text:
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Les Yuen's Story
June 2011 will forever be etched in the memory of Amanda Yuen's mind. It was the day her father was diagnosed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, and was admitted to RCH. He would remain there for five long months.
Les Yuen of Coquitlam is an active 55-year-old industrial electrician by trade, who admits that he was probably in the best health of his life before he developed double pneumonia. But when Les was admitted to RCH, he had only 50 per cent lung capacity. "It's weird because you don't really know how sick you are," recalls Les. "You're just really tired and think 'I just need to rest', but you're worse than you think."
Dr. Steven Reynolds is an intensivist who provides care to critically ill or injured patients at RCH. He was one of the first to assess Les's condition.
"I'll never forget… he was a bright, articulate, accomplished man, and I remember looking at his chest x-ray and thinking 'He is really sick, this is going to be really tough on him', but he managed to survive a very terrible disease," says Dr. Reynolds. Les required multiple modes of ventilation (breathing machinery) to address his complicated lung issues, and was placed in a medically induced coma for twenty days in RCH's Intensive Care Unit.
"Life for my family revolved around the ICU and we spent every day at the bedside even though there was nothing we could do," recalls Amanda.
It was confounding for Les's family that someone so healthy be struck by such illness. Dr. Reynolds explains that the most common site of infection is in the lungs. "Our immune system is directed at dealing with minor infections like cuts, but it is not good at dealing with major infections," says Dr. Reynolds. "Our lungs are exquisitely sensitive to inflammation, and once infected, our immune system runs away with itself and ends up causing the lung injury."
Knowing that helping a patient heal goes beyond the technical aspects, Intensivist Dr. Derek Gunning and a team of nurses and respiratory therapists orchestrated a trip to the rooftop garden for Les one day after having spent three months in the hospital. "We learned that he really loved the outdoors, so we bundled him up in a wheelchair connected to a rolling cart stacked with monitors and portable suction units," recalls Andrew Bailon, Respiratory Therapist. "It did him so much good to have 20 minutes of fresh air and to bask in the sunshine."
A critically ill patient's care involves a veritable army of highly specialized medical and support professionals, from intensivists, respirologists and nurses, to social workers, physiotherapists, respiratory therapists and everyone in between, working around the clock to ensure the best possible care.
"Our first focus is always patient and family—it is the cornerstone of how we deliver care, make decisions, develop policies and procedures," says Lia Carter, ICU Health Services Manager. "Building on this is our concept of 'together we can, together we do'… no matter how complex a patient is, no matter where the patient is, we just figure out how we can bring our services there and do what we can… we just make it happen… that is the kind of unit we are."
In November 2011, Les finally came home. With oxygen support, and the loving care of his family, Les gradually learned how to sit up, walk and eat again, and move forward with some in-home rehabilitative therapy. Although Les feels his recovery has been slow, painful and exhausting, he is grateful to be able to enjoy life with his family, and get outside when the weather is nice.
"It's not until you're in the ICU that you understand the immense responsibility and compassion that the doctors, nurses, RTs, everyone has for their patients," says Les. "It is amazing the specialized equipment and skills needed, and how many professionals are working at a time to coordinate your care."
In addition to Amanda volunteering at RCH, the Yuen family will be returning to the ICU before Christmas, as they do every year, to once again say thank you for the care Les received.
"The ICU staff helped create a home away from home for us. Taking the time to get to know us not only offered some normalcy in our lives, but also helped alleviate the stress of having a loved one in the hospital," says Amanda. "I had never experienced so much compassion, kindness and support from strangers before, and that is something that will stay with me forever."
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text:
Chess Chat - Australia's Premier Chess Forum > General Chess > Arbiters' Corner > When does the game start?
View Full Version : When does the game start?
