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MAKE EVERY DAY A MANDELA DAY : LET'S BUILD A NATION AND HAVE A MADIBA YEAR
Mandela Day 2013 has come and gone, with countless South Africans honouring the great man on 18 July by giving of their time and talents in service to their fellow humans. By reaching out to all South Africans, including his erstwhile enemies, Mandela prioritised nation-building, so why not continue to honour his legacy every day by placing it firmly back on the national agenda. Almost two decades after he became President our country remains fragmented and preoccupied with the notion of group 'differentness' instilled by apartheid, which Mandela strove so hard to overcome. While lip service is paid to the concept of an African Renaissance, championed by his successor, Thabo Mbeki, the reality is that refugees from elsewhere on the continent are not, for the most part, welcome, and are targets of regular xenophobic-tinged attacks. Race and ethnicity continue to dominate national discourse. In KZN the ethnic nationalism linked to political violence in the 1980s and 1990s remains a threat, and there is resentment of perceived privilege enjoyed by the sizeable population of Africans of Indian descent by a grouping of black /indigenous Africans. In recent years the nation-building agenda of Nelson Mandela seems to have slipped from the national agenda. Let's revive it and make very day a Madiba Day.
South Africa in the African context :myths and current realities
At an intellectual level support for an African Renaissance remains, marked by an annual festival. Also popular are references to some supposed pan-African identity – which is often used to justify feudal institutions such as chiefship and fossilised customary law, [1]
Of course, despite some wistful thinking on the part of those promoting it, there is no evidence that a common African identity has ever existed. As Ghanaian author Kwame Appiah notes 'nothing should be more striking for someone without preconceptions than the extraordinary diversity of Africa's peoples and its cultures'.[2] Ironically, as many African scholars now realise, contemporary ideas about some mythical African identity rest on colonial assumptions linking 'darkest Africa' with skin colour. As academic V Y Mudimbe argues, the West has been 'inventing Africa' for centuries.[3] The extent to which the colonial notion that skin colour defines African identity has been internalised is evident in debates about the meaning of being African in South Africa, and in the use of the derogatory term 'coconut' for people who are accused of being too 'white'. The use of the term 'African' remains contested along racial lines, with those complaining of supposed 'Indian' privilege saying they are not Africans but 'Indians in the diaspera'.[4]
The reality is that the diversity of Africa has, historically, included that of a racial nature, as people from Europe and Asia have traded and mated with members of the indigenous population for many hundreds or thousands of years. Other forms of diversity include very different economic bases – ranging from foraging (hunter-gatherer) groupings to societies with a long history of urbanisation, and empires. Contrary to the arguments of those promoting traditional leadership, chiefship, is but one of a number of political institutions in Africa, and is certainly not unique to the continent. Nor is ancestral veneration linked to the emphasis on one line of descent a specifically 'African' phenomenon, being common elsewhere, including in Asia. In Africa it has continued to thrive, amidst widespread conversion to Islam and, more recently, to Christianity.
However, amidst this 'extraordinary diversity' there are also common ties which bind South Africa to the rest of the continent, including historical trade and migratory routes, and the more recent history of shared colonial oppression. Also of great importance is the solidarity of countries all over the continent in supporting the struggles of the liberation movements against apartheid. The extent of this solidarity is documented in the recently published volume in the Road to Democracy in South Africa series titled African Solidarity.[5] Many of these countries paid dearly for their support for the liberation movements, including through the military activities of the South African Defence Force in the war against the liberation movements in other African countries, and the economic ravages which accompanied this war – including the SADF's role in the international illegal trade in ivory and rhino horn and the destruction of wildlife which accompanied it, detailed in the report of the Kumleben Commission of Enquiry in 1996.
Despite the lip service to pan-Africanism, there are serious concerns in human rights circles about the treatment meted out by the Department of Home Affairs to those fleeing the threat of harm in other African countries, especially since changes to the law in 2011. Refugees from polarised, conflict ridden countries such as the DRC and Burundi, tell of being treated rudely by officials who do not follow due legal procedures, and living with the ever-present threat of imprisonment and summary deportation. Amnesty International is among those expressing fears that moves by this government department violate South Africa's international and domestic obligations towards asylum seekers, and deny them their much needed international protection.
The hostility faced by many foreigners living in communities all over South Africa also belies political rhetoric about shared African identity and solidarity. This hostility frequently erupts into violence and murder, with perpetrators generally operating with impunity. One factor mentioned is the apparent economic success of some of the businesses run by foreigners – especially Somalians – who, through their shops, provide a service to community members. Instead of channelling resentment into healthy business competition, the success of hard working foreigners is used as a pretext for attacks, many with clear xenophobic overtones. The hostility is often overt, as in a statement by The Greater Gauteng Business Forum (an association of small shop owners) : 'They are here to destroy local business and people, particularly local shop owners, are boiling with anger'[6]
The legacy of divide-and-rule in colonial and apartheid South Africa
An apparent resurgence of 'tribalism', and, in KZN, what is perceived as 'anti Indian' sentiments among certain sectors of black/indigenous African society, must be situated within both historical and current politico-economic context.
Apartheid South Africa was aptly described by historian Leonard Thompson[7] as a 'pigmentocracy', with levels of privilege assigned on the basis of skin colour. One manifestation of this policy was the geographical separation of the races, with cities like Durban having Indian and 'coloured' zones providing 'buffers' between the white overlords and the black Africans. Education for the different races was perceived to be similarly stratified – the best for whites and the worst for indigenous Africans, with that for 'coloureds' and Indians in between. With few exceptions (such as the historic ties between the Natal Indian Congress and the ANC) physical separation of races was accompanied by social separation and isolation – especially after the implementation of the Group Areas Act in formerly mixed areas such as Cato Manor in Durban..
Together with these racial divides, it was, above all, the homeland policy which entrenched and reinforced ethnic divisions among the indigenous population (even Soweto was divided into 'tribal' zones). The apartheid edifice was built on the colonial policies of geographically defined tribal reserve areas (which became the Bantustans), indirect (top down) rule through politically controlled chiefs, and the standardisation of languages from similar regional, unwritten dialects. The cut off point separating isiZulu from isiXhosa, for example, was the political boundary between what was then the colony of Natal from the Eastern Cape.
In what is now KZN (prior to 1994 the province of Natal and the Bantustan of KwaZulu, which were inextricably entwined) all black Africans, regardless of historical origin and culture, were designated Zulu, and decreed citizens of KwaZulu. Many of these people had never been subjects of the Zulu kingdom, with its heartland north of the uThukela River, tens of thousands (at least) having fled the kingdom and the area south of the uThukela during the military forays of Shaka and Dingane, returning once these raids had ceased. The far north of the province (Ingwavuma and Tongaland) had never been part of the kingdom; they were annexed by the British government only in the late nineteenth century. Nor had the Bacas, whose membership straddles southern KZN and the Eastern Cape, ever been part of the kingdom. The sizeable Hlubi community in KZN continues to fight for acknowledgement of its distinct identity. All of these people were decreed Zulus and made citizens of the KwaZulu Bantustan.
It was twentieth century events – primarily political – which would shape and consolidate the Zulu identity which exists today. In KwaZulu this identity was reinforced in schools (including through a special 'Ubuntu-Botho' syllabus) and (as in other societies) the invention of traditions celebrating Zuluness. The success of the divide-and-rule strategy was evident by the 1980s, with research showing the dominance of views of personal identity as 'Zulu' rather than as 'black' (as in being oppressed) or South African. This identity had also become heavily politicised, with 'Zulu' being linked to being a supporter of Inkatha, and Xhosa/Pondo linked to the ANC. These labels featured conspicuously in the State-sponsored political violence which claimed thousands of lives in the latter 1980s and 1990s (documented in detail in early (then) Natal Monitor reports.
As a legacy of the recent past, these narrow ethnic identities continued to feature in post-1994 political discourse, seemingly becoming more conspicuous in recent years. Following the removal of Jacob Zuma as Deputy President in 2005, and the corruption charges subsequently brought against him, Zuma's supporters rode the bandwagon of Zulu ethnicity (e.g sporting '100% Zulu boy' T-shirts when he appeared in court). Speaking in April 2013, at the launch of Volume 6 of the 'Road to Democracy' series on the liberation of South Africa, former President Mbeki expressed concern about the pervasiveness of 'tribalism', and slogans such as '100% Venda', or '100% Tswana' . During recent political campaigning in Limpopo province, Deputy ANC Chairperson, Cyril Ramaphosa, was asked whether he was 'Ndebele or Zulu'.[8]
In KZN Zulu identity is reinforced by annual cultural festivities which are mixtures of reworked old and newly invented traditions – such as new public rituals linking the female deity Nomkubulwana to virginity testing (formerly the domain of female family members). These include the annual Reed Dance and First Fruits ceremony led by the Zulu monarch, who has also purportedly 'revived' the custom of circumcision for young men supposedly done away with by King Shaka (there is no real evidence to substantiate this assertion). There are also constant references to the 'Zulu nation' (despite a nation being a political unit, and South Africa being a republic), and plans are afoot to erect a giant statue of King Shaka, to rival international landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, on the banks of the uThukela River.. Leading educationist, Professor Jonathan Jansen, correctly points out that the introduction of a mandatory course in Zulu for all students at the University of KZN may encourage Zulu cultural nationalism[9] (and Zulu speaking students on this campus have exhibited ethnic chauvinism towards black African students from elsewhere in the country in the recent past)
Since the establishment of the KwaZulu homeland, it had been Inkatha (IFP) which had actively promoted Zulu culture, and used it as a political platform. In the 2009 national elections the party lost ground in KZN to the ANC – a loss apparently linked to the latter party being led by a Zulu president. Crucial cabinet portfolios nationally – police, security, and justice – are occupied by Zulu-speakers, one of whom bears prime responsibility for the notorious Protection of State Information (secrecy) bill.[10]
There is nothing wrong with pride in ethnic identity, provided it does not become entangled with competition for economic or political resources (as this province – and the Witwatersrand area – learnt to its cost in the early 1990s). The potential for increased tribalisation of ANC politics will need close watching in the run up to national elections in 2014 – particularly given the tendency of some ANC representatives to cast political or civic opponents in ethnic terms. Since the 2009 elections housing activists in informal settlements, including Abahlali baseMjondolo have been cast as 'Xhosa' trouble makers, as have COPE supporters in politically contested areas. In recent struggles around housing in the Cato Crest shack area in Durban, ANC representatives in leadership positions are accused of being 'AmaPondo' (from Eastern Cape – Mandela is Pondo) who are taking houses away from Zulus. It is ironic that twenty years ago the label 'Pondo' was used in attacks against the ANC in this province.
