. Jagged Peak tells Clear Sky not to nag her, after he had upset her greatly. Clear Sky states that he was just trying to offer her food, and Star Flower silences both of them, telling them that their mother would like to see her kits get along. Thunder looks at Star Flower, thinking that she might be the right mate for Clear Sky after all. Quiet Rain starts to tremble, and Jagged Peak asks if he should get Pebble Heart. Gray Wing says she might just be sleeping, but they are interrupted by a desperate call from Holly, who wails that her kits are missing.
Clear Sky states that they must find them before they freeze. The cats split themselves up into separate patrols to search different parts of their territory, and Thunder realizes that Star Flower and Clear Sky are working together. Tall Shadow is surprised when she sees that Clear Sky wants to join the search. Gray Wing says he should come, but the cats decide he should stay in camp. Clear Sky searches the pines, hearing the three kits on top of a three. He sees Storm Pelt, Dew Nose, and Eagle Feather. Clear Sky hears a crow coming overhead, and he climbs the tree as quickly as he can. When Clear Sky reaches the branch where the kits are hiding at, he threatens the crow, sending it away. He helps Eagle Feather, Dew Nose, and Storm Pelt climb down the tree by giving them orders on how to work together. Clear Sky feels a surge of protectiveness, never feeling like that before. Guilt floods over him as he realizes he should have felt that way about Thunder. Dew Nose almost falls, but Clear Sky grabs her before it is too late. Eagle Feather asks how they will get down, and Clear Sky says they will have to climb on his back like squirrel kits. He tells them to climb on, as there is enough room for all of them. He tells them to imagine it is a badger ride, and it will be the most exciting one they've had.
At camp, Gray Wing tells Quiet Rain that Jagged Peak's kits had disappeared and Clear Sky had gone to search for them. Quiet Rain grunts that he is too soft on them, as no kit of hers would've strayed away. Gray Wing tells her that the forest is safer. Quiet Rain tells him that no place is safe for foolish kits, and Gray Wing assures her that they have patrols searching for them. Quiet Rain tells him that he was always the gentlest of her kits. She had worried that he lacked Clear Sky's spirit and Jagged Peak's stubbornness, but he had the kindest heart and hoped for the best. She says she knew that he would find Jagged Peak when he left her. Gray Wing says that he wished he had gone back to the mountains. Gray Wing mutters that he didn't keep Jagged Peak safe, and Quiet Rain tells him that it wasn't his fault he fell out of a tree. Quiet Rain asks Gray Wing why he doesn't have a mate, and Gray Wing tells her that he had a mate - Turtle Tail. Quiet Rain tells him that he had noticed at last. Gray Wing says that her kits, Owl Eyes and Sparrow Fur live in the woods, and that Pebble Heart lives with them. Quiet Rain is surprised that Gray Wing hadn't told her about Pebble Heart, and understands why Pebble Heart looks at him with such fondness whenever he speaks. Quiet Rain informs him that he shouldn't spend the rest of his life mourning, and he should have another mate. Jagged Peak's kits come back into camp, and Gray Wing notices Clear Sky's back has pieces of fur ripped, and asks him if he got into a fight. Clear Sky purrs, saying he climbed down a tree with three kits off of him. When they check on Quiet Rain, Pebble Heart breathes that her wound is worse. Quiet Rain rests, with Jagged Peak's kits hanging over her. He sees that her eyes are half open, but unblinking. Gray Wing hopes that Pebble Heart's herbs work, as she cannot come all this way just to die.
Clear Sky is woken by Thunder. Thunder says that Pebble Heart had sent him, as Quiet Rain is getting worse. Clear Sky realizes that Quiet Rain is dying. Star Flower tells him that she is waiting for him, and Clear Sky goes in. Gray Wing informs Quiet Rain that Clear Sky is here, just as he asked. Quiet Rain is thankful that her dear friend had came, and Clear Sky thinks that he is her son, not her friend. Quiet Rain says that it is good to see Shaded Moss again. Her sons don't think she can hear them, or even know they are there. Quiet Rain seems to be talking to Shaded Moss alone. She echoes Shaded Moss's apparent words, asking if she should forgive Clear Sky as he drove his brothers away and killed a Tribemate. Quiet Rain opens her eyes, able to see again. She looks at all her sons, satisfied that they are there. She tells them not to be sad when she is gone, that it will be a relief. She says she had lived a long life, and a good one. She states she had known hunger and cold, but she knew love too. She tells Clear Sky, her first born, that she forgives him, as Shaded Moss had explained something. She begins to elaborate, but she is broken by a coughing fit. Jagged Peak tells Pebble Heart to help her, but Pebble Heart solemnly replies that there is nothing he can do. Quiet Rain continues, saying that Shaded Moss told her that it was all foretold, and Clear Sky could not help what he did, for it had to be that way. Quiet Rain states that she has forgiven Clear Sky, and he must learn to forgive himself. Her eyes grow dull, and her life slips away from her. Clear Sky gazes at her dead body, knowing that these final moments with his mother would mark the rest of his life.
The day gives way to night as the pine cats sit vigil for Quiet Rain. Thunder notices that Sun Shadow had come all this way to see his father, but he was truly alone among strangers. Tall Shadow says that they need to bury her, and Jagged Peak suggests that they bury her at the four trees. Star Flower says that River Ripple should be at the burial, as he is a leader and apart of the five petals of the Blazing Star. Gray Wing points out that Wind Runner is too, but they are giving her space. Clear Sky tells him he is right, that they should leave Wind Runner alone, but bring River Ripple. Star Flower says she will fetch him, but Clear Sky argues, saying it is too far for her. Star Flower meets his gaze and tells him that carrying kits does not make a she-cat weaker, it makes her stronger. River Ripple joins them at the four trees, and they notice that the ground is frozen. But all the cats - Tall Shadow, Sun Shadow, Pebble Heart, Thunder, River Ripple, Clear Sky, and Gray Wing work together to dig a hole and bury Quiet Rain. Spirit cats appear to talk to them, and Bright Stream is among them. She says that they must forget all they have known, and carry paths that will lead them to a new dawn. Clear Sky states that she means they should unite, and Gray Wing says they need to choose a new beginning, as Bright Stream had said. Clear Sky tries to convince them that they should join together, and Thunder tells him that he has his own camp now, and his loyalties are to them and not Clear Sky. Clear Sky will always be his father, but he cannot let them be the cats they do not want to be, and he must find his own path. Star Flower tells him that Clear Sky knows this, and Thunder tells them to take care of each other. He goes back to camp, and Lightning Tail gives him reports of what is going on in the camp. Thunder thinks that tomorrow, he will go with Lightning Tail and bring fresh-kill back for his cats.
The burial is over, and the cats start to return to their respective camps. Gray Wing wonders if his true campmates are Tall Shadow and Jagged Peak. He stops, telling Tall Shadow he can't come with her, as he cannot live among the pines. Tall Shadow asks if it's because she accused him of taking over, and Jagged Peak says that they need him there. Gray Wing shakes his head, replying that they don't. He explains that he can hardly breathe in the pines, and he is not as fast as he used to be. He describes that the wind rushes through him, and he can run without losing his breath. Tall Shadow looks worried, asking if he'll be lonely. Gray Wing pictures Slate, saying he hopes not. Pebble Heart tells Gray Wing he must follow the path he chooses, and Gray Wing asks if he will mind. Pebble Heart says he wants him to be happy, and he will know where to find him. Tall Shadow frowns, asking where he will go. Pebble Heart replies for him, saying he is going to Wind Runner's camp. Tall Shadow says that they will miss him, and Gray Wing tells him to take care of Fern. He does not warn them about Slash yet, thinking that Fern will. Gray Wing tells Pebble Heart that he is proud of him, and Pebble Heart replies that he knows. Gray Wing turns away, and heads for Wind Runner's camp. Gorse Fur asks if everything is okay, and Gray Wing replies that he can't live in the pines anymore. Wind Runner tells him he is welcome here. Slate asks if Gray Wing is staying for good, and Gray Wing responds that he is. Wind Runner's kits ask him for a badger ride, and Gorse Fur convinces her to let them. Gray Wing attempts to take them to the moor top, but lets them off, saying they can run to the top. Dust Muzzle says he will race Moth Flight. Gray Wing asks Slate if she is happy he came back, and Slate asks him what he thinks.
Clear Sky wonders if there had been gossip in the camp when Star Flower was gone, and is grateful that Tall Shadow and Gray Wing had treated her like an equal. He is even more thankful that Thunder had shown her a grudging respect, and remembers how she had comforted Clear Sky. He goes to sleep, dreaming to see Storm, and he apologizes to her. Storm asks what for, as he has everything he wants, and she is pleased to see him settled at last. Clear Sky says he wish he had given her happiness when he had the chance, and he recalls several memories: Jagged Peak's accident, the quarrels with Thunder, and the battle with Gray Wing. Storm fondly tells Clear Sky to forgive himself. She says that he has made mistakes, but that is part of living. Clear Sky tells her that he had driven every cat away. Storm looks at Star Flower, saying not every cat. Clear Sky asks if Storm belongs with him, and she asks him if he wants his future filled with his past. She tells him that his future lies with Star Flower and her kits, and tells him to take care of them. Clear Sky wakes up, realizing it is a dream. Clear Sky realizes that Star Flower is gone, and goes up to look for her. He calls her name, and a nasty voice replies that she is over here. Three scarred toms are around her, and Clear Sky tells her to come to him, as he won't let the other cats hurt her. Star Flower doesn't move, fear in her eyes. A gray tom sneers that Star Flower was always sensible, and Clear Sky looks at her, surprised that she knows these cats. The gray tom says that they grew up together, and he had always expected her to be his mate, but now she is expecting Clear Sky's kits. The tom introduces himself as Slash, an old friend of One Eye's. Clear Sky states that Star Flower is coming with him, and rears, but Slash hauls Star Flower to the ground, with the others cats around her, their fangs bared. Clear Sky freezes, wondering how he can fight them off without Star Flower getting hurt. Slash snarls, sarcastically saying it would be a shame to wound such a pretty cat with kits in her belly, and the thought of harming them breaks his heart. Star Flower tries to fend Slash off, saying that he is not worthy of saying One Eye's name. Slash argues with Clear Sky about the groups they had built, and says that he wants to meet with the leaders tomorrow so he can discuss how they share their prey. Clear Sky asks what would happen if they don't agree, and Slash replies that he will kill Star Flower. The three cats drag Star Flower away, and Clear Sky fights the urge to run after and defend her, but he knows she might die. He sees Quick Water, who didn't help. Clear Sky is furious when Quick Water accuses it of being an act, scratching her face. Quick Water tells him that clawing her won't make Star Flower loyal. She tells him that no cat will fight mangy rogues to save a traitor, and Clear Sky thinks she is wrong. He tells himself that no cat will threaten his kits and get away with it.
Bonus Scene
Slate wakes up, groggy with pain to hear a voice, grateful that she is awake. She looks up, seeing a limp orange body. She recognizes her brother, Cricket. The tom who had talked to her - a gray tabby - says her friend was not too lucky. He explains he was out hunting and he found them, and the remains of the other tom. He says that the fox had gone by then. Slate is horrified, knowing that she could have chased the fox off, and it is her fault that her brother is dead. The gray tom apologies for her loss, and says she doesn't look too good. He says he knows a cat who heals, but she has to stay alive so he can go get him. He asks her to promise, and Slate tries to nod. The gray tom says it doesn't look like much of a nod, and he comes up with a new plan. He says he will send his mate and kids to look after her while he gets help. He does not wait for Slate to respond. Slate knows he is being kind, but wishes he would leave her alone, for if she died, she would be with her brother. Slate feels relieved as her senses go away.
However, darkness does not consume her for long, as she wakes up to see two very bright-eyed kittens - one a white she-cat, one a gray tom. The white kit declares her dead, sounding disappointed. The gray tom counters her, saying that she is looking right at her. The white kit gasps, noting her eyes are open, and asks her if she wants to be friends. A wiry brown she-cat tells her kits to get away from her, saying that they don't know what kind of diseases the rogue has. Slate is annoyed at the she-cat's rudeness, but doesn't she why she should care. Although she shouldn't, Slate wants to claw the arrogant look off of her face, offended that the she-cat called her a rogue. She realizes that she is apart of the group that Cricket had complained about - the cats that had settled in the moor and forest, claiming the land as their own and making it hard for others to find prey. Slate raises her head and looks at the she-cat, telling her pointedly that she can hear them.
The she-cat asks if she has the sickness, and Slate replies that she doesn't. She tells her that her name is Slate, and the brown cat introduces herself as Wind Runner. Slate asks what the kits' names are, and Wind Runner stiffly replies that she doesn't need to know that yet. Slate sarcastically thinks she is a wonderful cat to spend her dying moment with. Wind Runner claws up moss and soaks it with water, ordering Slate to drink. Wind Runner asks what happened, and Slate tells her about the fox and how her brother died. Wind Runner seems upset, and introduces her to her kits. She tells the kits to come over, but they remind her that they told her not to come close. Wind Runner snorts, telling them not to come too close. She asks Slate if she has any kits of her own, and Slate replies that she hasn't had the time, and thinks to herself that she had never found a tom that she liked enough to have kits with. Wind Runner says she is lucky in a way. She tells Slate that she hadn't slept a night ever since they were born. Slate comments that they must be needy, and Wind Runner says that she loves them too much. Slate realizes that Wind Runner is very kind - just tough on the outside. The gray tom that helped Slate comes back, introducing himself as Gorse Fur. He brings Cloud Spots with him, explaining that he knows a lot about herbs and can help treat her. Slate is aware of Cloud Spots treating her wounds, and falls asleep.
She hears Cloud Spots, Wind Runner, and Gorse Fur talking among themselves. Cloud Spots says he cannot move Slate as far as the hollow, and Gorse Fur suggests they take her in. Wind Runner is angry, pointing out they left the hollow to get away from other cats, and now they're going to take in some flea-bitten rogue. Slate's initial dislike of Wind Runner returns, stating that she does not want to join their camp. Gorse Fur asks why not, and Slate replies that all they do is fight. Cloud Spots asks what she wants to do. He questions if she has any kin, and Slate says she can look after herself. Slate tries to walk away, but she collapses, and Gorse Fur tells Wind Runner that they have to take her in. Wind Runner is annoyed, but agrees. She firmly states that Slate cannot stay for too long. Slate glares at her, saying she's not looking to become one of her cats. Cloud Spots comments that both of them will have a lot to talk about.
A half moon has passed since Slate had been taken in by Wind Runner, and the wound in her belly healed. The small white kit comments that Slate is eating better, and Slate replies that she is feeling better. The white kit realizes she has to leave once she feels better, and exclaims that she will miss her. Slate says she might come to visit, and the kit, named Moth Flight, says it won't be the same. She says that she is the only one who plays with her, as her parents are out hunting and her brother thinks she is too silly. Slate says that maybe he is right, but it is okay to be silly, as it is apart of who you are. Slate asks where Wind Runner or Gorse Fur are, and Moth Flight tells her they tracked a fox after it killed a stoat. Slate is worried, knowing that stoats are tough fighters. She finds Wind Runner and Gorse Fur, who explain to her their plan for defeating the fox. Slate warns them that they don't know what they are in for.
Together, the moor cats track the fox and attack it. They are able to defeat it, but at a large cost. Slate becomes severely injured, and she blacks out. When she wakes up, Moth Flight states that she said she wouldn't die. Wind Runner expresses that she was so afraid for Slate, saying that she didn't wake up even after they dragged her home. Cloud Spots comments that Slate was a fighter. Slate thanks them for healing her wound, and says she will leave as soon as she gets stronger. Gorse Fur exchanges a glance with Wind Runner, beginning to speak, but Wind Runner cuts him off. She exclaims that she can't leave, and Gorse Fur agrees that she is family now. Wind Runner asks if she would ever want to become a group cat. Slate thinks that half a moon ago, this wouldn't be possible. She agrees, saying she does want to become apart of the family.
Tall Shadow was supposed to have a PoV in this book, but Kate's version got edited out. However, it is still available online to read.[5]
A compiled list of the errors present in A Forest Divided can be found here.
A Forest Divided (EN), HarperCollins (Hardcover), 7 April 2015[3]
A Forest Divided (EN), HarperCollins (eBook), 7 April 2015[3]
A Forest Divided (EN), HarperCollins (Library Binding), 7 April 2015[3]
A Forest Divided (EN), HarperCollins (paperback; reprint), 15 March 2016[6]
Der geteilte Wald (DE), Beltz (hardcover), 18 July 2016[7]
占地为王 (CN), 陕西未来出版社有限责任公司 (paperback), 1 July 2016[8]
分裂森林 (ZH), MorningStar (paperback), 15 May 2017[9]
Jaettu metsä (FI), Art House (hardcover), 15 May 2020, translated by Nana Sironen[10]
↑ Revealed on Kate's blog
↑ 2.0 2.1 Revealed on the inside right flap of A Forest Divided
↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Information from HarperCollins.com
↑ Revealed in Facebook messenger with the Erin Hunter Marketing team.
↑ Revealed on silverpelt.co.uk
↑ Revealed on HarperCollins's catalog
↑ Revealed on beltz.de
↑ Revealed on amazon.cn
↑ Revealed on MorningStar
↑ Revealed on risingshadow.fi
A Forest Divided chapters
Prologue • Chapter 1 • Chapter 2 • Chapter 3 • Chapter 4 • Chapter 5 • Chapter 6 • Chapter 7 • Chapter 8 • Chapter 9 • Chapter 10 • Chapter 11 • Chapter 12 • Chapter 13 • Chapter 14 • Chapter 15 • Chapter 16 • Chapter 17 • Chapter 18 • Chapter 19 • Chapter 20 • Chapter 21 • Chapter 22 • Chapter 23 • Chapter 24 • Chapter 25 • Bonus Scene
Warriors books
The Broken Code Lost Stars • The Silent Thaw • Veil of Shadows
Super Editions Firestar's Quest • Bluestar's Prophecy • SkyClan's Destiny • Crookedstar's Promise • Yellowfang's Secret • Tallstar's Revenge • Bramblestar's Storm • Moth Flight's Vision • Hawkwing's Journey • Tigerheart's Shadow • Crowfeather's Trial • Squirrelflight's Hope • Graystripe's Vow
Field Guides Secrets of the Clans • Cats of the Clans • Code of the Clans • Battles of the Clans • Enter the Clans • The Ultimate Guide • The Warriors Guide
Stand-alone Manga The Rise of Scourge • A Shadow in RiverClan
Short stories and plays After Sunset: We Need to Talk • After Sunset: The Right Choice? • Beyond the Code: Brightspirit's Mercy • The Elder's Concern • Spottedleaf's Honest Answer • The Clans Decide
Retrieved from "https://warriors.fandom.com/wiki/A_Forest_Divided/Main_article?oldid=1423715"