I have recently had the following experience. The draw for a round was announced. I grabbed my son to a different room to give him a few final hints before the game. We stayed there literally a few minutes. When my son was about to go, which was probably about 20 seconds after the game in the other room started; we got attacked by the parent of the opponent claiming that coaching during the game is not allowed. Can somebody clarify this situation? We have not entered the room yet so I thought the game for us has not started. Thanks in advance.
Spiny Norman
Had a move been made on the board yet?
Ex post - yes, he did make the first move...
Ex ante - we did not know that; as I have said we have not entered the room.
WhiteElephant
Interesting question. I have read openings books on the train while running late for a game which was already in progress. Surely it is is my time and I can do what I want with it. What if I arrive at the tournament venue and decide to do some last minute reading in another room before I sit down at my game (while my clock is running)?
I would say the game starts when white's clock is started. After this has happened I would say that play has begun and therefore the rules which specify "during play" would apply.
The rule in this case is (I think) 12.2(a):
12.2 a. During play the players are forbidden to make use of any notes, sources of information, advice, or analyse on another chessboard.
If you accept these views then strictly speaking a player should not receive advice after the scheduled start time of a round unless it is known the round will be commencing late, or they know their game will be starting late due to perhaps a late finish in the previous round.
Also strictly speaking you should not be reading a chess book after the scheduled start time of the round.
The game has started and the coaching was occurring during the game. Of that, there is no doubt. I'd suggest you and we should all ensure this doesn't occur again.
There was no ill-intent or untoward benefit gained.
The parent challenging you, if that's what they did, needs a quick nutting in the goolies for being a pointy-head.
CameronD
Would be interested in what would occur if there was an official complaint made to the arbiter
That would depend on the arbiter as there is no specified penalty for this rule. In the situation Drug describes I think a warning would be sufficient as there was no intention to seek an unfair advantage and the last minute coaching was as a result of the pairings being posted quite close to the next round start time. However that is just c'est l'echecs, the coaching should have been forgone in this instance.
Does the fide handbook define when the play starts? I understand the above rule, but your conclusion is based on the presumption that the play starts when the clock is started. If the play starts when you actually start playing (which means you at least enter the room) then the above rule does not apply.
Something possibly related happened in the famous game #5 between Kramnik and Topalov which as we all remember Kramnik forfeited. He was in a separate room just a few meters away from the venue, and that was not considered as he started.
bergil
Would be interested in what would occur if there was an official complaint made to the arbiterHe'd be told to sod off. ;)
Also, is the child considered a "player" before he enters the playing area?
Capablanca-Fan
That sounds right. It would certainly apply once the player has reached the official venue, as opposed to still on the bus after the start time. But in this case, the pep talk commenced before the start time, and ended just 20 sec after it. So while there might have been a violation, it would warrant only a warning.
game should start once clock starts... otherwise...
player A makes unusual move (1. b4)
spectator notes unusual moves... leaves venue and informs Player B by phone
Player B reserches the opening in car/other location
Player B arrives to play his game
we got attacked by the parent of the opponent claiming that coaching during the game is not allowed. Can somebody clarify this situation?
Others have started answering about when games begin etc, so I will answer this.
First of all, by the laws of chess, the parent is regarded as a spectator in the game and therefore can make no official appeals whatsoever. Of course it isnt unusual if a spectator sees something 'illegal' during a game and informs the arbiter and lets the arbiter take care of it.
The only people who can make official complaints are the two players. So the parent has no grounds to do what you claim has happened.
My response would be, speak to the arbiter.
OK thread closed!
Next topic please ;)
Listen here Gunner, I've told you once ... I'm not going to tell you again!
What's this. Not the pulling the head in thing again?
No point asking ... I've already said I won't tell you again ...:P
