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Bhopal: A Prayer For Rain Review – Can't get more realistic!
October 29, 2014 by Keyur Seta Leave a Comment
By: Keyur Seta
Rating: * * * * ½
The biggest challenge while portraying a tragedy is to make it look as realistic as possible. And when the disaster is as magnanimous as the Bhopal Gas Tragedy, it becomes all the more testing, not just for the filmmaker but for everyone involved. The same challenge awaited director Ravi Kumar and his team for Bhopal: A Prayer For Rain, which is based on the said tragedy in 1984.
To say that they have overcome the challenge will be an understatement. What they have achieved is nothing short of a benchmark for realistic cinema because it just can't get more realistic than this. But the reason why the film on the whole can be labeled as excellent is the fact that it scores high in every department.
The movie is English with partly Hindi. The story takes place in Bhopal in 1984. Dilip (Rajpal Yadav) is a rickshaw driver staying in a slum in the central area of the city with his wife (Tannishtha Chatterjee) and younger sister (Fagun Ivy Thakrar). His family struggles to live from hand-to-mouth from his earnings. Dilip gets a new lease of life when he lands a job at the newly-arrived Union Carbide's pesticide plant.
Although Dilip is happy to have found a source of earning despite uneasy conditions, he is worried to know that the safety standards at the plant are being ignored. Soon, this leads to a fatal leakage of the poisonous Methyl Isocyanide that kills thousands in a single night making it the worst man-made industrial disaster ever. Even 30 years after the incident, thousands continue to suffer from its consequences.
The base of all great films is writing and that is exactly the case here with a watertight screenplay and real yet dramatic dialogues. To top it up, Kumar has handled the subject with utmost precision. The manner in which he has added realism to such utterly difficult scenes, especially the tragic ones, is to be seen to be believed. As stated earlier, it can't get more realistic! To carry out such a task in just your second film is no mean achievement.
Naturally, this gives rise to a number of scenes that stay etched in your memory. From these, Dr Chandra (Manoj Joshi) trying to select one person from many whom he can administer an antidote deserves special mention.
Another reason why the film scores high marks is that it doesn't get depressing despite it being based on one of the greatest tragedies ever. This indicates that its motto is not to bring back terrible memories but to highlight the importance of human safety over profits.
It is difficult to choose a negative point here. Probably the number of characters could have been reduced and the life of the people of Bhopal, especially the slums, could have been portrayed more. This could have been possible as the film's length isn't much.
Coming to the technicalities, the VFX team should be lauded as they had their task cut out. Cinematographers Charlie Wuppermann and Anil Chandel have succeeded in displaying their skills. The background score is apt for the proceedings. The fast-paced classical tunes used at the start help a lot in generating interest instantly.
The performances are a top-draw too! Rajpal Yadav gives his best performance till date as far as his serious roles are concerned. Veteran Martin Sheen is excellent as the CEO of Union Carbide. Kal Penn is brilliant too in the role of the cunning journalist. Mischa Barton plays the journalist from US with perfection.
Tannishtha Chatterjee once again proves she is one of the most talented actors in the country. In the role of the doctor, Manoj Joshi is flawless! Akhil Mishra and Joy Sengupta also deserve praise. Satish Kaushik creates an impact in a cameo while Fagun Ivy Thakrar too provides good support.
Overall: Bhopal: A Prayer For Rain is an excellent piece of realistic cinema that shouldn't be missed. The film requires good word-of-mouth to succeed at the box office when it releases in India on December 5.
Director: Ravi Kumar
Producers: Sahara Movie Studios and Rising Star Entertainment
Writers: David Brooks and Ravi Kumar
Cast: Rajpal Yadav, Martin Sheen, Mischa Barton, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Manoj Joshi, Akhil Mishra, Fagun Ivy Thakrar
Music: Benjamin Wallfisch
Genre: Period Drama
Release Date: December 5, 2014 (India)
Filed Under: Bollywood, Environment, Health, Hollywood, National, Socio/Political Tagged With: bhopal movie 2014, bhopal movie review
Pyaar Vali Love Story Review – Absurdity kills the message
Rating: * *
Romeo and Juliet stories are done to death. But this is not exactly the reason why Sanjay Jadhav's Pyaar Vali Love Story doesn't work. The film gets the viewer interested for some time but suddenly falls down the graph of sensibility and continues to do so till its hilariously silly climax. This is enough to ensure that the important message that it tries to give is lost.
The story is set in 1992 in Mumbai. Pashya (Sameer Dharmadhikari) and Kadar (Upendra Limaye) are the best of friends living in adjacent colonies occupied by Hindus and Muslims respectively. Pashya is in love with the hot-tempered but kind Nandini (Urmila Kanitkar Kothare), from his locality.
Amar (Swapnil Joshi), Pashya's brother who stays in a hostel in Pune, returns to Mumbai to arrange his brother's marriage with Nandini. As soon as he arrives in the city, he falls for Aliya (Sai Tamhankar), who is Kadar's sister. But they soon realize that their path of love is filled with obstacles.
Pyaar Vali Love Story works decently in the first 50-55 minutes. Simple characters, their strong bonds and small joys gain your sympathy. Although the spoon-feeding narration and the forceful bonding between both communities could have been avoided, you at least feel interested due to some appealing moments. For example, the manner in which Kadar gets people of the locality to take part in Pashya's wedding. Despite the tried-and-tested method, the romance angle also somewhat works.
But like an accident, the film abruptly loses sense just before interval through an unconvincing twist. What follows is one silly scene following another initiated by a poor misunderstanding. It amazes you how some characters, who till now showed a lot of maturity, suddenly start behaving like immature kids. But just when you think you have seen enough absurdity, you realize that the writers have saved the best one for the climax. On a less serious note, it at least succeeds in making you laugh.
Another questionable aspect is such high usage of Hindi in the dialogues and songs. The obvious reason for this is that few characters are Muslim. But that doesn't mean you convert the film into bilingual whenever they are speak.
The songs (Pankaj Padghan, Amitraj and Samir Saptiska), both peppy and romantic numbers, provide some satisfaction. Prasad Bhende's camerawork is decent. The violin tunes in the background score work very well.
The performances are hampered by the content. Swapnil Joshi and Sai Tamhankar manage to impress as the lead pair. Upendra Limaye and Sameer Dharmadhikari are decent as hot-headed individuals. Urmila Kanetkar Kothare provides a believable and dedicated act by smartly getting into the skin of her character. Nagesh Bhosale and Chinmay Mandlekar, in a cameo, are alright.
Overall: Pyaar Vali Love Story fails in giving an important message due to some unforgivable absurdities. The presence of well-known names and the fact that it is the next film by the team of Duniyadari will ensure a good run for it at the box office in the first week.
Director: Sanjay Jadhav
Producers: Inder Raj Kapoor, Rekha Joshi and Deepak Pandurang Rane
Writers: Arvind Jagtap, Tapan Bhatt and Ashish Patre
Cast: Swapnil Joshi, Sai Tamhankar, Upendra Limaye, Sameer Dharmadhikari, Urmila Kanetkar Kothare
Music: Pankaj Padghan, Amitraj and Samir Saptiska
Genre: Romance/ Drama
Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: Marathi movie reviews, pyaar wali love story movie review, pyaar wali lovestory marathi movie, pyar wali love story review
Happy New Year Review – Paisa Vasool Entertainment!
October 24, 2014 by Keyur Seta 2 Comments
Rating: * * * ½
To analyze a hardcore masala entertainer like Farah Khan's Happy New Year, the only relevant question is whether the film delivers what it promises. Despite some hiccups, the answer easily falls in the affirmative as film is filled with high doses of entertainment, good enough to be the biggest crowd pleaser of the year.
It revolves around Charlie (Shah Rukh Khan) and his old friends Jag (Sonu Sood) and Tammy (Boman Irani). Charlie plans the biggest diamond heist ever, right under the nose of his old enemy Charan Grover (Jackie Shroff) in Dubai. They include a roadside tapori Nandu Bhide (Abhishek Bachchan) as the heist couldn't happen without his help and Rohan (Vivaan Shah) as he is a computer geek. But to get hold of the diamonds, they need to take part in World Dance Championship. As all of them are non-dancers, they take the services of bar dancer Mohini (Deepika Padukone).
HNY is one of the rare 3-hour films of today's times where you don't feel the need to look at your watch. Non-stop humor, witty dialogues, unusual character traits, thrilling robbery scenes and, of course, the dances make sure you are glued to the screen for the entire duration. What works more is some unexpected entertainment items at unexpected places. The Narendra Modi lookalike surely deserves special mention!
However, the film provides more satisfaction in the second half. This is not because the first half is dull or slow. The problem in this part is that the humor is mostly childish, which will be enjoyed only by kids. For example, how funny is it to see men impersonating women and struggling to dance? But what hurts more is the done-to-death, immature gay humor. Somehow, Bollywood still thinks it is funny.
But the biggest issue that stops the film from being a high quality winner is the presence of loopholes, especially when it comes to the all-important robbery. Thankfully, the entertainment in the second half and the exciting and overwhelming last 45 minutes, including the climax, make sure your experience turns out to be paisa vasool. This aspect makes you overlook the big flaws because, frankly speaking, such films are meant only to entertain and those not ready to put their topmost organ at rest should stay miles away from them.
Vishal-Shekhar's music also plays its part in keeping the entertainment quotient high. The most impressive numbers are 'India Wale', 'Satakli' and 'Manwa Lage'. Cinematographer Manush Nandan shines the most while artistically capturing the dance scenes and locales of Dubai. The background score suits various emotions and provides the desired effect.
Shah Rukh Khan doesn't disappoint his fans by providing a mature act as the captain of the team. Although this is easily not one of his best acts, he plays a big role in keeping things under control. However, he should understand that having 6 packs doesn't mean such a thin physique. With yet another impressive act, Deepika Padukone continues her dream run in mainstream Bollywood.
Abhishek Bachchan is the surprise package. The actor displays his acting potential as Nandu Bhide in a hilarious role. Boman Irani once again shows he is ever-reliable. Sonu Sood doesn't get much scope later on but he makes good of whatever opportunity he gets. Vivaan Shah perfectly suits in the role of a computer geek. But he needs to work on his acting skills a bit. Jackie Shroff is believable as a ruthless antagonist. Anupam Kher makes an impact in a cameo. Sajid Khan, in another cameo, could have been funnier.
Overall: Happy New Year is a joyride if you prefer mindless hardcore larger-than-life entertainers. The end product and the fact that the film has received an earth-shattering opening will make sure it turns out to be a huge success at the box office. Don't be surprised if the film creates new ones by beating Dhoom 3 and Kick.
Director: Farah Khan
Producers: Red Chillies Entertainment and UTV Motion Pictures
Writers: Farah Khan, Mayur Puri and Althea Delmas Kaushal
Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Abhishek Bachchan, Boman Irani, Sonu Sood, Jackie Shroff, Vivaan Shah
Music: Vishal-Shekhar
Genre: Masala Entertainer
Filed Under: Bollywood Tagged With: happy new year box office, happy new year hit or flop, happy new year movie review, happy new year review, hny review
Spirituality: Indianizing the world
Picture Source: Harekrishnaquotes.com
The word 'Globalization' has received a great amount of importance in last couple of decades. It is a good sign that the world needs to be known as a one global community, especially with the development in technology. But in this period of two decades, there has also been an emergence of Indianization in the western world. In other words, the rest of the world is becoming more Indian in various ways of life.