Urban areas can be seen as a type of system, with inputs, throughputs and outputs – just as in the human system.
The inputs may be made up of people, whether daily commuters or more permanent migrants and immigrants, goods such as bricks, bread, furniture and computer microchips and services such as water and electricity.
Outputs may appear to be more obvious – like waste water and refuse, outgoing commuters and migrants but there are also 'unseen' exports, the main being air pollution. Where great amounts of products are exported without much recycling, this type of system is called an open system. Such a system may be thought of as unsustainable in the long term because of the escalating demands for resources from an ever-widening area, creating a widening ecological footprint. This is a linear type of system as suggested in the diagram below.
The Canadian economist William Rees started a debate about the footprint of cities which he defined as 'the land required to supply them with food and timber products and to absorb their CO2 output'.
Herbert Girardet is a consultant to Habitat II, the UN agency concerned with sustainability in cities. He has researched the amount of land required by a city to sustain its metabolism, that is to provide the raw materials on which it feeds and process the waste products that it excretes.
London's total footprint, following Rees's definition, extends to 20 million hectares: around 125 times its surface area of 159,000 hectares.
With approximately 12% of the UKs population, 7,000,000 people live in London, occupying a surface area of 158,000 hectares.
The area required for food production at 0.2 hectares per person is 8,400,000 hectares. The forest area required by London for wood products is 768,000 hectares. The land area that would be required for carbon sequestration (fuel production) at 1.5 hectares per person is 10,500,000 hectares.
The total London footprint is 19,700,000 hectares: 125 times London's surface area. London therefore requires the equivalent of Britain's entire productive land.
One problem is obtaining reliable accurate statistics. However since the growth of the concept of sustainability many organisations (ranging from the UK Government Department of Environment, Farming, and the Regions (DEFRA) to private companies such as 'Best Foot Forward', consultants for London's Mayor) have been attempting to quantify the inputs and outputs and the impact or footprint of cities. The aim is to be able to manage them more effectively.
Details of London's inputs, outputs and throughputs to drag and drop to see a complete view of London as a case study of an open system.
Surburban London: Wembley High Road, Brent. c.2003.


