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Home / Articles / VAN March/April 2011: Responsible Driving
VAN March/April 2011: Responsible Driving
Mercedes Fire
Ruth E. Lyons profiles 'Mercedes Fire', an artist-led seven-day touring summer school.
As it becomes increasingly the norm for more art colleges to offer the continued study of visual arts practices at masters and doctorate level, there is a greater demand on artists to obtain higher levels of academic qualifications. I am interested what effect this increase in time spent by artists in development within institutes of education has on the character of contemporary art.
Colleges can provide a shelter for artists – giving them space to develop – but these institutions also inform, passing down knowledge and perpetuating schools of thought. Past a certain point in the development of one's art practice, I've been wondering if the shelter of the art college actually encourages a shirking of responsibilities? Shouldn't artists claim independent agency over their own learning?
In light of these questions, I have become interested in alternative models of learning and peer critique – that can offer an alternative to formal education while still providing a sense of community and collaboration. As I personally experienced in the course of the 'Mercedes Fire' summer school 2010 (1), there is an amazing sense of generosity and camaraderie within the art community in Ireland, which openly invites the free formation of alternative models of social engagement and learning within it.
'Mercedes Fire' was conceived of by Claire Feeley (now assistant curator in the Serpentine Gallery) and myself in the winter of 2009, at a time when neither of us had any major prospects on the horizon. The inspiration for the project came from Claire Feeley's experience of a summer school in Estonia in 2008 (2) and my vision for the development of projects at the Good Hatchery – an artist-led project I co-direct with Carl Giffney in Co. Offaly (3) – combined with a shared interest in notions of monumentality. In light of the amenities we considered to have at our disposal; a residential studio space (the Good Hatchery), two cars and lots friends throughout the country working as artists or in art institutions we decided to combine all these elements into a touring summer event.
'Mercedes Fire' took the form of a seven-day touring summer school, with three nominated UK based artists and invited Irish participants under the theme of 'monumentality'. It was out of a desire to make connections between activities in Ireland and elsewhere, that we invited artists from the UK. The selected artists were invited in light of nominations from various organisations that we admire currently working in the UK. These included Situations in Bristol; Cerbyrd in Wales; Ganghut in Scotland and Nottingham contemporary.
In their application to the summer school the nominated artists were asked to consider "how an event, history, person or ideology can be represented in the name of a public? Has the age of permanent sculpture past? How does society represent itself and its values through public sculpture? What would a monument for the future look like?" Their responses to these questions, along with presentations and workshops on the theme formed an integral part of the week's schedule.
The week-long tour began in Cork and then followed a deviating route to Dublin – informed by art events and spaces along the way, including a two day stay in the Good Hatchery. For the most part, the tour participants consisted of Claire Feeley; the three main fellows: Megan Broadmeadow (4), Samantha Donnelley (5) and Helen de Main (6): and myself packed into the confines of a golden Toyota Yaris – as we sped from one destination to the next, taking in a transient views of roadside sculptures and the Irish landscape along the way. The schedule of the week included visits to various art spaces, both established institutions and artist led, meetings with other artists, curators, writers and institution directors along with presentations by the fellows and other invited artists. We were interested in providing the fellows with a broad view of artistic activity in Ireland, while also exploring the theme of monumentality in its widest terms.
In Ballymore Eustace our meeting with the group of some 20 or so artists and writers was entitled 'Mercedes Fire V's Radical Love' – which took the form of a gathering under a tarpaulin in the forest – sheltering from a sudden down pour. During the ensuing discussions, what became most apparent was a shared belief in the importance of collectivity; whether that be in the sense of working together to create a monument, or simply working together for the sense of sharing and an 'ideal of love'.
'Radical Love' was organised by artists Joseph Noonan Ganley and Sam Keogh; and took the form of a three-day camp out on a friend's land for invited artists and writers. During their stay each of the participants presented a contribution to the proceedings in the form of a written paper, an artwork or an action related to the theme of 'radical love'.
In Callan we visited the Workhouse Test (7) and their video show 'Kinetoscope Parlor' featuring work by Eilis MacDonald, Brad Trummell, Matt Calderwood and Tessa Power. Artists Kate Strain, Bridget O'Gorman and Etaoin Holahan direct the Workhouse Test as a space for experimentation in contemporary art practice and virtual interactivity. As its name implies it is located in a former famine workhouse that is also home to Endangered Studios. Down the road from the Workhouse Test, also in the unlikely location of Callan town we visited Fennelly's Pub for an evening of food, music and film screenings. Fennelly's is a former multi-purpose pub that is now owned and run by artist Etaoin Holahan as an event-space.
During the weeklong tour, it was our encounters with other artist led groups that had the greatest impression on our invited fellows. It opened up interesting discussions on the comparison between activities in Ireland and those in the UK. What each of the fellow's noted after our meeting at 'Radical Love' and our visit to Callan, was the sense of camaraderie and openness that exists in the art community in Ireland. The UK artists were struck by the self-sufficiency of the artists that we encountered; and the fluid relationships that exist between artists, curators and writers – as demonstrated through the welcome reception we received at each of the art institutions and during our visit to and involvement in a discussion group at the 'Unbuilding' project in Bray (8).
Throughout the tour, we invited artists that we met to join us for the two days of presentations and discussions in the Good Hatchery. A group of some 25 or so artists arrived equipped with tents and sleeping bags and set up camp in the yard. The group also included Guest Fellows James O'hAodha, Angela Fulcher, Carl Giffney, Mark Clare and Paul Timoney – who along with the three main fellows and myself each gave a presentation on their work and its relationship to monumentality. These two days were split between discussions around the campfire, artist's presentations and listening to excerpts from the book Magnetic Promenade and Other Sculpture Parks by artist Chris Evans.
Within the theme of monumentality, what became the dominant concerns were collectivism, representation and responsibility. In relation to learning, by failing to recognise or counter the increasing academicisation of art practice, do we risk allowing a dominant structure to become representative of the art scene as a whole? In my own work my concern with these themes lie in viewing utilitarian structures in our landscape – such as pylons, communication devices, etc –as monuments to our time, from a hypothetical anthropological perspective. I am interested in questioning where our responsibility lies in relation to these structures? What claim if any do we have on these 'monuments' that we allow to stand for us?
Our 2011 summer school will be based on the theme of 'Islands and the Leviathan'. It will take place in July / August. The school will be based on the west coast, with a specific focus on the seascape of Clew Bay and its numerous Islands.
'Mercedes Fire' was an unfunded project. An artist fee of €100 paid by each of the main fellows, which covered the costs of food, petrol and hostel accommodation in Dublin. Claire and I would like to thank all those who made Mercedes Fire possible: Mick O'Shea and Irene Murphy, Chris Clarke, Catherine Harty, Stephanie Hough, The Basement Projects, Matt Packer, Eamonn Maxwell, Sam Keogh and Joseph Noonan Ganley, Kate Strain, Bridget O'Gorman and Etaoin Holahan, Clodagh Kenny, Mark Clare, Peter Prendergast, Angela Fulcher, James O'hAodha, Paul Timoney, Carl Giffney, Eilis Lavelle, Cliona Shaffrey and Rosie Lynch.
Ruth E Lyons
(1) http://thegoodhatchery.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/schedule.jpg
(2) http://publicpreparation.org
(3) http://thegoodhatchery.wordpress.com
(4) Megan Broadmeadow – http://www.megartmix.co.uk/
(5) Helen de Main – http://www.helendemain.net/
(6) Samantha Donnelly – http://www.frieze.com/shows/review/samantha_donnelly/
(7) The Workhouse Test – http://theworkhousetest.wordpress.com/
(8) Unbuilding project – http://unbuildingproject.wordpress.com/
VAN May/June 2011: Ongoing and Roundabout
VAN March/April 2011: Productive Reflection
Filed Under: Articles Tagged With: Artists, Chris Evans, Claire Feeley, Eilis Lavelle, Ireland, Leviathan, Mercedes Fire, UK
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The Silk Pavilion explores the relationship between digital and biological fibre-based fabrication on an architectural scale. Its primary structure is comprised of 26 silk-threaded polygonal panels laid down by a CNC (Computerised Numerical Control) machine. Inspired by the silkworm's ability to generate a 3D cocoon out of a single multi-property silk filament, the Pavilion's overall geometry was created using an algorithm that assigns a single continuous thread across patches, providing functional density gradients informed by environmental constraints such as light and heat. Overall density variation was informed by deploying the Bombyx mori silkworm as a biological multi-axis multi-material 3D 'printer' in the creation of a secondary fibre structure. 6500 silkworms were positioned on the scaffold spinning flat non-woven silk patches to locally reinforce the CNC-deposited silk structure. The paper provides a review of basic research into the silkworm's spinning behaviour, material and structural characterisation, computational simulation and fabrication strategy devised for the full-scale construction of the Pavilion. Potential applications for large-scale fibre-based digital fabrications that involve biological fabrication conclude the paper.


