text:
US Employment Data in...
US Employment Data in Focus
In Featured Posts, Forex News, Fundamental Analysis, Popular Posts
Release: Today at 13.30pm BST
US employment figures deliver an unparalleled insight into the condition of the world's largest economy. The report is considered a leading indicator of consumer spending.
Higher-than-expected data typically favours a USD rally.
Weaker-than-expected data tends to weigh, triggering a USD decline.
According to the US Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS), total non-farm payroll employment fell by an eye-popping 20.5 million in April, though slightly bettered the 22 million consensus. The release also highlighted the employment situation in leisure and hospitality plunged 7.7 million, or 47%. And almost three-quarters of the decrease occurred in food services and drinking places (-5.5 million)[1]. This data demonstrates the impact COVID-19 has inflicted on the US economy.
Going forward, the BLS expects to announce an 8 million decline in payrolls for May.
'The good news is I think the recession is over, the COVID-19 recession is over, barring another second wave, a major second wave, or real serious policy errors,' Mark Zandi, the chief economist at Moody's Analytics said to CNBC.
April's unemployment rate increased by 10.3 percentage points from 4.4% to a whopping 14.7%. According to the BLS[2], this is the highest rate and the largest over-the-month increase in the history of the series (began in January 1948). The number of unemployed persons rose by 15.9 million to 23.1 million in April, reflecting the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Market expectations for May is forecast to rocket to 19.8%, from the 14.7% reading in April.
At the beginning of the month, according to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), May's manufacturing PMI registered 43.1, up 1.6 percentage points from the 41.5 April reading. This figure indicates expansion in the overall economy after April's contraction[3].
Represented by way of a diffusion index, ISM noted:
A reading above 50% indicates the non-manufacturing sector economy is generally expanding; below 50% indicates the non-manufacturing sector is generally contracting.
The ISM, on Wednesday, stated non-manufacturing activity increased to 45.5 in the month of May, 3.6 percentage points higher than April's 41.8 reading, the lowest since early 2009. The previous two readings, therefore, represent contraction in the non-manufacturing sector, following a 122-month period of expansion[4].
'Current operations have been reduced to accommodate a slowed economy, but the business is taking time to review operation and implement more efficient processes. Purchasing has slowed for client facing goods/services but has increased for internal operating supplies/services' (Accommodation & Food Services).
The Employment Index increased to 31.8; 1.8 percentage points higher than April's reading of 30. This denotes a slower rate of change, though still advertises contraction, suggesting there's not been much interest in hiring.
ADP Non-Farm Employment Change
The release estimates the number of employed during the prior month, excluding the farming and government industry. ADP is widely considered a forerunner to today's government-released employment data.
Private sector employment decreased by 2,760,000 jobs from April to May, according to the May ADP National Employment Report[5]. The count came in far below the 9 million estimate, indicating the worst may be behind us, providing hope as the country begins re-opening its doors.
'The impact of the COVID-19 crisis continues to weigh on businesses of all sizes', said Ahu Yildirmaz, cohead of the ADP Research Institute. 'While the labour market is still reeling from the effects of the pandemic, job loss likely peaked in April, as many states have begun a phased reopening of businesses'.
University of Michigan Consumer Confidence
The Michigan survey of consumer sentiment is a monthly telephone survey of approximately 500 households.
Consumer confidence, according to the University of Michigan consumer survey index, remains steady in the low 70s after dipping from north of 100.0 in February. This suggests we may be establishing a bottom[6].
US Unemployment Claims
US initial unemployment claims totalled 1.877 million last week, broadly in line with consensus of approximately 1.820 million. While the level of unemployment remains high, jobless claims data suggests we may be over the worst of the COVID-19 job's crisis.
The Department of Labour noted:
In the week ending May 30, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 1,877,000, a decrease of 249,000 from the previous week's revised level. The previous week's level was revised up by 3,000 from 2,123,000 to 2,126,000. The 4-week moving average was 2,284,000, a decrease of 324,750 from the previous week's revised average. The previous week's average was revised up by 750 from 2,608,000 to 2,608,750[7].
'Even as states reopen, claims in the millions are an indicator that the economic pain of the COVID-19 crisis is still acute', Daniel Zhao, senior economist at job placement site Glassdoor, said to CNBC.
FP Markets Technical Outlook
While economic Indicators suggests the rate of deterioration in the economy is perhaps slowing, albeit still at a precarious stage, the technical outlook for the US dollar index, a measure of the buck's value against a basket of six major currencies, offers an interesting perspective.
Recent trade, by way of eight consecutive daily bearish candles, observed price action slice through the lower limit of a bearish pennant configuration (98.27), subsequently taking on the 200-day simple moving average at 98.47 and demand from 98.18/98.65.
Clearance of these areas recently threw light on demand at 96.88/96.60, an area reinforced by a 78.6% Fib ret level nearby at 96.40. Additionally, traders will note the possibility of moves forming as far south as 93.97 over the coming weeks: the bearish pennant take-profit target, measured by taking the preceding move and adding the value to the breakout point (yellow).
According to the technical picture, worse-than-expected data indicates a move through the 78.6% Fib ret level at 96.40. Upbeat data, on the other hand, may see candles recover from current demand and eventually seek a retest scenario at the underside of 98.18/98.65.
Indicator-based traders will also acknowledge the RSI oscillator recently approached oversold territory, after fluctuating around its 50.00 value since the beginning of May.
The information contained in this material is intended for general advice only. It does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs. FP Markets has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information as at the date of publication. FP Markets does not give any warranty or representation as to the material. Examples included in this material are for illustrative purposes only. To the extent permitted by law, FP Markets and its employees shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising in any way (including by way of negligence) from or in connection with any information provided in or omitted from this material. Features of the FP Markets products including applicable fees and charges are outlined in the Product Disclosure Statements available from FP Markets website, www.fpmarkets.com and should be considered before deciding to deal in those products. Derivatives can be risky; losses can exceed your initial payment. FP Markets recommends that you seek independent advice. First Prudential Markets Pty Ltd trading as FP Markets ABN 16 112 600 281, Australian Financial Services License Number 286354.
[1] https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm
[3] https://www.instituteforsupplymanagement.org/ISMReport/MfgROB.cfm?navItemNumber=29317&SSO=1
[4] https://www.instituteforsupplymanagement.org/ISMReport/NonMfgROB.cfm?navItemNumber=29259&SSO=1
[5] https://adpemploymentreport.com/2020/May/NER/docs/ADP-NATIONAL-EMPLOYMENT-REPORT-May2020-Final-Press-Release.pdf
[6] http://www.sca.isr.umich.edu/
[7] https://www.dol.gov/sites/dolgov/files/OPA/newsreleases/ui-claims/20201165.pdf
FP Markets is an Australian regulated broker established in 2005 offering access to CFDs across Forex, Indices, Commodities, Stocks & Cryptocurrencies on consistently tighter spreads in unparalleled trading conditions. FP Markets combines state-of-the-art technology with a huge selection of financial instruments to create a genuine broker destination for all types of traders.
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Global Fundamental Analysis 18/01/2021
Daily Analysis, Fundamental Analysis, Recent Posts
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Can gravitational waves eventually be used by astronomers to probe the interior of a black hole?
Aug 15th: Why Do Supernovae Happen?
What's the balancing act happening inside stars? Why is iron the fusion limit? How long does it take for a star to blow?
The dead star has helped to create new stars, planets and maybe life forms!
There's a false alarm for the brightest supernova. And more update this week. Check it out!


text:
Global transmission line market to exceed $78bn by 2025
The global transmission line market grew from $12.3bn in 2008 to $32.1bn in 2014. During 2020–2025, reflecting in part China's large scale addition of UHT lines, the market size is estimated to soar from $37.6bn in 2020 to $78.1bn in 2025, according to GlobalData , a leading data and analytics company.
By GlobalData Energy
The electricity transmission market is currently undergoing a major change with countries in pursuit of better efficiencies and more suitability for wheeling renewable energy.
The electricity transmission market is currently undergoing a major change with countries in pursuit of better efficiencies and more suitability for wheeling renewable energy. Several countries are upgrading their transmission lines to higher voltages in order to reduce transmission losses. Technological changes and upgrades are also being made to make the transmission systems more stable against the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources. Besides, the advent of net metering for solar homes and coordinated charging of electric vehicles is pushing utilities to align their new infrastructure with the possibility of bi-directional flow of electricity. Increasing renewable power capacity has also increased the need for countries to interconnect their transmission systems in order to balance generation and demand through export and import of electricity. This in turn has pushed the construction of higher capacity interconnection lines.
The global transmission line length has increased steadily during 2007–2017, and is estimated to continue to grow at a similar CAGR during 2018–2025. The following figure and table show the length of transmission lines globally during 2007–2025.
The company's latest report Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Market – Infrastructure, Upcoming Projects, Investments, Key Operators, and Key Country Analysis to 2025 reveals that, China is the global leader in terms of transmission line length in 2017.
Agency applies for Egypt nuclear construction permit
Tozeur Solar PV Park 3, Tunisia
Xikou, China
China and the US are first and second in terms of transmission length, although the US is a distant second with about half the total line length as China. India, however, despite lagging far behind the US in terms of capacity, has a cumulative transmission line length of 579,100Ckm, on a par with that of the US. All other countries among the top 20 had less than 200Ckm of transmission lines each.
Figure 1: Transmission infrastructure, global, top countries by length, 2017
Source: GlobalData Power Database [Accessed on March 16, 2018]
The report also finds that, the distribution line market is also currently witnessing rapid transformation in several countries either in terms of volume or advancement in technology. The combined length of all distribution lines in the world added up to 46,842Ckm in 2007 and increased to 57,813Ckm in 2017, growing at a CAGR of 2.1%. During 2018–2025, it is estimated to grow at a lower CAGR of 0.9% to reach 67,996Ckm in 2025. The following figure and table show the combined distribution network length globally during 2007–2025.
In developing countries, the growth in the market is brought about by the expansion of their respective grids to provide electricity to all parts of the countries. In developed countries where there is universal access to electricity, the growth of the distribution market is in terms of upgradation of these lines with advanced technologies. In the latter, distribution utilities that would previously only connect generation sources to consumption points are now turning into electricity aggregators sourcing electricity not only from large generating stations, but also from distributed sources including homes, and matching it with the demand using technology. It is in these countries that the use of electric vehicles is steadily increasing, and distribution companies are creating new avenues of business by providing the requisite infrastructure along with the existing network.
Figure 2: Distribution infrastructure, global, top countries by length, 2017
Note: China is not included in this figure due to insufficient data.
MGT srl
Industrial Air Filtration Solutions
New Build Europe
19 - 20 March 2013 in Amsterdam, Netherlands
GlobalData Energy
Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Market – Infrastructure, Upcoming Projects, Investments, Key Operators, and Key Country Analysis to 2025
GlobalDataEnergy
Solar PV capacity to witness rapid growth due to coal power phase out in Romania
Auction mechanism will continue to drive renewable power market in Croatia until 2030
Net metering and solar mandates to drive the solar PV market in the Americas
Algeria tenders 1GW solar scheme