It needs to be mentioned that it was Swami Vivekananda who was one of the first persons to have enlightened the west about the greatness of India.
If one tries to write down the ways in which the world is becoming Indianized, it will be a very long list. So I would like to focus on how the west is getting influenced by Indian spiritual concepts of simple living.
I have elaborated the topic through the following points:
Food: It is everybody's knowledge that a vegetarian will have a very difficult time in certain parts of the west. But things have been changing over the years. I have learned this from my friends and some news items that now, the westerners have started knowing the importance of vegetarian food for better physical and mental health. The ill-effects of junk food are greatly visible there. Therefore, the people over there have also gained the knowledge of having saatvik food for attaining peace of mind.
Ayurveda: Why is India's ancient Ayurveda spreading its clout in the west at a time when modern medical science is making some mind-blowing progress? This is because the people from the west are slowly understanding the difference between getting treated and getting healed. As the latter focuses on natural ingredients that help in rooting out the illness, people are getting attracted to Ayurveda and also Naturopathy.
Yoga & Meditation: A monk, who happens to be my friend, has told me more than once, "In today's stressful times, it is impossible to survive without spirituality, yoga and meditation." With work pressure, addiction to gadgets, unhealthy food, too much of materialism and consumerism, the peace of mind has gone for a toss. So yoga or meditation seems to be the only answer. Slowly, this is been understood by the people of the west. This can also be seen from how hundreds of yoga and meditation videos featuring foreigners have cropped up in recent years on YouTube.
Mythology: Elders have always told us that epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana are universal. This is proved right by the fact that more and more foreigners are getting fascinated by these epics. I have heard this from my friends abroad and from my Indian friends who have stayed there. One can also see a movie on Mahabharata made by foreigners with foreign actors. Of course, it is not possible for them, like many of us, to believe every act, action or subplot mentioned in them. But it is the overall message that is fascinating them and lighting their paths with knowledge for the betterment of life. Hence, I feel it is wrong to say that these epics are applicable only to Indians or Hindus.
It is indeed a proud feeling for me as an Indian to see the world getting more and more Indianized. But this doesn't mean that we should look down upon at the rest of the world with a feeling of arrogance. The motto of Indianization, at least for me, is to generate the feeling of oneness and harmony in the world. After all, we all have the same flesh, blood and bones.
As Swami Vivekananda said, "There cannot be any progress without the whole world following in the wake, and it is becoming everyday clearer that the solution of any problem can never be attained on racial, or national, or narrow grounds."
This post is an entry for Lufthansa and IndiBlogger contest "More Indian than you think."
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Filed Under: National, Spiritual Tagged With: ayurveda in western world, indian spirituality in the west, indianization, spirituality in the west, spirituality in western world, yoga in western countries
Will Happy New Year overtake Dhoom 3 & Kick?
Farah Khan's Happy New Year is all set to be one of those few films that can be described as box office hurricanes. Such films are labeled 'blockbuster' even before they release. The prediction of such commercial capers is very easy in today's times. This is because even if its content fails to impress the audience, it succeeds big time in raking in the moolah. They can either be superhit or bumper hit. It is impossible for them to be called average, let alone flop.
So the question shouldn't be whether Happy New Year will succeed? The question should be whether it will manage to establish new box office records by overtaking Dhoom 3 and/ or Kick? Will SRK magic work again after Channai Express? Let's find out. This post only looks at the domestic collections.
According to me, Happy New Year will beat Kick but it will be very difficult for it to go pass Dhoom 3. The Aamir Khan starrer managed to pull audience to the theatres in way that is hardly seen before despite the film facing flak from a good number of audiences. The biggest reason for this can be attributed to Aamir, who played the main lead for the first time after 3 Idiots (2008). His double role surprise also paid dividends. Presence of a lot of commercial factors, including never-seen-before stunts, and a terrific publicity campaign also helped.
Kick became the first Salman Khan starrer to make it to the 200 crore club. It had all the ingredients necessary for a typical Salman film – action, comedy, romance and dance. Other impressive points like the performances of Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Randeep Hooda and some high octane action at foreign locations sealed it for Sajid Nadiadwala's directorial debut.
Due to the presence of an ensemble cast, Happy New Year got the audience interested even before its first poster was out. And when the promos and other promotional material were released, the hype just kept soaring higher. A tremendous marketing campaign made things even brighter. So getting past Kick's record of 215 crore will be possible for the SRK starrer.
However, I doubt it will have to power to generate enough collections to go past Dhoom 3. At the most, HNY will go near Dhoom 3 or equal it. Its chances to overtake the Aamir starrer don't look high. But I am very confident that Aamir's own P.K will beat Dhoom 3 at the box office. Let's wait and watch!
Filed Under: Bollywood Tagged With: happy new year box office prediction, happy new year vs dhoom 3, happy new year vs kick
God Is A Gamer – Book Review
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Author: Ravi Subramanian
Review By: Keyur Seta
Having liked Ravi Subramanian's If God Was A Banker and The Bankster, it was obvious for me to have good amounts of expectations from his latest novel, God Is A Gamer. Apart from my previous experience with the author, the reason for this was the fact that it is India's first bitcoin thriller. So does the author manage to score a hattrick as far as my experience is concerned? We will find that out soon. But before that, let's have a look at its basic story outline (without spoilers).
The tale commences in 2011 in Washington DC when a Senator is killed ruthlessly with meticulous planning just when he is about to confess something to the President of the United States. Back in India, after being a successful BPO owner, Aditya Rao has added another feather in his cap by making a mark in the gaming world. He is an ex-banker who had left New York International Bank (NYIB) few years ago, at a terrific high, to start his own business.
Aditya was more than a mentor to Sandeep and Swami at NYIB. Sundeep works with Aditya's firm after he had to move out of NYIB following few scandals. He has changed now and has a big share in Aditya's success. Swami still works with NYIB. These three characters are carried on from the author's novel, If God Was A Banker. So in a way, God Is A Gamer is a sequel to that book. Under unexpected circumstances, Aditya is reunited with his son Varun. The youngster is in a relationship with Tanya, whom he had met in Rio De Janeiro.
On one fateful night during a party, a tragic incident leaves everyone hell shocked! Its consequences and few other incidents around the world force India's Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and America's Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to work in tandem.
Although the book is a continuation of If God Was A Banker, its storyline and style of narration are very much on the lines of The Bankster. Few subplots are narrated simultaneously in different parts of the world. Intentionally, they are kept unrelated until the pre-climax.
Like The Bankster, the strategy works here too as it keeps the reader not only engrossed but on the edge mostly. The manner in which the author has ended various chapters with a cliffhanger adds to the thrill. Hence, the book turns out to be a 'page turner' for a large majority of the time. However, it does appear to be a drag roughly after it completes half its journey.
Needless to say, the overall opinion of the reader in such whodunits relies heavily on the climax. Fortunately, Subramanian doesn't disappoint in this vital area. To avoid spoilers, I won't reveal whether the obvious guess about the culprit turns out to be right. But the author's style of revealing will surely take you by surprise.
Apart from a point above, God Is A Gamer has few more questionable aspects too that stop it from being a high quality thriller. They are as follows:-
The plan hatched by the mastermind is way too complicated and it leaves few questions unanswered. This, obviously, makes it less convincing. This point is saved a bit by the surprise element.
You don't feel much for one important victim due to its lack of emotional connect with the readers. Although the plight of another victim breaks your heart, the incident is hardly given any importance despite the character being one of the key ones.
There are instances where a lot of tech-related details are thrown in that might leave the reader confused if he or she is a layman like me when it comes to technology.
There was no need to keep many chapters so short in length. In fact, few chapters are less than a page long! This affects the reader's concentration as s/he has to shift focus regularly, sometimes in a span of few seconds.
Thankfully though, these points don't garner much disappointment as the plusses manage to overtake the minuses.
Overall: Despite some issues, God Is A Gamer is yet another bank thriller by Ravi Subramanian that is worth savoring for thriller lovers.
Rating: * * *
Filed Under: Literature Tagged With: god is a gamer book, god is a gamer book review, god is a gamer ravi subramanian, god is a gamer review, ravi subramanian latest book
Review: Dr Prakash Baba Amte – The Real Hero (Marathi Movie)
Director: Samruddhi Porey
Producers: Samrouddhi Cine World and Essel Vision
Writer: Samruddhi Porey
Cast: Nana Patekar, Sonali Kulkarni, Ashish Chougule, Vikram Gaikwad, Sushant Kakde, Tejashri Pradhan
Music: Rahul Ranade and Aniruddha Wankar
Genre: Biopic
Rating: * * ½
Story Outline: The film is a biopic on the lives of Dr Prakash Baba Amte, the son of the great social worker Baba Amte, and his wife Mandakini Amte. It throws light on his selfless service towards tribals of Maharashtra and animals, including the wild ones.
Review: Having access to a fascinating life story isn't enough while making a biopic. It is equally important for the film to succeed in its basic motto of telling a story. While director Samruddhi Porey's Dr Prakash Baba Amte – The Forgotten Hero brings to light the heart-wrenching, selfless story of the great social worker, it doesn't succeed completely as a film as it hardly provides an emotional impact one expects from such biopics.
Talking about the few positives, Porey and the entire unit should be lauded for showing Amte's humanitarian efforts with utmost reality. This is because shooting with real tribal people and animals is a painstaking task for anyone. Apart from this, the dialogues are intelligent and long lasting with some rib-tickling humor being the surprise element.
But the job of every feature film is to narrate an interesting tale and this is where this biopic falters. Although things aren't that bad pre-interval, the second half tests your patience as on a number of occasions the film appears more like a documentary disguised as a feature film. In fact, there comes a period where scenes of tribals carrying their ill family members to Amte's place are repeated again and again. A screenplay without proper flow and faulty pacing of events are to be blamed for this.
Mahesh Anye's camerawork is noticeable quite regularly. The background score is passable while the editing should have been tighter. The music (Rahul Ranade and Aniruddha Wankar) turns out to be average as not a single track stays with you after the film.
Nana Patekar is very impressive and reliable as he displays his talent while playing the central character. However, on a number of occasions, you can't help but notice that it appears as if he is playing himself. Sonali Kulkarni also shows why she is considered a fine performer. Mohan Agashe, as Baba Amte, excels in a supporting role. Sushant Kakde and Tejashri Pradhan, as younger Prakash and Mandakini Amte, play their parts well. The rest of the actors provide good support.