Anti-Indian rhetoric in KZN
In recent months public statements by a grouping named Mazibuye African Forum (which claims to draw members from different political parties) has generated debate in the media about its perceived anti-Indian sentiments. The Forum claims that the target of its criticism is the economic system.
The basis of these public utterances is a document titled 'Economic Quagmire in KwaZulu-Natal : Socio-Economic Injustices in KwaZulu-Natal.' While making sweeping statements without substantiation – some of which are historical oversimplifications or inaccuracies – this document does raise serious issues about the implementation of government policy, especially as it relates to Black Economic Empowerment and Employment Equity, which need serious debate.
The history of African-Indian relations in KZN as described in this document is a grossly oversimplified and, in places, inaccurate, one. For example, the 'Durban Riots' involving Africans and Indians in 1949, in which dozens of Indians and black Africans lost their lives, are said – without any supporting evidence – to have been instigated by Indians. As the late, highly respected researcher, political activist and Mandela biographer, Professor Fatima Meer points out, these riots took place in a context of virulent anti-Indianism by white politicians (who used Indian-directed vitriol as a vote-catching exercise in the 1948 elections in which the Nationalist Party came to power). It was also one of growing rapprochement at a political level between the African and Indian Congresses (which would have posed a threat to the white status quo) Following her own research several years after the riots she goes so far as to say these riots were 'white instigated' with whites actively engaged in encouraging attacks on Indians.[11]
Mazibuye also glosses over the extent of the poverty in which most Indians historically lived. Meer cites research carried out by the Department of Economics at the University of Natal, which estimated that in 1949 more Indians in Durban than Africans lived below the poverty datum line, with the South African Institute of Race Relations giving a figure of 70.7% (which should not be seen as minimising the dire poverty among black Africans too, which was to increase dramatically with the forced relocations of millions of people during the implementation of the homeland policy from the 1960s)
Also ignored by Mazibuye, in calling for some Indian land to be redistributed to black Africans, is the fact that some land farmed and/or owned by Indians in, e.g. Nonoti (near kwaDukuza, where it is used for shack farming), or in the Camperdown area (where tribal authorities have irregularly erected housing and a school) has already been illegally taken over since the 1990s. Many Indians lost land they owned with the implementation of the Group Areas Act in the 1950s – and have not been assisted by the Land Claims Commission in recovering it, or obtaining compensation. Indians who, together with black Africans, owned land in Inanda, were also forcibly driven out of the Ghandi settlement area in 1986 in what appeared clearly the work of the hidden hand of apartheid, since the government had been trying to move Indians off the land, where they lived amicably with black Africans, as part of its homeland policy. This land became the densely settled shack area of Bhambayi (from 'Bombay') [12]
Despite the inaccuracies and oversimplifications this document raises important issues about the government's economic and employment policy which need far wider debate, and further research.
Regarding BEE, the fundamental argument is that this policy is working more to the advantage of whites, Indians and 'honorary blacks' such as Chinese. Among the aspects dealt with is the 'fronting' phenomenon which, it claims, is discouraging entrepreneurship because it is far easier to earn money in that way – or to acquire BEE shares and non-executive director positions – as opposed to starting up new majority black African owned businesses. The problem, it says, is compounded by discrimination against such businesses in the awarding of contracts, and government-owned development financing institutions, such as the KZN Growth Fund (such financing bodies, it claims, are controlled largely by whites and Indians) Among other claims is that foreign-owned businesses exploit loopholes in BEE in South Africa, but tend to work with Indian owned, rather than African owned, ones' The example of the Gupta family is used to argue that some foreigners have no real commitment to the development of South Africa, and stash the wealth generated in their countries of origin – so the loyalty to South Africa of such entrepreneurs is doubted.
That fronting is widespread is common knowledge – but there seems little political will to deal with it. For example, it is rife in the powerful security industry. Provisions exist in the PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority) legislation allowing for proper forensic investigation of the finances of security companies, but there seems to have been little inclination to implement it. The same could be said for most other sectors of the economy.[13]
Similarly, employment equity is seen as having benefitted white women and Indians more than black Africans, with disproportionate numbers of Indians, e.g. represented in government departments such as SARS (South African Revenue Services) – and in management positions in eThekwini municipality. Empirical evidence is needed to support these assertions. However, from KZN Monitor research into policing, there are clear examples in which Indian SAPS members – some with apartheid security police backgrounds – have been unfairly advantaged in promotion relative to experienced and highly competent black African members and/or occupy proportionally more senior positions relative to black African members.. A recent example in the public domain concerns the employment by the Crime Intelligence Component of the SAPS of convicted drug dealer 'Timmie' Marimuthu and members of his family. Marimuthu holds the rank of colonel, far above – and out of all proportion – to the ranks held by many long serving black African members.
Conversely calls to 'Africanise' both the Department of Health, and the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine at the University of KZN – have shown gross discrimination against highly qualified Indian professionals, in favour of those who are not necessarily well qualified for senior positions. Ironically, such calls take place in the context in which it is known that the support of certain wealthy Indian business people is welcomed with open arms by both the governing party and a number of its representatives.
With justification, Mazibuye and its supporters claim that black African children often face discrimination in schools, in that they are disproportionally channelled into 'Maths literacy' classes in the years leading up to Matriculation examinations – which means that they are automatically excluded from applying for courses such as Engineering and Medicine when they complete school. Because of the proximity of what were formally (in terms of the Group Areas Act) African, Indian and Coloured areas, and the perceived better education offered by, e.g. Indian schools, many of the schools in KZN which move children to 'Maths literacy' – unless their parents can pay thousands of rand for additional maths tuition – are former (under apartheid) Indian schools. However, this channelling into maths literacy is said to be happening in schools all over South Africa.
Is the creation of 'Maths literacy' simply a cover for poor teaching of Maths in so many schools, with a view to boosting the pass rates of Mathematics? It certainly does discriminate against children whose parents cannot afford the extra maths lessons which so many middle-class parents arrange for their children. Had such a move (or the 'Zulufication' of university teaching) been made by the apartheid government there would have been an outcry.
As with all criticism targeting 'groups', and the stereotypes which accompany it, Mazibuye Forum's perceived anti-Indian sentiments not only contribute to polarisation along group/racial lines, but also obscure the countless examples of good working relationships between members of these groups, and the dedication of large numbers of Indians, including professionals such as doctors and lawyers, giving of themselves tirelessly in service of all South Africans, including black Africans.
What steps should be taken to move away from this 'group' mentality, address existing tensions, and build the nation envisaged by our Constitution?
Maths literacy should be done away with, and resources poured into proper teaching of mathematics at a primary school level, which is the foundation on which secondary and tertiary level learning is based
Credible research is needed on the issues of BEE and Employment Equity raised by Mazibuye. Empirical studies of organisational structure and culture in, e.g. eThekwini municipal governance (or other bureaucracies), looking at loci of power and authority, could be used to substantiate or repudiate allegations that it is Indians who exercise control
The need for an evaluation, followed by an amendment, of BEE policy, is overdue – especially given what is already known about its shortcomings. Mazibuye makes a number of detailed recommendations which deserve serious consideration
There is an urgent need for ongoing public dialogue and debate, led by respected leaders of black African and Indian communities – e.g. professionals, academics, representatives of faith-based organisations about the issues raised by Mazibuye Forum
Political leaders should send out strong messages to their public representatives, and to their constituencies to desist from using ethnic labels against their opponents, whether political or civic organisations
We need a concerted nation-building campaign to address the ills referred to in this report
Government policy regarding refugees, and the way it is implemented by the Department of Home Affairs, must be urgently addressed – as should concerns that foreigners living among us do not enjoy sufficient protection from the police
KZN is richly blessed with cultural and religious diversity, and with hard-working, law abiding residents from many African countries (if there are criminals among them the law should deal with them, as it should with our home-grown criminals who operate with impunity). Pride in ethnic identity is compatible with a broader nationalism (as e.g. Irish Americans), or with being a citizen of Africa and the world. The largely self educated Sol Plaatjie, a founding father of the ANC, travelled widely and was a lover of Shakespeare who used English to court his Xhosa wife. He also wrote a novel, Mhudi, celebrating Setswana custom and the relevance of an indigenous perspective. Let us use the vision of Plaatjie and his fellow ANC founders to re-build and unify our fragmented country. As under the Presidency of Nelson Mandela, this campaign should start at the top. Is the present government sufficiently committed to it?