In case you were wondering ... ;)
IIRC the Laws once gave the White player the option to seal the opening move if the opponent is absent, to avoid this situation. Now this doesn't seem to be an option.
I don't remember this option being in the laws before but Geurt Gijssen, in his Arbiter's Notebook, has said that it is permissible under the present Laws so as to avoid the situation described by Cameron D.
If a complaint was made, a (very mild) warning would be more than sufficient unless there was evidence that the player had become aware of his opponent's move.
That's good, but how does he justify this from the laws?
Bill Gletsos
Apparently from a comment in Reuben's first Organiser's Handbook (1997) it was the practice at Olympiads that if black is absent, white starts black's clock but without making a move. When black arrives he starts whites clock, white moves and the game proceeds normally.
That seems like fair practice, but if an Australian player does so, and an arbiter disallows this on the grounds that White has failed to move, does this player have any recourse under the Laws as written?
Good question. I wondered why at the time. I've tried to find the text but can't at present. I think I may even have sent Geurt a query. I seem to remember that he relied on the general preface to the Laws as it's clear that their letter doesn't allow it. I did come across a reference in his columns to the fact that the Royal Dutch Chess Federation has a special rule to that effect that applies in its teams events. If I come across Geurt's explanation, I'll let you know.
Much obliged. Maybe ACF should consider a similar rule to the Dutch?
Would that be Rule 1...f.4?
Did a little Bird tell you that one? It is actually 1...f.5 ;)
Doh! and a huge 30 HCDs for the birdie :clap: Best this month!
1.1 The player with the white pieces commences the game.
So once white makes move 1 the game has started whether black is there or not and black should not be receiving advice, whether black knows white has started or not.
6.5 At the time determined for the start of the game the clock of the player who has the white pieces is started.
I'm not sure this really means that start of clock necessarily = start of game.
Generally it's much simpler if it does, but what happens in the following situation: White is late and black starts white's clock. Upon arrival half an hour later White notices the board has been set up incorrectly and asks that the game be cancelled and a new game played including resetting of clock?
The situation mentioned by WE is interesting. I have sometimes wondered whether a player (especially white) could deliberately increase their chances in a weekender by staying outside and completing their preparation during the opening say ten minutes of their time - if they really need to book up on some lines against that specific opponent it could be a good investment. I've never actually done it myself though and I think it is dodgy practice.
There are basically two ways of approaching this question.
I don't consider the third which is to ask White why he bothered to turn up at all if that's his attitude.
The first is to say that the relevant Article (7.1.a) must be read as referring to a game in which some moves have been made as the rest of Art. 7 so applies - a sort of purpose and object commonsense view. Also, if 7.1.a were to be interpreted as suggested how would 7.3 apply to Black if he displaced a piece before White arrived and the Arbiter observed the fact?
The second relies on the actual language used. Art. 7.1.a says "If during a game is is found that the initial position of the pieces was incorrect..." . If no moves have been made, The correct wording would be "is incorrect".
Moreover, Art, 1.1 says that "The game of chess is played between two opponents who move their pieces alternately...". If no moves have been made, it can then be argued that the is no game in progress as, for there to be a game, there must be at least one move.
Put more simply, references in the Laws to a game have to be read in context and interpreted sensibly, something that chess-playing bush lawyers, in my expreience do not understand.
In the case cited, I would take the same view if, for example, White made a move or two and then complained (though there I might also ping him for bringing the game into disrepute or the like were it clear that he knew about the error before making his first move) or where Black was the latecomer and made the same claim, White having made his first move.
I think that what I have said also fits in with Art. 6.5 ith its use of the words "at the time determined for the start of the game". That is Art. 6.5 establishes the time when the clocks are to be started but that is not necessarily the "start of the game".