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


I'm a bit mystified as to why the indexer settled on chickpeas, green beans, and artichoke hearts in rendering this recipe. Elizabeth David calls for "a mixture of vegetables" and suggests green beans, artichokes, dried haricots, chickpeas, "etc." She also wants you to make your own aïoli. Really, there's no point in this dish with bought mayo -- that's a Midwestern potluck supper, not an aigroissade.
Works well with young leeks in the summer when the tomatoes are good.
This is essentially a highly-flavored bread salad that is put back into the bread. It needs to sit overnight, after which it is delicious. A bit messy to eat but wonderful. Only worth making when local tomatoes are available. The recipe makes more than you need to stuff the baguettes; cut back on the bread. The recipe in my book does not have canned pimentos; I used a green pepper.
Not part of either the ebook nor the 1955 edition.


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Photo credit: American Life League via Flickr, CC BY-NC 2.0)
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." US Constitution, Bill of Rights, Amendment I, first line. There was a time when most Americans could agree that protecting the free exercise of religion was of the utmost importance. Now, the US Commission on Civil Rights is trying to make sure that religious liberty is limited "as narrowly as applicable law requires."
The Commission, chaired by Martin Castro (an appointee of President Obama), found that "[r]eligious exemptions to the protections of civil rights based upon classifications such as race, color, national origin, sex, disability status, sexual orientation, and gender identity, when they are permissible, significantly infringe upon these rights. Although the First Amendment's Free Exercise Clause and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act limit the ability of government actors to impede individuals from practicing their religious beliefs, religious exemptions from non-discrimination laws and policies must be weighed carefully and defined narrowly on a fact-specific basis."
Careful to avoid the words "freedom of worship," the Commission nevertheless attempts to justify amending the First Amendment's interpretation so as to severely limit what is understood as "free exercise [of religion]." For example, page 26 of the Commission's report endorses the view that the First Amendment's free exercise clause protects "beliefs" but not "conduct" and that such a distinction is "fairer and easier to apply" than the law as it stands under RFRA.
The Commission is clear in their malicious intent: all laws must be written to prioritize the protection of other civil rights that supersede freedom of religion. They are, in essence, recommending that the government be the sole voice in deciding how far the practice of religion is protected, across the board. Commission Chairman Castro frames his reasoning by saying, "Our country was founded by those fleeing religious persecution. We must, therefore, always be vigilant to ensure that religion not be used as a pretext to persecute those whose civil rights and civil liberties should be protected." Castro's words here are brilliantly and viciously formulated. He starts with a truth — our forefathers (and mothers) were fleeing religious persecution, in that they were being persecuted for their faith. But he then immediately casts suspicion on that goal by implicitly tying religion to the cause of that persecution. It is this negative view of religion which seems to permeate every aspect of the document.
However, the Commission gives "no coherent reason" for taking this stance, as University of Virginia Law School Professor Douglas Laycock has pointed out. "This report gives no reason for preferring the rights of the same-sex couple, except that a majority of the [commission] chose up sides." In a Washington Times interview, dissenting USCCR member Gail Heriot offered a similar opinion: "I'm troubled by the growing attitude that somehow anti-discrimination laws trump everything. We live in a more complex world than that."
Thankfully, the USCCR is not a governing body, and their recommendations do not have the force of law. When the question arises as to how to balance various Constitutional rights, especially First Amendment rights, there must be a more careful approach taken than the one that the Commission recommends.
Flipping the Narrative: Can Trump Expand His Electoral Map?


Josephine Rosanne Morgan is originally from Santa Rosa CA, and has been teaching Pilates for fourteen years in California and Oregon. A lifelong student of dance and movement, she received a comprehensive certification on Pilates mat and equipment exercises from Ellie Herman Studios in San Francisco in 2006 after completing two years of student teaching. Josie has an inclusive approach to her teaching and believes that Pilates is for everyone. She strives to create an exercise program based on the progressions defined by Joseph Pilates, at the same time taking into consideration the individual's goals, strengths, and weaknesses. She enjoys working with beginners as well as more advanced practitioners.


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Grindr's Chinese owner set to sell social media app for $608 million
Chinese gaming company Beijing Kunlun Tech Co Ltd said on Friday that it has agreed to sell Grindr LLC, a popular gay dating app it acquired in 2016, for about $608.5 million.
The deal comes after a U.S. government panel set a June 2020 deadline to sell the app. The panel, dubbed the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), has not disclosed its concerns about Kunlun's ownership of Grindr.
However, the United States has been increasingly scrutinizing app developers over the safety of personal data they handle, especially if some of it involves U.S. military or intelligence personnel.
Kunlun said it agreed to sell its 98.59% stake in Grindr to San Vicente Acquisition LLC.
Reuters reported earlier on Friday that Kunlun was close to signing a sales deal, citing people familiar with the matter.
One of the investors in the group that is nearing a deal to acquire Grindr is James Lu, a former executive at Chinese search engine giant Baidu, three of the sources said. The identity of the other investors in the consortium could not immediately be learned.
Kunlun is one of China's largest mobile gaming companies. It acquired a majority stake in Grindr in 2016 for $93 million and bought out the remainder of the company in 2018. It did so without submitting the transactions for CFIUS review.
Kunlun's control of Grindr has fueled concerns among privacy advocates in the United States. Democratic U.S. Senators Edward Markey and Richard Blumenthal sent a letter to Grindr in 2018 demanding answers about how the app would protect users' privacy under its Chinese owner.
Reuters reported last year that Kunlun had given some Beijing-based engineers access to the personal information of millions of Americans, including private messages and HIV status.
Source: Reuters 6 March, New York
Reporting: Echo Wang & Chibuike Oguh
Content posted by the team at teiss.


Oleg joined Deloitte in 2003. He has 20 years of tax consulting experience and currently heads the Life Sciences and Healthcare Industry group and the Chinese Services group at Deloitte CIS. Oleg holds a Master degree in economics.


Visit the fortress city of Mystras, with its captivating ruins of churches, libraries and palace.
See the 'Treasury of Atreus' at Mycenae.
Walk around the temple of Zeus, temple of Hera and the famous stadium of Olympia.
Explore the famous sites at Delphi.
The Peloponnesian peninsula is the southernmost part of Greece and home to many of the most famous cities of ancient Hellas, including Mycenae, Corinth and Olympia. This tour visits the crucial sites of the Peloponnese and travels across millennia from Mycenaean times through to the Classical and Roman periods and into the Medieval age.
The Greek landscape, characterised by its mountain chains, gorges and jagged coastline, provides a spectacular backdrop to the history. The tour ends with the quintessential Pan-Hellenic site of Delphi.
For the expertise of Carolyn Perry, as well as the opportunity to travel with like-minded individuals to a region of Greece that offers a fascinating history.
"Carolyn Perry is excellent; well prepared, always smiling and ready to answer questions.", Greece Group tour with Carolyn.
How fit do I need to be to join this tour?
What is the food like in Greece?
Greek cuisine offers a unique blend of Mediterranean flavours, representing a rich historical past.
From baked lamb with yoghurt to fresh vibrant salads - the Greeks live for lunch. The main food in Greece is characterised by the use of spices such as black pepper and Mediterranean herbs such as oregano, mint, basil and rosemary. In the cooking of meat and fish, chilli pepper and garlic is used to good effect. In true Greek style, take lunch at a local's house to try homemade sheep's cheese (feta), made from traditional methods in the mountains and washed down with the local hooch, raki...not for the faint-hearted!
What will the weather be like in Greece in May?
Not excessively hot but the days should be clear and sunny. When travelling in mountainous areas the weather can vary.
On arrival into Athens airport you will be met and transferred to Nafplion. The journey time is approximately one hour 45 minutes.
Nafplion is situated in the east of Peloponnese and was the first capital of the Greek state between 1823 and 1834. The town's history traces back to the prehistoric era, with Frankish, Venetian and Turkish conquerors leaving their mark on the town by influencing the culture and architecture. In the centre of the town, the Italiante Syntagma Square stands, with two Turkish mosques and an archaeological museum that are among the buildings that stand out. A highlight of the town is the Palamidi Castle which stands 216 metres above sea level, with 999 steps to climb, the views are spectacular.
Visit to Tiryns, a good example of a Mycenaean palace, with its impressive Cyclopaean masonry. Then on to Argos, a city that reached the peak of its power in the 5th century BC to see the well preserved agora and theatre cut into the hillside. Continue on to ancient Corinth to see the Doric Temple of Apollo (6th century BC), and the substantial remains of the Roman city. The Apostle Paul is said to have founded the Christian church in the city.
A morning visit to Epidaurus to visit the extensive sanctuary of the healing god Asklepios and the theatre which could seat 14,000 people. Then on to Mycenae to visit this famous site that gives its name to the Mycenaean civilisation and the museum, and the nearby beehive tomb known as the Treasury of Atreus.
Visit Mystras, a fortified town on Mount Taygetos near Sparta. This was a Frankish outpost and later became the Byzantine capital of the Morea in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Pylos is a small town on the South West coast of Greece that has been listed as a 1500-acre archaeological site. Pylos is built amphitheatrically between and on top of two hills, on the southern side of the Navarino bay, which is sheltered from the Ionian Sea by the island of Sphakteria. The modern town of Pylos has a large square featuring an enormous centuries-old tree that is the centre point of the town. Also located in the square are two cannons and a monument to the victorious admirals of the naval Battle of Navarino in 1827.
Morning visit to the picturesquely situated Mycenaean Palace of Nestor at Pylos, mentioned in the Odyssey and where the famous Linear B tablets were discovered. In the afternoon visit Neokastro, one of the best-preserved castles of Greece, built during the Turkish occupation in 1573 to control the western coast of the Peloponnese. The castle overlooks the spectacular Bay of Navarino. Dinner at a local taverna in Gialova.
En route from Pylos to Olympia, visit the extensive ruins of the large classical city-state of Messene refounded by Epaminondas in 369 BC after the battle of Leuctra. The city has an impressive circuit of 4th century BC walls, public buildings including a theatre, stadium, the council chamber and agora.
Olympia is located on the western side of Peloponnese and is a UNESCO world heritage site. The ancient site of Olympia is 500 metres south of the modern town. Olympia was the original site of the ancient Olympic Games that were celebrated every four years by the Greeks, believed to have begun in 776 BC. Originally, it was not a town, but a sanctuary with buildings associated with the games and the worship of gods. There is plenty to see in Olympia, including the temple of Zeus and the archaeological museum of Olympia.
Visit to ancient Olympia, home of the ancient Olympic Games and set in a beautiful location. The site tour will include the palaestra, temple of Zeus, temple of Hera and stadium and the Archaeological Museum and Museum of the Olympic Games.
En route from Olympia to Delphi, pass through Patras City to mainland Greece. The famous oracular city of Apollo of Delphi sits in a spectacular setting beneath Mt Parnassos and gives an idea of the richness of classical Greek culture. The tour will show the treasuries of different city states, the temple of Apollo and the theatre and stadium.
Delphi is located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, approximately two and a half hours away from Athens. Modern Delphi is a pretty village with beautiful scenery, situated immediately west of the archaeological site, which is now a UNESCO world heritage site. Ancient Delphi is one of the most significant historical places in Greece, mostly famous for its Oracle but also the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi theatre.