This is an up-to-date and comprehensive reference work on sinonasal and skull base diseases. It is the natural successor to Disease of the Sinuses: Diagnosis and Management (Kennedy, Bolger and Zinreich), published in 2000. The text is supported by excellent illustrations, clinical photographs and an accompanying DVD which contains 21 videos of various surgical procedures. Kennedy (Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania) and Hwang (Stanford University School of Medicine) have joined forces to shepherd the contributions of a long list of international experts. There are sections on sinonasal anatomy and physiology, medical aspects of sinonasal disease, and surgical aspects of sinonasal and skull base disease.
As with most multi-author books, there is an eclectic mixture of writing styles and inevitably there are areas of overlapping content, such as the Draf III procedure which is covered in both chapters 27 and 28. However, it must be said that the vigilant, firm editorship has kept this to a minimum.
There are some areas where the text falls short; for example, chapter 35 has impressive illustrations of the chapter author's preferred techniques (e.g. lateral suture suspension of the nasal wall) but other common techniques used to address nasal valve collapse have not been adequately discussed.
The video clips each last about 30 minutes and are narrated by Dr Kennedy. They are largely excellent in terms of their educational value, with discussion of key surgical tips and pitfalls, but there is significant variation in video quality which is disappointing in this era of high-definition video-capture.
In summary, this work represents the accumulation of a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience from numerous experts in their fields, and all authors must be congratulated on the quality of the final product. The use of this multimedia reference is highly recommended to all otolaryngology and neurosurgical senior registrars and consultants alike.