[1]see KZN Monitor 'Colonial Mindsets and the Traditional Courts Bill : Implications for KZN' regarding this topic
[2] Appia, Kwame IN my Father's House London : Methuen 1992
[3] Mudimbe V Y The Idea of Africa London : James Curry 1994
[4] Zweli Sangweni of the Mazibuyi African Forum, quoted in Daily News 16 July 2013 All racial labels used in South Africa have their own problems, and the term 'black African' is used here for convenience purposes because Monitor subscribes to the argument that African should be inclusive
[5] The Road to Democracy in South Africa : Volume 5 African Solidarity Part 1 SADET Pretoria : Unisa Press 2013
[6] Quoted in The Times 28 May 20013 'Send foreigners to camps'
[7] Leonard Thompson The Political Mythology of Apartheid New Haven : YaleUniversity Press 1985
[8] Reported in City Press 21 July 2013
[9] The Times 23 May 2013
[10] See KZN Monitor report on the Protection of State Information Bill
[11] Fatima Meer 'African and Indian in Durban' posted at DISA.ukzn.ac.za/webpages/
[12] Roy Ainslie and Mary de Haas 'Bhambayi : The Third Force in Action' in Schutte, Liebenberg & Minnaar (eds) The Hidden Hand : Covert Operations in South Africa, Revised Edition Pretoria : Human Sciences Research Council 1998
[13] See KZN Monitor report 'Privatised Policing and the Erosion of State Power'
Author The MonitorPosted on August 15, 2013 Categories Reports
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Lucky Kids Tee and Onesie - Lucky Goat Coffee Co.
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Forest Green shirts come in tees for toddler and infant, Burgundy comes in tees for toddlers and onesies for infants.


The 1099 independent contractor has become the new norm for Silicon Valley startups. In the wake of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision in Alexander v. FedEx, tech startups have been scrutinized for their financially savvy preference for 1099 contractors through both class action lawsuits and administrative proceedings. As these movers and shakers grow from humble beginnings to companies with multi-billion dollar valuations, the choice between classifying workers as traditional W-2 employees or 1099 contractors will have dramatic effects on the peer economy's labor force and tax status. This Note examines the startup worker classification dilemma, concludes that neither a strict application of the W-2 formula nor the 1099 model alone is an adequate fit for the high risk nature of startups, and proposes a regulatory solution for worker classification based on the concept of critical mass—the point at which these firms should exit the 1099 kiddie pool and start classifying workers as W-2 employees.


A dentist and a hygienist are both licensed to work as dental professionals and will undergo specialized training other than the normal college coursework. A dentist is able to enter into private practice or get into formal employment based on what he desires.
Act as an assistant when the dentist is carrying out procedures like tooth removal.
The hygienist should be able to inform the dentist of any condition in a client's teeth that will require his attention. He is answerable to the dentist as he works under him.
Carry our procedures such as filling, tooth removal or any other dental procedure that a client will need.
Refer patients to specialists such as orthodontist if there will be a need.
A dentist and a hygienist work together towards making the oral health of their patients better. Together, they will be able to provide customized services to their patients and the beneficiaries in this partnership will be the patients.


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Government Shutdown for money, how about get money from NY Escort?
Posted October 1, 2013 in News
Government Shutdown Showdown for money? Yes, this sucks ass. But they should collect money from Ny Escort.
obama_shutdown
As the federal government heads into a second day of shutdown, both parties still appear to be at an impasse.
In an effort to break the stalemate, President Obama summoned congressional leaders to the White House for a late afternoon meeting Wednesday.
"The White House has invited the Congressional Leadership – Majority Leader Reid, Minority Leader McConnell, Speaker Boehner and Democratic Leader Pelosi – to the White House for a meeting later today," a White House official said.
"The President will urge the House to pass the clean CR to reopen the government, and call on Congress to act to raise the debt ceiling to pay the bills we have already incurred and avoid devastating consequences on our economy."
On Wednesday afternoon, Reid sent Boehner a letter offering to appoint negotiators to discuss the budget if the short-term spending bill passed by the Senate were to pass the House as well.
"This conference would be an appropriate place to have those discussions, where participants would raise whatever proposals – such as tax reform, health care, agriculture, and certainly discretionary spending like veterans, National Parks, and NIH – they felt appropriate," Reid said. Describing the letter on the Senate floor later, Reid said, "My message to him was very simple. We have to stop playing these silly games."
House Republicans – who have been seeking to negotiate the short-term spending bill, not the longer term budget – do not see Reid's offer as a compromise. "The entire government is shut down right now because Washington Democrats refuse to even talk about fairness for all Americans under ObamaCare. Offering to negotiate only after Democrats get everything they want is not much of an offer," said Boehner spokesman Michael Steel.
ethan-harris-a-government-shutdown-could-be-sustained-and-damaging
On Tuesday evening, the House called up three bills that would have restored funding to delayed veterans benefits and closed national parks and memorials, and given the District of Columbia the authority to use local revenue to continue operation. For procedural reasons, the bills would have required a two-thirds majority. All three failed due to insufficient Democratic support.
Republicans intend to bring up the three bills again Wednesday, but this time using a procedural rule that will only require a simple majority. They have also added two more bills to fund the National Guard and Reserves as well as certain scientific research. The move will turn up the pressure on House Democrats, who have been calling for the Republican leadership to pass the Senate version of the spending bill with no additional amendments. Between 22 and 34 Democrats voted with Republicans on Tuesday to restore the funding.
Even if the bills do pass, they have no future in the Democratic Senate or at President Obama's desk. When the House plan became public Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., called the bills "just another wacky idea from the tea party Republicans." And White House spokeswoman Amy Brundage said Mr. Obama would veto the measures, saying, "These piecemeal efforts are not serious, and they are no way to run a government."
Brendan Buck, a spokesman for House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, criticized the White House's position as "unsustainably hypocritical."
"How does the White House justify signing the troop funding bill, but vetoing similar measures for veterans, National Parks, and District of Columbia?" he said. "The President can't continue to complain about the impact of the government shutdown on veterans, visitors at National Parks, and DC while vetoing bills to help them."
Why the shutdown looks so bad for the GOP
Government shutdown: What's the cost?
Much of Tuesday was spent with the two parties trading barbs about who was responsible for a shutdown. No one seemed to stray from their respective positions: Senate Democrats refuse to consider anything other than a spending bill with no extra measures attached, and House Republicans are seeking last-minute negotiations that could offer a chance to chip away at the health care law.
government-shutdown-1995-horizontal-gallery
Early polling on the matter spelled trouble for the GOP. A Quinnipiac University National Poll released Tuesday morning shows that by a margin of 72 percent to 22 percent, American voters oppose a government shutdown over attempts to block the Affordable Care Act. And though voters are divided on the law itself, with 45 percent in favor and 47 percent opposed, 58 percent of those surveyed said they opposed cutting off funding a way to stop it from being implemented.
But a Gallup poll released Tuesday indicated that a shutdown may not have a long-term impact of the favorability ratings of either party. Before the 1995 government shutdown, President Clinton had a job approval of 52 percent. While that number took a hit in early January 1996, it had bounced back up to 52 percent by mid-March. His favorability rating was even less affected, falling five percentage points to 54 percent in early 1996, but rebounded by 58 percent by mid-March.
Then-House Speaker Newt Gingrich had a job approval rating of 37 percent that also dipped down in early January, to 33 percent. It rebounded to 35 percent later in the year. His favorability rating of 25 percent actually ticked up right after the shutdown to 31 percent, but then fell back to 24 percent by the middle of the year.
Today's Congress only has a 14 percent approval rating, according to Gallup, and therefore not much to lose.
Meanwhile, the White House announced Wednesday morning that President Obama has cancelled portions of a planned diplomatic trip to Asia next week as a result of the ongoing government shutdown.
Mr. Obama attempted to inoculate himself against a backlash to the shutdown by using a news conference at the White House Tuesday to accuse House Republicans of forcing an ideologically-driven shutdown.
"One faction of one party in one house of Congress in one branch of government shut down major parts of the government all because they didn't like one law," Mr. Obama said. "This Republican shut down did not have to happen, but I want every American to understand why it did happen. Republicans in the House of Representatives refused to fund the government unless we defunded or dismantled the Affordable Care Act. They've shut down the government over an ideological crusade to deny affordable health insurance to millions of Americans. In other words, they demanded ransom just for doing their job."
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Home Blogroll Paulo Di Canio Strikes Back
Paulo Di Canio Strikes Back
Tom Gatehouse
Ex-Sunderland manager, Paulo Di Canio, has publically come out in staunch defence of his tenure at the club; blaming 'pathetic' fitness levels, strange transfer dealings, and poor player attitudes for his lack of success.
The fiery Italian was sacked after gaining one point from his first five games in charge this season, and in his first interview about his time at the Stadium of Light, Di Canio insists that he is now '…a better manager than before, much better.'
"I cannot wait to have another chance in the right place with the right people who let me work my way,' Di Canio told Sky Sports News.
"Even if I have four requests around Europe, I don't go; I will wait until the time in England when there is no more space for me. Otherwise, I wait."
There were strong mutterings of discontent right the way through his reign, with Phil Bardsley's early exclusion a precursor for things to come. Di Canio accused the defender of 'treason', after his comments on Twitter following the opening day defeat to Fulham seemed to mock the club,
"At the beginning of the season, he made tweets celebrating the defeat of the club that pay him," Di Canio said of Bardsley,
"A person at the club came to me and said 'we want to fine him', and I agreed.
"He was celebrating, that is the worst treason for the people next to you. It is clear that he tried to destroy his career on his own."
Bardsley has since been reinstated to the Sunderland fold by new manager, Gus Poyet; and while Di Canio has no ill feelings to the Uruguayan, he does however resent the comments made by Martin O'Neill earlier this week.
Di Canio took over from O'Neill last season and guided them to Premier League survival, but his heavy-handed management style led to fans, players and pundits alike taking issue with the former Swindon manager. O'Neill branded the Italian a 'charlatan' earlier in the week; something that left Di Canio fuming,
"I don't know if he knows the meaning of this word charlatan. Probably I can teach him, even if I am not English," Di Canio commented,
"I respect the opinion of manager Martin O'Neill but the fact that he spoke after six months, not straight away, that proves what kind of level he is. He is not very big.
"A charlatan is a manager who spends £40m to be a top 10 club and then sees the club sink into the relegation zone."
O'Neill, the new Republic of Ireland boss, was responding to comments made by Di Canio shortly after taking over on Wearside in March, over the condition of the players at the club; comments that the Italian still stands by,
"The fitness levels were pathetic," he said.
"I had players who told me they had cramps from driving the car.