Portatif,creative,pour un usage domestique. Wireless bluetooth mouse. Thickenes poeira. Windows xp laptop. Steelseris ratos. Mouse wheel for razer deathadder 2013. 12000 dpi. Three gears and the following. Wireless mouse,mouse wireless,led mouse ,3d mouse. 800~3200dpi can be adjusted. Steelseries xai rato. Sport car design. Matériel: Fcc, ce, rohs.
D19065. Jogo do rato hyperx. Band flip, belt optical mouse, belt black screen, with analogue mouse. Internet. Black silver & white silver & black copper. Perixx mouse sem fio. Pc de bolso. Materials and color : Package type: 68*68*26mm.
Desktop, laptop,pc. Sm-8580. 2017/4/20. Csa004000. Mice #2017071013. Chip de aderência. Photoelectricity. S gamerCorrida de rato. Cabos usb retrátil.


text:
Marlene Wagman-Geller
"As far back as I can remember, it was always on my bucket list, even before the term bucket list was coined,
to be a writer. It was a natural progression to want to go from reading books to writing one."
Phenomenal Women
Still I Rise: The Persistence of Phenomenal Women
Published by Mango
Buy from:
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When Nelson Mandela was imprisoned in South Africa's brutal Robben Prison, he tirelessly turned to the poem "Invictus." The inspirational verse by the Victorian William Ernest Henley, penned on the occasion of the amputation of his leg. Still I Rise takes its title from a work by Maya Angelou and it resonates with the same spirit of an unconquerable soul, a woman who is captain of her fate. Just as "Invictus" brought solace to generations so does the contemporary classic. Still I Rise embodies the strength of character of the inspiring women profiled. Each chapter will outline the fall and rise of great women heroes who smashed all obstacles, rather than let all obstacles smash them. The book offers hope to those undergoing their own Sisyphean struggles. Intrepid women heroes are the antithesis of the traditional damsels in distress; rather than waiting for the prince, they took salvation into their own hands.
Celebrate girl power! Women leaders in history celebrated in this book include:
Madame C. J. Walker - first female American millionaire
Aung San Suu Kyi - Burma's first lady of freedom
Betty Shabazz - civil rights activist
Nellie Sachs - Holocaust survivor and Nobel Prize recipient
Selma Lagerlof - first woman Nobel Laureate
Fannie Lou Hamer - American voting rights activist
Bessie Coleman - first African-American female pilot
Wilma Rudolph - first woman to win three gold medals
Sonia Sotomayor - first Hispanic Supreme Court justice
Wangari Maathai - Nobel Prize winner
Winnifred Mandela - freedom fighter
Lois Wilson - founder of Al-Anon
Roxanne Quimby - co-founder of Burt's Bees
Other Books by Marlene Wagman-Geller
Women of Means: The Fascinating Biographies of Royals, Heiresses, Eccentrics and Other Poor Little Rich Girls
Great Second Acts: In Praise of Older Women
Women Who Launch: The Women Who Shattered Glass Ceilings
Unabashed Women: The Fascinating Biographies of Bad Girls, Seductresses, Rebels and One-of-a-Kind Women
Copyright © Marlene Wagman-Geller.
Created with Pub Site


text:
Joint Logistics Node
Various Security Forces & Agencies & Their Mandate
Why in News
The Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has operationalised the third Joint Logistics Node (JLN) in Mumbai.
Other operationalised JLNs are in Guwahati and Port Blair.
Significance of Joint Logistics Nodes:
These JLNs will provide integrated logistics cover to the Armed Forces for their small arms ammunition, rations, fuel, general stores, civil hired transport, aviation clothing, spares and also engineering support in an effort to synergise their operational efforts.
It would accrue advantages in terms of saving of manpower, economical utilisation of resources, besides financial savings.
This is the precursor to the joint logistics command which is being planned and is imperative for the optimisation of the combat potential of integrated theatres.
One of the means to achieve jointness is through the setting up of integrated theatre commands for the best use of military resources to fight future battles.
Integrated Theatre Command:
An integrated theatre command envisages a unified command of the three Services, under a single commander, for geographical theatres (areas) that are of strategic and security concern.
The commander of such a force will be able to bear all resources at his disposal—from the Army, the Indian Air Force, and the Navy—with seamless efficacy.
The integrated theatre commander will not be answerable to individual Services.
Integration and jointness of the three forces will avoid duplication of resources. The resources available under each service will be available to other services too.
The services will get to know one another better, strengthening cohesion in the defence establishment.
The Shekatkar committee has recommended the creation of 3 integrated theatre commands—northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border, and southern for the maritime role.
Present Tri-Services Command:
The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) is a theatre command, which is headed by the chiefs of the three services in rotation.
It was created in 2001 to safeguard India's strategic interests in Southeast Asia and the Strait of Malacca by increasing rapid deployment of military assets in the islands.
The Strategic Forces Command was established in 2006 and is a functional tri-services command. It looks after the delivery and operational control of the country's nuclear assets.
Chief of Defence Staff
He is in the rank of a four-star General with salary and benefits equivalent to a Service Chief.
The retirement age for the CDS is 65 years, which is three years more than the retirement age of the three service chiefs.
The creation of a CDS was suggested by the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) in February 2000.
Role of CDS: Fundamentally, the CDS will perform two roles:
First Role: The CDS will act as the principal military adviser to the defence minister on tri-Services issues.
Second Role: The CDS will lead the Department of Military Affairs (DoMA) dealing with the three services.
Source:TH


We all know that July – thanks to our celebration of the Fourth – starts out with a bang. Add to that the opening of an inspiring new exhibit – Art in the Finger Lakes - at the ARTS CENTER of YATES COUNTY. Plan to ring in this show on Friday, July 13 at a reception featuring artists Michele Izzo and our own Artist of the Year, Caryl Flickinger.
Caryl is well acquainted with the Finger Lake region having raised her family in Big Flats and taught in Corning prior to retiring to Keuka Lake. It is no surprise that ART is a passion having both a degree and teaching it. Today she enjoys expressing her creativity in a number of ways but her primary voice is in two-dimensional expression. She has worked primarily in oil since taking a painting class with artist Qiang Huang. Her paintings have enhanced the gallery in Penn Yan for several years and continue to blossom in their vibrancy and perpetually fresh eye. While she leads a busy life as a mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother, she still carves out the time to nourish her "first" love. It is no surprise that Caryl is recognized by the Board of the Arts Center as our 2018 ARTIST of the YEAR.
Michele Izzo brings her watercolors to us from her home in the Hudson Valley. Having studied at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and privately with renowned artists, Edgar A Whitney and Frank Webb, she began her career as a graphic designer eventually opening her own firm in 1991. As a painter, she is the recipient of numerous awards and has served as a signature member of the American Watercolor Society since 1992 and as Awards Chairman for the same since 1998. Her work has traveled in a number of national and international exhibits. It is a privilege to include Michele's work in the upcoming July exhibit.
We look forward to seeing you at the Arts Center for refreshments on Friday evening and in the days/weeks to follow.


Au Vieil Acacia French Vintage Advertising Printed Handmade Wood Sign is the perfect added touch to your décor. This sign measures approximately 10 inches wide x 5 inches tall. The sign is created with a high quality digital image that is printed with archival quality ink onto a pine wood plaque. It may be hung on the wall with its hand tied jute cord or leaned against the wall/existing décor for added rustic appeal.
Each item is hand made here in our Central Texas shop so please expect 3-5 business days before shipping.


What is it like to be an attentive journalist? Ask a person who noticed a previously unseen photo of Meghan and Harry in the Queen's sitting room. The small image of the newlywed stands near the other family photos on the foreground.
When the world first began talking about the marriage between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, everybody anticipated one particular thing more than the others: what would be the Queen's reaction? In her official consent, published on March 14, Elizabeth approved her grandson's choice.
During her addressing to Harry's bride, she opted for another reference: "Rachel Meghan Markle." What is it? Secret preference of William's wife more than Harry's?
Luckily, no. During the recent visit to the Queen's sitting room, the photographer managed to snap Elizabeth's coffee table with the royal family members' images.
Surprisingly, the eagled-eye journalists saw something nobody had ever seen before. A previously unknown picture of the newlywed was embellishing a small table.
That is unbelievably cute! Less than six weeks ago, that place was occupied with another photo – an image of Princess Anne.
The Queen is a unique person who knows how to surprise the public. One day, it seems she prefers one woman to another. The next day, she suddenly rolls out the photo of a previously supposed less beloved woman.
Well done, Elizabeth, well done!