G Adventures began its journey as a one-man show in 1990. Since the very start, the desire to provide customers with an authentic, yet responsible and sustainable travel experience has been operating at the very core of the business. Now, with the help of employees in 23 offices worldwide, over 150,000 travellers a year experience a taste of the real world with G Adventures. These curious travellers make their footprint in a new, unique country, and help to make a difference to the lives of locals. They give back more to natural surroundings and local communities than they what they take away in their travels. Their travels are meaningful.
Take a marine tour with G Adventures and see the Galapagos Islands & Antarctica in one of the best ways possible. Designed for cruisers of all stripes, the experience that you will have is completely different to what you may have experienced onboard a mainstream cruise ship. The group size is so small that you become a community, good friends, and a family perhaps; bonded by the unique adventures you embark on together than no one else can truly understand.
With such limited availability on these ships, it means that there is a large degree of freedom to your trip with G Adventures. If the group wishes to slightly amend plans, there's normally the opportunity to do so. You never have to feel regimented with G Adventures and you can't put a price on the memories you'll collect.


Home»PoddsShark: Who Will Win The NBA Conference Finals?
PoddsShark: Who Will Win The NBA Conference Finals?
I love talking to Sean Green and Ryan Kramer from Gambling Podcast. The dudes know their stuff, they make me laugh and they are sports bettors who live and breathe it.
I also ask Sean and Ryan who the one player is that the depleted Celtics absolutely cannot afford to lose to injury right now. Sean said it's Jayson Tatum and Ryan said Marcus Morris. I loved their reasoning for both those picks and it's worth a listen to hear what they said.
We also talk about the coaching genius of Brad Stevens and how much he's worth to the point spread.
In short, this edition of PoddsShark gives the NBA bettor everything he or she needs to know to handicap the conference finals. I think you'll enjoy this show as much as I enjoyed doing it.
Subscribe to us on iTunes or listen here for this week's episode.


Dermatology is a particular interest of mine and I have attended further specialist courses on the subject with the legendary Ken Lloyd, one of the leading Chinese medical dermatologists in the UK. Through his teaching and my own experiences treating patients I have found acupuncture to be hugely beneficial for skin condition cases both auto-immune and viral such as eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, herpes, shingles, dermatitis and acne.
Patients suffering with any form of skin condition can find life very tough. Not only are they often dealing with the visible signs of their condition but can be tormented by the constant scratching, flaking and soreness that so often comes with these problems. A person suffering with such a problem may not remember a time when their skin was normal and so it becomes such a constant ordeal of trying out new creams, supplements and steroids, which may work for a time but before long the skin erupts again and then it's on to the new quest for that miracle cream or tablet.
The difficulty with these medications is that they only work to suppress the problem and not cure it. Steroids themselves work by blocking the effects of a number of chemicals in the immune system. From a Chinese Medical perspective this only serves to further weaken the immune system and push the pathogen deeper so that a patient becomes locked in an endless battle of needing to use different steroids to continue the suppression. The problem being that eventually the steroids stop having an effect and the skin condition becomes "untreatable" and "unresponsive".
It is usually at this point that I will get to see the patient. They will have tried everything and have a list as long as your arm of drugs, steroid and aqueous creams that will have all worked for a time but are now useless. This often poses a problem to an acupuncturist as we work to counter the effects of steroids. We want to boost your immunity, not suppress it! Therefore if it is appropriate, I will often talk to patients about weaning themselves off certain medications with the advice of their GP or Dermatological Consultant.
Acupuncture works to treat the root cause of the problem, which for so many dermatology patients often goes right back to childhood. For this reason, skin conditions can be very difficult to treat as the pathology will have been either inherent or harboured for many years. We also have to put right the effects that years of steroid use may have done to the system and so this can take time and requires patience. However the rewards can mean that a patient is cleared of their skin condition for life.
In order to assist with the acupuncture treatment I will often prescribe Chinese herbal powder formulas tailor-made for the patient to maximise the impact of the treatment.
These are unlike Chinese herbs you may have had in the past that require boiling up, leaving a smell that permeates the entire house and are impossible to get down! They are very easy to administer and although they don't taste wonderful, patients tend to find them easy to get along with.