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TDD14: Keith Downie – Sunderland
Home • News Coverage • TDD14: Keith Downie – Sunderland
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ADHRB Panel Event at HRC40 makes the case for International Action on Bahrain
Posted on March 5, 2019 by ADHRB Admin
5 March 2019 – Today, Americans for Democracy & Human Rights in Bahrain (ADHRB) held a panel event at the 40th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC) in which panelists outlined the deteriorating human rights situation in Bahrain, making the case for international action to stem the slide in human rights. The panel was moderated by Tor Hodenfield, of CIVICUS, and Andrew Smith of Article 19, Bridget Quitter of ADHRB, Megha Ramesh of the Bahrain Institute for Rights and Democracy (BIRD), and Ali Al Fayez, a Bahrain political activist, participated as featured speakers. The event was supported BIRD, IFEX, CIVICUS, FIDH, Article 19, the Gulf Centre for Human Rights, the European Centre for Democracy and Human Rights, and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies.
Tor Hodenfield began the panel by providing context to the situation in Bahrain noting that many of the state delegates and NGOs in the room have supported civil society in Bahrain for nearly a decade, before noting that since 2011, the government has suppressed and demonized civil society. This is of particular interest now because Bahrain is a new Member State on the Human Rights Council as of October 2018. This is of additional importance because in the four months since the country's election to the Council, the government has taken steps to further stamp out political and civil societies. Just in those four months, the country has committed a litany of abuses.
After these opening remarks, Tor highlighted several important trends in Bahrain, calling attention to the fact that there is no independent media in the country nor are opposition political societies legally allowed to operate. In 2018 alone, courts stripped 204 people of their citizenship, many of whom were activists and peaceful dissidents. Furthermore, the government has placed severe restrictions on foreign funding of NGOs. Beyond this, the government has increasingly persecuted activists for engaging with the Council. At HRC39 in September 2018, the Assistant Secretary-General highlighted these reprisals, criticizing Bahrain for levying travel bans against activists for their engagement with international human rights mechanisms. In addition to these restrictions, there is a pervasive climate of impunity as security forces are not held accountable for abuses. This lack of accountability has been raised by the Bahrain Independent Commission of Inquiry, which highlighted that the government has not adequately investigated human rights violations committed by security forces.
Megha Ramesh called attention to particular challenges faced by human rights defenders in Bahrain – especially those faced by women human rights defenders and women activists. She highlighted in particular the cases of three high profile women human rights defenders Medina Ali, Najah Yusuf, and Ebtisam AlSaegh. These women, she noted, face abuses on a regular basis due to their outspoken activism. But part of their abuse stems from the attention they have received from the international community, as the government responds to negative international attention by reprising against Ali, Yusuf, and AlSaegh.
One such incident was in early September 2018 when the British parliament raised the cases of Ali, Yusuf, and AlSaegh, after which the government targeted them, even in prison. The Assistant Secretary General has also raised cases of Bahraini women human rights defenders, including Hajer Mansoor, the mother-in-law of London-based Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei, a Bahraini human rights activist. A few days after the publication of the report naming Mansoor, prison officers reportedly physically assaulted Ali, Yusuf, and Mansoor, and moved to deny them their religious rights. Prison officials also placed the women in isolation cells for several hours, punishing them for their inclusion in the report. Additional punishments included a reduction in the number of weekly phone calls to family members or legal counsel, a limited amount of time out of their cells, and the erection of a physical barrier between them and their visitors during family visits. In protest, Mansoor, Ali, and Yusuf have refused family visits for six months.
In response to a question from Hodenfield about the international response to recent arrests of women human rights defenders, Ramesh noted that Najah Yusuf's arrest is due to her protest of the Formula 1 race. She highlighted that Yusuf's arrest and conviction rely on free expression-related crimes associated with social media use: calls for peaceful protests and criticism of the government. Despite being an important part of her arrest and sentence, Formula 1 has largely removed itself from responsibility. In response to F1's refusal to take a more concrete and supportive stance on human rights and activists arrested around its event, 17 NGO's including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch wrote to Formula 1 ahead of the Grand Prix this year. Yesterday the signatories received a response wherein F1 once again distanced itself from abuses committed by Bahraini security forces.
In regards to Mansoor's case, Ramesh noted that her conviction is in reprisal against her son in law, Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei, who is based in London and who leads BIRD's advocacy efforts. Due to his activism, Alwadaei has faced numerous reprisals against himself and his family. Recently, Bahrain's final appeals court upheld the three sentences against Mansoor and Alwadaei's his brother in law and cousin. As a result, they have exhausted all legal remedies. But importantly, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has taken up Mansoor and Alwadaei's family members' cases. The Working Group published its communication in January 2019, but the Bahraini authorities responded with a smear campaign against Alwadaei, including labelling him a terrorist.
Even as the UN has expressed its concern over acts of reprisals against Mansoor, and Alwadaei's family members, the Government of the United Kingdom (UK) has not recognized these cases as being reprisals. The UK's silence on these cases is extremely concerning because it demonstrates that although Alwadaei is an asylee in the UK, the UK government will not take concrete steps to address the political persecution of his family in Bahrain. In addition, while British parliamentarians have raised these cases, they have yet to take a positive stance in his aid, and they have not addressed Mansoor's case, nor her advocacy in relation to Alwadaei.
Bridget Quitter began her remarks by noting that in early October 2018, Bahrain was elected to a seat on the Human Rights Council garnering 165 out of 193 votes. Bahrain ran unopposed, which effectively guaranteed it a seat despite its poor record of systematic human rights violations, including consistent acts of reprisal against activists for engaging with the HRC itself. One issue with this, is the membership standards set under Article 9 of General Assembly Resolution 60/251 are loose, calling only on Member States of the Council to "uphold the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights."
However, since mid-2016, Bahrain has taken increasingly repressive measures to silence dissent and imprison political activists. The government has dissolved all opposition political parties, silenced independent media, jailed human rights defenders and political leaders, and criminalized forms of expression and association. Membership in the Council has not hindered Bahrain from committing these abuses, but has rather enabled them to continue to commit these abuses, while promoting their Membership in the Council as evidence of a positive human rights record.
Less than a month before Bahrain was elected to the Council, the government arrested members of the Shia community and interrupted Ashura ceremonies in more than 20 villages. When Bahrain won election to the Council, at least 14 of these individuals were still detained on charges of "indulging in abusive activities to cause chaos." Then a month after it won election, the High Court of Appeal overturned the acquittal of political prisoner and former opposition leader Sheikh Ali Salman, and sentenced him to life in prison on spurious political charges of "espionage." The court upheld his sentence only two weeks ahead of the elections for the lower house of parliament, in a signal that dissent was not acceptable. When former Member of Parliament Ali Rashed al-Asheeri tweete he would boycott the elections, the authorities arrested him on spurious state security charges. When the elections were held, given the restrictions on free speech, they were neither free nor fair, in part also due to the dissolution of political societies, which kept them from participating.
Another important development was the arrest of football player and refugee Hakeem AlAraibi in Thailand on the basis of an INTERPOL Red Notice as he traveled from Australia – where he resides – to Thailand for vacation. He was held in Thailand pending a request for his extradition, but was ultimately released after being detained for 76 days. In addition to calling for AlAraibi's detention, Bahrain has continued to apply the death penalty to detainees for "political" crimes. In December the Court of Appeals upheld the death sentence for Moosa Abdulla Moosa Jaafar and then in January 2019, it confirmed the death sentences against Ali Mohamed Ali Mohamed Hakeem AlArab, Ahmed Isa Ahmed Isa AlMalali, and Husain Abdulla Khalil Ebrahim. In February, the Court of Cassation upheld two death sentences, marking a total of seven individuals on death row at imminent risk of execution. The Court of Appeals later upheld another death sentence against an individual. As a result, there are currently at least 19 individuals sentenced to the death penalty in Bahrain.
The Bahraini government has also used citizenship revocations as a tool to quell dissent. In January, the Court of Appeals upheld the conviction of 115 Bahraini individuals in the mass trial of the "Zulfiqar Brigades." Later, Bahrain's Fourth High Criminal Court denaturalized 25 Bahrainis and sentenced nine individuals to life imprisonment across three cases. As a result, there are now 849 Bahraini individuals that have been denaturalized since 2012.
In addition, the government has moved against human rights defenders and activists like Nabeel Rajab, who had his five-year sentence on free expression charges upheld on New Year's Eve. Rajab had criticized torture in Jau Prison and the war in Yemen. In February, the government sentenced Zakeya AlBarboori to five years in prison and stripped her of her citizenship on terrorist charges. The later in February, the Court of Cassation confirmed the three-year sentence against the family members of Bahraini activist Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei, despite the WGAD finding their detention to be arbitrary acts of reprisal. His mother-in-law and brother-in-law will now remain in prison until March 2020, and his cousin will remain in prison until 2028.
Quitter concluded her remarks by noting that in addition to suppressing fundamental freedoms, Bahrain has consistently refused to engage with the Council it now sits on, and it is one of the worst perpetrators of reprisals against civil society for cooperating with the HRC and its mechanisms. Bahrain has refused to allow any Special Procedures into the country to evaluate the situation since 2006 despite numerous mandate holder recommendations and requests calling for a visit. The kingdom has been the subject of 51 joint communications from Special Procedures offices in the last five years, and 89 communications since 2011.
Ali AlFayez stated that the government in Bahrain has silenced dissent and criticism to serve its own self-interests. In 2001, the Bahraini people voted overwhelmingly to transform Bahrain into a constitutional monarchy – this shows the will of the people. They wanted a democracy with elected representatives, and to have a say in their fate, manage their resources, and decide their future. This is clearly in line with the United Nations, which has stated that peoples have the right to self-determination. The failure of the Bahraini government started in 2002, when the King proposed the Constitution, which gives himself all the power and tailored a parliament to serve him.