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Chris Bowen with a good haul of carp from a 5 inch multi-mono gill net.
IFS staff on the Carp Management Program have been making the most of the warm, still conditions presented at Lake Sorell. They have been using a variety of techniques in a bid to remove the remaining population of carp from the lake.
The slowly maturing carp have proved difficult to target and catch, as they did not aggregate in the shallows during optimum weather conditions, and have shown no interest in spawning.
Many kilometres of gill nets have been set each day in locations where "Judas" transmitter fish were observed. The gill nets have allowed the team to maintain catch rates through a difficult period of carp maturity and activity. The numbers of carp caught throughout summer are as follows; December- 287, January- 893, and *February- 675. *This is the number caught to February 18.


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Made of beautiful, durable, cast iron, this Sun design doormat is a unique décor item for your porch or patio. It will stay in place even in windy conditions, and the raised design is great for scraping shoes.


text:
'When Calls the Heart' Renewed for Third Season
By Roger Newcomb
Kristina Wagner, Jack Wagner - Photo Credit: Copyright 2013 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter
Hallmark Channel has renewed When Calls the Heart for a third season.
The sweeping frontier drama that captured the hearts of millions and became a network's most social series of all-time, will return for a new 10-hour season, with a special 2-hour sneak peek premiering Holiday 2015. Season 3 will premiere Sundays at 8 p.m. ET/PT in February 2016.
The enchanting romance, adventure and drama stars Lori Loughlin (Fuller House, 90210), Erin Krakow (Army Wives), Daniel Lissing (Last Resort), Jack Wagner (The Bold and the Beautiful, General Hospital) and Kristina Wagner (General Hospital).
When Calls the Heart, which galvanized millions of fans and became a social phenomenon among the #Hearties, is based on the bestselling series of books by Janette Oke.
"When Calls the Heart has a passionate loyal fan base in the television landscape and their devotion to the captivating storylines and characters has made this series grow with outstanding ratings and top social media engagement," said Michelle Vicary, Executive Vice President, Programming, Crown Media Family Networks. "We are incredibly proud of the series' success and look forward to bringing families back together on Sunday nights in its new day and time period."
When Calls the Heart is a Believe Pictures and Brad Krevoy Television production. Brad Krevoy, Tony Blake, Robin Bernheim, Brian Bird, Michael Landon, Jr., and Michael Shepard are executive producers. Eric Jarboe and Neill Fearnley are co-executive producers. Based on the novel by Janette Oke.
Filed Under: Hallmark, Jack Wagner, Kristina Wagner, Lori Loughlin, Primetime, When Calls the Heart


Kasie is missing. Please help find her! Kasie is a 2 year old Brown & White Teddy Bear, Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise. Weighs about 10 pounds. Last seen wearing a Blue Collar with Tag with Pet Owners information on it. Kasie is also chipped. Very friendly if approached, but she will run. To get her attention you must say "Kasie Sit". If seen or found, please call 1-866-699-3463.


Not many people might compare the Black Rock Desert about 100 miles North of Las Vegas, Nevada to the tiny island of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, but having been in both places I must say, there are quite a few similarities between this arid prehistoric lake bed during the Burning Man Festival and this lush tropical island during New Year's Eve.
In case you weren't aware, I was a very lucky bean to be able to be transported to the B.V.I.'s for the holidays. Lots of 45 sunblock and a big straw hat have enabled me to fool even those who knew I went, as I'm just about as pale as before I left.
At least 1000 people convene to knock back a few of Foxy's famous Sly Fox rum drinks, indulge in Rudy's (the other major establishment's owner) famous pig roast and Caribbean lobster dinner, and hang loose with old and new friends. As New Year's Eve Day drew to a close the excitement and energy picked up despite the grueling heat that bore down on you all day. Schools of college-aged kids swam around smaller schools of older couples and families. By the time 11:00 rolled around there were plastic cups and paper plates strew about everywhere. That didn't deter barefooted party-ers, some of whom looked to have overindulged in legal and illegal substances.
After a year of being out and about I might have chosen a quiet evening over a big bash, but there was one aspect of this wild party that was really fantastic. Our watches ticked towards 11:55 when all of a sudden we heard boat horns blaring and saw flares shooting up into the sky. There was no big lit ball atop a skyscraper or clock on the wall that everyone counted from, so we realized it must be midnight. It came up on us so quickly and quietly... We popped open the Dom and cheered to Health, Happiness, Friends, and the New Year. But then...wait! All of a sudden a whole crowd down at Foxy's began tooting horns and cheering. Hey!? Was it New Year's then? Or is it right now? And minutes later down at Rudy's on the other end of the island, another round of hootin' and hollerin' erupted! Oh -- I see, now it's midnight there. I guess what they say about Island time is right...it's certainly not based on Greenwich Mean Time, but it's a Good Mean Time! We walked to Rudy's where a Reggae version of Auld Lang Syne played. Rudy was cheerful and I signed a lamp light with my name. It's not unusual for some of these island bars' wooden ceilings and posts to be covered in signatures of visitors from around the world. Down at the other end, a third band was just getting started at Foxy's. We marveled at the wild gyrations of a young flapper-attired woman who looked like she was transported (in a few ways).
Like Burning Man, this Old Year's Night festival has become legendary and grown in popularity. Like Burning Man, hundreds (thousands) of people converge to relax, cut loose, be mellow, be crazy. Like Burning Man, the instant community shows how where once nothing existed (except prehistoric dried clay and cow patties or 100s of feet of warm blue water and coral reefs), people will form their dwellings into divisions and subdivisions, order is created out of something that appears to be disorderly, invisible and unspoken rules are made with no dominance. Like Burning Man, the event results in a grand festival of lights, sounds, dancing, drinking and assorted revelries. And like Burning Man, the next day, as homesteaders pick up tents (or anchors), there is an efficient crew that swoops down with brooms and sanitation trucks to restore the natural calm beauty to these vastly different, yet similar paradises.
Happy New Year to everyone and to everyone a Good Night!