"I had three players with injuries in the calf after 20 minutes of a game. Six different players with problems means they were not fit."
There were many that criticised the Italian for his excessive transfer dealings; but Di Canio denied having any power in that regard, claiming that director of football Roberto De Fanti, and chief scout Valentino Angeloni were the responsible parties,
"I think 80 per cent of the squad should be British footballers," he said. "I don't know why more didn't come, you would have to ask Roberto De Fanti and Valentino.
"They were given power by the chairman. I gave them my opinion, I gave them names, but not one came and I don't know why. The players that did come, I accepted, but obviously they weren't my first choices."
For more from me, follow me on Twitter: @tragatehouse or check out my Blog: http://goodbadribery.blogspot.hk


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How to Buy Nxt (NXT) - Ultimate Guide by Cryptogeek
Cryptocurrencies have been on a constant increase in interest in the past decade or so. The earlier days when Bitcoin was released in 2009, there was almost no demand, meaning that the purchasing process was much more complicated. The main reason for that was the lack of a platform where ordinary people could purchase crypto.
Even though cryptos still aren't as widely used as fiat currencies, people still purchase them. One of the main reasons is the constant price increase, meaning that the value may increase in the future if you invest a certain amount today.
In recent years, one coin seems to draw a lot of attention – Nxt. Considering how much people are looking to buy it, it's natural to think that the price would increase. With that in mind, today I'll explain where to buy NXT.
Before I begin, first, I'll explain what it is and why it may seem like a good investment option.
What is Nxt?
Nxt is an open-source blockchain platform and was launched basically as an upgrade to the existing platforms like Bitcoin. The idea behind it was to improve two aspects -scalability and efficiency. It manages to achieve that by implementing the proof-of-stake consensus instead of the proof-of-work one that Bitcoin is based on.
The network was launched in November of 2013 and is developed by an anonymous developer known as BCNext. The proof-of-stake is a consensus that speeds up the transaction and requires less power to do so, making it more efficient. A faster transaction means that scalability is also fixed, meaning that Nxt really has some advantages over Bitcoin.
Diving deeper into the blockchain, you'll see another unique aspect of it. Unlike almost all blockchain platforms, Nxt is developed in JAVA and is designed to be a bit more restrictive. The result of this is a blockchain that is highly secure and prone to attacks.
Nxt isn't just an ordinary payment system; instead, there are multiple applications. On top of the standard monetary system that enables you to trade or purchase coins, there is also a decentralized cloud solution. As such, all data is stored on the network is decentralized, meaning that it cannot be modified, and on top of that, it can also store user-defined data. It implies that Nxt can store other types of records like contracts or certificates.
How to buy Nxt?
The process of purchasing Ardor begins with choosing the exchange. There are plenty of options, and in the next section, I'll explain where to buy Ardor. For now, let's stick to the how.
There are only a handful of platforms that will allow you to buy the coin without going through the registration process, so be prepared for it. Most platforms' signup process consists of entering an email address and choosing a password. To prevent spam accounts, you may need to verify your email address, and the account will be good to go.
Depending on the exchange's rules, some may give you full functionality just by signing up, while others may ask you to verify your identity. In these cases, you will have limited functionality of the service until your identity is verified.
There are various ways that you can verify your identity and are entirely dependent on the platform's rules. All of them will require you to send a copy of your ID, but the rest of the steps will differ. Some may ask you to take a selfie while holding the ID, while others may ask you to write a specific message on a piece of paper and take a selfie. The steps are clearly laid out, so as long as you follow them correctly, you shouldn't have any problems.
The duration of the process can vary in length and may take a few hours for some and could take a day or two for others.
Where can you buy Nxt?
I'll be kicking off this list with Bittrex, a US-based exchange that was launched in 2014. The main area that the developers of this platform were security, something that most of the others from that era lacked a bit. As a US-based platform, Bittrex quickly became available for the rest of the world, which helped it gain a lot of popularity.
With support for over 400 coins, including Nxt, Bittrex offers quite a good variety in terms of buying and trading crypto. Keep in mind that to buy Nxt, you'll need to rely on finding a trading pair that suits you because Bittrex doesn't support fiat currencies.
Poloniex is one of those exchanges with a rough start but managed to pull through and sort things out. It was launched in 2014, and in the first few months it had a breach, which led to people avoiding it. In 2019, the platform got new management and had begun to regain people's trust.
Nxt is only one of the 100 supported coins, which isn't a lot compared to some of the other contenders on this list. When you combine that with the lack of support for fiat currencies, you get a slightly limiting experience.
You probably haven't heard the name before, and with good reason. The roots of this exchange aren't really known, which doesn't sit well with too many people. The platform appeared on the market in 2018, and the reason it's getting traction is that some lesser-known coins can be traded over there.
The platform gives you access to around 450 coins, which, of course, include Nxt. The biggest downside is that fiat deposits aren't supported, meaning you'll have to trade Nxt with another crypto coin.
HitBTC's earlies years were filled with some controversies, so people were trying to avoid it. Luckily, things have improved a lot, meaning that it's a very safe exchange.
The platform was launched in 2013, and since then, it has "accumulated" a list of over 800 supported coins. This is among the highest number in this market. Like most platforms on this list, it doesn't support fiat currencies, meaning that you will have to buy Nxt by utilizing the thousands of available crypto pairs.
Freewallet
You may be confused to see a crypto wallet in the list, but there's a good reason for that. Freewallet works in conjunction with Changelly to offer crypto storing and trading options. The exchange is baked into the wallet, meaning you have a two-in-one service.
In terms of variety, don't expect too much. Freewallet supports around 100 coins, which isn't a lot when comparing with some of the other options. The good news is that fiat currencies are supported, so you won't need to purchase additional coins and trading them for Nxt.
Graviex is a relatively new exchange, which was launched in 2018. Initially, it was based in Russia, but the company was moved to Malta after a while. The reason for it is that the crypto laws are much clearer. It's not a very popular exchange, mainly because it's not as big as some of the others on this list.
Surprisingly, the platform gives you access to Nxt and 170 other coins, which means that there is a decent amount of variety. Fiat currencies aren't supported, meaning that the only option is the trading pairs. There is another option, which is to utilize a third-party service to make an exchange.
The last platform where you can buy Nxt is also not on top of any popularity list, but it's a good option. It was launched in 2017 and made trading easier by creating an easy-to-use user interface, which novice traders will like.
Despite being aimed at beginner traders, the platform only offers less than 90 coins, which isn't too much compared to some of the other exchanges on this list. On top of that, you also won't be able to deposit funds through fiat currencies.
cryptocurrency crypto ultimate guide how to buy nxt giude
The opinions and assessments expressed in the text are the views of the author of the article and may not represent the position of Cryptogeek. Do not forget that investing in cryptocurrencies and trading on the exchange is associated with risk. Before making decisions, be sure to do your own research on the market and the products you are interested in.
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All I see now when I look at purely digital photos is blown highlights. Details are preserved with film non-linearly, and that inaccuracy matches what our eyes see and our brains remember.
For the longest time, I wanted to shoot 16mm b&w film. I even got a Bolex camera and shot and got processed a grand total of ONE reel before I realized how expensive the ritual was. I have an unnatural fixation on film grain and I miss it more than ever now that you never see actual film projected in movie theaters anymore. We are astronomically culturally poorer for this. Shooting still images on real film is a way to get that same fix (pardon the pun!) more often without going into massive debt.
Film photography is important because it's something we can still do now that is the same as how it was before everything went digital, at least as far as the image capturing process goes.


Next Games is excited to announce that their best selling mobile game The Walking Dead: No Man's Land has won the prestigious LIMA International Licensing Award for Best Licensed Product in Digital Apps/Software/Video category. LIMA (the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers' Association) is the leading trade organization for the global licensing industry.
The award comes soon after Next Games was named as the number one growth company of 2017 in Finland by Finland's leading business media Kauppalehti. The Walking Dead No Man's Land also won a People's Voice Webby Award in April, 2017.


We're packing the holidays with all sorts of treats for the community, starting today with a kickoff of the 12 Days of the Spiral event! Throughout the 12 days we will be revealing giveaway items, an art contest, and other fun stuff we can't wait to share.
Follow Wizard101 and Pirate 101 on Facebook and Twitter (@Wizard101 & @Pirate101) or check the official 12 Days of the Spiral website for daily announcements.
Day 1 is all about giving back by bringing back two retired charity mounts: the Noelephant and the Bah Humbug! You're sure to spread holiday cheer wherever you go when you ride these mounts through the spiral.
Best of all, every Noelephant and Bah Humbug purchase goes to two great causes! Net proceeds up to $50,000 will be split equally between our amazing charity partners, Creative Action and Children's Health.
Storytelling, art, and creativity are at the core of what we do at KingsIsle. One of the biggest goals when Wizard101 was first created was to provide a safe space for children and families to come together, explore, and to spark their imaginations. Creative Action provides those opportunities in the real world, and we couldn't be prouder to partner with them!
The mission of Creative Action is to spark and support the academic, social and emotional development of young people, and they do this through interactive classroom performances, after-school arts residencies, and community-based programs in Central Texas. They believe that when youth develop their creativity, compassion, confidence and critical thinking skills, and build meaningful connections with peers and positive role-models, they become successful adults who contribute to their communities and thrive in their careers and relationships.
Creative Action provides incredible programs for all ages that focus on performance, technology, art, and so much more. They empower and educate youth through the transformative power of creative expression, social and emotional learning, and social justice education.
For more information about Creative Action visit www.creativeaction.org.
Children's Health℠ is the eighth-largest pediatric health care provider in the nation and the leading pediatric health care system in North Texas, providing a full spectrum of health care services—from daily wellness and primary care to specialty visits and critical care. Holding eight disease-specific care certifications from The Joint Commission, Children's Health has been consistently named one of the nation's top pediatric providers by U.S. News & World Report.