AlFayez noted that In Bahrain's Parliament, there are 40 seats appointed by the King on the Shura Council, and 40 seats that are elected in the Lower House. Political opposition group AlWefaq participated in the 2006 election, where they received 64% of the vote, which constituted only 17 seats in the Lower House of Parliament. When people demonstrated in 2011, they wanted to correct the situation, after 10 years of failure and "democracy" that served only the ruling family. These peaceful demonstrations were met with the maximum response – violence of security forces used against protestors. Members of Parliament from AlWefaq decided to leave the Parliament directly after this, as they felt that they could not protect the people. Since then, the political activities led by AlWefaq and other parties have faced challenges because the government does not want any criticism or voices of opposition, and they have oppressed freedom of speech. AlFayez stated that the government then started criminalizing political parties as well – the government dissolved political opposition societies Amal, Wa'ad and AlWefaq. Before that, they imprisoned political leaders and human rights defenders Hassan Mushaima and Abdulahdi AlKhawaja for life because they demanded a change in government through peaceful demonstration. He noted the case of Sheikh Ali Salman, also imprisoned because he opposed a government that serves the ruling family and not the people.
AlFayez noted that unfortunately the international community praised the elections in 2018, despite the fact that there are no political parties left. He noted that the situation is very severe for any political activist.
AlFayez commented that the Bahraini people expected the international community to act based on their stated human rights values and principles. Countries like the United Kingdom and United States should support the rule of law or call for human rights law to be implemented, not to oppose their own stated values and principles for the sake of financial or political interests. In the case of Bahrain, AlFayez states, it is quite clear that the international community decided that these interests should prevail over human rights. AlFayez noted that US President Trump essentially gave the "green light" to King Hamad when he said that there would be "no problem" between the two countries in the future in 2017 – shortly after this, five demonstrators were killed by security forces in Duraz in a peaceful protest in front of Sheikh Isa Qassim's house. The UK, instead of calling for the implementation of human rights law, decided to build a naval base in Bahrain. And here in the UN, Bahrain has won a seat in the Human Rights Council.
Andrew Smith stated that that civil society is shrinking worldwide, including in Bahrain. These restrictions on civil society are often implemented through subtle means, by targeting NGOs through laws that do not explicitly look like a crackdown – this includes targeting funding and placing restrictions on speech. In Bahrain however, Smith has stated that the government is less sophisticated than that. They have shut down media, opposition and all civil society organizations in an open and public manner. Bahrain is an outlier in the repressiveness of their actions, and they do not even try to justify them to the United Nations or international community.
Smith stated that it is very difficult as human rights advocates to engage in conversations with a government on a framework that is supposed to be universal when there is not a shared language or a clear definition of terrorism at the international level. States prioritize military cooperation, counter-terrorism, intelligence cooperation, and trade over human rights. He noted that we do not see States prioritizing human rights or calling other States out on abuses, because counter-terrorism measures are such an important issue to States that there is no willingness to stand by human rights principles.
Smith discussed the recent trend in the abuse of incitement laws, which target individuals before they commit any act, and are used to silence free expression. Smith noted that according to human rights law, States are required to prohibit the incitement of violence, but the language of the Penal Code in Bahrain protects the States rather than the people. Many of these laws should not even exist, and people certainly should not be in prison on their basis. Smith also commented on the crackdown on social media, as States are watching these websites closely and more people are targeted. Smith encouraged the people in the room to recall that Nabeel Rajab and Sayed Ahmed Alwadaei used to attend the Human Rights Council, and many diplomats in Geneva have met the people who are now behind bars or who have been targeted for reprisals.
Smith highlighted the recent arrest and eventual release of Hakeem AlAraibi– who was already out of the reach of the government, he was a refugee recognized by Australia, so he should never have been subjected to an INTERPOL Red Notice in the first place. His release is an example of when international pressure can make States back down, but instead we see State cooperation, like the US and UK, which gives Bahrain the ability to violate human rights without consequence.
Smith noted that this is the first session since Bahrain has been a member, and their mid-term Universal Periodic Review is coming up, and encouraged States to send a clear message that they will not be evading scrutiny and cannot use their seat to gloss over these abuses or pretend like they are positively engaging with the system. Smith also encouraged States to speak on Bahrain in the Council. He particularly highlighted that States could mention the number of communications from Special Procedures, echoing Quitter's comments. He emphasized that States should not wait until the periodic review in 2022 to criticize Bahrain, particularly when the last joint statement in the Council on Bahrain was in September 2015 – there has been no progress and Bahrain is using the lack of Council attention to say that they are cooperating with the system and positively engaging. States need to use every means at their disposal and do it collectively. Finally, Smith urged States to take the lead on this issue, because leadership in the Council on Bahrain is desperately needed.
This entry was posted in ADHRB At the UN, Bahrain and tagged Bahrain, BIRD, denaturalization, Ebtisam Alsaegh, free expression, Hajer Mansoor, HRC40, Medina Ali, Najah Yusuf, Reprisal, Sheikh Ali Salman, United Nations.


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Scott Disick Has Been Out Flirting With Model Elizabeth Grace Lindley Since Kourtney's Engagement
Kayleigh Roberts
American drummer
Photo credit: Instagram
Scott Disick is dealing with Kourtney Kardashian's engagement to Travis Barker in a very Scott Disick way—by partying with a gorgeous model who is *significantly* younger than him. Lately, paparazzi have been snapping pics of Scott partying and flirting with Elizabeth Grace Lindley. If you're like, "um, who?" you're not alone because, well, Elizabeth Grace is still in that up-and-coming, pretty-much-unknown phase of her career. After some sleuthing, here's what we do know about the model, who may or may not end up dating Lord Disick.
She's younger than Scott, but how much is debatable.
A post shared by Grace Lindley (@elizabethgracelindley)
When we said there's not a lot of info about Elizabeth Grace Lindley out there, we meant it. This even goes for very basic facts, like how old she is. There have been conflicting reports about her age, with most outlets describing her as either 23 (like Page Six) or 20 (like the Daily Mail did). We do know that Scott is 38, so either way, there's a pretty big age gap (which is on brand for Scott, whose last two GFs were 20-year-old Amelia Hamlin and 23-year-old Sofia Richie).
She and Scott were spotted out together in Los Angeles.
Scott and Elizabeth Grace were spotted partying it up at Hyde Sunset in West Hollywood this week. According to the Daily Mail (which has pics, if you're interested), Scott and Elizabeth Grace "stayed out together with a group of friends into the wee hours on Friday and eyewitnesses reported that they 'left together in a chauffeured car.'"
They didn't seem to coordinate their looks for the night out, though, since Scott wore his usual super casual uniform of a hoodie and cargo pants while Elizabeth went with a v tight black dress and knee-high leather boots.
She was previously linked to Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton.
Earlier this year, Elizabeth Grace was linked to Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton after some the Daily Mail named her as the "mystery blonde" seen with Lewis at the Beverly Hills Hotel in February.
She's not verified yet.
Some IG sleuthing leads to what appears to be Elizabeth Grace's account, but it's impossible to be sure since it's not verified yet. The up-and-coming model only has about 8,600 followers as of this writing, but that's sure to climb soon.
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Highly respected throughout the medical community, Dr. Weinstein is known for his professional expertise, commitment to quality, and dedication to each patient who walks through his door.
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text:
Q: In powerpoint, how do I get the bullet icon in a text box to use the same icon as in the "Click here" box? Using PowerPoint 2013.
I have a set of slides with mostly ordinary slides with green bullets.  They all use the "default" bullet style using a green filled triangle.  They all use "Appearance" animations so I can make each bullet appear one by one.
On a couple of slides, I have to construct it differently because some of the bullets are immediately followed by screenshot images, and I want the image to appear when the bullet appears.  So, I deleted the "Click here" placeholder and created text boxes for each bullet line, inserted the images, and grouped the image to the bullet above it.  Functionally, this works fine.
What's slightly annoying is that the available bullet styles in a text box are different from the styles available in the main placeholder.  I want all bullets to use the same style, whether they came from the placeholder or a text box.
How can I copy the entire bullet style from a placeholder (icon and color) into the bullet of a text box?

A: You will need to use the Format Painter tool to copy the icon and formatting changes you have made to it.
Or when you go to paste it, right click and use the option you need under paste options.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
from distutils.core import setup

setup(name='random-chars-generator',
      version='1.0',
      description='Generate random primative types for testing',
      author='Aaron Lelevier',
      author_email='pyaaron@gmail.com'
     )

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
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Amsterdam Interdisciplinary Centre for Emotion (AICE) Amsterdam Interdisciplinary Centre for Emotion (AICE)
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Amsterdam Interdisciplinary Centre for Emotion (AICE)
Members (in alphabetical order)
YongQi Cong
Corine Dijk
Tiarah Engels
Allard Feddes
Agneta Fischer
Jacob (Kobi) Israelashvili
Roza Kamiloglu
Gerben van Kleef
Jens Lange
Jozefien De Leersnyder
Kunalan Manokara
Lieke Nentjes
Milika Nikolic
Suzanne Oosterwijk
Lisanne Pauw
Marie Rosenkrantz Lindegaard
Mark Rotteveel
Maien Sachisthal
Disa Sauter
Lukas Snoek
Rui Sun
Don Weenink
Svenja A. Wolf
Visitors/alumni
YongQi finished the Research Master Psychology programme at the University of Amsterdam, specializing in Social Psychology and Developmental Psychology. She started her PhD in November 2015 under the supervision of dr. Disa Sauter and prof. dr. Agneta Fischer. YongQi is interested in emotion, culture, language and their relationships with each other. She has worked on the categorical perception of emotions in pre-verbal infants and the communication and experience of positive emotions across cultures. YongQi's PhD project investigates why there is an in-group advantage in emotion communication – the phenomena whereby people are better at recognizing emotion signals when they are displayed by someone from their own culture and do worse when emotions are displayed by someone with a different cultural background. The project examines different samples including immigrants, expats, adopted individuals in addition to native residents from China and the Netherlands. YongQi's PhD project is funded by a Research Talent grant from the NWO (The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research).