Overall: Although Dr Prakash Baba Amte – The Real Hero carries out the important task of highlighting Dr Prakash and Mandakini Amte's great work, it doesn't quite succeed as a feature film. Due to the hype and star cast, it will draw crowds initially. But its performance at the box office is doubtful after the first week.
Filed Under: Marathi movies Tagged With: baba amte movie review, dr prakash baba amte review, prakash baba amte marathi movie, prakash baba amte movie review
Game Of Blogs – Chapter 29: The mastermind is unleashed!
October 8, 2014 by Keyur Seta 4 Comments
To read the previous part, click HERE.
Picture: Tripadvisor.com
Just as Tara somehow managed to produce guts to answer Gupta, her mobile phone ringtone stopped her. Pale and petrified, she glanced at the screen that read, "Shekhar … calling".
Barely had she touched the 'answer' button that Mr.Gupta snatched the phone from her and listened in…
Without waiting for an answer, Shekhar excitedly but slowly spoke from the other line, "Tara, I have an important clue to Roohi's kidnapping. Please come down to Hotel Descent at Lamington Road ASAP." He hung up without bothering to listen. He wanted to keep the conversation short since he didn't want to alert Cyrus and Aryan.
Gupta was alarmed as well as confused after listening to Shekhar.
"What happened papa?" Tara, in a panicky tone, asked but all in vain. Once again, sounds of the chimes due to the winds added extra tension.
Without saying a word, he went inside his room and returned a few minutes later after getting ready to go somewhere. "Come with me," was what he told Tara in a strict tone and started taking long steps towards the main door. His tone and behavior added fuel to Tara's already panicky condition. She obediently followed Gupta out of the house.
After having a one-way conversation on phone, Shekhar once again concentrated on eavesdropping on Cyrus and Aryan's conversation. "Did I miss anything?" he whispered to Jennifer, to which she just shook her head.
Aryan was continuing to speak in an authoritative tone. "I am sure you are just acting at someone's behest," Aryan pointed out.
"Yes," said Cyrus in a tired tone.
Aryan's angry voice thundered in the near empty hotel, "Do you want me to provide you a written request to disclose the name of the mastermind?" Despite not being at the receiving end, Shekhar and Jennifer felt a chill through their bodies.
"Speak up," shouted Aryan as Cyrus was still struggling to speak.
Finally, Cyrus' lips moved and he revealed the name of the mastermind.
Shekhar and Jennifer froze at the mention of the name. They could only cast a glance at each other as they were too shocked to speak!
"I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I needed to be," Cyrus continued speaking.
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Girgaum Chowpatty (Picture: Mid-day.com)
It wasn't a long drive from Walkeshwar to Lamington Road. Gupta and Tara were more than half way to their destination but yet nobody had spoken. They were passing through the area just before Girgaon Chowpatty, which had a splendid view of Mumbai's sea shore but, obviously, nobody of the two was interested in relishing the view. It was only when they halted at the long signal at Sukh Sagar junction that they started feeling the silence. Being more anxious than Gupta, Tara felt the need to know what was going on.
She mustered up some courage to speak. "What did Shekhar say, papa? And where are we heading suddenly?"
Gupta cast a grim look at Tara and said, "He said he has found an important clue regarding Roohi's kidnapping and asked you to head to Hotel Descent immediately."
This confused Tara even more. "Why?"
"We will get to know that soon," said Gupta while turning left and entering Warerkar Bridge, which was just a kilometer away from Hotel Descent.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Shekhar, with his head dropped down, was standing outside room number 202. Actually he was just leaning to the wall since his legs were trembling a bit. In fact, he felt all his energy being drained out all of a sudden, as if sucked out by some force.
Jennifer had put her left hand on his right shoulder while trying to console him. Although she too was aghast and shocked by the turn of events, she knew she can never feel what Shekhar was feeling at that time… after knowing that the mastermind behind the kidnapping… was his wife!
To read the FINAL chapter, click HERE.
"Me and my team are participating in Game of Blogs at BlogAdda.com. #Celebrate blogging with us."
Filed Under: Literature Tagged With: blog adda contest, blog adda game of blogs, short mystery stories, short mystery stories online, short story thriller english, short thriller stories, short thriller story online
Game Of Blogs – Chapter 27: Who is trailing whom?
October 7, 2014 by Keyur Seta Leave a Comment
For the previous chapter, click HERE.
Hustling through the late afternoon traffic, Aryan finally reached Lamington Road in South Mumbai. It was a long time since he last visited this vicinity. The narrow lane was crammed even further with the emergence of shops and hawkers selling all types of computer and mobile equipment; all in your face. Despite being in a hurry to get hold of Cyrus, Aryan couldn't help but recall the days when he used to visit the area frequently with his friends, mostly to buy some computer hardware parts or pirated movie CDs.
His GPS map told him that Hotel Descent is just besides Imperial Cinema. Aryan was hugely surprised to know that the B-grade specialist single screen theatre is still running in today's era of multiplexes. Thankfully for him, he somehow managed to find some space to park his car at a corner just ahead of Hotel Descent.
Even before entering the hotel, by just examining the main entrance, Aryan understood the nature of the hotel. It was one of those cheap, shabby hotels that are mostly used for some secret endeavors. The strange smell as he walked up the stairs reinforced his first opinion on the place.
Picture: Humayunn Niaz Ahmed Peerzada (on Flickr)
All through the long drive, Shekhar and Jennifer were confused as to where Aryan was heading and why. It was more than 30 minutes since they were following him. Despite being an expert detective, Aryan failed to notice Shekhar's car tailing him. He was a human after all.
And as his car entered the narrow Lamington Road and stopped near a hotel like Descent, their curiosity increased. Shekhar and Jennifer looked at each other, question marks on their faces. It was Jennifer who broke the silence. "A detective like him entering such a hotel?" Shekhar didn't answer. "Is he such a person?" Jennifer once again asked after a few seconds of silence.
"I don't think so. However, I don't know him well," was all Shekhar could answer.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Aryan walked straight towards the hotel reception but the middle-aged man seated at the counter showed no interest in looking up at him. There was nobody else around. As Aryan stood still at the counter with his left elbow grounded on it, he could see the man was busy gazing at the pictures of Hindi film actresses from a Hindi newspaper. After a few seconds, the middle-aged man finally took notice of Aryan but through an irritated and questioning look.
"What do you want eh?" the man asked with a frown.
"Cyrus. Room no. 202. I need to meet him urgently," said Aryan in a calm yet firm tone.
The man's frown increased. "Look boss, first tell me who are you? And then I will call the person in that room and ask whether you should be allowed in."
Aryan gave a rude smile. "My name is Aryan. I am going to sneak into Cyrus' room and you are not going to inform him about my arrival."
More irritated, the man said, "Look mister. Stop acting like ACP Pradyuman of CID."
Picture: Uniter.ca
Aryan loved shutting the trap of such chaps with his authority and position. Here he had another opportunity. He slipped out his ID card and shoved it near the man's face and said, "The only difference between me and Pradyuman is that I am not acting."
The man went silent. "I am given this task by the local police of this area," Aryan lied and continued, "So if you stop me from doing my duty, it will account to abetment of crime. What say?"
Aryan didn't need to speak further as the man respectfully allowed him to proceed. With a naughty smile on his face, Aryan walked towards the elevator to reach room 202 on the second floor.
From a safe distance outside the hotel entrance, Shekhar and Jennifer were curiously watching Aryan's antics with the man.
What will be their next step? Will Cyrus be exposed?
To know what happened next, click HERE.
Filed Under: Literature Tagged With: short mystery stories, short mystery stories online, short thriller stories, short thriller stories online
Maharashtra State Elections 2014: Analysis and Prediction
Roughly a fortnight ago, the upcoming Maharashtra State Assembly Elections 2014 (that will take place on October 15) appeared like a cricket match between Australia (Shiv Sena + BJP) and Bangladesh (others): the winner was obvious and it needed a miracle of sorts for any other results. But with the alliances between Shiv Sena-Bharatiya Janta Party and Congress-NCP broken, the situation has now become like the upcoming 2015 Cricket World Cup: it is just not possible to predict any clear winner.
The following is the analysis and prediction of each major party in the Maharashtra Assembly Elections. Honestly, I am far from an expert in politics so don't expect any detailed analysis. This is more of how a layman looks at the elections and the major parties participating in it. Here it is:-
Picture: Globalgujaratnews.in
Shiv Sena:
Plusses: Their stronghold in the state, especially among the locals, is everybody's knowledge. Despite the demise of its supremo Balasaheb Thackeray, his name alone motivates lakhs of their supporters. And with bigger responsibilities given to Aditya Thackeray, the youth of Maharashtra is expected to pour their support.
Minuses: With Balasaheb's absence, it looks as if something is missing. But the biggest minus point for the party is the fact that they had to do away with their 25-year old alliance with the BJP.
Chances: Due to its popularity, it stands a good chance.
Picture: Rewacityinfo.com
BJP:
Plusses: The popularity of Narendra Modi, India's Prime Minister, will work well for them. Due to this, the party has roped in Modi to address a number of election rallies in India. Plus, its resounding victory in this year's Lok Sabha polls, which is still fresh in people's minds, will also work in its favor and so will Modi's heroic U.S visit.
Minuses: Its bad performance in the recent Uttar Pradesh by-polls came as a surprise. According to some experts, this happened due to some of its leaders who kept pushing the Hindutva card instead of good governance and development, which was their agenda going into LS Polls. But, like the Shiv Sena, its biggest disadvantage is clearly the break-up with Shiv Sena.
Chances: The plusses ensure it stands a good chance.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS):
Plusses: The popularity and aura of its chief Raj Thackeray and his popularity among the youth are its biggest plus points.
Minuses: There has been a decline in its popularity in recent years. This was seen the most in this year's Lok Sabha Elections, where the party failed to win even a single seat. The Modi wave is also responsible for this.
Chances: But because of the two break-ups and their past record, it might spring a surprise.
Congress and NCP:
(Despite the breaking of their alliance, I am giving a combined analysis because their situation is the same.)
Pluses: I don't wish to sound rude but I just can't find a single plus point for any of the two parties due to their terrible alliance run in the currently concluding term. Perhaps the only silver lining for them is the break-up between Sena-BJP.
Minuses: This will be a long list. As listed above, it is bad governance in every form that will hurt them dearly.
Chances: No chance unless one of them performs decently and joins hands with the first winner, which looks unlikely.
So all in all, the contest is really between Sena and BJP. This sounds unusual considering their united fight since last 25 years. However, as one shouldn't rule out a post-result alliance, there is a big chance of the two parties joining hands after the 19th provided MNS doesn't play spoilsport and they have enough seats.
Filed Under: Socio/Political Tagged With: 2014 maharashtra election predictions, maharashtra assembly election 2014 prediction, maharashtra election analysis, maharashtra elections 2014 analysis, maharashtra elections prediction
Gujarati Cinema
Poem/ Shayaris
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Socio/Political