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On May 3rd Artemis Racing proudly presents the 15th Annual Bunny Hop in Suitland Maryland. As always, there will be BONUS merchandise prizes to the top 3 first time racers (new/1-day license) for the Women Cat 4. The Course is a 1 km lap, wide open 3 corner crit. Free lap with Neutral Support provided by Artemis sponsor Bicycle Pro Shop & wheels in/wheels out.
BikeReg.Com registration will close at 11pm on 29 April.
COURSE: 1 km lap, wide open 3 corner crit with slight uphill.
Free lap with Neutral Support provided by the Bicycle Pro Shop & wheels in/wheels out.


This sophisticated design is a halo engagement ring from the Lori collection. It features 1/4 ctw of diamonds. The signature handcrafted details include signature filigree and milgrain edging. The center 1 emerald cut stone (shown) is a customized option.


Please download our research brief to access further findings about the presence of GSAs in school.
DES MOINES - January 25, 2012 - Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and straight allied (LGBTA) students, adults and organizations across America will celebrate the first National Gay-Straight Alliance Day. A project of Iowa Pride Network (IPN), the day is meant to strengthen the bond between LGBT people and straight allies, and in particular recognize and honor student organizations called Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs). These student-led groups work to educate their peers to stop homophobia and transphobia in schools and colleges.
Less likely to feel unsafe in school because of their sexual orientation and experienced less victimization related to their sexual orientation and gender expression.
"GLSEN is proud to work with the thousands of GSAs across the country, Iowa Pride Network and fellow National GSA Day partners to recognize the tremendous impact these student clubs have on creating safe and affirming learning environments for all students," said GLSEN Executive Director Dr. Eliza Byard.
GSA Day first began as a state event in Iowa in 2006. "Over the years other states were contacting us asking how they could replicate the event, so we decided to coordinate on a national level," explained Ryan Roemerman, IPN Executive Director. "The response from partnering state and national organizations has been extraordinary."
Gay-Straight Alliance Network, a national youth empowerment organization, is preparing to celebrate through its California state network of 850 GSA clubs and 35 state member organizations that make up its national association.
"Through Gay-Straight Alliance clubs, student leaders across the country are making their schools and communities safer for all young people, and we're proud to see their courageous leadership nationally recognized," remarked Carolyn Laub, Executive Director of GSA Network.
Trio Harris, a GSA Network Board Member and Carlsbad High School GSA President, described, "GSA activism has dramatically improved the climate at my school, in my community, and in my state by empowering me and other students to speak up against bullying, harassment, and discriminatory policies."
While many schools and colleges have embraced GSAs, some have not.
"GSAs regularly demonstrate how students can transform their own school community based upon the principle of respect for difference. Even with the documented benefits of having a GSA in school, some school districts have tried to prevent students from establishing these student clubs. Not only does the school send the wrong message to students, but it is also illegal as outlined under the Federal Equal Access Act," stated Dr. Byard.
For this reason, last summer U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan issued a "Dear Colleague Letter" that was sent to every school administrator in the United States reminding them of students' right to form a GSA.
The struggle to form these student groups has also occurred on college and university campuses. To highlight college campus groups, GSA Day has partnered with Campus Pride, the national organization for student leaders and campus groups working to create a safer college environment for LGBT students.
"In many ways, Campus Pride has seen how high school GSA leaders continue activism into college and then on into the workplace and their communities," said Shane Windmeyer, Executive Director of Campus Pride. "It is immeasurable the positive impact that our LGBT and ally youth leaders have had over the years. We're excited to finally have a national event to acknowledge these students and campus LGBT and ally groups."
Among the national organizations joining GLSEN, GSA Network, and Campus Pride are: Matthew Shepard Foundation; The Trevor Project; Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation; Think Progress; Parent, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays National; Make it Better Project and the National Association of GSA Networks. In addition, nearly two-dozen states, stretching from Oregon, to Nebraska to Georgia are participating.
"It's a strong coalition that deeply believes brave young people who create safe learning environments deserve to be celebrated," stated Roemerman. "If this awareness initiative helps encourage students to start GSAs and schools and colleges to support them, we've made an impact."


People with disability face many barriers including physical, social, economic and attitudinal.
They lack access to appropriate, quality and affordable healthcare, rehabilitation, education and disability services.
← Wanting our children to achieve global citizenship – do teachers have the skills to teach it?


Everyday passing new things come to us. The medicine is available online now. In the past days we have bought shirts and electronics online. Now we can buy Medicine also from online. This is a very happy thing.
This is one of the best sites to buy medicine. Here we get the medicine at a lower price. Also at the right time, the medicine brings home. Most places have home delivery facility by Medlife. The other is to say, this site gives us a lot of offers. This is not just about Medlife. We have the facility of getting treatment online.
This is a trusted company, established in 1914. A good site even if there is a price difference from medlife. All medicines are available here. Most places have home delivery facility by netmeds. Also fast delivery. They give us many offers. Give us offer in coupon code or promo code. We will add this promo code before buy to get discount.
Another good online site to take medicines is zoylo. Most places have a delivery option in this online site. The offer is available to buy some medicines. It has all the conveniences like the other site.
Other facilities available - Health care service at home, Digital health care ecosystem, these are all available here.
Here we get medicine at normal price. We will get more information about medicine. It is also about the harm caused by the medicine. They offer, get all medicine on time and also you can connect with a doctor instantly.


Words Will Never Hurt Me. Really?
Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me. We all grew up learning this little phrase. And probably used it as a defense against a childhood put down from a fellow classmate in school. The statement logically makes sense. But in truth words really can hurt. No, they may not cause physical harm, but that does not mean they cannot inflict injury.
That is the primary point of James in chapter 3 of his letter. James reminds us that the tongue, although a small member of our body, is extremely powerful. Our words can influence and direct the entire course of our life, not only in the present sense, but for years to come. And this influence can be positive or extremely negative and damaging.
James focuses in on the destructive nature of our tongue. He compares our words to a fire that is able to consume everything it touches. Our mouth has the ability to corrupt our lives, preventing us from living a life worthy of our calling as sons and daughters of God. Our words can be like a deadly poison that slowly infects and harms those to whom they are directed. And this negative influence has the power to affect our lives and others for a lifetime.
As if these descriptions are not discouraging enough James effectively says that our tongue cannot be fully controlled. Unlike the rest of the animals in creation our tongue cannot be tamed by humanity.
With our mouths we may articulate some of the most beautiful and encouraging words. We can compliment and encourage. We can declare our love and devotion. We can inspire and motivate. But out of the same mouth can also come cursing, gossip, slander, and destructive words. James succinctly declares, these things should not be so. As followers of Jesus our words should be consistent. They should be an outward reflection of the inner transformation that has occurred in our lives because of our union with Jesus. We are called to use our words to build up, encourage, teach, and declare the glory and beauty of God.
So how do we do this? After all, James has stated that we cannot tame the tongue. And this is correct. We cannot, but God can. It is important for us to allow God's grace to work in and through us to give us the power and ability to gain control of our words. As we abide in Jesus consistently through spending time in God's Word our words become more and more of a reflection of our new identity in Christ. Furthermore, we must ask God to control and tame our tongue to make our words become a source of encouragement, blessing, and praise.
As we reflect on the power of our words it forces us to examine our lives and ask, how are we using our words? Are they encouraging or harmful? Are they consistent, or do we utter praises one minute and cursing the next? Are there things we have said for which we need to seek forgiveness? Is there someone we should share words that would encourage and edify? Take time this week as we offer thanks for all that God has done to make sure our words honor God and build others up.