Ms Y. (YongQi) Cong MSc
Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences
Programme group Social Psychology
Y.Cong@uva.nl
Dr. Corine Dijk is an assistant professor of at the Department of Clinical Psychology at the University of Amsterdam. My research centres on interpersonal processes in psychopathology, mainly in social anxiety disorder. For example, I try to study if socially anxious individuals differ in their emotional responses from non-anxious individuals during social interactions (e.g., blush more or are less inclined to mimic other's emotions); and if this influences how they are judged by others. Also, I try to examine which cognitive mechanisms drive the differences in social and emotional behaviour. For example, do negative interpretations or strict beliefs about what is appropriate behaviour cause socially anxious individuals to behave differently?
dr. K.F.L. (Corine) Dijk
Programme group Clinical Psychology
K.F.L.Dijk@uva.nl0205256113
Tiarah graduated from the Research Master Psychology programme at the University of Amsterdam (2017), specializing in Social Psychology and Clinical Psychology. She started her PhD in July 2018 under the supervision of dr. Disa Sauter and prof. dr. Bertjan Doosje. For her PhD project she is investigating a novel affective approach to reduce social bias. More specifically, she is extending her master thesis work where she found a significant reduction in dehumanization following induction of elevation (i.e., a positive moral emotion). She will use an experimental approach to test the robustness, specificity, and mechanism of this effect, in order to establish the role of elevation and other positive emotions in reducing dehumanization.
Ms T.F.S. (Tiarah) Engels MSc
t.f.s.engels@uva.nl
Allard R. Feddes is interested in the role of emotions in intergroup contexts. Specifically, Allard has investigated the role of emotions in intergroup conflicts (i.e., the role of emotions in radicalisation processes leading to terrorism), formation of attitudes (i.e., how does humour interact with threat in regard to attitudes towards outgroups) and helping behaviour (i.e., to what extent do emotions play a role in volunteering to help refugees). Currently, Allard is involved in a research project focused on the extent to which reporting experiences with LHBTI-related discrimination and aggression to the police influences (emotional) well- being on the long term.
dr. A.R. (Allard) Feddes
A.R.Feddes@uva.nl0205256116
Prof.dr. Agneta Fischer is currently Professor in Emotions and Affective Processes in the Social Psychology Group of the University of Amsterdam, and director of the Psychology Research Institute. She has been president of the International Society of Research on Emotion (ISRE, 2004-2009), and she is currently the coordinator of CERE (Consortium of Emotion Researchers in Europe) and the chair of the Dutch Association of Social Psychology (ASPO). She is co-editor of Cognition and Emotion, and consulting editor in a number of other international journals. Her broad research interest is emotions in social contexts, and she has published in the domain of facial expressions of emotion, emotional mimicry, culture and gender differences in emotions, embodiment, and the social functions of emotions, in particular anger and contempt.
prof. dr. A.H. (Agneta) Fischer
A.H.Fischer@uva.nl0205256893
I am a postdoc researcher in the social psychology department at the University of Amsterdam, working with Agneta Fischer and Disa Sauter. My research focusses on the psychological processes of empathy and understanding of others, building on my background inMathematics and Social Psychology. In my research, I examine empathy as a result of shared experiences. My studies show that a shared experience indeed expands our heart but at the same time can also disrupt our understanding of the subjective experiences of others. My goal is to understand the strength as well the weakness of shared experiences in the emergence of empathy, with an eye toward developing interventions that help people to care more and understand better.
Dr Y. (Yacob) Israelashvili
Y.Israelashvili@uva.nl
I completed my B.A in Psychology and B.S in Physics with double major program at Koç University, Turkey followed by a masters in Social Psychology from the same university (2016). Upon my graduation, I worked as a researcher at Utrecht University on olfactory modality as a medium of social communication providing a demonstration of perception of discrete negative facial expressions using olfactory priming. Currently, in my PhD project, I am working on nonverbal vocal expressions associated with specific positive emotions across cultures and the lifespan.
Ms R.G. (Roza) Kamiloglu MA
r.g.kamiloglu@uva.nl
Prof. dr. Gerben A. van Kleef is Chair of the Social Psychology department of the University of Amsterdam. His primary research interests revolve around emotion, power, norm violations, social influence, group processes, and conflict. In studying these topics, he investigates fundamental mechanisms underlying human behavior and explores their implications for organizations and society. In doing so, he combines social-psychological approaches with insights from various other disciplines, including behavioral economics, law, biology, and evolutionary science. His work on emotion focuses on the interpersonal effects of discrete emotional expressions across domains of life, including personal relationships, conflict and negotiation, team work, leadership, coaching, and sports.
prof. dr. G.A. (Gerben) van Kleef
G.A.vanKleef@uva.nl0205256894
I am a PostDoc funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) in the UvA's social psychology group. I work with Agneta Fischer and Gerben van Kleef. I have two main research areas. First, I am interested in the role of emotions in the regulation of social hierarchies with a special emphasis on status hierarchies based on prestige and dominance. Primarily, I investigate the diversity of envious reactions of low status individuals and how these reactions are predicted by these individuals' personality (e.g., the Dark Triad or motivational inclinations) and by high status others' emotions (e.g., pride). Moreover, I study the effects of schadenfreude, anger, contempt, and humility on the regulation of hierarchies. Second, I am broadly interested in the measurement of emotions at the state and at the trait level. I apply different methodological approaches (e.g., data-driven techniques) to uncover the nature of emotions.
dr. J. (Jens) Lange
j.lange2@uva.nl
Jozefien De Leersnyder is an assistant professor at the University of Amsterdam and a research fellow of the Flanders Research Foundation (FWO) at the Center for Social and Cultural Psychology, KU Leuven, where she obtained her PhD in 2014. Broadly speaking, her work is located at the intersection of cultural psychology, acculturation psychology, and emotion psychology. Her main line of research is on the phenomena and processes of emotional acculturation – i.e. the changes in immigrant minorities' patterns of emotional experience that are due to their engagement in a new/other cultural context. With migration being a quasi-experiment on changing socio-cultural contexts and emotions representing our stance in the world as well as being the social glue between people, she aims to gain insight in the cultural dynamics of meaning making as well as in the micro-processes of social belonging. When doing research as well as when teaching, Jozefien aims to increase our understanding of the intertwining of culture, psyche and well-being, particularly in changing and diverse social worlds.
dr. J.P.M. (Jozefien) De Leersnyder
J.P.M.deLeersnyder@uva.nl
I started my PhD in Social Psychology at the University of Amsterdam (Netherlands) in February 2018, where I am supervised by Disa Sauter and Agneta Fischer. Broadly speaking, my research interests lie at the intersection of identity, culture and emotions. For my doctoral project, I will examine how specific positive emotions are facially represented, and evaluate the extent to which culture and identity influence such nonverbal expressions. Prior to this, I completed a double major in Psychology (BA Hons) and History at Nanyang Technological University (Singapore). I then acquired an MSc in Social Cognition at University College London (United Kingdom), before proceeding to read an MPhil in Psychology at the University of Queensland (Australia), where I was jointly supervised by Prof. Jolanda Jetten and Prof. Matthew Hornsey.
Mr K. (Kunalan) Manokara MSc
k.manokara@uva.nl
Dr. Lieke Nentjes is assistant professor at the department of Clinical Psychology at the University of Amsterdam. Her research mainly focuses on the experimental correlates of psychopathy, a disorder characterized by gross emotional deficiencies. She, for example, studies how highly psychopathic forensic patients differ from nonpsychopathic individuals in their subjective experience of emotion, affect regulation, psychophysiological responsivity to emotional material, and tendency to follow emotional eye gaze. Furthermore, she is interested in how psychopathy and the emotional disturbances associated with this disorder color interpersonal processes.
I am a post-doctoral researcher in developmental psychopathology at the Child Development and Education department. My research interests evolve around the development of social emotions and social cognition in children. I am interested in understanding how children feel in social situations and how they think about other people and how these feelings and thoughts influence the onset of children's social problems on one hand and their social adjustment on the other hand. I investigate how social self-conscious emotions, such as shyness, shame, and guilt develop in toddlers and young children and how the disturbances in these emotions (for example, excessive or lack of shame) influence the occurrence of psychopathological symptoms and social adjustment.
dr. M. (Milica) Nikolic
Programme group: Developmental psychopathology
M.Nikolic@uva.nl
Broadly, my work is organized along two different themes. From an embodied cognition perspective, I investigate how networks in the brain overlap during intrapersonal and interpersonal emotion processes. For example, I studied how neural systems implement different forms of simulation when people process emotional states in language. In my second line of work, I focus on the phenomenon of "morbid curiosity". I am particularly interested in when people choose to view negative material and how this behavior is represented in the brain and body.