Barossa Valley is gearing up to host thousands of visitors for a weekend of intimate tastings, unique dining experiences, masterclasses, workshops, long lunches, garden parties and feasts of fresh produce.
In 2018, the Barossa Gourmet Weekend features 32 events, including a cooking demonstration and lunch presented by Jock Zonfrillo, the owner/chef of award-winning Restaurant Orana, at the Yalumba Cooperage.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment David Ridgway said unique food and wine experiences are one of the main motivators attracting people to South Australia.
"Regional events help draw attention to the people, the produce and the places that are behind our internationally-acclaimed food and wine credentials." Minister Ridgway said.
Regional tourism is big business, generating 40 % of the state's total visitor expenditure and injecting $193 Million into the Barossa alone.
"We're supporting the event through our Regional Events and Festivals Program, a scheme that provides financial assistance towards marketing and PR for events that promote South Australia as a tourism destination." Minister Ridgway said.
"Barossa has something for everyone and some of the country's most historic and revered wine, and we want everyone to experience it for themselves." Minister Ridgway said.
South Australian Tourism Commission, Chief Executive, Rodney Harrex said the Barossa Gourmet Weekend program is set to attract up to 15,000 visitors to the region and that's great news for the wineries and restaurants, and for local accommodation services, with booking regularly reaching around 80 % capacity over the course of the event.
"Festival has been hugely successful and consequently this year has transformed into a quarterly seasonal celebration. It's a great example of how events can drive visitation and put more tourism dollars into our local towns." Mr. Harrex said.
Barossa Gourmet Weekend will be held Friday 31 August until Sunday 2 September.


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Košarkaški klub Borovica, commonly referred to as KK Borovica Ruma, was a men's professional basketball club based in Ruma, Serbia, FR Yugoslavia.

History
The most successful years were from 1994 to 1998, under the name KK Borovica. Borovica finished the 1994–95 YUBA League season as a runner-up, lost the Play-off Finals from Partizan. The club also played the FIBA Korać Cup in the 1995–96 season.

Coaches

  Zvezdan Mitrović (1993–1994)
  Zlatan Tomić (1994)
  Željko Lukajić (1994–1995)
  Janko Lukovski (1995–1996)
  Nikola Lazić (1997–1998)
  Zlatan Tomić (1998)

Notable players

  Zoran Sretenović (1994–1995, 1996–1997)
  Mileta Lisica (1994–1995)
  Vladimir Dragutinović (1994–1996)
  Zoran Milović (1996–1998)
  Slobodan Agoč (1997–1998)

International record

References

External links
Profile at eurobasket.com

Defunct basketball teams in Serbia
Basketball teams in Yugoslavia
Basketball teams disestablished in 1999
1999 disestablishments in Serbia
Ruma

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The biggest event in the ladies snooker calendar, the Women's World Championships took place this week at the Dolmen Hotel, Malta.
The event is staged as part of the inaugural World Snooker Federation Championships, which also consists of the WSF Championship and the WSF Seniors Championship.
The WLBS Women's Championship runs alongside the WSF Seniors Championship, with the WSF Championship taking place this week.
The winner of the WLBS World Women's Championship received €6,000 and will qualify to enter the 2018 World Snooker Championship, so lots to play for!
The draw was released a few days before the event, and I knew I had a tough group that would likely entail close matches. I was expecting to be 6th seed in the group stages however a decision to seed 7x IBSF World Women's Champion Wendy Jans of Belgium into the groups meant I was disappointingly not a seeded player. My group comprised Wendy Jans, Hong Kong's Jaique Ip Wan In, and Polish player Ewelina Pislewska.
My first match was against Jaique and having played Jaique a number of times before I knew it was likely to be a close affair. The match was played on the main 'TV' table, with full camera set up providing internet live stream and broadcast to a Malta channel, my first time playing with cameras so an interesting experience, it took a while to make sure I didn't keep standing in front of the cameras! I also found out after there was a Maltese commentator, I would be interested to know what was being said about certain shots!
I started off positively and took the first 2 frames. I tried to keep the next frame tight with the winning line in sight but unfortunately a few easy misses at crucial times cost me, with Jaique capitalising, 2-1.
The fourth frame went to a tense finish. After potting a straight forward blue I had a mid range pink that I'd struggle to hold for the black that was on the cushion near the green pocket. I potted a good pink but left myself a difficult cut on the black, cueing off the cushion. The temptation of being one pot away from victory, and no 100% gauranteed safety meant I had to go for it. Missed - luckily it ran safe but gave Jaique the upper hand on the safety.
Struggling to adjust to the speed of Star tables, I overhit a safety shot by 2 foot leaving the black over the bottom corner and the white near the middle pocket, 2-2. I still felt confident of a win in the decider however a well constructed 50 break by Jaique off a fluked red saw me on the back foot. I had a chance at 65 down with 67 on, but a jawed red into the middle saw Jaique clinch victory.
I knew I had to at least win my next 2 matches to qualify through the groups. Despite never really getting into my stride, a fairly comfortable 3-1 win over Ewelina Pislewska gave me a bit of confidence and I was up for the challenge against Wendy Jans.
Again, a confident start against Wendy saw me take the first frame on the blue. I took my chances in the second and kept it tight, and could see the frustration creeping into my opponent. A mid range cut back on the pink put me 2-0 in front.
Again, with the winning line in sight I wanted to keep the next frame tight, however Wendy found her stride and constructed a superb 110 clearance, 2-1.
The fourth frame was close, and a tricky long pot on the blue would see me take a 3-1 victory. I cued it well and thought it was in - unfortunately it hit the jaws and Wendy took the frame on the pink, 2-2. The decider saw a few missed pressure pots as both of us saw the winning line. I needed green, brown and blue on the colours to secure victory. A mishit safety gave Wendy a long pot on the green and she cleared to win the match.
I finished 3rd in the group which was very disappointing knowing I was 2 balls away from topping the group, slim margins in this game! But I can take the positives - I competed well against Wendy who was one of the tournament favourites and was 1 ball away from victory. Knowing I can compete against the best will give me confidence for the next tournament, the Festival of Women's Snooker in Leeds next month, comprising 6 reds, 10 reds and doubles tournaments. I had some good results in Leeds last season so hope to finish a mediocre season off with some good results!
Would like to thank Billiards Boutique for the support in Malta and this season!


A Guardianship is a court-approved arrangement in which an individual is appointed to manage the financial and personal affairs of another person who is unable to make their own decisions, either because they are a minor, or because they are medically, mentally, or otherwise incapacitated. Guardianship is a last resort, and courts prefer the use of a Durable Power of Attorney, or other less restrictive alternatives to Guardianship where possible. You'll need to consider a lot of things before picking your estate planning attorney, It's not something you do haphazardly.
What is the difference between a Guardian of the Person and a Guardian of the Estate?
While the Guardian of the Person and the Guardian of the Estate may, but are not required to, be the same person, the roles are different. The Guardian of the Person is responsible for all decisions relating to the healthcare and personal matters of an incapacitated person. The Guardian of the Estate, on the other hand, is responsible for all decisions relating to the management of an incapacitated individual's financial affairs, such as paying their bills.
What type of person needs a Guardian?
The purpose of a guardianship is to protect the rights, interests, and health of those who are unable to manage their own personal and/or financial affairs, including children under the age of 18. But this doesn't mean that guardianship is always appropriate. Just because your grandmother sometimes forgets where she left her keys doesn't mean she needs a Guardian. Guardianship is a last resort, and other, less restrictive methods should always be considered first.
Why can't someone with Dementia sign a Power of Attorney instead of getting a Guardian?
In order for an individual to sign over their Power of Attorney to another individual, they must be legally competent. If that individual suffers from Dimentia, or another illness affecting their mental capacity, they may not be legally competent to sign a Power of Attorney, and a Guardianship will be the only legal remedy.
What if someone needs a Guardian but doesn't want one?
If the courts appoint a guardian, but the person in need does not want a guardian, they have the legal right to object, to hire an independent attorney of their choice, and to obtain an independent medical examination to prove their mental competence. In the case of an objection, a hearing will take place to determine whether a guardian is really necessary.
Can I become a Guardian?
A Guardian ad Litem is appointed when a request is made for a guardianship. The Guardian ad Litem investigates the request—they speak with the alledged incapacitated person (AIP) as well as the person who filed the request, obtain a medical report on the AIP, and file their findings with the court within 45 days. The Guardian ad Litem's findings accompany a recommendation stating (1) whether the person is incapacitated and needs a Guardian, and (2) if they do need a Guardian, who should be the Guardian.
Is a Professional Guardianship service required?
No. Although there are many good Professional Guardianship services available, any eligible person may make a request for a guardian to be appointed, or request to be appointed as a guardian. However, guardianship can often be a full-time job, and in some cases, too much for family members to handle. Professional guardianship services provide expertise and can be of great benefit to an incapacitated person, and their family members.
How long will it take to get a Guardian?
The initial Guardianship process usually takes about 60 days.
How much will it cost to start a Guardianship?
Each case is different, and because the guardianship process is so involved, there is no set fee. Although establishing a guardianship does incur fees, the ultimate result will be the preservation of the incapcitated person's personal rights and finances.


This short loop features views of the Flatirons, as you pass by meadows and pines.
From the parking lot, take South Flatiron Vista Trail for 2.4 miles, where you'll cross onto North Flatiron Vista Trail. In 1 mile, take the connector trail back to the trailhead. To shorten the loop to 2 miles, hike South Flatiron for just 1 mile to Prairie Vista Trail, which leads back to the connector in another mile.
This hike was absolutely gorgeous! There were already some wildflowers which made everything that much prettier. It's a huge open space so the dogs had a blast as well. Super easy and close to Denver so it made a perfect quick morning hike.
Definitely agree with a previous reviewer-- veer to the right at the entrance for those mountain views! There are a number of trail options and lengths, definitely check the maps! A fairly easy hike, good for beginners and children.
Parking lot available. Parking is $5 - cash only. However if your vehicle is registered in Boulder county then it is free. Once you enter through the gates, I suggest veering towards the right to capture the mountain views. We started on the left side and our backs were to the mountains when we did the loop. It is not steep - fairly flat. Lots of bikers and walkers. Beautiful view.