text:
Retail gangs up on Treasury to demand business rates overhaul
The sector declares that the government's planned reforms to help firms do not go far enough amid the high street crisis.
Thursday 13 February 2020 07:07, UK
Image: High streets have suffered particularly as shoppers remain cautious
Dozens of major retailers have clubbed together to demand an overhaul of business rates - blamed for contributing to the crisis facing the UK's high streets.
A total of 52 chains signed the letter to the government, in an effort coordinated by the British Retail Consortium (BRC), to urge reform in a number of key areas in next month's budget.
It follows several years of turmoil for the sector as growing costs from the likes of business rates, rents and minimum wage rules have combined with a slowdown in consumer spending.
The crisis has forced several big names to collapse while others - even Sir Philip Green's Topshop empire - have gone cap-in-hand to creditors to agree store closures and rent cuts.
Leisure spending surge as shops struggle over Xmas
BRC figures released in January pointed to almost 60,000 job losses in the industry during 2019.
The businesses behind the letter, which include Asda, B&Q, Greggs and Ann Summers, described the business rates system as "broken".
Rates bills, which apply across England and Wales, bring in around £40bn for the Treasury annually.
More from Business
Royal Mail owner puts cost of strikes at £200m and questions resolve of CWU members
They are based on a formula which involves analysis by inspectors into rental values of all business premises.
The chains pointed to particular trouble from so-called transitional relief - a measure within the rates system that is supposed to help firms not be overburdened following a revaluation of the amount due.
Limits are in place to help those who are underpaying stagger the upwards transition to a higher bill, funded by overpayers easing the speed at which their lower bill is introduced.
The companies said transitional relief had seen the industry forced to subsidise others to the tune of £543m over the
last three years.
The letter also argues that companies outside London subsidised the city to the tune of £596m over the same period - despite consumer spending in the capital remaining relatively stable.
It said the "burden of business rates has become unsustainable for many retailers" and claimed that scrapping the downward phasing of rate would remove the harmful effects transitional relief has on retailers and businesses in the North of England.
Sainsbury's boss warns of 'hard yards' ahead
Helen Dickinson, chief executive of the BRC, said: "The future of retail is an issue that matters to people everywhere - it employs three million people and serves the needs of the entire country.
"Yet transitional relief undermines both the industry as a whole, and many regions that it serves.
"Northern high streets effectively subsidise London banks, forcing a £600m transfer of wealth to the capital; this could be used to support investment in people and technology that would benefit all parts of the UK.
"Every year retail faces higher and higher business rates bills, holding back much needed investment in an industry that is transforming at a dramatic pace.
"Swift action at the upcoming Budget would show the Chancellor was serious about levelling up all parts of the UK and supporting a retail industry towards realising a brighter future."
A Treasury spokesman said: "We are committed to levelling up the country and want to see thriving high streets in every region. That's why we've committed to a fundamental review of business rates and are halving rates for small shops at
the Budget.
"Since 2016 we've cut business rates across the board, with reforms that will reduce their cost by £13bn over the next five years."