text:
Research for the Hellenic Melbourne Greek Community Chair in Diaspora Studies at the University of Melbourne has started
First announced to the Federal Parliament as part of its 2019-2020 budget, the Hellenic Chair of Diaspora Studies of the Greek Community of Melbourne at the University of Melbourne has taken the next important step of its creation by announcing that she is now embarking on a worldwide search for a leading scholar to be appointed holder of the chair of studies on the Hellenic world diaspora.
It is important to note that the chair will also bear the name of the Melbourne Greek Community (GCM). This is another important step in the continued development of GCM's educational programs, which now range from pre-preparation to higher education.
The $ 2.5 million grant that was secured by the GCM went directly to the University of Melbourne and the University in turn placed the money in a trust fund. The University itself also contributes a substantial amount to finance the ongoing costs of running and administering the chair.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison with David Coleman, GCM Chairman Bill Papastergiadis and esteemed members of the GCM Board of Directors. Photo: Supplied
The GCM thanked the Morrison government for all their support and efforts to help realize the chair as well as the University of Melbourne for their willingness to both incorporate and co-fund the chair.
It is also important to recognize the efforts of CMG staff and board members who have contributed in the long run. In particular, members of the GCM Board of Directors Costas Markos, Bill Papastergiadis OAM and Dr Nick Dallas, not to mention Professor Nikos Papastergiadis whose tireless efforts, enthusiasm and hard work were crucial in the creation of the pulpit.
Dr Nick Dallas also sits on the University of Melbourne Chair Committee.
The University of Melbourne chair complements the work that the Melbourne Greek community has done with many others, including the Archdiocese, to save and advance Greek studies at La Trobe University.
Bill Papastergiadis and Spiros Papadopoulos continue to serve on the Greek Studies Council of La Trobe University along with many others in the community.
Meanwhile, another success is that the settlement has taken place with the new building at 272 Russell Stree, which will extend the work of the Greek center housing a cultural center that will seek to attract young and old alike.
As has been reported for many years, the purchase was funded primarily by the federal government and the state to help establish the hub in the city near central Greece.
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Kyocera released the E1000 Deco on March 27, 2007.
Where can I download the E1000 Deco manual?
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Kyocera backs up the E1000 Deco with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
I have E1000 Deco problems. Where can should I go for support, replacement or repairs?
If your E1000 Deco has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Kyocera support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Kyocera's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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Proudly positioned on a prime elevated site within the multi award winning RV Homebase Fraser Coast, the Victoria is perfectly designed to capture local breezes.
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Forum.KlanKind.com :: View topic - I remembered how to log in to this forum.
I remembered how to log in to this forum.
Are you a robot? Am I the only one left?
Posted: Wed Sep 30, 2015 6:37 pm Post subject: I remembered how to log in to this forum.
G'day mate, hopefully all going ok your way.
Still visit but very quiet hey, i am still playing BF3-4.
I am really surprised this server is still ticking away.
I am still alive, and doing rather well. Please enjoy this video of me destroying a futon mattress.
It's legit, I was there.


text:
Dit artikel beschrijft de prestaties van de Engelse voetbalclub Sunderland AFC in het seizoen 2014–2015. Het was het achtste opeenvolgende seizoen dat de club uit Sunderland uitkwam in de hoogste divisie van het Engelse profvoetbal, de Premier League, na de degradatie in 2006.