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Kelly Wright
Fox News Anchor & Recording Artist, Kelly Wright, Releases 'Songs of Inspiration'
A familiar face to millions of Fox News viewers, Kelly Wright has been reporting on news events across the globe for over three decades. As a singer, he has had the opportunity to share the stage with legendary talents and present his music to audiences across the country. Daywind Records is proud to partner with Kelly Wright to release his first new project in over five years, entitled Songs of Inspiration.


I've got a LH drive 460 with a carburettered B18K engine. On the bulkhead next to the cylindrical vapour separator is a large rubber grommet with a plastic cylindrical thing set in it. The grommet also takes the screen washer pipe through one side.
The only problem is that in an earlier photograph I have, this plastic cylindrical thing has a pipe on it which disappears off under the air filter casing toward the carb. Now, after having some work done on the motor this pipe is missing and there's no recollection of how it was plumbed in. The haynes guide refers to this item as a vacuum accumulator whilst The Volvo part description for this is a "cold start device", part number VO3446535.
Does anybody know where this thing connects on to the engine. I'm having hot running problems which I think are related to a vacuum leak and this missing pipe may be contributing.
Take a good look at the carb and you should find a metal stub pipe with nothing attached to it. This is where the vacuum pipe goes. You may need to remove the air filter to get a better look.
I'm sorry I can't be more precise on the location of the stub pipe but my pictures don't actually show it.