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Hypnotherapy cured my chocoholism
Grandmother Maureen Leach could not get through the day without a slice of cake after every meal, several bars of chocolate in the evening and biscuits with every cup of tea.
At just under 5ft, she was a size 18, weighed nearly 12st and was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. She also had dangerously high blood sugar levels.
The advice from her doctor was to cut out eating sweet things, but after a lifetime of failed diets, Maureen felt her life was not worth living if she could not have a slice of cake or a chocolate biscuit.
"Nothing worked. I'm the middle of three sisters and I have always been the fat one. I have always been conscious of my weight but I couldn't slim for long – I just didn't have the willpower," she said.
But she was shocked into action when she began to suffer memory loss and was told that this could be linked to her diabetes and her diet.
"I was becoming increasingly forgetful, leaving the cooker on, burning things, not able to remember anything," said Maureen.
"I was afraid that I was heading towards dementia or Alzheimer's.
"My doctor gave me some memory tests, which I couldn't do, and she referred me to a memory clinic.
"They were concerned about my very high blood sugar levels and explained that there was a link between high sugar levels and memory loss.
"I didn't know this but apparently when sugar levels are high, blood thickening occurs which reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the brain. This can affect memory and concentration."
Maureen knew she had to make a permanent lifestyle change. But she was in despair at simply being told what not to eat with no further nutritional guidance.
It was after reading an article about hypnotherapy and the virtual gastric band treatment – hypnosis that makes the mind think the stomach is smaller than it is – that she consulted Beverley-based hypnotherapist Linda Johnson.
That was six months ago. Today, Maureen is 9st 9lbs, a size 10 to 12, with a blood sugar level between four and six. She feels a decade younger than her 66 years, has a new hairstyle, new clothes and no problems with her memory.
She never eats cake, chocolate or biscuits and does not miss them.
Maureen did not know it at the time but Linda, a clinical hypnotherapist, knew all too well what diabetes could do to the body. Linda said: "I was really concerned about Maureen when I first met her because her blood sugar was so high and I have a family history of diabetes.
"My grandmother had type two diabetes, which led to her developing gangrene and having to have both legs amputated.
"My grandfather on the other side of my family had type one diabetes and died when he was 60.
"My godmother also developed type 2 diabetes.
"And yet we were a family that thought we ate really well – my grandfather had an allotment and we ate fresh food but we were also tempted by the cakes, the biscuits and the pastries.
"We don't realise what these can do to the body and how easy it is to actually eat well without these foods, which are basically nutritionally bereft.
"So, my gastric band therapy not only encourages the brain to think that the stomach is smaller, but also to take on the message that food is fuel for the body.
"By eating the right foods – proteins, high-quality fats, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds to make sure we get all our vitamins, minerals and nutrients – the body is going to work much better."
Linda worked in the NHS and at director-level in the pharmaceutical industry for many years.
She developed a support programme around the virtual gastric band treatment that Maureen could incorporate into her daily routine.
It involved relaxation therapy, a healthy eating plan, and a simple exercise regime she could follow without going to the gym.
And there was another secret weapon. Linda taught Maureen the Emotional Freedom Tapping technique to drain negative feelings away.
"My husband has encouraged me all the way – and friends are amazed at the transformation," Maureen said.
"I can't tell you how good it feels to wear nice clothes and to feel and look younger."
Read more: http://www.thisishullandeastriding.co.uk/Hypnotherapy-cured-chocoholism/story-19681498-detail/story.html#ixzz2cbWn4xs6
Follow us: @thisishull on Twitter | thisishull on Facebook
If you would like to find more about how Birmingham Hypnotherapy Clinic can help you for problems such as anxiety, confidence, low self esteem, hypnobirth, gastric band hypnosis, sports performance hypnosis, weight loss hypnosis, sexual problems contact Birmingham Hypnotherapy Clinic.