Here at KingsIsle Entertainment, we believe that gaming can lead to some truly incredible outcomes and connections, and Children's Health provides it as one of the many activities that they use to bring patients and families together! It seemed like a natural fit to partner with a charity that is so dedicated to making life better for children.
Want to see what other surprises we have in store for the 12 Days of the Spiral? Be sure to follow Wizard101 and Pirate 101 on Facebook and Twitter (@Wizard101 & @Pirate101) for daily announcements!
← Celebrating 10 Years of the Wizard101 Community!


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Recharge and increase in hardness of GIC with CPP-ACP/F
CPP-ACP added to a GIC was distributed throughout the cement.
GIC can be recharged with CPP-ACP/F by topical application to the cement.
Recharging enhanced calcium, phosphate and fluoride ion release from the cement.
Recharging increased the surface hardness (acid resistance) of the cement.
Daily recharging of GIC may increase longevity of the cement and enhance caries protection.
To assess the effect of CPP-ACP/F recharging on ion release and hardness of GIC Fuji-Triage (VII) and Fuji-Triage-EP (VII-EP) containing CPP-ACP/F.
CPP-ACP distribution in Fuji-Triage-EP was determined using immunofluorescence. Thirty blocks of Fuji-Triage and Fuji-Triage-EP with the same surface area were placed individually in 5 mL of 50 mM lactic acid (pH 5) for three days. Every 12 h ten Fuji-Triage and ten Fuji-Triage-EP blocks were treated with 2 mL of either MI Paste Plus (CPP-ACP/F) solution (1 g paste + 4 mL water), Placebo MI paste solution (no CPP-ACP/F), or distilled water for 2 min. After each 2 min treatment the blocks were rinsed with distilled water and placed back into the acid. Calcium, inorganic phosphate and fluoride levels in the acid solution were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, colorimetry and ion specific electrode respectively. Vickers surface hardness of the GIC was also determined. Data were analysed using a two-sample t-test and one-way ANOVA with a Bonferroni-Holm correction for multiple comparisons.
CPP-ACP was distributed throughout Fuji-Triage-EP. Significantly (p < 0.001) higher calcium, inorganic phosphate and fluoride ion release and greater surface hardness (acid resistance) was observed in both GIC's treated with the CPP-ACP/F paste. Fuji-Triage-EP released higher ion levels and exhibited greater surface hardness (acid resistance) than Fuji-Triage.
Topical application of CPP-ACP/F paste to GIC Fuji-Triage-EP recharged ion release and increased surface hardness (acid resistance) which may help improve properties and resistance to degradation as well as improve ion release for caries control.
Glass-ionomer cements (GICs) exhibit several clinical advantages compared with other dental restorative materials and are widely used in dentistry for a variety of applications including caries stabilisation, fissure sealing and as a surface protecting material for high caries-risk surfaces such as root surfaces. The main advantages of GICs are their ability to strongly adhere to tooth tissue [ ], to slowly release fluoride ions, and their low coefficients of thermal expansion [ ]. GIC's fluoride ion release properties are extremely important as fluoride ions promote enamel and dentine remineralisation and may also interfere with the metabolism of plaque bacteria, thereby slowing the progression and aiding the regression of early caries lesions [ ]. Fuji-Triage (VII) GIC is routinely used for pit and fissure sealing, root surface protection, and intermediate restoration due to its better fluoride-ion release properties and ease of placement.
The ability of fluoride ion to remineralise early caries lesions has been shown to be calcium ion limited and this has led to considerable interest by oral care and dental materials' companies to incorporate a source of bioavailable calcium ions into their products [ ]. Dental materials that release calcium and phosphate ions as well as fluoride ions can produce local environments supersaturated with respect to fluorapatite at the margins of the restoration to help prevent caries. Hence these materials can be used as a source of ions to maintain calcium, phosphate and fluoride ion activities which influence the progression and the regression of early caries lesions. Recently GICs and resin composites have been modified to incorporate soluble calcium and phosphate ions in an attempt to improve their anticariogenic properties [ ]. The conventional GIC, Fuji-Triage (VII) has been modified to include casein phosphopeptide-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP) which is a saliva biomimetic and an excellent source of bioavailable calcium and inorganic phosphate [ , ]. The CPP contains the sequence -Ser(P)-Ser(P)-Ser(P)-Glu-Glu- and stabilises supersaturated solutions of calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphate (Pi) and fluoride (F) ions to produce CPP-amorphous calcium fluoride phosphate nanocomplexes (CPP-ACFP) [ ]. The CPP are biomimetics of the salivary protein statherin which contains the sequence Asp-Ser(P)-Ser(P)-Glu-Glu-, however due to the greater content of Ser(P) residues, particularly in the sequence –Ser(P)-Ile/Leu-Ser(P)-Ser(P)-Ser(P)-Glu-Glu- of the CPP, they are superior to statherin in their ability to inhibit demineralisation and stabilise and deliver Ca, Pi and F ions [ ]. As the CPP can deliver bioavailable Ca, Pi and F ions together they are superior to F alone in remineralising enamel subsurface lesions in situ and in vivo [ , ]. This greater remineralisation potential translates to enhanced clinical efficacy in slowing the progression and enhancing the regression of dental caries, which has been demonstrated in multiple independent clinical trials [ , ].
The anticariogenic potential of CPP-ACP has been attributed to the ability of the CPP to localise amorphous calcium phosphate together with F at the tooth surface, thereby helping to maintain a state of supersaturation with respect to tooth mineral [ , ]. Fuji-Triage (VII) containing 3% CPP-ACP, designated Fuji-Triage-EP (VII-EP), has been shown to be superior to Fuji-Triage and other restorative materials in the release of F, Ca and Pi ions and in protecting adjacent tooth tissue from acid demineralisation [ , , ]. Furthermore, the addition of CPP-ACP to Fuji-Triage-EP results in a decreased bacterial biofilm on the surface of that cement when compared with Fuji-Triage without CPP-ACP [ ]. The mechanism of action of the CPP-ACP in decreasing biofilm development was proposed to be related to the highly charged/polar nature of CPP-ACP changing the surface properties of the GIC. However, in none of these studies was the distribution of the CPP-ACP in the set GIC material investigated. Knowledge of the distribution of CPP-ACP in the GIC may help understand the mechanism by which the CPP-ACP enhanced Ca, Pi and F ion release and decreased bacterial biofilm development.
Furthermore, the release of any soluble component of a GIC in vivo will eventually subside and drop below therapeutic levels when the release has exhausted the component concentration in the nanoporosities and exposed surface of the material. However, various studies have shown that nanoporous GICs can act as rechargeable ion release systems (reservoir effect), which may provide a long-term caries inhibitory effect due to enhanced ion release through recharging [ , ]. Recently it was shown that the fluoride levels of Fuji-Triage GIC could be recharged using mouthwashes or slurries of toothpastes containing fluoride [ ]. This demonstrated recharging of the nanoporosities of Fuji-Triage GIC with F suggested that it may be possible to recharge this GIC with CPP-ACP/F nanocomplexes.
The aims of this study were to assess the distribution of CPP-ACP in Fuji-Triage-EP (VII-EP) using immunofluorescence and to determine the effect of CPP-ACP/F recharging upon MI Paste Plus application on surface microhardness (acid resistance) and ion release. The null hypotheses were that CPP-ACP/F recharging by MI Paste Plus application did not change calcium, phosphate and fluoride ion release, and that there was no difference in the surface hardness between different treatment groups.
GIC block preparation
Fuji-Triage (VII) and Fuji-Triage with added 3% w/w CPP–ACP (Fuji-Triage-EP, also marketed as Fuji-VII EP) were provided by GC Corporation (Tokyo, Japan) in capsule form. Standardised GIC blocks measuring 3 × 6 × 6 mm 3 were created using polyvinyl siloxane impression material (eliteHD + light body, Zhermack SpA, Badia Polesine, Italy) molds as described previously by Zalizniak et al. [ ]. Briefly, the GIC blocks were prepared by placing the materials in the mold with the top and bottom surfaces covered by plastic strips, which were manually pressed between two glass slides. The GIC was allowed to set inside the molds for 24 h in an incubator (37 °C, ∼100% relative humidity). After cooling to room temperature, the blocks were removed from the molds, and the two major parallel surfaces of the blocks were lapped with 600 grit silicon carbide paper (Norton Tufbak, Saint-Gobain Abrasives Ltd., Auckland, NZ) to provide a standardised surface finish [ ].
Immunofluorescence analysis using confocal microscope
To determine the CPP-ACP distribution in blocks of Fuji-Triage-EP and Fuji-Triage, as a negative control, using immunofluorescence, the GIC exposed surfaces of the blocks as well as fractured cross-sectional surfaces were examined. These exposed surfaces were rinsed with Tris-buffered saline (TBS) and then blocked with 1% normal goat serum in TBS. The surfaces were then exposed to 0.2% anti-CPP antibody in TBS and then thoroughly rinsed with TBS. Following the rinsing, the secondary antibody (FITC-conjugated goat anti-rabbit IgG) was applied, followed by further rinsing with TBS. Images were taken with an Axiovert 200 M inverted microscope (Carl Zeiss, Göttingen, Germany) fitted with a Zeiss LSM 510 META Confocal scan head with the 458/477/488 nm Argon laser and a 10X plan apochromatic objective.