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Read any CE article on Lippincott NursingCenter for FREE by being a registered member. Membership is free and comes with many benefits!
CIN: Computers, Informatics...
Scanning for Safety: An Int...
Scanning for Safety: An Integrated Approach to Improved Bar-Code Medication Administration
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CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing
March 2011, Volume 29 Number 3 , p 157 - 164
Earn 2 Contact Hours
This article has an associated Continuing Education component.
Cost for CE: $21.95.
Expires March 05, 2021. Go to CE Details
Bar code, BCMA, Medication administration, Medication safety, Scanning compliance
EARLY, CYNDE BSN, RN
RIHA, CHRIS MS, CCE
MARTIN, JENNIFER MSN, RN
LOWDON, KAREN W. RPh, MSHA, FACHE
HARVEY, ELLEN M. MN, RN, CCRN, CNS
This is a review of lessons learned in the postimplementation evaluation of a bar-code medication administration technology implemented at a major tertiary-care hospital in 2001. In 2006, with a bar-code medication administration scan compliance rate of 82%, a near-miss sentinel event prompted review of this technology as part of an institutional recommitment to a "culture of safety." Multifaceted problems with bar-code medication administration created an environment of circumventing safeguards as demonstrated by an increase in manual overrides to ensure timely medication administration. A multiprofessional team composed of nursing, pharmacy, human resources, quality, and technical services formalized. Each step in the bar-code medication administration process was reviewed. Technology, process, and educational solutions were identified and implemented systematically. Overall compliance with bar-code medication administration rose from 82% to 97%, which resulted in a calculated cost avoidance of more than $2.8 million during this time frame of the project.
Despite the significant attention drawn to the problem of patient safety and medical errors, 10 years after the IOM report,1To Err Is Human,2 medical errors continue to occur at alarming rates.3,4 Of importance is the safe administration of medication, a fundamental healthcare process, which is essential to prevent morbidity, mortality, and excessive cost for hospitalized patients.5-7 Coupled with the integration of new medical technologies in the hospital setting, the medication delivery process is more complex and error prone each day.8,9
After more than a decade of research in a variety of settings and using a number of different methodologies, it is clear that healthcare has not embraced a systems approach to this fundamental healthcare process.3,5,6,10-13 The following three common themes emerge from a synthesis of these studies:
1. Medication errors still occur with amazing frequency, despite the attention drawn to the problem.10-13
2. Most medication errors are preventable.3,6,10,11
3. Hospitals represent a setting where significant risks for medication errors exist and thus where mitigation activities should be prioritized since the patients are often receiving multiple medications, thus creating more opportunities for adverse occurrences to occur.5,8,14
While medication errors can occur through the medication administration process,10,15 prescribing and administration account for nearly 80% of the errors.15 Healthcare technologies aimed at different components of the medication delivery process represent an important opportunity to prevent adverse drug events.16,17
A variety of studies have evaluated the impact of both computerized provider order entry (CPOE) on the prevention of prescribing errors7,18,19 and bar-code medication administration (BCMA) technology.20-29 Diffusion of these technologies into the healthcare setting is growing; however, as recently as 2008, less than 25% of healthcare institutions have fully adopted these evidence-based practices.30-32
With each technological intervention, clinical processes are altered, and providers become inundated with changes that inhibit their ability to accomplish care for their patient if a "systems view" is not taken.22,23,33-40 Without consistent medication delivery processes, technology has the potential to reduce human vigilance and increase the capacity for error.33,34,41-47 At our facility, technology within the context of inconsistent process resulted in a near-miss sentinel event involving a preventable bar-code scanning error.
The specific aim of our BCMA performance improvement project was to reenergize an institutional commitment to a "culture of safety," through a renewed multiprofessional commitment to safe medication administration practices. The primary project objective was to evaluate, using a systems approach, process improvements in utilization of a BCMA system. Our multidisciplinary team sought to promote a culture of safety and identify the impact on medication error prevention, morbidity, mortality, and cost savings for hospitalized patients.
The project was begun after a root-cause analysis of a near-miss event highlighted the extent of overrides of the safety features of our BCMA system. Recognition was given that this practice was not unique to the individual involved and, in fact, was common practice among those who administer medications. Based on this knowledge, we deemed it an ethical priority to identify systemwide solutions. Overrides have a multitude of causes including technology problems and human "workaround." This project focused on identifying the multitude of reasons why medications were overridden, correction of these issues, and changing the culture to see overrides as unacceptable. The initiative was designated as a quality improvement project by the facility institutional review board.
This facility is a not-for-profit, integrated healthcare system composed of seven hospitals that range in size from a 30-bed critical-access hospital to an academic medical center. At the time of this project, the adult acute-care facility housed 628 licensed beds. There were 27 adult inpatient nursing care units using a BCMA with more than 800 licensed providers administering medications to the inpatient population via this software system. The emergency department and surgical care areas including preoperative and postoperative care did not use the BCMA system.
The Siemens Medical System (Malvern, PA) pharmacy system was the system used within the facility during the project period. It is integrated with the Siemens Medication Administration Check (MAK) system. These systems require nursing personnel to scan their employee identification (ID) bar code to identify themselves, along with the patient's bar-code ID from a wrist band to positively identify the patient. After identifying the provider administering the medication and the patient, nursing personnel would then scan the bar code on the medication to correctly identify the drug. This information is captured in the MAK system, and, coupled with the time on the server, provides the data points for a computer analysis to ensure that the correct medication is administered to the correct patient, in the correct dosage, using the approved method of administration, at the correct time. Additionally, the MAK system provides an electronic log for this information. The bar-code scanners used were initially the Welch Allyn (Skaneateles Falls, NY) model 3870s. These were later replaced with the Honeywell Products (Skaneateles Falls, NY) Handheld 4600 and 4800 series bar-code scanners as it was discovered that the older Welch Allyn devices were unable to read the newer bar codes.
Planning/Intervention
A multiprofessional team composed of nursing, pharmacy, human resources, quality management, and technology services (TSG) formalized to evaluate medication overrides and address concerns. All inpatient care units at the adult acute-care facility using BCMA were included. The evaluation began at the facility level and extended to both the departmental and individual user level. An override was defined as an error message displayed as a result of the system's inability to read a bar code or the bar code reading wrong medication, dose, and/or route; the message alerts the provider, but the provider administers the medication despite the warning. The team developed a plan focused on three major areas: products, technology, and education to address areas of vulnerabilities. The plan was implemented systematically in stages with measures of effectiveness.
Key leadership teams were brought on board to implement this cultural change. Strong executive senior leadership support was central to the success of the project. To facilitate engagement in the necessary culture change, vital information regarding the current culture and the singular event that precipitated need for change was discussed at pertinent management and staff levels. Information specifically included were facility override history data, cost of adverse events, literature related to best practice, and solution necessary to ensure patient safety.
The medication process was reviewed step-by-step with solutions identified. A detailed review of documented medication override reasons with rationales was completed. Across the facility, a number of reasons for overrides were identified. These included equipment problems, internal process problems, human factors, and non-bar-code issues. The assessment of override reasons was completed by reviewing a 1-week sample of data each month for 3 consecutive months.
A total of 26 675 medication overrides documented were reviewed. The overrides were analyzed based on the reason provided by the nurse, type of medication, and if it required a pharmacy produced label (Figure 1). This detailed analysis revealed that the process for insulin administration required an override and produced 13% of the total overrides reviewed. Medications with a pharmacy-produced, patient-specific label comprised 26% of the overrides. Non-bar-code-related overrides accounted for 20% and were due to such reasons as nursing message (defined as a message sent from pharmacy to nursing through the MAK system), system downtime, and medications at the bedside, as well as a patient's own medications. The largest number of overrides (41%) was found to be related to either equipment or personnel, that is, "human factors."
FIGURE 1. Comparison of monthly overrides-before and after solutions.
Equipment problems included aging scanners, new types of bar codes that the systems were unable to read, changes to manufacturer bar codes, and patient label issues. Internal process problems related to specific medication packaging and labeling issues. The human factors included issues such as simple noncompliance and multiple bar codes on medication packages.
Feedback from nursing bedside staff reported a perception that large numbers of medications would not scan. This contributed to the practice of overrides being an everyday occurrence and part of the accepted norm. As a simple feedback measure to facilitate pharmacy follow-up on bar-code problems, containers were placed in key locations, in medication rooms, next to the automated drug-dispensing stations, to collect medication labels with scanning problems. In addition to medication labels supplied by nursing units, pharmacy reviewed data for high override drugs and developed resolutions for specific medications and products. A trend of problems with labels produced in the pharmacy was corrected by the purchase and installation of new thermal label printers.
While communication and education progressed, analysis of processes and data continued. Override reports were evaluated to identify trends and problematic drugs. The cross-reference file in the pharmacy information system was reviewed to ensure that the correct bar codes for drugs on the reports were properly identified.
Pharmacy also reviewed all electronic Rx messages sent by nursing when a staff member identified a medication scanning issue. Additionally, the pharmacy staff reviewed each identified drug in the cross-reference file and provided follow-up with nursing as needed. Pharmacy reviewed the data pertaining to specific medication bar codes that could not be read by the scanners and took appropriate action to produce a readable bar code. When an issue with a manufacturer's bar code on the package was identified, a facility-produced bar code was applied by pharmacy to each dose before sending to the nursing units. Pharmacy then notified the manufacturer of the identified issue, and resolution was requested. If pharmacy could not identify the cause of the scanning issues for medications identified by these electronic reports, they contacted TSG for further assistance in testing bar codes and scanners.
Insulin was found to be an outlier in override volume. A decision was made to convert to insulin pens to enable patient-specific labeling to occur on product distribution. A trial was performed on a variety of pens prior to final product selection. Insulin administration changes were made to include use of insulin pens.
Two major equipment issues were identified: (1) there were connectivity issues with the wireless computer network, which was corrected with the implementation of an upgrade to the wireless network; and (2) bar-code quality was found to be a contributor to inability to scan medications, which was corrected by implementation of new bar-code scanners and installation of new bar-code printers.
A wireless network upgrade was completed during the course of the project to improve mobile computer reliability. Outdated wireless scanners were found to contribute to scanning problems due to multiple steps required to correct scans at the bedside, which was resolved by TSG and nursing evaluating and selecting a new type of bar-code scanner. The vast majority of the new bar-code scanners used tethered scanners because of increased reliability; this in turn excluded some ICUs because of safety risks associated with tether lengths and ICU room configuration issues with stationary BCMA.
After equipment/product solutions were implemented, the process for medication overrides was reviewed and revised. The original list of rationales for overrides included more than 20 options. Rationales for acceptable override reasons were redefined into the following four simple categories:
* computer system downtime,
* patient not in the unit where BCMA was available,
* emergent event, and
* nursing message sent from pharmacy.
An algorithm of the revised process was outlined and distributed (Figure 2). In addition to the new classifications for overrides, a requirement was set that all overrides that did not meet one of the four acceptable reasons now required a second licensed verification of correct drug. The facility policy and procedure for BCMA were revised to reflect these changes.
FIGURE 2. Override algorithm.
Medication and bar-code scanner problem-solving quick reference cards were placed with all wireless carts or wired bedside devices used for medication administration. Data were captured electronically through the BCMA system by examining the "five rights" of medication administration: right patient, right drug, right dose, right time, and right route. Additional variables were reviewed: unit of occurrence, medication (dose, route, and administration time) and staff member involved, patient, and override reasons.
More than 800 individual providers received initial education overview and later specific details explaining operational change. Educational programming included mandatory Web-based education followed by regular updates on project outcomes. In addition, the central nursing BCMA orientation program was evaluated and found to emphasize override steps because of inability to accurately simulate BCMA processes. Retired scanners were used to implement a simulated experience characteristic of the actual BCMA process along with development of a competency-based guideline for orientation of new nursing staff at the unit level.
Individual providers changed practices to troubleshoot scanning problems in a systematic process to ensure that all possible attempts to correct the problem had failed. They also completed additional education and received direct feedback from management related to their patterns with overrides in addition to corrective action when appropriate. Lastly, individuals changed their practice patterns with implementation and surveillance of second licensed verification for all overrides.
Data were initially extracted and reviewed weekly after the implementation of the thermal printers in November 2006. Specific data points were extracted after the deployment of new tethered scanners in March 2007 as well as the implementation of changes to the "acceptable" override list in April 2007.
Each unit's compliance was individually calculated as a percentage and then aggregated into a total compliance rate for the facility. In addition, aggregate totals were compared with the previous fiscal year's data as a measure of overall improvement.
These data points were analyzed to determine the impact of these individual changes on overall compliance. The impact of sequential system changes is demonstrated in Figure 3. Beginning in May 2007, data were reviewed monthly. Individual units' compliance was reviewed in an effort to determine process differences between units and the educational needs of the staff.
FIGURE 3. Systematic implementation.
HOSPITAL-LEVEL ANALYSIS
Based on the solutions determined, it was projected that the facility could reduce overrides to 9000 per month (Figure 1). The overrides not eliminated would consist of non-bar-code-related overrides (emergent administrations, patient off unit, nursing message, and downtimes).
Postintervention data indeed showed a significant decrease from 43 852 overrides in October 2006 to 9239 in April 2007 as projected. The non-bar-code-related overrides reduced from 8101 to 1577. Data showed that nursing message consisted of 719 overrides, down from 899. There continued to be overrides related to insulin administration, with a total of 637, initially 5851. Equipment and people included an additional breakdown of these overrides. It included second licensed staff verification, intravenous (IV) medications, and miscellaneous for overrides with reasons provided that did not identify the specific requirement for override (Figure 1).
The single, most significant improvement was noted after mandatory education and the implementation of a thermal label printer, showing a reduction in overrides of 17 068 (6.7%). Upgrading the wireless system, implementing new bar-code scanners, and requiring a second verification for all nonemergent overrides, each had a noted improvement in compliance of less than 0.8% (168-2464). Significant improvements were noted with implementing insulin pens with a bar code, new label printer, and mandatory staff education, each showing improvement greater than 2% (4500-17 068).
Overall, the average daily census (ADC) during the study period was 438.9 +/- 17.0 (range, 442-459). The ADC increased during the course of the study by 1.3%. There was a corresponding increase in the number of licensed staff from 794 to 813 (2.4%). The mean number of doses charted per month was 263 377 +/- 11 639 (range, 249 223-263 781). The scanning compliance improved during the course of the study from 83.7% to 96.6%. The total number of drug overrides during the study period was 145 192, with a mean of 20 742 +/- 13 534. During the study period, there was asignificant reduction in the number of drug overrides per month from 43 852 to 9239. As a result, the number of avoided errors increased from 733 to 1054 (43%), resulting in a corresponding increase in avoided errors per 1000 doses dispensed from 3 to 4.
UNIT-LEVEL ANALYSIS
Data were collected and analyzed at the unit level in both the preintervention (October 2006) and postintervention (April 2007) time frames. Of importance, there were no significant differences in the doses charted, licensed staff, or ADC on any of the unit types. There were statistically significant differences in the number of drug overrides and avoided errors. In addition, the number of avoided errors per 1000 doses was also significantly different by unit type. Each unit showed significant improvement in medication override compliance; the average compliance rate rose from 83.7% to 96.5%. Units ranged from 93% to 99% compliance at the end of the period evaluated.
In October 2006, an intensive review of medication overrides demonstrated considerable variability in the units' override compliance from 73.8% to 94.9%. With an average of 77.4% compliance, ICUs consistently had the lowest compliance. Those units with the highest compliance were rehabilitation and psychiatric, with an average compliance rate of 92.5%. The units with the highest compliancerates had limited IV medications such as large-volume continuous infusions and IV piggybacks such as antibiotics, as well as limited medications that were labeled by pharmacy.
This noted the significance of the safety features associated with the BCMA system. It still left a large number of medications that did not have the full safety features of the system because of overriding a medication bar code. A further evaluation of why the facility had a number of medication overrides was completed.
PROVIDER-LEVEL ANALYSIS
Provider-level analysis in the postintervention time frame was collected. Provider detail indicated that it was often one staff person on a unit who was responsible for a statistically significant number of overrides for the individual unit. A total of 15 staff (1.8%) were responsible for 1559 overrides (16.9%). The ICUs showed an average of 79 medication overrides (20%) by an individual provider; medical-surgical areas showed an average of 69 (16%); progressive care units showed an average of 53 (15%), and other units showed 12 (23%). A total of 329 providers (40%), range by unit type 25 to 116, were responsible for 7398 overrides (80%). The additional 1849 overrides were completed by 60% of licensed staff.
A study48 performed in Utah in 1997 estimated that medication errors accounted for an attributable mortality of 2.43 deaths per 100 hospital admissions. Another study found that medication errors contributed to increased length of stay (LOS) by 4.6 days with an associated total cost average of $5857 after adjusting for comorbidities and case mix.49 Bates'49 data, cost adjusted for inflation, total $8912 per preventable ADE in 2006 dollars. Extrapolating from these studies, based on the findings at our facility of 321 additional avoided errors, additional avoided errors statistically account for an overall decrease in LOS of 1476.6 days and a cost avoidance of $2 860 752 during the several months of this study.
While medication overrides were the focus of the solutions implemented, there was a noted improvement in patient overrides from 1512 to 427, a 79% reduction. Patient override was defined as the improper scanning of a patient identifier (eg, patient label on a form) other than a patient's scanned attached armband as required by hospital policy and procedure. This same reduction, 79%, was noted in medication overrides per month (43 852 to 9239). As a result, increasing the compliance of medication overrides improved the capture of preventable errors.
Medical errors have been a focal point of action in healthcare for more than 10 years, yet on a daily basis, patients are still harmed by clinical processes that were intended to help them. As a high-risk process for nearly every hospitalized patient,3,4 medication delivery remains a significant contributor to harm.5,6 While evidence-based strategies, including BCMA technologies, have the potential to significantly improve the safety of medication administration in healthcare settings, to date their effects have been insignificant.16,31 The successful infusion of technology demands an approach that is project oriented and focused on clinical processes using a multidisciplinary team.24
Our institution implemented a BCMA system to improve medication administration and found that despite the attention given to the implementation, failed clinical processes and workflow challenges limited our success. We found that overridden bar-coded doses represented a significant proportion of potential medication errors after implementation of a BCMA system. By performing a systematic implementation of change, we were able to reduce medication bar-code overrides by 12.8% for the overall hospital, decrease the LOS by 1476.6 days, and reduce the cost related to medication errors by $2 860 752. Overall, our experience highlights the need to continually improve the clinical components of the medication delivery process, by using a multidisciplinary team particularly where providers and technology intersect and focus on different levels of the system. Improvement was achieved when the multidisciplinary team focused on BCMA.
Strengths of this work are the commitments from the disciplines of nursing, pharmacy, technology support, human resources, and quality management. This was essential to affecting changes in those clinical processes and workflows. The medication-use process was reviewed with real users to better incorporate BCMA. Bar-code medication administration compliance following our system changes and ongoing vigilance sustained for fiscal year 2008 through July 2008 at 96.7%. Our own experiences proved to provide valuable guidance to our system with implementation of an integrated electronic medical record, CPOE, and BCMA system in July 2008 (EPIC, Madison, WI) and contributed to our mission to share this work with the broader healthcare community.
Essential to the culture change was facility recognition and celebration of the hard work of departments, units, and individuals. Each was recognized for excellence in BCMA practices. Leadership presented plaques and cakes decorated using the theme, "we are 'overwhelmed' with thanks." The multidisciplinary override team was subsequently awarded the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and Baxter Excellence in Patient Safety Award in 2008.
Limitations of the review are that although we made changes each month, the impact of singular changes was difficult to isolate. How management maintains vigilance to this medication safety effort in light of many other projects upcoming in a complex environment is yet to be determined. These changes implemented in an academic medical center with more than 400 beds may not be applicable to community hospitals or ambulatory settings.
As institutions adopt complex, costly technologies to deliver safer care, success rests on integrated approaches that enhance work processes while emphasizing professional responsibility to patient safety. Additionally, process should be in place to continually monitor the efficacy of these technologies and provide ongoing surveillance to ensure that ancillary processes and technology changes do not cause unwanted or unforeseen circumstances that could compromise patient safety.
1. Bates DW. Preventing medications errors: a summary. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2007;16(14 suppl 9):S3-S9. [Context Link]
2. Kohn LT, Corrigan JM, Donaldson MS, eds. To Err Is Human: Building a Safer Healthcare System. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 1999. [Context Link]
3. Institute of Medicine Report Brief. Preventing Medication Errors. IOM Web site. July 2006. http://www.iom.edu/Object.File/Master/35/943/medication%20errors%20new.pdf. Accessed June 15, 2007. [Context Link]
4. Leape LL, Berwick D. Five years after To Err Is Human: what have we learned? JAMA. 2005;293(19):2384-2390. [Context Link]
5. Kelly W, Rucker D. Compelling features of a safe medication-use system. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2006;63:1461-1468. [Context Link]
6. Philip A, Wolcott J, Bootman J, et al, eds. Preventing Medication Errors: Quality Chasm Series. Washington, DC: National Academy Press; 2007. [Context Link]
7. Bates DW, Leape L, Cullen DJ, et al. Effect of computerized physician order entry and a team intervention on prevention of serious medication errors. JAMA. 1998;280(15):1311-1316. [Context Link]
8. Dang D, Feroli R, Gill C, et al. Quest for the ideal a redesign of the medication use system. J Nurse Care Qual. 2007;22(1):11-17. [Context Link]
9. DiConsglio J. Creative 'work-arounds' defeat bar-coding safeguards for med. Study finds technology often doesn't meet the needs of nurses. Mater Manag Health Care. 2008;17(9):26-29. [Context Link]
10. Bates DW, Cullen DJ, Laird N, et al. Incidence of adverse drug events and potential adverse drug events. Implications for prevention. ADE Prevention Study Group. JAMA. 1995;274(1):29-34. [Context Link]
11. Rothschild J, Landrigan C, Cronin J, et al. The critical care safety study: the incidence and nature of adverse events and serious medical errors in intensive care. CCM. 2005;33(8):1694-1700. [Context Link]
12. Bond CA, Raehl CL, Franke T. Clinical pharmacy services, hospital pharmacy staffing and medication errors in the United States hospitals. Pharmacotherapy. 2002;22(2):134-147. [Context Link]
13. Barker K, Flynn E, Pepper G, et al. Medication errors observed in 36 health care facilities. Arch Intern Med. 2002;162(6):1897-1903. [Context Link]
14. Maricle K, Whitehead L, Rhodes M. Examining medication errors in a tertiary hospital. J Nurs Care Qual. 2007;22(1):20-27. [Context Link]
15. Leape LL, Bates DW, Cullen DJ, et al. Systems analysis of adverse drug events. ADE Prevention Study Group. JAMA. 1995;274(1):35-43. [Context Link]
16. Leape LL, Berwick DM, Bates DW. What practices will most improve safety? Evidence-based medicine meets patient safety. JAMA. 2002;288(4):501-507. [Context Link]
17. Section of Pharmacy, Informatics and Technology, American Society of Health-System Pharmacist. ASHP Statement on bar-code-enabled medication administration technology. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2009;66(6):88-90. [Context Link]
18. Del Beccaro MA, Jeffries HE, Eisenberg MA. Computerized provider order entry implementation: no association with increased mortality rates in an intensive care unit. Pediatrics. 2006;118(1):290-295. [Context Link]
19. Zhan C, Hicks R, Blanchette C, et al. Potential benefits and problems with computerized order entry: analysis of a voluntary medication error-reporting database. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2006;63:353-358. [Context Link]
20. Sakowski J, Leonard T, Colburn S, et al. Using a bar-coded medication administration system to prevent medication errors in a community hospital network. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2006;62:2619-2625. [Context Link]
21. Paoletti RD, Suess TM, Lesko MG, et al. Using bar-code technology and medication observation methodology for safer medication administration. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2007;64:536-543. [Context Link]
22. Patterson ES, Rogers ML, Chapman RJ, et al. Compliance with intended use of bar code medication administration in acute and long-term care: an observational study. Hum Factors. 2006;48(1):15-22. [Context Link]
23. Patterson ES, Cook RI, Render ML. Improving patient safety by identifying side effects from introducing bar coding in medication administration. JAMIA. 2002;239:540-553. [Context Link]
24. Mills PD, Neily J, Mims E, et al. Improving the bar-coded medication administration system at the Department of Veteran Affairs. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2006;63:1442-1447. [Context Link]
25. Skibinski KA, White BA, Kuei Lin LI, et al. Effects of technological interventions on the safety of a medication use system. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2007;64:90-96. [Context Link]
26. Johnson CL, Carlson RA, Tucker CL, et al. Using BCMA to improve patient safety in Veterans Administration Medical Centers. J Healthc Inf Manag. 2002;16(1):46-51. [Context Link]
27. Anderson S, Wittwer W. Using bar-code point-of-care technology for patient safety. J Health Qual. 2004;26(6):5-11. [Context Link]
28. Foote SO, Coleman JR. Medication administration: the implementation process of bar-coding for medication administration to enhance medication safety. Nurs Econ. 2008;26(3):207-210. [Context Link]
29. Morris FH Jr, Abramowitz PW, Nelson SP, et al. Effectiveness of a barcode medication administration system in reducing preventable adverse drug events in neonatal intensive care unit: a prospective cohort study. J Pediatr. 2009;154(3):363e1-368e1. [Context Link]
30. Classen DC, Avery AJ, Bates DW. Evaluation and certification of computerized provider order entry systems. JAMIA. 2007;14(1):48-55. [Context Link]
31. Longo DR, Hewett JE, Ge B, et al. The long road to patient safety a status report on patient safety programs. JAMA. 2005;294:2858-2865. [Context Link]
32. Penderson CA, Gumpper KF. ASHP national survey on informatics: assessment of adoption and use of pharmacy informatics in U.S. hospitals-2007. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(23):2244-2264. [Context Link]
33. Nebeker JR, Hoffman JM, Weir CR, et al. High rates of adverse drug events in a highly computerized hospital. Arch Intern Med. 2005;165(10):111-116. [Context Link]
34. Mcdonald CJ. Computerization can create safety hazards: a bar-code near miss. Ann Intern Med. 2006;145(5):395. [Context Link]
35. Weir CR, Hoffman J, Nebeker JR, et al. Nurse's role in tracking adverse drug events. The impact of provider order entry. Nurs Admin Q. 2005;29(1):39-44. [Context Link]
36. Phillips MT, Berner ES. Beating the system-pitfalls of bar code medication administration. J Health Inform Manag. 2004;18(4):16-18. [Context Link]
37. Eisenhauer LA, Hurley AC, Dolan N. Nurses' reported thinking during medication administration. J Nurs Scholarsh. 2007;39(1):82-87. [Context Link]
38. Davis L, Keogh S, Watson K, et al. Dishing the drugs: a qualitative study to explore paediatric nurses' attitudes and practices related to medication administration. Collegian. 2005;12(4):15-20. [Context Link]
39. Manias E, Aitken R, Dunning T. How graduate nurses use protocols to manage patients' medications. J Clin Nurs. 200;14(8):935-944. [Context Link]
40. Ulanimo VM, O'Leary-Kelley C, Connally P. Nurses' perceptions of causes of medication errors and barriers to reporting. J Nurs Care Qual. 2007;22(1):28-33. [Context Link]
41. Santell, J. Technological methods used to prevent errors aren't infallible. Mater Manage Healthc. 2006;15(12):26-30. [Context Link]
42. Cochran GL, Jones KJ, Brockman J, Skinner A, Hicks RW. Errors prevented by and associated with bar-code medication administration systems. Jt Comm J Qual Patient Saf. 2007;33(5):293-301. [Context Link]
43. Sakowski J, Newman JM, Dozier K. Severity of medication administration errors detected by a bar-code medication administration system. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(17):1661-1666. [Context Link]
44. Koppel R, Wetterneck T, Telles JL, Karsh BT. Workarounds to barcode medication administration systems: their occurrences, causes, and threats to patient safety. J Am Med Inform Assoc. 2008;15(4):408-423. [Context Link]
45. Schneider R, Bagby J, Carlson R. Bar-code medication administration: a systems perspective. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(23):2216-2219. [Context Link]
46. O'Malley P. Think bar-code medication administration eliminates adverse drug events? Think again! Clin Nurse Spec. 2008;22(6):269-270. [Context Link]
47. van Onzenoort HA, van de Plas A, Kessles AG, Veldhorst-Janssen NM, van der Kuy PH, Neef C. Factors influencing bar-code verification by nurses during medication administration in a Dutch hospital. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(7):644-648. [Context Link]
48. Classen DC, Pestotnik SL, Evans RS, Lloyd JF, Burke JP. Adverse drug events in hospitalized patients. Excess length of stay, extra costs, and attributable mortality. JAMA. 1997;277(4):301-306. [Context Link]
49. Bates DW. The costs of adverse drug events in hospitalized patients. Adverse Drug Events Prevention Study Group. JAMA. 1997;277(4):307-311. [Context Link]
For more than 13 additional continuing education articles related to safety, go to http://NursingCenter.com\CE.