Op maandag 16 maart 2015 bereikte de clubleiding van Sunderland overeenstemming met Dick Advocaat om tot het einde van het seizoen leiding te geven aan de club. Hij volgde Gustavo Poyet op. De Uruguayaan was eerder die dag ontslagen, kort na de 4-0 thuisnederlaag tegen Aston Villa. Onder leiding van Poyet was Sunderland halverwege het seizoen 2014/15 steeds verder weggezakt in de Premier League. Met nog negen duels voor de boeg stond de ploeg op de zeventiende plaats. Sunderland won sinds de kerst één keer (2-0 tegen Burnley FC). Poyet stond achttien maanden aan het roer in het Stadium of Light. Advocaat nam Željko Petrović mee als zijn assistent. In zijn eerste wedstrijd als coach van Sunderland, op zaterdag 21 maart 2015, verloor hij met 1-0 van West Ham United door een treffer in de 88ste minuut van Diafra Sakho. Een wedstrijd later won Sunderland wel de beladen Tyne-Wearderby tegen rivaal Newcastle United met 1-0. Een aanbod van de club om langer trainer te blijven, legde Advocaat in eerste instantie naast zich neer. Een week later tekende hij toch voor een jaar bij.

Premier League

Wedstrijden

Eindstand

Toeschouwers

Statistieken
Bijgaand een overzicht van de spelers die Sunderland vertegenwoordigden in de Premier League in het seizoen 2014/15 en onder leiding van trainer-coach Dick Advocaat als zestiende eindigden.

FA Cup

Wedstrijden

Football League Cup

Wedstrijden

Sunderland AFC naar seizoen
Engelse voetbalclub 2014/15

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


World Mobile Congress 2015 will be held in Barcelona on March 2-5. Last year XOtel became a technical partner of Icelandic company Safeum Communications ehf. that developed secure messenger SafeUM and free app TOP Security! (online magazine on cyber security). XOtel will provide SafeUM users with the reliable and high-quality PSTN connection at the best rates all over the world, as well as SMS traffic.
GCCM Dubai 2015 will be held in Dubai on March 9-10. We are happy to know that conferences organized by our partner Carrier Community are gaining popularity. Last conference in London was quite successful for XOtel, so we plan more extensive presence on GCCM conferences.
During GCCM Dubai 2015 you are welcome to arrange meetings with Artem Fedorenko (Chief Commercial Officer) and Stas Ostrovskyi (International Sales Manager). Our bilateral table's number is 37.
One more conference Capacity Middle East 2015 will be held in Dubai on March 10-12. XOtel is proud to be one of the sponsors of this conference. It's not the 1st time that we visit this conference and we have to admit that each year it's a success, so we're looking forward to 2015 conference. Middle East market is one of the prior directions for XOtel. You can discuss possible cooperation with our delegates and learn more about our services and business directions.
Latam market development is one of the priorities for XOtel. This year we are visiting all biggest significant telecom conferences in this region. The 1st one will be AWC 2015, which will be held in Miami on March 11-12. Immediately afterwards we will go to Rio de Janeiro for Capacity Latam 2015, one of the sponsors of which is XOtel. Capacity Latam 2015 will be held on March 17-18.
During these conferences you are welcome to arrange meetings with Sergii Teslenko (Chief Business Development Officer) and Kseniya Gurova (International Sales Manager on Latam).
In 2015 we started cooperation with Telecodays and will be among the participants of TelecoDays 2015 conference. For further details and planning meetings pls. contact Sergii Teslenko (Chief Business Development Officer), who will represent XOtel at this conference.
Looking forward to meeting you! We are always ready to tell you more about XOtel and discuss possible cooperation.


text:
Brezje je naselje v Občini Mozirje.