text:
La strada statale 80 racc di Teramo (SS 80 racc) è una strada statale italiana. Chiamata anche Teramo-mare, la strada congiunge l'autostrada A24 all'autostrada A14 attraversando la Valle del Tordino.

Il percorso è, nella sua interezza, a due corsie per ogni senso di marcia. Ha inizio presso lo svincolo Teramo est della A24 e termina presso Mosciano Sant'Angelo, dove si innesta con la A14 e la SS80. Dal 2004 sono stati avviati studi e progetti per il prolungamento dell'arteria sino a Giulianova, raggiungendo così il Mare Adriatico e la strada statale 16 Adriatica.

Percorso

Note

Voci correlate
 Strada statale 80 del Gran Sasso d'Italia
 Autostrada A14
 Autostrada A24
 Teramo

Altri progetti

 080racc
Superstrade in Italia

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


An assistant principal in Michigan is facing charges for allegedly breaking into a student's home to search for prescription pills, police said.
Authorities said Amy Buchanan, who works as an assistant principal at Smith Middle School in Troy, staged a home invasion in a student's home to search for the pills after dropping the student off at the home earlier in the day, the New York Post reported.
Security footage allegedly showed Buchanan, 47, ransacking through drawers and a purse inside the home. The home security system alerted the owner and authorities of motion inside the house.
Police eventually tracked down Buchanan and arrested her for allegedly breaking into the house.
Buchanan told the police she had been searching for prescription pills, but the homeowner claimed that $40 had been stolen.
Authorities charged the school administrator on Saturday with second-degree home invasion, and a judge ordered she be held on $500 bond.
Officials with the Troy School District announced Buchanan would be placed on administrative leave in light of the charges.


text:
Hollywood goes where it's gone before
Record number of sequels, prequels are out this year
Los Angeles — All good things must end, except in Hollywood, where pretty much anything that finds an audience the first time becomes ripe for a follow-up.
Studios this year are delivering a record 25 sequels or prequels, the big onslaught starting with pre-summer releases of "X2: X-Men United" and "The Matrix Reloaded."
Actors, from left, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Nick Stahl, David Andrews and Claire Danes appear in a scene from Warner Bros. Pictures' "Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines." A record number of movie sequels and prequels are on the slate for 2003.
Sequels used to be hasty carbon copies meant to wring out a few more dollars from an earlier success. Studios today have learned that putting more thought and resources into follow-ups can produce franchises with bigger returns.
Hollywood's never-ending stories this year range from highly anticipated installments in "The Terminator," "Tomb Raider," "Charlie's Angels" and "Legally Blonde" franchises to lower-profile horror and animated movies like "Jeepers Creepers 2" and "Rugrats Go Wild."
Most weekends during the busy summer season bring at least one sequel or prequel, while fall and early winter are packed with such encores as "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King," "The Matrix Revolutions," "Barbershop 2" and "Scary Movie 3."
Have studios hit the point of sequel overload?
"I think you have to take each movie for its own value. There will be those you'll roll your eyes over and others you can't wait to see," said Carrie-Anne Moss, who returns in "The Matrix" sequels. "It all has to do with the intention. If someone's intention is just to make money and exploit something for profit, then it's not good. If it's thoughtfully done, the proof's in the pudding."
Actors can be reluctant to return and characters often wear out their welcome with audiences if sequels become too repetitive. Sometimes, a new twist can reinvigorate a franchise.
This summer's "American Wedding" tries that by reuniting most of the "American Pie" gang for the nuptials of Jason Biggs' and Alyson Hannigan's characters.
Prequels and sequels"Final Destination 2""Shanghai Knights""The Jungle Book II""X2: X-Men United""The Matrix Reloaded""Pokemon Heroes""2 Fast 2 Furious""Dumb & Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd""Rugrats Go Wild""Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle""Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde""Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines""Bad Boys II""Exorcist: The Beginning""Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over""Lara Croft: Tomb Raider -- The Cradle of Life""American Wedding""Freddy vs. Jason""Jeepers Creepers 2""Once Upon a Time in Mexico""Scary Movie 3""The Whole Ten Yards""The Matrix Revolutions""Barbershop 2""The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King"
"I wasn't really interested in doing something that would just be 'American Pie 3,"' Hannigan said. "We still do have the elements that made the first ones work, the gross-out humor and the heart. But people who would have been groaning, 'Don't do a third one,' I think they'll be happy, because there's a different story line, which is a wedding."
Before 1980, any given year might produce only two or three sequels. The number generally rose through the 1980s, with box-office tracker Exhibitor Relations counting 19 sequels in 1990.
It has ebbed and flowed since then, with the number of sequels and prequels falling to nine in 2001 then shooting up to 19 again last year and 25 this year, according to Exhibitor Relations' Paul Dergarabedian.
In the 1970s and early '80s, "Star Wars," "Jaws," "Rocky," "Superman" and "Star Trek" were among franchises that kicked sequels into high gear.
In those days, sequels often were inferior knockoffs resulting in dwindling box-office returns for successive movies. The franchises generally were turned over to lesser filmmakers, and key cast members often did not return.
Studios have learned that keeping the cast and director intact, along with much of the support team, can result in well-tailored sequels whose revenues approach or exceed those of the originals.
"If you think about your favorite television series, the first episodes often aren't very good at all. They're just getting their feet wet," said "Spy Kids" and "Desperado" creator Robert Rodriguez, who has sequels to both franchises due out this year, "Spy Kids 3-D: Game Over" and "Once Upon a Time in Mexico."
"If you get the original creative team back on a film, they can really fine-tune what they tried to do with the first one, and instead of making a cheap, quick knockoff, actually make a better sequel out of it."


Welcome to Governor's School East!
We look forward to welcoming you to Governor's School East on Opening Day - June 16th. Please use the Opening Day Schedule below when making your travel plans. You will receive a letter around June 10th from the GSE staff with your housing/roommate information and other pertinent details.
Contact NCGS year-round using the information on the Contacts link.


text:
Q: Javascript counting the objects in an array just looking for a little help. I think I've overcomplicated this. Basically I'm trying to just count the objects in this array filled with different data types. I tried just to separate the objects and count them, but obviously I'm now getting both arrays and objects and counting them. The below outputs 4 when it should be 3.
Any help appreciated, still new to coding.
function countTheObjects(arr) {

let objects = [];
for (let i = 0; i < arr.length; i++) {
  if (typeof arr[i] === 'object')
    objects.push(arr[i]);
}
  return objects.length;
}

console.log((countTheObjects([1, [], 3, 4, 5, {}, {}, {}, 'foo'])))

A: You can use Array.filter() and Array.isArray() to do this.
Array.filter() will look at each item in the array and keep if it the return value of a callback function is true.

function countTheObjects(arr) {
  return arr.filter((item) => item && typeof item === "object" && !Array.isArray(item)).length;
}

console.log(countTheObjects([1, [], null, '', undefined, 3, 4, 5, {}, {}, {}, 'foo']));

A: function countTheObjects(arr) {
let objects = [];
for (let i = 0; i < arr.length; i++) {
  if (!Array.isArray(arr[i]) && typeof arr[i] === 'object' &&  arr[i] !== null )
    objects.push(arr[i]);
}
console.log(objects)
  return objects.length;
}

console.log((countTheObjects([1, [], 3, 4, 5, {}, {}, {}, 'foo'])))

A: You can filter the array based on typeof and also check for array and null.
const countIt = (arr) => arr.filter(item => typeof item === "object" && item !== null && Array.isArray(item) === false).length

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
KCL Big Question
Revolution was a 'mistake' says French 'King'
As France groans under the weight of public debt and moral decay, one man is ready to unite the masses and lead the nation to a brighter new dawn.
By Henry Samuel in Paris
5:45PM BST 11 Oct 2009
Step forward Jean d'Orléans, the Duke of Vendôme – or so he claims in a new book seeking to undo the Revolution of 1789, restore the monarchy and place him on the throne.
Jean de France
While President Nicolas Sarkozy is often half-mockingly referred to as the republican monarch, the Duke wishes to go a giant step further by getting France to admit that the Revolution was a mistake.
In "Un prince français", which reads like a manifesto, the man who would be king contends that the French Republic is inherently unstable and in urgent need of monarchical tradition. "The King, contrary to the President, is not subjected to elections," says the Duke, who descends from King Louis-Philippe III. "And that changes everything. A prince does not govern according to opinion polls, as is too often the case today. He can therefore listen to everyone, neglect no one, take advice from all and decide in all honesty, guided only by a desire for the common good."
The book takes the form of an interview conducted by Fabrice Madouas, a respected journalist. But the Duke's chances of success may appear slim in a country which prides itself on acting as a global beacon for republicanism.
Mr d'Orléans argues that the only way to retain France's "unique" voice is to bring back a monarch with staying power who safeguards "the independence, the stability and the equity of the supreme authority".
After all, Mr Sarkozy already acts like a king, he argues. "Does not one say of Nicolas Sarkozy that he acts like an 'omnipresident'? In that case, his use of power resembles that of a British Prime Minister, like Tony Blair or Gordon Brown. France today is like England without the Queen."
Mr d'Orléans is a scion of the Capetian dynasty, which ruled France for 800 years. He has generously offered to take up the burden of becoming King of France "if destiny leads me there".
To drum up support, the Duke has been touring France in a royal election campaign trail. "Who knows what might happen?," he asks.
But even if he convinces France that the Revolution was a mistake, Mr d'Orléans would still have a fight on his hands to claim the throne. The descendants of France's royal family are split between the House of Bourbon and the House of Orléans.
The first branch descends from Louis XIV, and is headed by the Spanish-born Prince Louis Alphonse. The House of Orléans, on the other hand, descends from Louis-Philippe III, the last French monarch, whose reign ended in 1848.
The Orléans camp is itself split between followers of Mr d'Orléans and his eldest brother, François, who is severely disabled.
World News »
The best way to transfer money overseas
Calais Jungle evictions, in pictures
Eagles of Death Metal in concert
The Lemon Festival of Menton
Paris: 25 images that define a week of terror
Waterloo Commemorations
Cave paintings recreated