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Tag Archives: books
The H.A. VanderCook Solo Collection: 25 Characteristic Pieces for Solo Trumpet and Piano
June 1, 2020 IM
With over 70 marches, hundreds of solos, and numerous methods for cornet/trumpet, H.A. VanderCook indisputably left his mark on the American musical landscape. These 25 enjoyable compositions for solo cornet/trumpet were written as a series for Carl Fischer Music; all the titles are derived from flower or plant names.
The H.A. VanderCook Solo Collection: 25 Characteristic Pieces for Solo Trumpet and Piano, by Hale VanderCook, Carl Fischer, www.carlfischer.com.
booksH.A. VanderCook Solo Collection
Heinrich Baermann: Lesser Known Works for the Clarinet
Heinrich Baermann (1784-1847) was one of the most celebrated virtuosi clarinetists of the early 19th century. Dr. Madelyn Moore has compiled three largely forgotten works by Baermann in this unique collection, hoping that by studying and performing these works, clarinetists will gain a better understanding of this important instrumental predecessor.
Heinrich Baermann: Lesser Known Works for the Clarinet, edited by Madelyn Moore, Carl Fischer, www.carlfischer.com.
booksheinrich baermanlesser known works for the clarinetMadelyn Moore
New Solos for Classical Mandolin: Concert Repertoire for Practice & Performance
This unique collection of original solo compositions for mandolin is designed for both practice and performance. It provides a systematic study of several right-hand techniques drawn from the literature of classical mandolin, as well as a framework for developing your own approach to interpretation and improvisation within classical music traditions.
New Solos for Classical Mandolin: Concert Repertoire for Practice &
Performance, by August Watters, Hal Leonard, www.halleonard.com.
august wattersbooksNew Solos for Classical Mandolin
Make It New: Reshaping Jazz in the 21st Century
Jazz writer and college professor Bill Beuttler explores new ways in which jazz is engaging with society through the vivid biographies and music of artists such as Jason Moran, Anat Cohen, Robert Glasper, and Esperanza Spalding. Beuttler describes this new generation of jazz as increasingly international, more open to women as instrumentalists and bandleaders, and reasserting itself as a force for social change.
Make It New: Reshaping Jazz in the 21st Century, by Bill Beuttler, Lever Press, www.leverpress.org.
bill beuttlerbooksmake it new
Nine Pieces for Solo Guitar by Johann Sebastian Bach
Johann Sebastian Bach's (1685-1750) extensive legacy remains unmatched in the modern, musical community. This collection, edited by Fred Sokolow of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA), puts nine of Bach's most memorable melodies at the fingertips of the modern guitarist, including selections from his famous suites for both cello and lute.
Nine Pieces for Solo Guitar by Johann Sebastian Bach, edited by Fred Sokolow, Carl Fischer, www.carlfischer.com.
booksfred sokolownine pieces for solo guitar
The Nightingale's Sonata: The Musical Odyssey of Lea Luboshutz
A moving and uplifting history set to music that reveals the rich life of one of the first internationally renowned female violinists. Spanning generations, from the shores of the Black Sea to the glittering concert halls of New York, The Nightingale's Sonata centers around violin virtuoso Lea Luboshutz. Woven throughout this odyssey is also the story of Cesar Franck's "Sonata for Violin and Piano."
The Nightingale's Sonata: The Musical Odyssey of Lea Luboshutz,
by Thomas Wolf, Pegasus Books, http://pegasusbooks.com.
bookslea luboshutzthe nightingales sonata
24 Caprices Etudes for Flute
Theobald Boehm was a goldsmith and inventor of the Boehm flute (1847). He was also an engineer, composer, industrialist, and solo flutist of the Bavarian State Opera, and a well-known soloist and teacher. In writing these short pieces he gave us 24 miniature gems incorporating the difficulties we face daily while playing the flute. These études require a great deal of work but if practiced diligently you will acquire a great technique over the entire flute.
24 Caprices Etudes for Flute, by Theobald Boehm, edited by James Galway, Hal Leonard, www.halleonard.com.
24 Caprices Etudes for Flutebooksjames galwaythoebald boehm
Six Jazz Piano Solos
Whether for study or performance, Cornick's Six Jazz Piano Solos each offer a different aspect of jazz. The jazz miniatures culminate with his "Blues: Homage to Charlie Parker," based in large part on a 12-bar blues that Parker used. For intermediate to advanced pianists.
Six Jazz Piano Solos, by Mike Cornick, Universal Edition, www.universaledition.com.
booksmike cornickSix Jazz Piano Solos
Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata Excerpt for solo cello and Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata – Excerpt for solo viola
May 1, 2020 IM
Cellist Jan Kelley of Local 47 (Los Angeles, CA) has published this excerpt for either solo cello or solo viola from Beethoven's famous sonata for piano No. 14, Op. 27 #2 – the "Moonlight Sonata". This solo piece takes less than two minutes to play and is perfect for a cellist or violist in these days of social distancing.
Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata – Excerpt for solo cello and Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata – Excerpt for solo viola, arranged by Jan Kelley, Last Resort Music Publishing, Inc., www.lastresortmusic.com.
beethovenbooksmoonlight sonata
Three's a Crowd (for flute, oboe, and bassoon)
What goes on in the minds of chamber musicians as they express their feelings through music? Here are five imaginary conversations for flute, oboe, and bassoon, using music rather than words. Sometimes harmonious, sometimes impatient, but like any carefully observed conversation, always complex and interesting. Performers and listeners alike will enjoy puzzling over what the composer had in mind.
Three's a Crowd (for flute, oboe, and bassoon), by Gary Schocker, Theodore Presser Company, www.presser.com.
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Your home's roof is its first line of defense against the elements. Maintaining it in a working order is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home from damaging water penetration. The typical asphalt shingle roof will last approximately 12 to 25 years depending on the quality of the shingle and the installation method. Re-roofing over your existing shingles with reduce your replacement costs but at the same time will shorten the life of your new roof.
It is possible to re-roof over your exsisting shingles.
Remove the layer of shingles that cover the cap or peak of the structure with the roofer's shovel.
Apply the first row of shingles along the edge of the roof with the hammer and nails. Use four nails per shingle 3/4 inch above each cut-out. Do not nail on the edges of the shingles.
Apply the second row of shingles; stagger them exactly half of their width. Repeat this step for each row until you reach the ridge.
Cut the excess shingles from edges and flashings with the hooked knife.
Reapply the ridge cap once both sides of the roof have been completed. You can make the ridge cap shingles by cutting a number of shingles into thirds so that each section contains a tab. Begin on one side of the ridge and overlap the cap sections until you have reached the other.
Apply roofing cement to any exposed fasteners on the roof surface. There should be a very limited number of these -- exposed fasteners are a weak spot for water penetration.
Generally only asphalt shingle roofs can have multiple layers and you should never exceed three layers. Use slightly longer nails as you will need to penetrate the existing shingles and the roof sheathing.
Multiple roof layers increase the dead load on the structure. In some cases this will cause roofing deflection.