We machine all plastics from single items to large quantities. We serve the Aviation Industry, Food Industry and Medical Industry and of course Local businesses. We maintain a good working relationship with all our customers.


"The Environmental Impact of Industrialisation in South Wales in the Nineteenth Century: 'Copper Smoke' and the Llanelli Copper Company"
The first part of the paper discusses the social, economic and legal history of the copper smoke problem, and the technology employed to control emissions. The second part deals with the chemical composition of copper smoke and estimates the output and dispersion of copper smoke and other metal fumes from the Llanelli Copper Company's works in the 1860s.
"'Unswept stone, besmeer'd by sluttish time': Air Pollution and Building Stone Decay in Oxford, 1790–1960"
Stolberg examines the history of air pollution as a scientific, social and political issue from 1800 to 1860.
"Control of Air Pollution in Manchester prior to the Public Health Act, 1875"
Industrialising cities of the 19th century are seen as lax in environmental matters. However, Manchester took a strong stand against air pollution.
Ingo Heidbrink on "An Environmental History of Greenland"
Ingo Heidbrink, Carson Fellow from June 2011 to December 2011, talks about his environmental history of Greenland.
Paul Josephson on "An Environmental History of the Soviet Arctic"
Paul Josephson discusses the project he worked on during his Carson Fellowship, from August to December 2011: an environmental history of the Soviet Arctic.