Crafty Texas Girls: A Valentine Treat for You -- A Giveaway!!
You've been so busy crafting and creating for your home-- I think you deserve a little something special. Something just for you!
So I'm having a giveaway! My friend Jordin, who writes over at "I Love That", has generously offered to give away her favorite hair product to one lucky 'crafty girl'.
Jordin's blog "I Love That" is my go-to when it comes to beauty products, make-up tips, and current fashion trends. And her favorite hair product at the moment is.... Morrocan Oil!
The giveaway is for a .85oz bottle of Morrocan Oil- the perfect size for travel. Jordin says Morrocan Oil strengthens and conditions hair while cutting down drying time. And if that isn't enough - it is celebrity coveted and featured in magazines like InStyle and Glamour!
PRIZE: A .85 oz bottle of Morrocan Oil, valued at $17.
TO ENTER: 1. Be a follower of this blog-Crafty Texas Girls. 2. Head over to "I Love That" and become a follower. 3. Then come back here and leave me a comment on this post.
**For an extra entry in this contest, mention Crafty Texas Girls on your blog or facebook page. Then leave me the link in an additional comment on this post.
PRIZE DETAILS: The bottle of Morrocan Oil will be shipped to the winner. Winner must live in US due to product shipping restrictions.
OTHER INFO: The winner will be selected using random.org and announced on Thursday morning in a new post on this blog. So come back on Thursday and see if you get to pamper your hair!
I'm a follower of "I love that"
I follow I love that.
I am following both on GFC.
I have dying to try this product out!!!
This is my favorite product for my frizzy, curly hair! Love both blogs!
I follow Crafty Texas Girls and I Love That via GFC as NeraCaligula.
I follow both blogs on my google reader!!
I follow both of your blogs, my hairdresser swears by Moroccan oil!
Would love this!! I am a follower!!!
following both blogs via GFC!
I follow both blogs on GFC. (Jennifer S.) Thanks for the giveaway, my hair could really use this!
GFC follower of both blogs: Atreau.
I've heard great things about Morrocan Oil.
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Well, can you please follow my blog??
My blog is in portuguese but I do speak English!


The Hampton Inn - Suites Hazard KY hotel is designed with a southern country atmosphere making our guests feel right at home. Our Kentucky Hazard Hampton Inn offers amenity filled hotel rooms that feature pillow top bedding for extra comfort. Guests can request a spacious suite with king bed sleeper sofa bar sink refrigerator and microwave or a whirlpool room. Sure to please the busy executive or leisure traveler in Kentucky Hazard Hampton Inn - Suites hotel guests will enjoy our complimentary On the House hot breakfast buffet served daily. After a busy day Hazard guests can relax in the indoor hotel swimming pool and spa or work out in the fitness center. For an added convenience our Kentucky Hampton Inn - Suites provides a guest laundry facility and a Suite Shop convenience store. Meeting and banquet facilities with audio visual equipment are available for a nominal fee. We love having you here in Kentucky at the Hampton Inn - Suites Hazard hotel.
I-64 West to Mountain Parkway exit to Hwy. 15 South at Campton KY follow Hwy. 15 to Hazard Ky.


text:
package br.uff.labtempo.osiris.schedule.sync;

import br.uff.labtempo.omcp.common.exceptions.AbstractRequestException;
import br.uff.labtempo.osiris.factory.function.FunctionModuleFactory;
import br.uff.labtempo.osiris.model.domain.function.FunctionData;
import br.uff.labtempo.osiris.model.domain.function.FunctionModule;
import br.uff.labtempo.osiris.repository.*;
import br.uff.labtempo.osiris.to.virtualsensornet.DataTypeVsnTo;
import com.google.common.collect.ImmutableMap;
import lombok.extern.slf4j.Slf4j;
import org.springframework.beans.factory.annotation.Autowired;
import org.springframework.stereotype.Component;

import java.util.*;

/**
 * Perform synchonizations between Function Modules and DataTypes
 * @author andre.ghigo
 * @since 1.8
 * @version 1.0
 */
@Component
@Slf4j
public class FunctionModuleFromDataTypeSyncSchedule {

    @Autowired
    private FunctionDataRepository functionDataRepository;

    @Autowired
    private DataTypeRepository dataTypeRepository;

    @Autowired
    private FunctionModuleFactory functionModuleFactory;

    private final String FUNCTION_DESCRIPTION_TEMPLATE = "Function that calculates the %s of %s in %s";

    private final Map<String, String> functionImplMap = ImmutableMap.of(
                    "sum", "result = 0; for(Double value : values) { result = result + value; } return result;",
                    "average", "result = 0; for(Double value : values) { result = result + value; } result = result / total; return result;",
                    "min", "result = 0; for(Double value : values) { result = Math.min(result, value); } return result;",
                    "max", "result = 0; for(Double value : values) { result = Math.max(result, value); } return result;");

    /**
     * Creates new Function Modules based on available DataTypes from VirtualSensorNet module
     * (if does not exist yet).
     */
    //@Scheduled(cron = "${sensornet.schedule.sync.function.cron:*/5 * * * * ?}")
    public void createFunctionModulesFromDataTypes() throws AbstractRequestException {
        List<DataTypeVsnTo> dataTypeVsnToList = this.dataTypeRepository.getAll();
        Iterator<FunctionData> functionDataIterator = this.functionDataRepository.findAll().iterator();
        for(String functionOperation : functionImplMap.keySet()) {
            for(DataTypeVsnTo dataTypeVsnTo : dataTypeVsnToList) {
                boolean found = false;
                while(functionDataIterator.hasNext()) {
                    FunctionData functionData = functionDataIterator.next();
                    String functionName = functionOperation + "." + dataTypeVsnTo.getDisplayName() + "." + dataTypeVsnTo.getUnit();
                    if(functionData.getName().equals(functionName)) {
                        found = true;
                        break;
                    }
                }
                if(!found) {
                    String functionDescription = String.format(FUNCTION_DESCRIPTION_TEMPLATE, functionOperation, dataTypeVsnTo.getDisplayName(), dataTypeVsnTo.getUnit());
                    FunctionModule functionModule = this.functionModuleFactory.getInstance(functionOperation,functionDescription, this.functionImplMap.get(functionOperation), dataTypeVsnTo.getId());
                    this.functionDataRepository.save(functionModule.getFunctionData());
                }
            }
        }
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


I've been reading a book my mother gave me: Henri Matisse, A Retrospective by John Elderfield, (The Museum of Modern Art 1992). When I used to visit her she had a treasure trove of art books that I would read. She usually agreed to allow me to take one with me when I left. This was one she wanted to keep.
Reading a big, heavy art book is an ordeal. There is the constant flipping pages to find Figures and Plates to which the text refers. When the artwork is reproduced in black and white in the book, I have to use my computer to look up the color version.
I followed this advice today, closed my eyes, and remembered how I used to press my hand on my brother Mike's* chest when he was trying to slam it with his fist. My memory was visual. I reproduced it below.
As I read further it became clear that Matisse was referring to artists who have their subjects in front of them. His point was to teach his students to create their subject anew on the canvas and make its color design internally balanced (i.e., not dependent on colors presented by the subject).
This is only a tiny bit of information I absorbed today. I am not even sure if the bit I incorporated into my art was the one transmitted by Elderfield in his essay.
And I strive for this.
I'm so glad Mom eventually gave me her Matisse book. I've got a lot more to read.
This entry was posted in Mike, Personal Stories and tagged abstract art, artistic process, autism siblings, creative process, Henri Matisse, John Elderfield, mental image, Paul Klee, philosophy, watercolor. Bookmark the permalink.