At present, a lot of international travelers start their Tibet tour from a famous Chinese city - Guilin. This is a beautiful city located in the southwest of China. Here, you can enjoy the green mountains and clean rivers. It is convenient for travelers to begin your Tibet trip from Guangxi Province. Guilin-Yangshuo and Lhasa Tibet is a hot route for travelers like Germany, UK, France, Netherlands, South and North American, south, east and southeastern Asian countries, etc. Guilin is famous for its natural beauty, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in China. Another two cities are Beijing and Xian. It is crowned as the most beautiful place under heaven because of the special landscape called Karst. In Guilin, there are lots of scenic spots, such as Rice Terraces, Ping An Village, Reed Flute Cave, and Li River.
Travelers are always confused by the question: What Tibet Travel Document should I take before starting my Guilin - Tibet tour? According to our rich experience, Tibet Travel Permits are very important for foreigners to travel in Tibet from Guilin. With the help of your tour operator, Tibet Travel Permits are easy to get.
Here are some Guilin Tibet tour packages, and wish you have a happy trip!
During this journey, not only can you unveil the mystery of the Karst landscape in Guilin, but also you can be charmed by the amazing plateau views and mysterious cultures in Tibet.
This is an itinerary about Guilin Tibet tour. Travelers can have a better understanding of the Karst scenery, fine weather, and fresh air of Guilin, and the charming nature, pious pilgrims and high mountains of Tibet.
How to get to Tibet from Guilin?
Currently, there is no direct flight from Guilin to Tibet, so you need to fly to a China city like Chengdu, Xi'an, and Kunming first, then transfer a flight to Lhasa. Besides, there is no train from Guilin to Lhasa, if you want to experice the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, you can fly to Chengdu or Xian, then take a train to Lhasa.
When is the best time to visit Guilin and Tibet?
The climate of Guilin is suitable for year-round travel, and from April to October is the best time to visit Guilin and Yangshuo. From April to June, the weather is very humid, during which the Li River and the countryside are full of mist. From July to August, it's a little bit sultry. September and October are the most pleasant time to travel in Guilin and Yangshuo. In winter(from December to March), the weather is mild and a little bit cold, but the tour price is much lower.
The best time to visit Tibet is also from April to October. Please note that Tibet will be closed for all foreign travelers from February to March because of Tibetan New Year.
What destinations should I choose for our Guilin and Tibet tour?
Guilin is well-known for its karst scenery. There are countless mountains to climb, magical caves to adventure, and beautiful rivers to cruise. Longji terraces is a must-see magnificent natural landscape in Guilin, also, you'll have a good chance to experience rural life with many ethnic and village-themed attractions such as Daxu ancient town and Tongmu village.
In Tibet, you can learn about Tibetan Buddhism culture with many famous monasteries like Sera Monastery, Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, etc. What's more, there are some wonderful natural landscape in Tibet like Yamdrok Lake, Namtso Lake, Everest Base Camp, which definitely make your trip worthwhile.