Acid challenge and recharging
Thirty blocks of Fuji-Triage and 30 blocks of Fuji-Triage-EP containing 3% w/w CPP-ACP were suspended in an acidic solution over a three-day period as described previously by Mazzaoui et al. [ ]. Each block was individually placed in 5 mL of 50 mM lactic acid (adjusted to pH 5). Every 12 h, one third of the blocks (10 blocks of Fuji-Triage and 10 blocks of Fuji-Triage-EP) were treated with 2 mL of MI Paste Plus (CPP-ACP/F) solution (1 g MI Paste Plus + 4 mL water) for 2 min (MI Paste Plus Treatment). MI Paste Plus contains 10% CPP-ACP and 900 ppm F as sodium fluoride. Another third was treated with placebo MI paste solution (no CPP-ACP/F) at the same dilution and for the same treatment time (Placebo Treatment). The ingredients listed on the MI Paste Plus were water, glycerol, CPP-ACP, d -sorbitol, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, propylene glycol, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, xylitol, phosphoric acid, sodium fluoride, flavouring, sodium saccharin, ethyl p-hydroxybenzoate, magnesium oxide, guar gum, propyl p-hydroxybenzoate and butyl p-hydroxybenzoate. The placebo MI Paste contained the same ingredients without the CPP-ACP and sodium fluoride. The last third of the GIC blocks was placed in distilled water for 2 min (No Treatment Control). After each 2 min treatment the blocks were gently rinsed for 30 s with distilled water and immediately placed back into the acid solution without drying. Treatments were delivered every 12 h and the three day period was commenced with a 2 min pre-treatment (MI Paste, Placebo MI Paste or water as described above) applied after the blocks were lapped but before being placed into the acid solution for the first time. The acid solutions were changed every 24 h and were analysed for ion release. The surface hardness of the GIC blocks was determined before and after the treatment period.
Ion release measurement
Calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphate (Pi) and fluoride (F) levels in the lactic acid solution were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Ca), colorimetry (Pi) and ion specific electrode (F) respectively, as described in a previous study [ ]. Briefly, to determine the Ca concentration sample solutions (1 mL) were acidified with 1 M HCl (0.5 mL) and diluted with 2% lanthanum chloride (0.5 mL) and analysed on a Varian AA240 atomic absorption spectroscope (Varian Australia Pty. Ltd.) against a set of seven standards ranging from 0 to 250 mM calcium. Pi concentrations were determined colorimetrically using a spectrophotometer (UV–vis spectrophotometer, Varian Australia, Pty. Ltd.). The samples that were analysed were prepared by taking 100 mL of solution, diluting with 500 mL of 4.2% ammonium molybdate and adding 20 mL 1.5% of Tween 20 (Sigma–Aldrich, St. Louis, MO). The Pi concentration was determined by comparing the spectrophotometer readings of the samples against a set of seven standards ranging in Pi concentrations from 0 to 100 mM. The concentration of F ions was determined using an ion selective electrode (Radiometer analytical, ISE C301 F, Lyon, France) connected to an ion analyser (Radiometer analytical, Ion Check 45, France). Sample solutions (1 mL) were diluted with 1 mL total ionic strength adjustment buffer (Merck Pty. Ltd., Kilsyth, VIC, Australia) and measured against a set of eight F standards ranging from 0 to 1000 μM.
Microhardness test
Vickers hardness measurements for the GIC blocks before and after treatments over a three-day period were determined using a Microhardness Tester (MHT-10, Anton Paar GmbH, Graz, Austria) attached to a microscope (Leica DMPL, Leica Microsystems Wetzlar GmbH, Germany) as described previously [ ]. Three indentations separated by a distance of at least three times the indentation size were made on each block (force, 1.0N; dwell, 6 s; rate, 0.99 N/min). Images of the indentations were acquired through a calibrated digital camera (Leica DFC320) mounted on the microscope and distance measurements made using Image Tool software (Version 3.0, UTHSC, San Antonio, TX) which were then converted into Vickers hardness values.
Differences in ion levels released and Vickers surface hardness values between Fuji-Triage and Fuji-Triage-EP were analysed using a two-sample t-test. Differences in mean ion levels and Vickers hardness measurements for each of the two GIC materials across the three treatments were measured using one-way ANOVA with a Bonferroni-Holm correction for multiple comparisons. All analyses were conducted using statistical software (Stata version 14.2; StataCorp LLC., College Station, USA).
Immunofluorescence image analysis using confocal microscopy demonstrated general distribution of the CPP-ACP throughout Fuji-Triage-EP by the presence of intense red fluorescent staining at the exposed GIC surfaces as well as along fractured cross-sectional surfaces ( Fig. 1 ). Fluorescent staining was absent in the negative control GIC Fuji-Triage which did not contain CPP-ACP ( Fig. 1 ).
Novel pit and fissure sealant containing nano-CaF	2and dimethylaminohexadecyl methacrylate with double benefits of fluoride release and antibacterial function
Novel fluoride rechargeable dental composites containing MgAl and CaAl layered double hydroxide (LDH)
Quercetin reduces erosive dentin wear: Evidence from laboratory and clinical studies
Antibacterial and mechanical properties of arginine-containing glass ionomer cements
In vitro evaluation of composite containing DMAHDM and calcium phosphate nanoparticles on recurrent caries inhibition at bovine enamel-restoration margins
Raman spectroscopy for early detection and monitoring of dentin demineralization
Development and characterisation of dental composites containing anisotropic fluorapatite bundles and rods
Concentration dependence of quaternary ammonium monomer on the design of high-performance bioactive composite for root caries restorations
Tags: Dental Materials Volume 36 Issue 12
Jan 10, 2021 | Posted by drzezo in Dental Materials | Comments Off on Recharge and increase in hardness of GIC with CPP-ACP/F


Vainionpää, Raija; Peltokangas, Arto; Leinonen, Jukka; Pesonen, Paula; Laitala, Marja-Liisa; Anttonen, Vuokko (2017) Oral health and oral health-related habits of Finnish prisoners. BDJ Open volume 3, Article number: 17006, doi: 10.1038/bdjopen.2017.6.
Objectives/Aims: This cross-sectional study aimed to examine oral health and oral health-related habits among prisoners at the Pelso Prison in Finland.
Materials and Methods: Participants in this cross-sectional study comprises 100 inmates. A calibrated dentist recorded the decayed, filled and missed teeth as well as periodontal status (bleeding-on-probing, pocket probing and Community Periodontal Index) among the participants (n=100). Fifty inmates were also interviewed for marital status, education and oral health-related habits. The Ethical Committee of the Northern Ostrobothnia Hospital District and the Criminal Sanctions Agency approved the study protocol.
Results: The participants were on average 35 years old and had 5 (s.d. 5.1) decayed teeth in need of restorative treatment, whereas DMFT was 17 (s.d. 8.9). Half of the study population had periodontal disease in need of professional treatment. Almost all reported brushing their teeth daily. Two-third ate sweets, one-third drank fizzy drinks and majority smoked every day. Almost two-third had used illicit drugs at some point of their lives. Almost all drunk alcohol once a week or more often. No statistically significant associations were discovered between dental treatment need and explanatory factors.
Discussion: Prisoners appear to be a homogenous group with poor oral health and harmful health behaviours.
RV also acknowledges a personal grant provided by the Finnish Dental Organisation of Women.


BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — Seventeen people, including children, died after a boat carrying tourists capsized and sank on a lake during a thunderstorm in a country music mecca in southwest Missouri, authorities said Friday.
The Ride the Ducks boat sank on Table Rock Lake in Branson Thursday evening. Missouri State Highway Patrol Sgt. Jason Pace said 14 people survived, and that seven of them were injured.
The boat in this latest accident was owned and operated by Ride the Ducks Branson.
"Ride the Ducks Branson is not affiliated with Ride the Ducks Seattle. They are independently owned and operated companies.
"Our condolences go out to those affected by what appears to be a weather-related accident in Branson Missouri.
"At Ride the Ducks Seattle, we follow a strict protocol that determines whether our Coast Guard-inspected Ducks can go on the water. This protocol factors in wind speed, wave height, and the potential for inclement weather. Our internal protocols are more stringent than those prescribed by the United States Coast Guard.
"In instances in which we determine that the weather could be an issue for the comfort or safety of our guests, we either eliminate the water portion of our tour, or change the route to the less wind-exposed Salmon Bay. If weather changes suddenly, our Coast Guard-licensed captains have the full authority to modify or cancel trips at any point during the tour."


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Chicago Fire Roster News & Analysis
Anatomy Of A Set Piece
The Fire used a specific set piece tactic against FC Cincinnati to avoid aerial duels with Kendall Waston
By Jack Santry Sep 26, 2019, 12:30pm CDT
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Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Set plays have shockingly been very kind to the Chicago Fire this year. According to WhoScored, the Fire are tied for 2nd in Major League Soccer on set pieces goals with 12. This past Saturday against FC Cincinnati, the Fire went up against a team that is quite good at defending set pieces, and it seems like Veljko Paunovic set up a specific plan to avoid aerial confrontations with centerback Kendall Waston (6'5"). Some of the strategies can be picked out from watching open play crosses as well.
To take away the height advantage, many of the Fire's crosses in the game were low to the ground or at waist height. Waston can't beat us in the air if we never give him the chance, right? A result of keeping crosses low is that it is difficult to ever get the ball past the first defender. The workaround to this is to put in early crosses with the intention of bending the ball in behind the defense.
Deep crosses work great for this because the further the ball travels, the more time it has to bend. In the very first minute of the game, Nicolas Gaitán took a deep free kick where he was able to do exactly this. On deep free kicks the defense will hold their line higher, leaving more room behind them to potentially exploit. Francisco Calvo was very close to opening the scoresheet in the first minute because of this. Frank Klopas and Dan Kelly both mentioned this tactic multiple times during the broadcast, and it almost seemed like they were looking out for it.
What happens on plays like corner kicks where there is no space to play in behind the first man? You use near post runs. Four of the five first corner kicks of the game were played in to the near post, and 3 of them saw Calvo right in the mix for winning the ball. Add that to the first minute free kick and that means that Calvo was specifically targeted on near post set pieces four times in the first half alone. In these situations there was no Fire player in that area to begin with so that Calvo would have a straight shot to where the ball was to be played.
This tactic did, unfortunately, change when Gaitán came out of the game in the 58th minute. His replacement, Djordje Mihailovic, does have a good delivery on set plays, but he's not at Gaitán's level yet. The Fire had 9 total corner kicks in the game, but ultimately nothing came of them. Does the end result of a 0-0 scoreline take anything away from using such a specific plan for set pieces? I would say no, because I believe that the idea was to take away an advantage of the opposition and not to accentuate an advantage of the Fire's.