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Former Activist Publishes Scathing Critique Of Center Report
Former Head of SLDN Says Center Could Set Back Gays in Military Issue 14 Years
SANTA BARBARA, – Last week, the Palm Center released a report authored by four retired flag officers that called for the repeal of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy on gays in the military. The report marked the first time that a flag officer in all four service branches thoroughly analyzed the current policy and recommended ending the ban on open service by gays, lesbians and bisexuals.
Following its release, Dixon Osburn, co-founder and former executive director of the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), wrote a critique of the Palm Center report at The Bilerico Project. Osburn, who left SLDN last year, is considered by many to be a true hero for his tireless efforts on behalf of service members who have been adversely affected by the rules governing gay service, and the Palm Center hopes that Osburn will continue to play a valuable role in the national conversation about "don't ask, don't tell" as he has for so many years.
In his blog post, Osburn argues that several of the study group's recommendations are "as bad as the cure [sic], and may significantly undermine efforts to achieve full equality under law." His main critique is that the group urges Congress to repeal the current law banning openly gay service but to "return authority for personnel policy under this law to the Department of Defense." Osburn worries that, "by returning authority to regulate gays to the Pentagon, the Palm Center Study Group proposal allows the Pentagon to reinstitute a regulatory ban on gays in place of the law." Osburn's blog post makes several other points. He writes that the flag officers did not seek to reverse Article 125 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice, which punishes service members for engaging in consensual sodomy, regardless of their sexual orientation.
He critiques a section of the report that, according to Osburn, "prohibits acts committed for the purpose of satisfying sexual desires," and another which he says "recommends prohibiting sexual conduct [that is] 'prejudicial to good order and discipline and unit cohesion.'" And he objects to a section that states that "telling" should be allowed but considered "personal and private," because he worries that this language does not make it sufficiently clear that "public telling" should be permitted.
Finally, Osburn writes that the officers' report is as troubling politically as it is substantively, because there is already a bill in Congress that would require a policy of non-discrimination. He suggests that the presence of more than one approach for Congress to consider does damage to his and other activists' efforts to overturn the ban. While praising some of the report's findings, he writes that "the recommendations flowing from the report… have the potential to set fourteen years of progress on 'don't ask, don't tell' back on its heels."
The mission of the Palm Center, an academic think tank that is part of the University of California's Institute for Social, Behavioral, and Economic Research, is to inform public policy conversations with state-of the art academic research to enhance the quality of public dialogue about critical and controversial issues. As a research organization, the Palm Center does not advocate policy or align itself with a particular political candidate or party and it does not seek to affect the political strategies that various interest groups may deploy in order to achieve their objectives. The purpose of the flag officers' study group was to facilitate a thorough, open, and unbiased assessment by senior military officials of the role played by "don't ask, don't tell" in contributing to military readiness. It would have significantly undermined that objective if staff members of the Palm Center had
sought to influence the officers' report by pressing them to reach specific recommendations that comport with the political position or approach of any one individual or group.
Osburn's blog post made some incorrect and misleading assertions which are based on misreading, misinterpreting, or taking out of context certain sections of the report. First, there is no section that "prohibits acts committed for the purpose of 'satisfying sexual desires.'" Rather, the report recommends that any policy that is implemented establish standards which are "neutral with respect to sexual orientation" and suggests prohibitions against "inappropriate" sexual contact. Second, there is no recommendation "prohibiting sexual conduct 'prejudicial to good order and discipline and unit cohesion.'" Rather, the report endorses regulations that "preclude misconduct" that is prejudicial to good order, discipline and cohesion.
Finally, the recommendation to "eliminate" the "don't tell" clause of the current policy does not leave unclear the officers' desired action for rules regulating disclosure. The report explicitly recommends eliminating the "don't tell" restriction and, to ensure that gays and lesbians are not required to state their orientation, it states that the "prerogative to disclose sexual orientation" should remain "a personal and private matter." While some people, like Osburn, had objections to aspects of the flag officers' recommendations, others, such as the Washington Post editorial board, found the report to be of great merit. The Palm Center is pleased and honored that the report is helping to inform a robust and healthy debate on the status and direction of gay service. Let the conversation continue.
Don't ask, don't tellLGBT coalition


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ASTON-REESE SHAKES OFF NERVES IN PRO DEBUT
March 22, 2017 Brian Coe
You could forgive Zach Aston-Reese for having a few butterflies fluttering around before Tuesday night's game against the Hartford Wolf Pack. After all, the 22-year old was about to make his professional hockey debut while suiting up on the top line for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.
"I was a little nervous in warm ups. I think I whiffed on half of my shots," he laughed following the Pens' 5-2 win. "But halfway through the first I got my confidence a little bit."
And by the end of the period, any semblance of nervousness was gone.
The leading scorer in the NCAA this season, Aston-Reese netted his first pro goal with just 17.3 seconds left in the opening frame, giving the Penguins a 3-2 lead after 20 minutes of play.
The goal came off of a goal line feed from team captain Tom Kostopoulos, who found Aston-Reese in the slot.
"TK made a really nice play to me. I didn't hesitate, I just put it on net," said Aston-Reese. "It was fortunate enough to go in."
The Northeastern product was being a bit modest saying he was fortunate to score. Goals have come at a prodigious pace for the recently signed free agent this season, as he scored 31 times in 38 games with the Huskies during his senior year.
Head coach Clark Donatelli was impressed with what he saw out of the rookie forward.
"Quick release. For his first game, he's pretty poised with the puck," said Donatelli. "You can tell he's a goal scorer."
Aston-Reese didn't look out of place skating with Kostopoulos and Kevin Porter, two vets who had combined to play more than 1,900 professional games headed into last night's action. But he did notice a bit of a difference in one area compared to the college game.
"I said on the bench to TK actually that guys are a lot stronger and it's tougher to get to the net," he remarked.
Tuesday was just a taste of the AHL for Aston-Reese. The Penguins will play three games in three days this weekend, something which is a rarity in the college ranks. Still, the Staten Island native is looking forward to the challenge of the late season schedule.
"It's not going to get any easier. I just have to keep my mind right, keep my body going here."
NOTES: Aston-Reese became the first Penguins player to score in his pro debut sine Kasperi Kapanen tallied against the Lehigh Valley Phantoms on April 8, 2015…Aston-Reese became the 77th Penguins player to receive an assist from Tom Kostopoulos.
Tags: AHL, American Hockey League, Hockey, National Hockey League, NHL, Pittsburgh Penguins, Tom Kostopoulos, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Zach Aston-Reese
HOT START LEADS PENGUINS PAST WOLF PACK, 4-1
PENGUINS DOWNED IN BRIDGEPORT, 3-0


Daruma Sushi + Sake started as a tiny sushi bar in Beaumont-Wilshire, NE Portland, Oregon.
We serve great sushi, sake, and now serve hot izakaya items and cocktails.
Get it fresh. Serve it ASAP.
We follow some traditional principles. But where we can improve, we will. We strive to be the best sushi bar in Portland. Our food is made to order. We will post more to this page soon.
Fridays and Saturdays: 8:30 PM - Close.
Copyright © 2018 Daruma Sushi + Sake - All Rights Reserved.


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Lenovo Adds ThinkPad Models with Remote Disable Feature
Simple command from a mobile phone disables the PC and sends text confirmation that it has done so. By Cecilia Galvin By Cecilia Galvin
Simple command from a mobile phone disables the PC and sends text confirmation that it has done so.
By Cecilia Galvinalvin
Like taxes, cybercrime is up. In fact, according to the 2008 CSI Computer Crime and Security Survey, an independent research report from the Computer Security Institute, 42 percent of the 522 computer security professionals who responded to the survey reported thefts of notebook computers and other mobile devices.
But there are ways to fight back. In November, Research Triangle Park, N.C.-based Lenovo announced that it planned to provide customers of some ThinkPad notebooks with a defense against authorized data access. Today, the Lenovo ConstantSecure Remote Disable feature is available on eight models equipped with mobile broadband1: ThinkPad R400, T400, T500, W500, X200, X200s, X200 Tablet, and X301. Lenovo worked with San Jose, Calif.-based Phoenix Technologies Ltd., a provider of embedded technologies, to develop the capability.
Here's how it works: Users send a simple text message command such as "kill laptop" via a cell phone to their mobile broadband-enabled ThinkPad. If the machine is turned off, it will automatically disable the next time it registers on the cellular network. A confirmation text message is also sent that indicates when the disable technology was successfully executed. To reactivate the laptop, users simply enter a pre-set password created when they registered their phone to the ThinkPad.
Remote Disable is supported worldwide wherever cellular phone systems support GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) SMS (Short Message Service) text message transmission. Click here to obtain the free ConstantSecure Remote Disable download.
To read the entire Computer Security Institute report on computer crime, go to http://i.cmpnet.com/v2.gocsi.com/pdf/CSIsurvey2008.pdf.
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