I received my PhD from the University of Amsterdam in March 2011. In my PhD project I examined the link between emotion concepts and bodily states. Afterwards, I worked as a postdoctoral fellow with Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett at Northeastern University in Boston. Currently, in addition to my position as a postdoc at the social psychology department, I also teach methods and statistics in the PPLE bachelor program at the University of Amsterdam.
dr. S. (Suzanne) Oosterwijk
S.Oosterwijk@uva.nl0205251573
Since September 2014, I am a PhD student in the department of Social Psychology at the University of Amsterdam, under supervision of Agneta Fischer, Disa Sauter and Gerben van Kleef. My academic interest lies the interpersonal nature of our emotions, and the ways in which we try to regulate them. Throughout my PhD project, I have examined why many individuals share their negative emotions with others, and why and when this is effective - or, perhaps more often than not - ineffective. In studying these questions, I use a wide variety of methodological paradigms, including behavioral measures, interaction studies, video-mediated recall, text analysis, self-report, and computer-human interaction.
Ms L.S. (Lisanne) Pauw
L.S.Pauw@uva.nl
Marie Rosenkrantz Lindegaard is an anthropologist and researcher at the the Netherlands Institute for the Study of Crime and Law Enforcement (NSCR). Her work focuses on the social mechanisms behind violent acts and victimisation, cultural explanations for crime, and situational approaches to violence. She specialises in ethnographic methods with particular attention to observational methods including analysis of CCTV footage. You can find out more about Marie's work here.
Dr. Mark Rotteveel is an assistant professor working in the Social Psychology program at the Department of Psychology of the University of Amsterdam and he is associated editor of Cognition & Emotion. His research mainly concerns affective information processing and its behavioral consequences. Particularly, he is interested in affective information processing and its bi-directional relationship with action tendencies, attitudes, feelings, emotional expressions (e.g.,facial expressions, body posture) as well as information processing tendencies. Furthermore he is interested in cross-over phenomena of mood and affect with classic cognitive information processing (e.g., recognition performance). Recently, he started studying the perception of time in the context of emotion. In studying these processes specific latency measures, questionnaires as well as psychophysiological measures (e.g., fEMG, GSR, ERP, as fMRI) are used.
dr. M. (Mark) Rotteveel
M.Rotteveel@uva.nl0205256713
I am a PhD student at the University of Amsterdam, studying motivation and science learning with Maartje Raijmakers at the Department of Developmental Psychology. I did my internship with Dr. Disa Sauter and Prof. Agneta Fischer, investigating the influence of group membership on emotional mimicry and are aiming to find out what process underlies the finding of enhanced in-group mimicry of negative emotions. I am particularly interested in intergroup processes and what role emotions play in these processes, for example how they define group boundaries.
Ms M.S.M. (Maien) Sachisthal MSc
Programme group Developmental Psychology
M.S.M.Sachisthal@uva.nl
Dr. Disa Sauter is Associate Professor in the Department of Social Psychology at the University of Amsterdam. She currently holds an ERC Starting grant. Her work examines how factors such as culture, learning, and language, shape our emotions and the ways that they are signalled, and complementing this, which aspects of our emotions and emotional signals exhibit less plasticity. Her work examines the communication of emotions via non-verbal signals, with a particular focus on nonverbal vocalisations. She also has a particular interest in positive emotions. Disa's research includes a range of experimental psychological approaches and cross-cultural comparative methods.
dr. D.A. (Disa) Sauter
D.A.Sauter@uva.nl
Since November 2015, I am a PhD-student at the Brain & Cognition department of the University of Amsterdam, under the supervision of Dr. Steven Scholte, and collaborate closely with Dr. Suzanne Oosterwijk from the Social Psychology department. In my PhD-project, I continue my research done during my master's in which I applied and developed machine learning algorithms to model affective processes measured with functional MRI. Specifically, I will investigate how different types of information, ranging from 'low-level' stimulus features to 'high-level' affective processes, map onto different spatial scales in the brain, from local patches of cortex to brain-wide functional networks. In addition to this rather methodological aspect, I am interested in how people learn affective associations by looking how affective experience develops in terms of patterns of neural activity. Generally, in my research I aim to employ state-of-the-art analysis tools, while emphasizing transparency and reproducibility.
Mr L. (Lukas) Snoek MSc
Programme group Brain and Cognition
L.Snoek@uva.nl0205256041
I am a postdoctoral researcher at Department of Social Psychology, UvA, working with Dr. Disa Sauter on positive emotion experience across cultures.
Before coming to UvA, I completed my PhD in social psychology with Dr. Alex Kogan at University of Cambridge (Jan 2018), my MRes of Cognitive Neuroscience with Dr. Sarah White at University College London (Sep 2013), and my BS in Psychology with Prof. Shihui Han at Peking University (July 2012).
dr. R. (Rui) Sun
r.sun@uva.nl
My prime research interest is in violent interactions, and the dynamics of escalation and de-escalation. One question I am working on is how changes in the emotional states of the opponents are related to situational asymmetry. For instance by analysing how supportive groups impact the course of the interaction by increasing feelings of emotional domination in one party, or by degrading the opponent. Another question is how and to what extent the various cultural meanings expressed in violence are related to the emotional intensity of the interaction. I am principal investigator of the Group Violence research programme (ERC Consolidator Grant), which studies these questions by focusing on how group behaviour affects antagonistic and violent situations (see www.group-violence.com). My research blends theories and methods from various social sciences, such as anthropology, criminology, social psychology and sociology. My home base for research and teaching is the department of Sociology at the University of Amsterdam.
dr. D. (Don) Weenink
Programme group: Cultural Sociology
D.Weenink@uva.nl0618220936
Svenja is an Assistant Professor of Sport and Performance Psychology with UvA's Work and Organizational Psychology Program. Her expertise and interest centers on the intersection of group dynamics and emotions in sport, performing arts, and high-pressure work settings (e.g., restaurant kitchens). Specifically, Svenja investigates (a) collective emotions in performance teams in terms of concept, consequences, boundary factors, mechanisms, and causes; and (b) ambivalent group influences on cognition, emotion, and motivation such as social responsibility and group cohesion. In this, Svenja strives for collaboration, methodological diversity, and the translation of findings and knowledge to sport and performance psychology practice.
dr. S.A. (Svenja) Wolf
Programme group Work and Organizational Psychology
S.A.Wolf2@uva.nl
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Specifically, being a soft-skills certification, it would be impossible to design a test for you to pass since the answers would be highly subjective depending on your specific situation, circumstances, environment etc. (soft-skills are very dependent on such factors as culture, history, geography etc.).
Therefore, rather than have you take a test the CMP is awarded based on our 360 degree review/feedback. Once we receive the results of the "360", our Certification Committee will review the results and make a decision to accord or deny you the CMP credential accordingly. Note that you must score at least 70% (overall) on our "360" before the Committee will consider your CMP application for a review. We require that a minimum of 3 peers (same/similar level), 3 reports (direct/indirect subordinates), and 1 supervisor (boss/manager/superior) evaluate you on the "360". We do not require, nor expect, nor allow, your own feedback to count towards the required score (in that sense, we are slightly different from a typical 360).
For more information on 360 degree feedbacking, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/360-degree_feedback .
Other Prerequisite(s): (1) 2 years' professional work experience of which at least 1 year involves managing people (please see wikipedia for the definition of "professional"). (2) Score of 70% or more on our Level 1 or 2 360 degree review/feedback evaluation. (3) 4-Year College Education. You may substitute 2 years of professional work experience for every year of college under 4 years e.g. 1 year of College Education is acceptable with 6 years experience. (4) Recommended (not Required): Minimum Age: 22.
Annual Recertification: In order to maintain your CMP credential, you must remain a member of CMP Institute and commit to our code of ethics (see Values in the About Us section), as well as to continued learning in soft-skills via our newsletters, webinars, journals, training, conferences and more. You need to accumulate a minimum of 12 hours per year of continuing education in soft-skills and it is highly recommended that you maintain a log of your learning activities as we periodically conduct random audits in order to ensure that our certification holders are not only maintaining their membership with us but are also fulfilling on their commitment to continuously grow, learn and improve. If you are unable or unwilling to make such a commitment, we respectfully advise you against registering for the CMP credential.