text:
June 14, 2004 American Chemistry Council
Chemical Industrty: Legistlation Needed To Ensure All U.S. Chemical Facilities Working To Harden Facilities
Statement From Tom Reilly, President & CEO
http://www.accnewsmedia.com/docs/2000/1970.doc?DocTypeID=4&TrackID
Recent media reports have underscored the urgency of securing one of the most critical parts of this country's infrastructure, the chemical sector. While not top of mind for most Americans, chemical products are essential to the American way of life, as they are used to make everything from safe drinking water and computer chips to critical components for fighter aircraft and health-giving pharmaceuticals. Chemical makers employ more than one million people in high-paying manufacturing jobs and export more products than any other industry.
It's logical for Americans to ask, "What's being done to protect these essential products, the men and women who work at chemical facilities, and their neighbors from terrorist attack?" The members of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) - representing about 90% of America's basic industrial chemical production - spent more than $800 million just last year to make their communities, facilities, and products more secure.
Following 9/11, and without waiting for government direction, ACC members imposed on themselves a mandatory, comprehensive security program -- ACC's Responsible Care® Security Code. As a result, all 2040 ACC member facilities have completed rigorous security vulnerability assessments; the highest priority facilities have completed security enhancements, and all others are on schedule to complete enhancements by year's end. ACC's Security Code has been acknowledged by Secretary Ridge as a benchmark industry security program, and has been recognized in differing ways by the United States Coast Guard, the City of Baltimore and the states of Maryland and New Jersey. And ACC members have partnered with federal and state agencies, law enforcement, and first responders to increase security for this critical sector of our economy.
Even with all this progress, more work lies ahead and security lapses at chemical facilities are unacceptable. ACC believes the U.S. Department of Homeland Security must have the authority to require security plans across the entire sector. Given reports from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of heightened concerns about the potential for terrorist attack in the upcoming months, we are proud of the significant progress we have already made to enhance the security of our facilities.
That's why ACC has been pushing the Administration and both parties in Congress to put aside their differences and enact meaningful federal legislation that will require all chemical facilities to address security as rigorously as do our members. We urge them to act quickly before time runs out in this Congress.
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $460 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is the nation's largest exporter, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies invest more in research and development than any other business sector. Safety and security have always been primary concerns of ACC members, and they have intensified their efforts, working closely with government agencies to improve security and to defend against any threat to the nation's critical infrastructure.
June 5, 2002 ACC
Chemical Industry Commits to Mandatory Enhanced Security
http://www.accnewsmedia.com/docs/200/131.doc?DocTypeID=4&TrackID=
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) today made enhanced security activities mandatory for its members, to help assure the public that all member facilities are involved in making their neighbors and America more secure. The ACC Board today approved a new Security Code under Responsible Care®, the industry's award-winning initiative for improving performance, that consists of increased specific commitments to further safeguard chemical operations from potential terrorist attacks.
For almost 15 years, the Responsible Care® initiative has helped employees in the business of chemistry continuously improve the safety of their workplace, leading to a greater sense of confidence among employees and their families, as well as neighbors in their communities. Since September 11, the chemical industry has consulted and/or partnered with the Office of Homeland Security, the Environmental Protection Agency, the FBI, the Defense Department, the Coast Guard, Sandia National Laboratories, state and local governmental authorities, and others to bring the full force of the nation's security expertise together with the industry's scientific, technological and management skills.
"We can be proud that the chemical industry has moved swiftly to adopt a Security Code that is designed to make America more secure by safeguarding our plants, property, products and information from terrorist or criminal attack and sabotage," said Michael E. Campbell, chairman and CEO of Arch Chemicals, Inc. and chairman of ACC's Board Committee on Responsible CareR. "The U.S. chemical industry has achieved impressive progress in improving both employee and public safety, but in this post September 11 world, we have extended these capabilities to address newer security concerns. Both industry and government are making an unprecedented commitment to protect the homeland from those who seek to harm us," said Campbell.
Members of ACC have already begun to prioritize their sites and will assess the security at those sites. The prioritization process will be completed by mid-June. Sites will be prioritized into one of four tiers based on risk. Companies will then assess the security at their sites based on this prioritization. They also will assess the security from the supplier to the manufacturer and all the way down to the retailer and customer as well as their cyber networks.
Once companies implement the security measures identified in the assessment, independent third parties will verify that the physical site security measures have been implemented. Companies will have systems in place to assure continuous improvement. When assessing the security of sites, companies will use the methodologies being developed either by the independent Sandia National Laboratories or by the Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS), or an equivalent approach.
The new Code contains a number of important industry obligations, including:
・ Commitment by senior leadership to continuous improvement through published policies, provision of sufficient, qualified resources, and established accountability.
・ Training and drills for employees, contractors, customers, suppliers, and others.
・ Companies are to consider as part of their decision-making process using inherently safer approaches, such as process changes and materials substitution.
・ Communications, dialogue and information exchange on appropriate security issues with stakeholders, balanced with safeguards for sensitive information.
・ Evaluation, response and reporting of security threats as appropriate, as well as analysis, response, investigation, reporting and corrective action for security incidents.
・ Internal audit and continuous improvement processes.
"In the wake of terrorist attacks against our way of life, chemistry has played an essential role in our nation's first line of defense against terrorism," said Fred Webber, ACC president and CEO. "From the disinfectants and antibiotics used to protect against potential biological warfare agents, to the bulletproof and flame-resistant fibers used to make the helmets and flak jackets that protect our troops in the field and our firefighters at home, to the microprocessors that give the technological intelligence edge to our security forces here and abroad, chemistry is a vital part of our military and public safety operations," said Webber.
The American Chemistry Council represents the leading companies engaged in the business of chemistry. Council members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. The Council is committed to improved environmental, health and safety performance through Responsible Care, common sense advocacy designed to address major public policy issues, and health and environmental research and product testing. The business of chemistry is a $450 billion enterprise and a key element of the nation's economy. It is the nation's largest exporter, accounting for ten cents out of every dollar in U.S. exports. Chemistry companies invest more in research and development than any other business sector.
2004/7/6 The Chemical Industries Association(UK)
CIA publishes first sustainable development principles & goals
http://www.cia.org.uk/cgi-bin/dbman/db.cgi?db=news2&uid=default&view_records=1&ID=420&ww=1
The Chemical Industries Association today (6 July 2004) announced the publication of its "Guiding principles for sustainable business practice" and integrated "Goals for sustainable development" of the chemical industry. "We believe the goals are a world 'First'", said CIA President, Alistair Steel.
There are goals for productivity, social diversity, employability of staff, energy efficiency, water use and waste production, as well as occupational health and safety and a raft of sub-goals that, together, make up a bold commitment to reduce the chemical industry's "environmental burden".
Speaking to CIA member companies, gathered in Manchester today for the industry's annual Awards Dinner, Alistair Steel said, "We have to meet society's expectations as well as its material needs". According to the new guiding principles, these expectations include: fairness, respect for people and communities; a working environment free from discrimination; openness; compliance with legal requirements and voluntary codes of practice; productivity and resource efficiency; safe products and operations and innovation "to satisfy customer needs".
Steel emphasised that the industry was totally committed to protecting health and safety, and minimising the industry's environmental impact. "These are noble, humane and enlightened aims. They are worth doing for their own sakes.
"The industry's good performance in these areas is already a matter of record. However, we also know stakeholders now expect to hear how we will progress with this while also addressing their concerns about product risks and acknowledging our more general obligations to society. This is what our sustainable development strategy is all about. We have to show we care about people, not just products, not just profits", he added.
Steel emphasised that the CIA regards the guiding principles and goals as the start of a process and not the end of it. The CIA had delivered on its promise, made in January 2003, to publish sustainable development goals by mid-2004, and now wants stakeholders to scrutinise the industry's activities and behaviours and help "determine how we can meet society's needs and expectations ever more sustainably in the future. I want them all to look at our guiding principles and goals as a whole, and to judge us on our genuinely heart-felt ambitions."
1 Copies of the brochure announcing the CIA's "Vision for a sustainable chemical industry", its "Guiding principles for sustainable business practice" and "Goals for sustainable development" of the chemical industry are available from the CIA Bookshop http://www.cia.org.uk/bookshop/system/index.html
2 The vision, guiding principles and goals were developed with the help of stakeholders and CIA members. The views of some of these are recorded on the attached memorandum.
3 A programme of support for CIA members is being initiated, with a "starter kit" for each goal, the sharing of best practice and the recording of case studies of how individual companies have tackled individual guiding principles and goals successfully. A national seminar on 30 November will focus on "interpretation, implementation and communication".
4 The business case for pursuing this strategy is, the CIA says, that sustainable development will make the industry more competitive and attractive to investment capital because it will become more productive, safer and create less waste and pollution, use all resources more efficiently, have a strongly motivated, highly skilled workforce and be less exposed to costly and damaging reputation risks attributable to SHE incidents and unethical business practices. Sustainable development, the CIA says, is heavily favoured by government and if its members embrace it properly, it will, they believe, help earn a better reputation for the industry and be the basis on which the UK and EU governments might eventually be able to justify a more proportionate touch on the regulatory levers.
5 In order to be able to realise these benefits, CIA members are being urged to endorse the guiding principles, as required, before the end of 2005 and have regard to the spirit as well as the letter of their commitment, "wherever they do business".
6 A longer extract from Alistair Steel's awards dinner speech, and a photograph, are available on request.
7 The chemical industry in the UK employs 230,000 highly skilled people nationwide, and accounts for 2% of Gross Domestic Product and 10% of manufacturing industry's gross value added. It invests over £2 billion annually, representing 14% of total manufacturing investment, with a further £3.5 billion being spent on R&D. It is the UK's top manufacturing export earner, with an annual trade surplus of nearly £5 billion on sales of £33 billion, of which £29 billion is accounted for by exports, with a large proportion going to other countries in the European Union.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Thanks to my parents, I've been on rivers since before I can remember. They cut out the storage hatch in my mom's flatwater kayak and made a seat for me back before I was big enough to take up my own seat in a double. We saw manatees in Florida, paddled the south Georgia swamps, and got squirrelly taking those flatwater boats down the Class I-II Hiwassee River in Tennessee.
But the river trips I remember most vividly are the rafting trips I took on the Ocoee with my dad. I LOVED the Ocoee's big, splashy waves and the excitement of whitewater. When the guide asked if anyone wanted to "ride the bull" through Hell Hole, I practically jumped out of the raft trying to volunteer. As we made our way down the "Class IV, maybe even Class V" rapids (little did I know how much raft guides love to exaggerate), I was awed by the people in the tiny plastic kayaks – especially the guy with the paddles that were only scoops on his hands! The boats were so small, and the waves so big! They just roll them back over when they flip? Uh-uh. I was brave, but there was no way I would ever be able to do that.
When I got to college in New Hampshire, I tried out whitewater kayaking a few times, but I didn't really take to it, and confined my river experiences to exploring the beautiful flatwater stretches of the Connecticut River that bordered our campus. At the start of my senior year, however, I got recruited to help lead whitewater kayaking trips for incoming students. A bit odd for someone who had only been in a hardshell a handful of times, perhaps, but they had some skilled boaters in charge and just needed a couple more folks who could help out with logistics and handle their own on the Class I-II sections on which the trips would take place.
As the trips neared, I looked forward to spending three weeks exploring northern New Hampshire and welcoming new students more so than I did spending all that time kayaking. But my co-leaders were excellent teachers to me as well as the newbies, and within a week I paddled my first Class III run, the Magalloway. The put-in was this terrible little eddy that could barely hold more than one of us and popped out straight into a half-mile of continuous Class III. Within seconds of trying to make my way down without flipping, all of those feelings of excitement from my trips on the Ocoee came rushing back. I was hooked.
But there wasn't a next time I was home, not during Ocoee season anyway. I graduated that spring and moved to a tiny town north of Santa Cruz, California, where my work schedule and my rural home made finding paddling friends impossible. After that, my parents moved away from north Georgia, and visits "home" were now to south Florida and coastal South Carolina. Work eventually led me to the paddling mecca of Asheville, North Carolina, but I promptly broke my collarbone just as I was ready to get back into paddling. I found friends who liked to hike and play frisbee instead, and once again found myself content with taking the occasional flatwater float trip.
But us river people can never deny our true nature for long. Last year, I lucked my way into an invitation on a private Grand Canyon rafting trip. We brought some kayaks to play around in, and our first day on the Colorado was my first day in a hardshell in over two years. I swam in the first rapid, lost both of my contacts, and cried once I got back on shore. I dug new contacts out of my dry bag that night and got back in a kayak the next day. I loved every second of it.
I came home and started pestering the few paddlers I knew to take me with them. I went to women's paddling meet-ups and rebuilt my skills. I met a woman named Terra who lived near the Ocoee and offered to take me down when I felt ready. Later that summer, I called her up and drove to Cleveland.
Getting into my boat below the dam as hordes of rafters lined up above us felt surreal. I had spent the whole summer building confidence on Class III on the rivers near Asheville, but this was different. This was something I thought I would never be able to do. More than fifteen years after I fell in love with the Ocoee, I finally had the opportunity to fall in love with it in a whole new way.
And that's exactly what I proceeded to do. I eddy-hopped through Grumpy. I flipped at the first drop of Broken Nose, exactly where Terra told me I didn't want to flip. I got a clutch roll just above the second drop of Broken Nose, which resulted in my friend Ellen and I styling the rest of the rapid together as we tried not to crash into each other. I surfed Hell Hole. I grinned and giggled my way down the river.
And when we drove back into cell range, I called my dad.