Do you agree? Disagree? Did we show too much respect to Waston and Cincinnati, or was this a smart workaround to a potential roadblock? Let me know what you think in the comments.


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Congratulating John Diorio upon the occasion of his retirement after 59 years of dedicated service to Archbishop Molloy High School
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Joseph P. Addabbo Jr
(D) 15th Senate District
Senate Resolution No. 5691
BY: Senator ADDABBO
CONGRATULATING John Diorio upon the occasion of
his retirement after 59 years of dedicated service
to Archbishop Molloy High School
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor and
recognize those dedicated professionals, who strive to enhance the
quality of education for our students, and whose character,
accomplishments and community contributions inspire all citizens of this
great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, The result of many individual efforts, the excellence and
the success of Archbishop Molloy High School is due in large part to the
efforts of John Diorio; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate John
Diorio upon the occasion of his retirement after 59 years of dedicated
service to Archbishop Molloy High School, to be celebrated on Thursday,
June 14, 2018; and
WHEREAS, John Diorio taught government and economics for nearly six
decades at Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood, Queens; and
WHEREAS, Even before beginning his long and distinguished teaching
career, John Diorio was passionately interested in government, serving
as a staff member for then-Congressman John Lindsay, who was later
elected the Mayor of the City of New York; and
WHEREAS, John Diorio then served as the Mayor's legislative
assistant prior to embarking on a teaching career, where his continuing
love of government and politics made him instrumental in developing the
American Government course for the senior curriculum; and
WHEREAS, In addition, he moderated the Political Science Club from
1968 to 1995, helping his students to develop an interest in the
operations of their government on all levels; and
WHEREAS, John Diorio began his illustrious career at Archbishop
Molloy High School as a history teacher; he continued to use his
classroom chalkboard as his most important teaching tool, rather than
embracing most new technology, for his entire tenure; and
WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his students,
John Diorio often brought guest lecturers into his classroom, including
the late Governor Mario M. Cuomo and late United States Congressman
Joseph P. Addabbo, Sr., to speak to students about government and
politics; and
WHEREAS, This extraordinary man considers his 59 years of teaching
and mentoring his life's crowning achievement; and
WHEREAS, As a knowledgeable and highly skilled teacher, John Diorio
has improved the quality of education at Archbishop Molloy High School
by leading and supporting staff with enthusiasm, cultivating a positive
and stimulating school environment for his students, and creating a
greater sense of community; and
WHEREAS, The Queens community is indeed fortunate and blessed to
have had such a dedicated and respected educational leader; his wisdom
and contributions reached into every classroom, truly making a
difference in the lives of those lucky enough to have worked with him;
WHEREAS, A significant contributor to education in New York State,
John Diorio has continually demonstrated an impressive dedication, an
unparalleled devotion and an unremitting enthusiasm for the quality of
the educational programs and opportunities offered at the Archbishop
Molloy High School for the benefit of its faculty and students, as well
as for the entire community; and
WHEREAS, In completing his service as an educator, John Diorio
leaves behind more than mere bricks and mortar; he leaves behind a
legacy to the students of Archbishop Molloy High School and to the
residents of the Queens community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate John Diorio upon the occasion of his retirement after 59
years of dedicated service to Archbishop Molloy High School; and be it
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to John Diorio.
REFERRED TO FINANCE
REPORTED TO CALENDAR FOR CONSIDERATION
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Thanks for sending Marty Swann out. I was out at lunch when he came by. Loretta, our production supervisor, was very impressed with his comfort with our equipment and his quick identification of issues. I'm sure you'll hear from him, but he understood our process better than we did, humbling, but good. Please send us an invoice for Marty's time, and let him know we appreciate him stepping away from his other job to make time for us. If he has any further recommendations for us, please let me know.
HAYNES personnel have always provided top-quality service and acted with integrity, responsibility, and customer focus. I am continuously impressed by the depth of top-notch people in your company. Your can-do attitude in circumstances of unrealistic schedules, horrible weather conditions, poor-quality designs, and difficult prime contractors is unwavering. Having worked with many electrical contractors over the past 39 years, I have never worked with a better one than HAYNES.
It has been my pleasure to work with this company, HAYNES Electric Construction Company, on many projects through the years. On each job, HAYNES has performed exceptionally well. The jobs were staffed and structured in such a way that we have always finished ahead of schedule.
The project managers with this company are knowledgeable with the aspect of construction, and in each case where we have encountered problems, they were creative and flexible enough to figure out a solution that worked out for the best to the owner and the general contractor. This has been the case, whether it was a remodel of an old structure on in new construction. Each of the jobs we have done with this company has been in excess of 2 million dollars' worth of work on their part. I believe that this company is the only one in this area that is capable of this amount of work and this quality of work.
I highly recommend HAYNES Electric Construction Company for any project you may have.
Jim Young, Vice President, American South General Contractors, Inc.
"I wanted to let you know your guys were vital to our success at the Asheville VA. Every one of them exceeded my expectations and I look forward to working with them again if our paths cross. Every man was on time and ready to work every day. Every man took the reins when handed to him. And every man got his work done with care, precision, and expertise. I've worked with precious few electricians who work like these men did, and it is much appreciated. Thank your guys for me. Big Scottie, Young Scottie, Rockie, Jonathan, Tommy, and Ricky. Thanks again for sending me such great help.
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Last week, almost out of nowhere, the CEO of Whole Foods Market indicated he's keeping a close eye on cannabis regulation—and suggested cannabis products could one day show up on the grocery chain's shelves.
The 65-year-old Whole Foods co-founder is hardly bashful about supporting legalization. He's on the record supporting it at least as far back as 2013. But if you're a Whole Foods shopper and can't wait to tuck some THC-infused coconut oil into your reusable canvas tote bag, don't get your hopes up just yet.
Could Whole Foods one day stock cannabis products? Sure. But a lot would have to happen between now and then to allow it.
First, let's look at Texas, the state where Whole Foods is headquartered and which Mackey himself referenced in last week's discussion. Right now, the only cannabis products legal in that state are low-THC, high-CBD concentrates for use by registered medical patients with intractable epilepsy. Everything else—including hemp-derived CBD, despite its widespread availability—is technically forbidden.
Yes, that could change. In fact, chances are good that it will. But even in the best of scenarios, most observers in Texas agree that adult-use legalization is at least two years away, likely more. The state Legislature meets only every other year, and full legalization isn't on the docket for this session. The state also lacks the voter initiative process that's been behind nearly all other states' successful legalization efforts.
But OK, zoom out from Texas. There are, after all, 10 legal states plus Washington, DC, that allow adult-use cannabis. But even there, markets are so tightly regulated that a splashy entry by Whole Foods seems like a stretch for now. Three of those states—Maine, Vermont, and Michigan—as well as DC don't yet permit legal sales. And in the others, state regulators have strict limits on everything from advertising to ID checks to in-store security. Are kids allowed in Whole Foods? That could be a problem.
It's also worth noting that a majority of US states still ban liquor sales in grocery stores. And while cannabis is generally considered far less dangerous than alcohol, it remains far less socially acceptable in most circles.
Despite the obstacles, Mackey's projections may be prescient. While no legal state currently allows grocery stores to sell cannabis, some are considering comparable arrangements. In New York, for example, where the Legislature could legalize as soon as this year, bodega owners are actively working to capture a piece of cannabis sales in an arrangement that could eventually put pre-rolls on corner-store shelves.
And the cannabis industry's greatest albatross, federal prohibition, may finally be coming to an end. There are multiple bills in Congress this session that would remove cannabis from the Controlled Substances Act, at least in states that have legalized the drug. Such a move would likely open the industry door to new actors—including, potentially, high-end grocery stores.
Is cannabis actually coming to Whole Foods? Maybe. But likely not before the next superfood has come and gone.


Investments Chelmsford Mens Singles Champion Duncan Taylor and he was undefeated in his side's 6-4 win over Danbury A. Only just though. Fellow defender Eric Green came perilously close to beating Taylor before succumbing 9-11, 11-8, 8-11, 11-6, 10-12. Chelmsford A ran out 8-2 winners over Chelmsford B. The hard-hitting Eddie Ogbebor was undefeated.
In division two OCs B scored their second 9-1 win of the Season as they beat OCs C. Kevin Worthington and Stephen Northcott were both undefeated and Trevor Carter won twice. On this showing they will take some stopping. Last year's division three Champions - Maldon B were also 9-1 winners and Steve Scholz and Mervyn Perriman led the way in their success against Danbury C. Mervyn Perriman scored a fine 11-6, 9-11, 13-11, 9-11, 11-8 win over Neil Want. Chelmsford C who are third beat Hatfield Peverel B 8-2. Mike Johnston led the way with three wins whilst Neil Freeman impressed for the losers by beating both Waseem Qureshi (10-12, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7, 11-3) and Paul Nicol (9-11, 11-9.11-4, 11-6). Maldon C slipped to a 4-6 defeat against Danbury D although it was the evergreen and vastly experienced John Holland who stayed unbeaten for the losers. Holland prevailed against Sam Lowman 11-8, 7-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-7. Gary Ward was on top form for Writtle C who beat Danbury E 7-3. Ken Sheard came good for Danbury in the last game of the night with a last-gasp 14-12, 11-8, 6-11, 10-12, 13-11 victory over John Gagg.