text:
By bureaus and offices Department of Commerce-Bureau of Economic Analysis-Bureau of Industry and Security-U.S. Census Bureau-Economic Development Administration-Office of the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs-International Trade Administration-Minority Business Development Agency-National Institute of Standards and Technology-National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration--National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service--National Marine Fisheries Service--National Ocean Service--National Weather Service--Oceanic & Atmospheric Research--Office of Marine and Aviation Operations-National Technical Information Service-National Telecommunications and Information Administration--First Responder Network Authority-U.S. Patent and Trademark Office-Office of the Secretary--Office of Business Liaison--Office of the Chief of Staff--Office of the Deputy Secretary--Office of Executive Secretariat--Office of General Counsel--Office of Inspector General--Office of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs---Native American Affairs--Office of Policy and Strategic Planning--Office of Public Affairs---Office of Digital Engagement--Office of the White House Liaison--The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders--Office of the Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Secretary for Administration---Office of Acquisition Management---Office of Facilities and Environmental Quality---Office of Budget---Office of Civil Rights---Office of Financial Management---Office of Human Resources Management---Office of Privacy and Open Government---Office of Program Evaluation & Risk Management---Office of Security---Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization--Office of the Chief Information Officer--Enterprise Services--Center for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships
By issues 2020 CensusCybersecurityEconomic indicatorsEnvironmental dataExport and investment promotionFirst responder networkFisheries and aquacultureICT Supply ChainInfrastructureIntellectual propertyInvesting in communities and workersManufacturingMinority business growthPopulation statisticsRegulatory reformSpace commerceTrade enforcementWeather and satellites
Personal Income and Real Consumer Spending Increased in July
Personal income increased 0.4% in July after showing no change in June. Wages and salaries, the largest component of personal income, increased 0.5 percent in July, the same increase as in June. Current-dollar disposable personal income (DPI), after-tax income, increased 0.3 percent in July after remaining unchanged in June. Real DPI, income adjusted for taxes and inflation, increased 0.2 percent...
Increased Exports and Consumer Spending Lead to Economic Growth in Second Quarter
Real gross domestic product (GDP) increased 3.0 percent in the second quarter of 2017, according to the "second" estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The growth rate was 0.4 percentage point more than the "advance" estimate released in July. In the first quarter, real GDP increased 1.2 percent. The second‐quarter increase in real GDP reflected increases in both consumer spending...
Hurricane Harvey: Stay Safe with These NOAA and FEMA Resources
Hurricane Harvey brought catastrophic flooding to Texas and Louisiana this week. Please heed the advice of local emergency management officials and refer to your local weather forecast at www.weather.gov. Safety tips and resources: Check your local forecast for updates, and abide by instructions from local authorities to protect life and property Take preparation actions now, and be sure you know...
Dream to Reality – Helping Inventors Patent New Technologies
Small businesses and independent inventors both serve a vital role in our nation's economy. And, helping those with limited resources is an important goal of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The USPTO's Patent Pro Bono Program provides free legal assistance to financially under-resourced inventors and small businesses interested in securing patent protection for their...
Helping Americans Reach their Potential through Expanded Apprenticeships
In connection with American Dream Week (July 31 – August 4, 2017), the U.S. Department of Commerce is proud to highlight the important role Commerce agencies play in creating jobs and economic opportunities in American communities across the nation. "America's capabilities are limitless and America's workers are unmatched" – President Donald J. Trump President Trump is committed to increasing...
EDA's Revolving Loan Program: Helping Entrepreneurs Achieve the American Dream of Business Ownership
In connection with American Dream Week (July 31 – August 4, 2017), the U.S. Department of Commerce is proud to highlight the important role Commerce agencies play in creating jobs and economic opportunities in American communities across the nation. Obtaining the capital needed to start or grow a business can often be an impediment to entrepreneurs looking to achieve the American Dream of business...
American Dream Week
Inspiring Young Minds to be Innovators and Pursue their Dreams
In connection with American Dream Week (July 31 – August 4, 2017), the U.S. Department of Commerce is proud to highlight the important role Commerce agencies play in creating jobs and economic opportunities in American communities across the nation Blog by Joe Matal, Performing the Functions and Duties of the Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Director of the USPTO At Camp...
Camp Invention
NOAA Corps – A Long History of Service to the Nation
In connection with American Heroes Week (July 24 – 28, 2017), the U.S. Department of Commerce is proud to highlight its own American heroes and the important role Commerce agencies play in serving and protecting American communities. Did you know the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has a corps of commissioned officers, one of the seven uniformed services of the United States...
American Heroes Week


text:
Mystery Loves Company
John Pickett Mysteries, Volume 7
By: Sheri Cobb South
Narrated by: Joel L Froomkin
Series: John Pickett Mysteries, Book 7
4.5 out of 5 stars 4.6 (8 ratings)
Or, Buy for £18.29
Peril by Post
Narrated by: Joel L. Froomkin
The eighth book in the series finds John Pickett bound for England's scenic Lake District, where an unsigned letter has summoned him for an unspecified reason. Pickett and his wife Julia, the former Lady Fieldhurst, take a room at the Hart and Hound as the letter instructs him. Once installed there, however, Pickett can do nothing but wait for the anonymous contact to identify himself. A midnight search of the inn's register seems to identify the innkeeper, Ned Hawkins, as his man, but before Pickett can discover the reason for his summons, Hawkins is pushed from a cliff - surviving the fall only long enough to call Pickett's attention to the letter in his pocket.
By Layla on 15-01-19
Pickpocket's Apprentice
Narrated by: Joel Froomkin
When magistrate Patrick Colquhoun orders a habitual thief and ne'er-do-well transported to Botany Bay, he doesn't realize a 14-year-old boy has been left behind to follow in his father's footsteps - not until young John Pickett is hauled into Bow Street for stealing an apple from the produce market at Covent Garden. Feeling to some extent responsible for the boy, Mr. Colquhoun prevails upon Elias Granger, a prosperous coal merchant, to take him on as an apprentice.
Looking forward to the rest of the series.
By Inishowen Cailin on 06-11-16
Of Paupers and Peers
Narrated by: Stevie Zimmerman
Margaret Darrington is no stranger to genteel poverty herself, since the death of her father has left her in charge of her two younger siblings and feather-brained aunt. But Margaret has a plan: To salvage the family's finances, she has only to put her beautiful younger sister, Amanda, in the way of marrying a wealthy man - perhaps the new Duke of Montford, who is expected to arrive any day.
Another Great story.
The Weaver Takes a Wife
Narrated by: Noah Michael Levine
Haughty Lady Helen Radney is one of London's most beautiful women, and the daughter of a duke, but her sharp tongue has frightened away most of her suitors. When her father gambles away his fortune, the duke's only chance for recouping his losses lies in marrying off Lady Helen to any man wealthy enough to take a bride with nothing to recommend her but a lovely face and an 800-year-old pedigree.
Charming Regency tale with likeable leads
By Spangles on 11-12-16
Cherringham - A Cosy Crime Series Compilation
Cherringham 1-3
By: Matthew Costello, Neil Richards
Narrated by: Neil Dudgeon
Jack's a retired ex-cop from New York, seeking the simple life in Cherringham. Sarah's a Web designer who's moved back to the village find herself. But their lives are anything but quiet as the two team up to solve Cherringham's criminal mysteries. This compilation contains episodes 1 - 3: MURDER ON THAMES, MYSTERY AT THE MANOR and MURDER BY MOONLIGHT.
Really enjoyable easy listening
By C on 06-11-16
Murder at the Fitzwilliam
By: Jim Eldridge
Narrated by: Peter Wickham
After rising to prominence for his role investigating the case of Jack the Ripper, former Detective Inspector Daniel Wilson is now retired. Known for his intelligence, investigative skills, and most of all his discretion, he's often consulted when a case must be solved quickly and quietly. So when a body is found in the Egyptian collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, Wilson is called in.
Great listen
The Christmas Card Crime
By: Martin Edwards
Narrated by: Gordon Griffin, Anne Dover
A Christmas party is punctuated by a gunshot under a policeman's watchful eye. A jewel heist is planned amidst the glitz and glamour of Oxford Street's Christmas shopping. And lost in a snowstorm, a man finds a motive for murder.... This collection of mysteries explores the darker side of the festive season, from unexplained disturbances in the fresh snow to the darkness that lurks beneath the sparkling decorations.
Too slow, stories predictable
By Anonymous User on 29-12-18
Penny Green Series, Book 1
By: Emily Organ
Narrated by: Gabrielle Baker
London, 1883. Actress Lizzie Dixie drowned in the River Thames, so how was she murdered five years later in Highgate Cemetery? Intrepid Fleet Street reporter Penny Green was a friend of Lizzie's, and Scotland Yard needs her help. Does Penny unwittingly hold clues to Lizzie's mysterious death? Penny must work with Inspector James Blakely to investigate the worlds of theater, showmen, and politicians in search of the truth. But who is following her? And who is sending her threatening letters?
Why don't Audible label YA fiction as such
By The Curator on 29-07-18
The Cask
By: Freeman Wills Crofts
Narrated by: Gordon Griffin
The unloading of a consignment of French wine from the steamship Bullfinch is interrupted by a gruesome discovery in a broken cask leaking sawdust and gold sovereigns. But when the shipping clerk returns with the police, the cask and its macabre contents have gone. Following the clues to Paris, Inspector Burnley of Scotland Yard enlists the help of the genial French detective M. Lefarge to check motives and alibis in their hunt for evidence of a particularly fiendish murder.
Refreshing!
By alan hunt on 19-06-19
The Colour of Murder
By: Julian Symons
John Wilkins meets a beautiful, irresistible girl, and his world is turned upside down. Looking at his wife, and thinking of the girl, everything turns red before his eyes - the colour of murder. But did he really commit the heinous crime he was accused of?