I still have no idea what Stevens was trying to say here.
Wired tells me that the FCC's recent net neutrality regulation is about to be overturned by the courts. It's a good time to reflect on the economics and welfare implications involved in the internet market. I plan to have a more thoroughly thought out post soon--I have a little mathematical model forming in my head, I just need to put it to paper when I have a bit more time.
First things first: as best I can tell, the term "bandwidth" as applied to the internet is little more than industry propaganda. What I mean is that unlike radio, where there is a fixed section of the electromagnetic spectrum that can be used to transmit data, there is no analogous limitation for the internet--Internet Service Providers (ISPs) can build as many or as few cables as they want, and therefore face no theoretical limit to the quantity of data they can transmit at any given speed.
That said, it is true that at any given point in time, the quantity of data that can be transmitted is constrained by the existing cables and infrastructure (ok, in practice the actual cables are never the limiting factor in a network--it's usually the servers, modems, and connections instead, so just realize that I use the term "cables" somewhat metaphorically here). That means that there is potential for "congestion" during high-usage periods where lots of people are trying to stream a lot of data all at once. Obviously, we'd like ISPs to build enough infrastructure to handle this traffic, but we must still weigh the social costs of building infrastructure (i.e. that's technology that could have been spent treating kids with cancer!) against the social benefit of being able to stream that extra packet of data during the high-demand times. That is, the benefit of being able to stream more data during high-demand times may not justify the expense of building more internet cable lines.
Congestion leads to a market failure when it does not prioritize internet usage based on the social benefits of the type of usage. That is, it is arguably more important to society to allow someone to quickly access a web page on how to do the Heimlich maneuver--which may be life or death for someone--than to stream an episode of Glee. During periods of high internet usage, it may not be possible for an ISP to transfer the data for both of these activities simultaneously, so we want to prioritize. This has been the ISP lobby's argument for why net-neutrality laws are harmful--ISPs claim they want to have the ability to prioritize google searches on the Heimlich over episodes of Glee, for example. In reality however, this reasoning yields the opposite result--net neutrality is optimal.
The optimal policy turns out to be to allow ISPs to engage in content-neutral "congestion-pricing," wherein they cannot charge more for streaming Glee than googling the Heimlich, but they can charge more for using more data during high-traffic times. The congestion fee naturally incentivizes the market to prioritize internet usage, because your willingness to pay for data depends on how valuable that data at that time is to you--in our example, the person administering the Heimlich is going to have a higher willingness-to-pay than the person streaming and episode of Glee, so congestion pricing will naturally cause the Glee fan to wait until a less busy time to stream the episode, leaving that bandwidth available for other more important tasks. Because the social benefit of internet usage is equal to the sum of all the individual people's values of their own internet usage, congestion pricing actually prioritizes internet usage according to it's social benefit. Hence, congestion pricing results in an efficient allocation of network resources both across individuals, and across types of content, even though net-neutrality is honored.
By contrast, the ISP's proposal to violate net neutrality is Pareto inefficient. The most obvious way to see why is simply to consider the supply side: when ISPs can generate revenue not by transferring more data faster, but instead by charging extra to get certain types of data faster than other types of data, the incentive for ISPs to build more cable lines is reduced. That means we will end up with an inefficiently small amount of available bandwidth while customers pay through the nose to avoid having their favorite kinds of content downgraded to slower connections.
To the extent that congestion is a real concern (there is lot's of evidence it isn't), this argues for, not against, net neutrality as the FCC has defined it.


In this video i show you on a demo panel the technique how you step by step obtain a veined marble effect. This technique can be applied to any object and your own design.
Attn. the video does not show the making of the owl on the photo, the photo of the owl is by way of example, to show you the effect of the technique.
You will receive the link to the video and the password after receipt of payment and after my open days from 17.9 onwards.


The Triton College Student Association (TCSA) is collecting comfort items (listed below) for homeless veterans in our community. Items may be dropped off between Nov. 1 and Nov. 30 at the Office of Student Life, located in Room B240 of the Student Center.
Drop off hours: Mon-Thurs: 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m. & Fri: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Individual/Travel sizes of toiletry items are preferred.
**We cannot accept items not listed above.