Chelmsford D are tied with Writtle D on 15 points at the top of the third division. Both sides won 7-3 this week. Jarek Pietraszuk was unbeaten as Chelmsford saw off Danbury F. Richard Gardiner impressed for the losers with wins over Keith Martin and Connor Payne. Writtle D beat OCs F in a match where Peter Layzell called the shots. Colin Barham won twice and he had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Farooq Ahmed 11-9, 11-13, 7-11, 11-18, 14-12. Danbury G overcame the handicap of being a player short to beat Writtle E 6-4. Mo Hardy won his three singles. OCs D were the week's biggest winners in this division and Gareth Joice and David Porter were both undefeated as they beat OCs E 8-2. Gareth Joice set the ball rolling with a 6-11,12-10, 12-14, 11-5, 11-5 win over Richard Baxter in the opening game of the evening. No one player managed to win all three singles in the match between Danbury H and Maldon D and Danbury shaded it 6-4 after Dave Hancox and Eamon Hall had both won twice. Hancox sealed the Danbury victory by beating Kelly Yuen 13-11, 11-8, 4-11, 8-11, 11-5 in the last game of the night.
Writtle F lead the way in division four with 13 points. They lost 6-4 this week against Danbury K - proof if any is needed that this division is likely to be very closely fought. David Meah was unbeaten for Writtle although he only just overcame Jean Chasmer 5-11, 11-9, 14-12, 9-11, 11-9. Chelmsford F did well to beat Highwood B 7-3. Amanda Hogger led the way with a hat-trick and Adi Kamma and Ben Jackson both won twice. Highwood B also drew 5-5 with Highwood A. Frank Neill won his three singles for the B team whilst Melanie Bonnett and Keith Pallett both won twice for the Highwood A side. Melanie beat Francis Whitbread 11-7, 11-7, 15-17, 7-11, 12-10 in the closest game of the night. OCs G were 6-4 winners against Highwood A after David Bishop and Aswin Siam were both undefeated. Melanie Bonnett tasted the "last gasp defeat" this time. She missed out 8-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-5, 10-12 against Aswin Siam.
OCs H lead the way in division five. They have 14 points and they beat Chelmsford J 7-3 this week. Stuart Wintle, Steve Pratt and Mike Morecroft all won twice but they all drew blanks against an inform Jacqui Smith. Jacqui hit top form downing the challenges of Morecroft (11-8, 11-5, 11-8), Wintle (11-6, 11-7,11-5) and Pratt (11-7, 11-7, 11-7). In another match where the player who won his three singles was on the losing side - Maldon E beat Galleywood 6-4. Mark Glenister was undefeated for Galleywood whilst Garry Eames and Denis Crapnell both won twice for Maldon. Glenister came out on top over five hard fought ends against Garry Eames : 11-8, 11-8, 9-11, 9-11, 11-8. Chelmsford G raced to a 9-1 win over Hatfield Peverel D. Ian Austin and Andy Swales were both undefeated and Sarah Austin only missed out against Andy Simmonds in five ends. Last but definitely not least Chelmsford H (Michael Whelpdale, John Wickins and Luke Richardson) ran out 10-0 winners against Hatfield Peverel E.
7, 11-7) and Sudheep Kamma (11-6, 7-11, 11-7, 7-11, 11-4).
Buttsbury Bulldogs ran out 4-1 winners in division 1B of the CLICK League against Chelmsford Panthers. Daven Muldal won both of his singles defeating Prayrak Gupta (11-3, 11-5, 11-9) and George Spicer (11-3, 11-2, 11-7). Buttsbury Badgers (Harry Hutt and Oscar Hutt) also won 4-1. They beat Chelmsford Wildcats with Harry Hutt securing two wins. He beat Alesha Ellis Austin 11-2, 11-7, 11-9 and Georgina Riches 11-3, 9-11, 11-2, 11-8.
A new look OCs A team have made an excellent start to the Season in division one of the Chelmsford & District Table Tennis League. And in a division which now includes 12 teams and with no less than seven matches having been played this week this report is unashamedly a little "top-heavy" !. With a team that included both new signing Paul Lucas and Terry Dowsett OCs A ran out 8-2 winners against Rawreth A. Lucas stayed unbeaten although he had to pull out all the stops to get the better of Kim Shead 7-11, 11-8, 6-11, 11-9, 15-13 in the opening game of the night. Last year's Champions - Maldon A beat Liberal 9-1 with Trevor Lloyd and Alex Abbott both winning their three singles. However, it was the game that they didn't win that will cause the biggest stir. Adam Buxton scored an excellent 7-11, 11-19, 11-9, 11-7 win over John Poysden. Promoted Writtle A impressed as well. Matthew Brown and Lee McHugh were both undefeated as they beat Danbury B 8-2. With the addition of 2017 M&G Investments Chelmsford Mens Singles Champion -Duncan Taylor to their ranks this team could cause a few surprises on this showing. Last year's runners-up Chelmsford A have played twice. They beat a new look Hatfield Peveral A 7-3 after Wal Bada and Casey Cross had carried all before them. Chelmsford A also drew 5-5 against Rawreth A. Wal Bada was again undefeated. Charles Sweeney won twice for Rawreth whilst Rawreth's Paul Churn bagged an excellent win. He beat Eddie Ogbebor 5-11, 9-11, 11-9, 11-6, 11-9. Danbury A with a line-up of Gary Young, Peter Mynard and Dave Richardson should do well and Gary Young was undefeated as they beat Writtle B 8-2. Paul Sturton scored two fine wins for the losers and he battled hard to get the better of Pete Mynard 6-11, 12-10, 2-11, 11-6, 11-8. Galleywood A have also made a winning start. James Hick scored a fine hat-trick as they beat Chelmsford B 7-3. Hicks beat Simon Jarvis 11-9, 11-9, 7-11 6-11, 11-5 in a well contested opening encounter.
OCs B are the week's big winners in division two. Trevor Carter and Steve Nothcott were unbeaten as they overcame Hatfield Peverel B 9-1. Northcott battled through against Dave Fiddeman after a "hum-dinger" of a game 11-9, 11-2, 10-12 10-12, 15-13. Last year's division three Champions - Maldon B should definitely be in with a "shout for honours". Ciaran Whelan led them to a 6-4 win over Danbury D. Whelan beat Sam Lowman - the best of the Danbury players - 7-11, 13-11, 11-8, 11-5. Maldon C also made an impressive start by beating Writtle C 8-2. John Holland and Merv Perriman won their three singles and Dawn Baldry won twice. It was the performance of Perriman which caught the eye here. He beat John Gagg 9-11, 6-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-7 and Dave Calleja 11-6, 11-8, 3-11, 8-11, 11-9 - two excellent wins. Chelmsford C ran out 6-4 winners against Danbury E after Mike Johnston and Waseem Qureshi had both won their three singles whilst the match between Danbury C and OCs C finished as a 5-5 draw. Neil Want was unbeaten for the Danbury team and he completed his hat-trick by getting the better of Charles Yeung 11-6, 11-18, 7-11, 12-14, 11-9 in the last game of the night.
Chelmsford D impressed in division three. Keith Martin won his three singles and he was supported by Connor Payne and Dave Parker (who both won twice) as they beat OCs F 8-2. Martin fought back very strongly to beat Ashton Parker 2-11, 6-11, 11-7, 12-10, 11-8. Writtle D also won 8-2. Trevor Collin led the way with a hat-trick against Writtle E. Peter Layzell overcame Steve Siggs 8-11, 11-7, 4-11, 11-7, 11-9 in the closest game of the night. In a hard-fought match in which no one player stayed undefeated Danbury F beat OCs E 6-4. Dave Marsh and Richard Gardner (Danbury) and Nat Ravlic and Richard Baxter (OCs) all stayed undefeated. Maldon D did well to beat Danbury G 7-3. Shirley Carroll in particular excelled. She beat both Nicky Ford (6-11,12-10, 3-11, 13-11, 12-10) and Norman Smith (11-6, 11-13, 13-11, 11-7) in her impressive hat-trick. Team work saw OCs D sneak through 6-4 against Danbury H. Mike Hayes, Gareth Joice and Dave Porter all won twice in another match (fairly unique in the middle division) where no one player stayed unbeaten. Newcomer Luca Bailey made his mark by beating Gareth Joice 11-7, 8-11, 8-11, 11-5, 11-8.
Writtle F are the early leaders in division four. Malcolm Storey and Brian Steward led the way as they beat Galleywood B 9-1. Brian Steward's hat-trick included a 11-9, 11-5, 9-11, 9-11,11-4 win over Ron Salton - the best of the Galleywood players. Danbury J are also off to a convincing start. They beat OCs G 8-2. Rob Kneale and Dave Powell both won their three singles. It was "touch and go" though for Rob Kneale who just beat James Mitty 11-6, 8-11, 5-11, 11-9, 13-11. The match between Chelmsford E and Danbury K ended as a 5-5 draw. Chelmsford's Amanda Hogger "stole" the show with her excellent 6-11,11-7, 11-7, 5-11, 11-7 victory over Mick Robinson. Hatfield Peverel C beat Chelmsford E 6-4 and it was the performance of newcomer Martin Archie that stood out. He won his three singles in convincing style.
Division five can be difficult to call as teams often improve dramatically over the Season. Maldon E led by Garry Eames and Denis Crapnell beat Chelmsford H 7-3 and they should be "in the mix". Galleywood C led by Gary Copsey beat Chelmsford G 6-4 and you wouldn't expect Copsey to lose many at this level. Fast improving Aidan Noguchi won twice. Chelmsford J (Jacqueline Smith, Paul Bullock and Peter Davenport) ran out 8-2 winners against Hatfield Peverel E and on that showing you would expect them to do well. Philip West won the week's tightest game beating Jacqueline Smith 12-14, 19-17, 10-12, 11-4, 13-11. Paul Bullock's success is an interesting one as he has entered the League after taking up the Sport at the "Bat n'Chat" Sessions at Riverside Leisure Centre which take place on Tuesday mornings from 10.00 to 12.00 hours and are staffed by Qualified Coaches. The emphasis is on having fun and sociability and it is hoped that other players will follow Paul's example and join the League. OCs H complete this week's action with their 7-3 win over Hatfield Peverel D. Michael Lucy led the way with three wins and this included a five set success against Philip West who he beat 10-12, 11-6, 5-11, 11-8, 11-6.