A Cruise to Murder
Rachel Prince Mystery Series, Book 1
By: Dawn Brookes
Narrated by: Alex Lee
Meet Rachel Prince, a newly qualified police constable trying to hold it together after being ditched by her fiancé. Rachel's best friend, Sarah, suggests that she needs a break and what better way to relax than a Mediterranean cruise? Sarah works as a nurse on the cruise ship and they plan to enjoy all the luxuries of cruising. At least they would do if Sarah ever got any time away from the medical centre. Rachel makes friends with a bereaved, elderly woman and an attractive Italian but it's not long before she is convinced that something sinister is going on.
Enjoyable read
By Amazon Customer on 03-11-18
An Invitation to Murder
Lady Katherine Regency Mysteries Series, Book 1
By: Leighann Dobbs, Harmony Williams
Narrated by: Beverley A. Crick
Lady Katherine would rather chase clues than suitors. Her reputation as a matchmaker could give her the cover she needs to follow in her detective father's footsteps. If she catches the Pink Ribbon Killer before he strikes again, she'll win her dowry and her independence in the process. One look through the exclusive Northbrooke estate house party doubles her suspect list. With the help of her trusty maid and her precocious pug, Katherine risks it all to unmask the killer. But is winning her freedom worth putting another debutante in mortal danger?
repetitious for those with a very short memory
By Bethan Phillips on 16-07-19
A Brazen Curiosity: A Regency Cozy
Beatrice Hyde-Clare Mysteries, Book 1
By: Lynn Messina
Narrated by: Jill Smith
Twenty-six-year-old Beatrice Hyde-Clare is far too shy to investigate the suspicious death of a fellow guest in the Lake District. A spinster who lives on the sufferance of her relatives, she would certainly not presume to search the rooms of her host's son and his friend looking for evidence. Reared in the twin virtues of deference and docility, she would absolutely never think to question the imperious Duke of Kesgrave about anything, let alone how he chose to represent the incident to the local constable. And yet that's exactly what she does.
A charming, witty, Regency outing
By Kate on 29-12-18
Masked Ball at Broxley Manor
A Royal Spyness Novella
By: Rhys Bowen
Narrated by: Katherine Kellgren
At the end of her first unsuccessful season out in society, Lady Georgiana has all but given up on attracting a suitable man - until she receives an invitation to a masked Halloween ball at Broxley Manor. Georgie is uncertain why she was invited, until she learns that the royal family intends to marry her off to a foreign prince, one reputed to be mad.
By MEM on 13-03-15
Murder at Archly Manor
High Society Lady Detective, Book 1
By: Sara Rosett
Narrated by: Elizabeth Klett
London, 1923. Olive Belgrave needs a job. Despite her aristocratic upbringing, she's penniless. Determined to support herself, she jumps at an unconventional job - looking into the background of her cousin's fiancé, Alfred. Alfred burst into the upper crust world of London's high society, but his answers to questions about his past are decidedly vague. Before Olive can gather more than the basics, a murder occurs at a posh party. Suddenly, every Bright Young Person in attendance is a suspect, and Olive must race to find the culprit.
An American view of Twenties England
By KAshworth on 13-05-19
This Rough Magic
By: Mary Stewart
Narrated by: Helen Johns
The pioneer of romantic suspense, Mary Stewart leads her listeners on a thrilling journey to a Mediterranean island paradise in this tale of mystery, murder and intrigue, perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Barbara Pym. Lucy Waring, a young, out-of-work actress from London, leaps at the chance to visit her sister for a summer on the island paradise of Corfu, and what's more, a famous but reclusive actor is staying in a villa nearby. But Lucy's hopes for rest and romance are shattered when a body washes up on the beach and she finds herself swept up in a chilling chain of events.
Serendipity... as ever was
By Maggie on 12-08-18
Weekend at Thrackley
By: Alan Melville
Jim Henderson is one of six guests summoned by the mysterious Edwin Carson, a collector of precious stones, to a weekend party at his country house, Thrackley. The house is gloomy and forbidding, but the party is warm and hospitable except for the presence of Jacobson, the sinister butler. The other guests are wealthy people draped in jewels; Jim cannot imagine why he belongs in such company. After a weekend of adventure with attempted robbery and a vanishing guest, secrets come to light, and Jim unravels a mystery from his past.
By Charlotte Brown on 28-01-19
Inspector French's Greatest Case
An Inspector French Mystery
Narrated by: Phil Fox
At the offices of the Hatton Garden diamond merchant, Duke and Peabody, the body of old Mr Gething is discovered beside a now empty safe. With multiple suspects, the robbery and murder is clearly the work of a master criminal and requires a master detective to solve it. Meticulous as ever, Inspector Joseph French of Scotland Yard embarks on an investigation that takes him from the streets of London to Holland, France and Spain and finally to a ship bound for South America.
Classic crime tale beautifully narrated
By Matthew Scott on 23-05-17
Returning to London after his honeymoon (For Deader or Worse), Bow Street Runner John Pickett soon discovers wedded bliss is not without its pitfalls, as he finds it galling to be financially dependent on Julia, his aristocratic bride. When he is summoned to the home of Lady Washbourn, Pickett finds he has something in common with the young countess: like himself, Lady Washbourn has married above her station and now finds herself adrift in a world to which she does not truly belong.
After a series of unsettling incidents - dismissed as accidents by Lord Washbourn and his mother, the dowager countess - Lady Washbourn fears her husband is trying to kill her. The couple will be hosting a masquerade ball, and the countess fears the anonymity of masks and costumes may afford Lord Washbourn an opportunity to make another, bolder attempt on her life. Tricked out in fancy dress for the occasion, Pickett feels more than a little foolish, but when one of the housemaids dies shortly after stealing a sip of Lady Washbourn's ratafia, he realizes her ladyship's fears were not unfounded.
Then the coroner's jury returns a verdict of death by natural causes, and Lord Washbourn makes it clear that he considers the matter settled. Pickett stakes his professional reputation on proving the maid was murdered with a poison intended for her mistress. And with a reward of fifty pounds sterling riding on his successful resolution of the case, the marriage Pickett saves just might be his own.
©2018 Sheri Cobb South (P)2018 Sheri Cobb South
The Widows Guild: A Francis Bacon Mystery
Mason Dixon: Monster Hunter
4.5 out of 5 stars 4.6 out of 5.0
Audible.com reviews
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books and me
Loved this one too
Any mystery lovers or Regency Romance lovers should read or listen to this charming series. It is flawlessly and entertainingly read by a very talented actor who gives us a wealth of charts. Miss Cobb South never puts a foot wrong in the language of the time, it is soundly researched. But mostly, this series is just fun. And fun is a fine thing.
choccygrl
Fun historical mystery
I picked this up because I really like the narrator. Plus it's a historical mystery and those really are my cup of tea. I enjoyed the mystery, and even though I'd not read/listened to any of the previous stories I didn't have too much problems with picking up the relationship and the history behind it. But it's Joel L Froomkin's narration that really makes this story for me.
A great series!!!!!!
I loved this one because I don't know who did it. I usually guess the murderer even though I guess for the wrong reason.
All I am saying is that the author plays with words. you think she means one thing when actually she is talking about something else.
I was really surprised who the murderer ended up being. I didn't see it coming.
Also, the two lovebirds have there first fight and there is a surprise towards the end.
The narrator is brilliant I am so glad that he did all the books in the series.
Inishowen Cailin
I love this series.
I love listening to this series and I eagerly await each addition as it is published. The narration is always very good.
John Pickett always seems to find the most intriguing cases to solve. This one was no exception.
I liked that John's new case involved his attending a masked ball. He was out of his element and it was humorous to watch him grapple with social niceties and fashion. I'm hoping to see more of John attending high society events in the future.
His relationship with Lady Julia has its rocky times but they are always outweighed by sweet, romantic moments. You can't help but want good things to happen for the pair of them.
I enjoyed listening to this book very much. I can't wait for the next one.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy provided by the author at my own request.
Norma Miles
With little legal recourse...
John Pickett, proud but relatively impecunious bow street runner when compared with his aristocratic lady wife, Julia, is finding married life deliciously enjoyable but, simultaneously, very hard to accept. Julia wants the change in his situation to reflect her own ideas of proprietary and has the money to fund it. John feels the changes not only undermine his ability to support his wife from his own income but also indicate that he is being forced to give up all of his life for appearances same for fear Julia will think less of him.
Meanwhile, he is asked for help by another who married above their station - a wealthy brewer's daughter, now Lady Washburn, fears that her husband is trying to kill her. Her father's full fortune is now his, following the brewer's death. And her husband's former love before their marriage of convenience is free to marry again.
This delightful series set in a period of manners and class restrictions now mostly left behind, delivers both an enjoyable mystery to solve as well as the ongoing story of Lady Julia and one time street urchin, John, attempting to defy the conventions of the day to be together. Narrated again by Joel Froomkin, the numerous characters further come to life as each is given distinctive voice, be they male or female. His style of reading, too, although initially can seem a little unconventional, somewhat echos the feel of the period and carries the story nicely to the reader.
Mystery Loves Company is an excellent stand alone addition to the John Pickett Mystery series, one which readers of the earlier books will definitely not want to miss, but also a good start point for anyone as yet unfamiliar with the stories. There is also the additional bonus following of a short entitled, Tales Out of School. My thanks to the rights holder who, at my request, freely gifted me a complimentary copy of the book, via Audiobook Boom. This series just keeps getting better.
Avid Audio Listener
Marriage can Mean Murder
This is a masterpiece for Sheri. The writing is, as always, excellent, the humor subtle, and the action enough to keep us excited without wearing out us readers with angst. More so, however, is how Sheri depicts the relationship, the newly married status of John and Julia. Without going into detail, she nicely shows their physical passion for one another, and the passion of their personalities. The conflicts between them are not at all contrived, and the way the two argue is so realistic I found myself cracking up, while hurting for how their pasts hurt them and threaten their love for one another.
I stayed up half the night to finish it, something I do rarely any more. But it was worth the yawns the next day.
Yes, I guessed the villain fairly easily, and in the story, doing so is just not important. On the contrary, I couldn't wait for the moment of revelation.
Can't wait for Book 8. Some interesting days ahead for our protagonists.
Victoria J. Mejia-Gewe
The best one in the series yet
In Mystery Loves Company by Sheri Cobb South, John and Julia Pickett have now been married for two months, and the honeymoon is nearing its end. Bow Street Runner John is starting to feel like a "kept man," with his noble wife, Julia, expecting him to dress up for dinner, wear clothes made to measure, and get his hair cut by her first husband's barber. So when he is asked to help Lady Washbourne, the daughter of a tradesman who married an earl, John feels a connection with her situation. She has had a series of "accidents" that make her worry that her husband is trying to murder her and invites John and Julia to attend an upcoming masquerade ball, so John can keep an eye on things. Julia is thrilled to be invited to a costume ball and makes John wear a costume with a cumbersome sword attached.
But just as the ball seems to be winding down successfully, a maid drinks a glass of peach ratafia left untouched by one of the guests and falls over dead. Though the coroner and his jury declare the death natural causes, John suspects prussic acid, now commonly known as cyanide. He investigates to try to save Lady Washbourne's life but also has a lot to do to save his marriage.
I have listened to all the previous books in the John Pickett series and have enjoyed each one. Mystery Loves Company continues with this pattern of excellence, drawing the readers thoroughly into the plot, so I didn't want to take even the slightest break in my recording. John Pickett proves his gift for detection as he solves this case, despite being the youngest detective among the Bow Street Runners. The details of his research into prussic acid and ratafia, which has an almond taste, become fascinating as John gradually puts the pieces together.
The characters in this book are relatable, and we feel a lot of empathy for their situations. We connect to the conflict between John and Julia over money and lifestyle, as she can't understand why he isn't happy with all the advantages her money can bring, while he wants to be able to provide for his wife and not depend entirely upon her. When they have their big fight, we listeners cringe because we want them to success in their marriage. We also enjoy getting to meet John's former school master, whose actions in teaching John to read changed his life. On the other hand, we also become reunited with John's old master and the man's daughter, John's first love, whom he now recognizes as crass and money- grubbing.
The audio edition of the book is performed by Joel L. Froomkin, one of the top narrators in the current field of audiobooks. He does a great job of creating voices for each character and does a highly believable Scottish accent for Mr. Calhoun, the head of Bow Street. Froomkin's performance makes this book all the more believable and goes a long way towards making us feel thoroughly attached to the book, not wanting to pause it at all.
I highly enjoyed listening to Mystery Loves Company and think this is perhaps the strongest of the books in the series yet. It combines a good mystery plot with highly identifiable characters with whom we really connect. This series has a bit more personal details than most cozy mysteries, but I have never found that to bother me because they are written so well. I really loved this book and give ir five stars.
Disclaimer: I received this book for free for review purposes, but that in no way had any influence on the content of my review.
Excellent plot!
marriage, cozy-mystery, regency, relationships
Two couples with the potential for some major resentments. The client is a young woman with pots of money but not the same class as her husband, and the man from Bow Street is a Runner while his new wife is the widow of a viscount. The client hires the runner because she is afraid that her husband is trying to murder her. The plot has lots of twists and not a few red herrings before coming to a positive conclusion. Quite well done!
Joel Froomkin gives his usual fine performance as narrator.
I requested and received a free audio copy from the author via AudioBookBOOM.
sslarigo
Excellent installment - just keeps getting better
Excellent follow-up to the last book. There is great character development and hints of new characters to further expand the series. I've thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series. I'm anxiously awaiting some movement in the mystery of John Picket's father. I feel certain he will pop in at some point. In any event, I can't wait for the next book!
CuteAsADaisy
Wonderfully entertaining Plot & Characters
I haven't read the other books in this series, but I didn't need to because Sheri gave enough of the backstory to keep me from getting lost. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it kept my attention and I didn't want to put it down. The characters were relatable and the mystery was fun and not too predictable. It was just a very well written mystery that offers more with the side story of the newly married couple.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
"Lord" John and Lady Fieldhurst-Pickett
Sheri Cobb South has written 2 great stories in this book. I love the characters of John Pickett and Lady Fieldhurst (aka Julia Fieldhurst-Pickett) and Mr. Colquhoun. This book deals with marriage and murder. I loved how the killer was revealed and it was a surprise to me. The twists the author writes are so well done. The imagery in the story is so vivid, and the details are perfect. The humor is an added plus. Joel Froomkin performs this book (and series) perfectly. He gives distinguishable voices to the various characters. One can hear who is speaking by just listening to his smooth sigh voice. I requested this review copy audiobook and have voluntarly written this review. I cannot recommend this book and series enough. This is a delightful listen and continuation to the series. I am looking forward to listening to more books by this author and narrator.
Please give me more!
A few months ago I got the opportunity to review For Deader or Worse, the previous book in this series. I have no qualms saying that it was the narrator Joel Froomkin (a.k.a Joel Leslie) that made me pick it up. He's a fabulous narrator and I was curious to know him outside the m/m genre where I'm so used to listening to him. It didn't take long for me to fall in love with these characters, this world, so when there was an opportunity to listen to this book I couldn't request it fast enough.
And I'm so happy I did, I had a wonderful time listening to this book, to visit with Julia and John again. The Bow Street Runner and the Lady.. It does have a nice ring to it if you ask me. Anyway, this time John is asked to look into a series of accidents that might not be accidents. Lady Washbourn is convinced that her husband is trying to kill her. John is far from convinced but promises to look into it. During a masquerade ball hosted by the Washbourns, one of the housemaids dies after taking a sip from a glass meant for lady Washbourn. John is convinced something sinister is going on, but proving it and finding the guilty party is an entirely different matter.
At the same time, things between him and Julia aren't going as smoothly anymore. Sadly the honeymoon is over and now they need to agree and understand each other's differences. Emotions run high, things are said, feelings are hurt and both being proud and stubborn people, they are facing some rough times. I'm not a fan of drama for drama's sake or as a filler to increase word count. But credible drama, drama that fits with the characters and the story, that's something else. And in this case it's the latter. I believe in it, believe in the reactions from both Julia and John. It wasn't overly dramatic, but showed us that the couple don't only have smooth sailings and happy times.
So back to the narration and Joel Froomkin. I'm a fan, a huge one. Froomkin nails each character perfectly and he brings the listener back in time, back to Victorian London. You can see it before you; feel the feelings of the characters. You can't really smell it, but considering the era, I think that's a good thing ;)
Anyway, Froomkin adds emotions to his narration, he is the story and the characters, which for me is the sign of a great narrator and why I keep coming back to his books.
I loved listening to this book and I'm eagerly waiting the next instalment. Something tells me the couple are in for some challenges ahead.
A copy of this audiobook was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Tiasdolls
This Series Keeps Getting Better and Better
This series is so wonderful. I thoroughly enjoy Ms. Cobb South's writing. Her wit is brilliant, her characters are fun, witty and loveable. AND she weaves an awesome mystery that keeps the tale fresh. This particular mystery is about a wife who suspects her husband wants to get rid of her permanently so that he can move on with his first love, who has recently become a widow.
I really appreciate that each book in this series can stand on its own. The listener is given enough backstory that he/she feels up-to-date on previous events and can enjoy the story in full. Of course, the backstory will only make the listener want to backtrack and listen to the story from the beginning. Be warned..this series is addicting!
Which leads me to the narration/performance of Joel Froomkin. Brilliant. I have graduated Mr. Froomkin to the ranks of my all time favorite narrator, Barbara Rosenblat and her Vicky Bliss and Amelia Peabody narrations. He (Mr. Froomkin) is so good! Mr. Froomkin has truly developed this cast of characters and made them 'real' to the listener. I feel like I really know Mr. Colquhoun, Julia and John.
You will laugh out loud and maybe even gasp aloud as you listen to the tale unfold. A thoroughly enjoyable listening experience. It's no wonder the team of (Cobb South and Froomkin) have received Listener Awards.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from the author. I voluntarily created this review and appreciate the opportunity to share this recommendation with others. Thank you.
CONTENTS: no worries (No S,V,L)
Catrina P
A great historical mystery
This is the first book that I've listened to in this series, but I had no trouble getting into it. Sheri Cobb South has written a great story... great plot, character development, and details. I'll certainly be checking out the other books in the series!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
korinka
Delightful mystery, superb narration.
If you love historical romance, the Regency era and cozy detective stories, you need to read John Pickett Mysteries. The plot twist in this one surprised even myself. And Pickett got himself into a tangle in his relationship with Julia again, poor sod. He always does. I don't know what he would do without the sage advice from his magistrate :)
I'm such a fan of Joel Froomkin's narration. Can he please read the telephone directory for me? Or even better, some more Pickett stories? Thanks!