Sklici in opombe

Naselja Občine Mozirje


text:
/*
  Initial implementation by Hal Daume and John Langford.  Reimplementation
  by John Langford.
*/

#include <math.h>
#include <iostream>
#include <fstream>
#include <float.h>
#include <time.h>

#include "reductions.h"

using namespace std;
using namespace LEARNER;

struct direction
{ size_t id; //unique id for node
  size_t tournament; //unique id for node
  uint32_t winner; //up traversal, winner
  uint32_t loser; //up traversal, loser
  uint32_t left; //down traversal, left
  uint32_t right; //down traversal, right
  bool last;
};

struct ect
{ uint32_t k;
  uint32_t errors;
  v_array<direction> directions;//The nodes of the tournament datastructure

  v_array<v_array<v_array<uint32_t > > > all_levels;

  v_array<uint32_t> final_nodes; //The final nodes of each tournament.

  v_array<size_t> up_directions; //On edge e, which node n is in the up direction?
  v_array<size_t> down_directions;//On edge e, which node n is in the down direction?

  size_t tree_height; //The height of the final tournament.

  uint32_t last_pair;

  v_array<bool> tournaments_won;
};

bool exists(v_array<size_t> db)
{ for (size_t i = 0; i< db.size(); i++)
    if (db[i] != 0)
      return true;
  return false;
}

size_t final_depth(size_t eliminations)
{ eliminations--;
  for (size_t i = 0; i < 32; i++)
    if (eliminations >> i == 0)
      return i;
  cerr << "too many eliminations" << endl;
  return 31;
}

bool not_empty(v_array<v_array<uint32_t > > tournaments)
{ for (size_t i = 0; i < tournaments.size(); i++)
  { if (tournaments[i].size() > 0)
      return true;
  }
  return false;
}

void print_level(v_array<v_array<uint32_t> > level)
{ for (size_t t = 0; t < level.size(); t++)
  { for (size_t i = 0; i < level[t].size(); i++)
      cout << " " << level[t][i];
    cout << " | ";
  }
  cout << endl;
}

size_t create_circuit(ect& e, uint32_t max_label, uint32_t eliminations)
{ if (max_label == 1)
    return 0;

  v_array<v_array<uint32_t > > tournaments = v_init<v_array<uint32_t > >();
  v_array<uint32_t> t = v_init<uint32_t>();

  for (uint32_t i = 0; i < max_label; i++)
  { t.push_back(i);
    direction d = {i,0,0,0,0,0, false};
    e.directions.push_back(d);
  }

  tournaments.push_back(t);

  for (size_t i = 0; i < eliminations-1; i++)
    tournaments.push_back(v_array<uint32_t>());

  e.all_levels.push_back(tournaments);

  size_t level = 0;

  uint32_t node = (uint32_t)e.directions.size();

  while (not_empty(e.all_levels[level]))
  { v_array<v_array<uint32_t > > new_tournaments = v_init<v_array<uint32_t>>();
    tournaments = e.all_levels[level];

    for (size_t t = 0; t < tournaments.size(); t++)
    { v_array<uint32_t> empty = v_init<uint32_t>();
      new_tournaments.push_back(empty);
    }

    for (size_t t = 0; t < tournaments.size(); t++)
    { for (size_t j = 0; j < tournaments[t].size()/2; j++)
      { uint32_t id = node++;
        uint32_t left = tournaments[t][2*j];
        uint32_t right = tournaments[t][2*j+1];

        direction d = {id,t,0,0,left,right, false};
        e.directions.push_back(d);
        uint32_t direction_index = (uint32_t)e.directions.size()-1;
        if (e.directions[left].tournament == t)
          e.directions[left].winner = direction_index;
        else
          e.directions[left].loser = direction_index;
        if (e.directions[right].tournament == t)
          e.directions[right].winner = direction_index;
        else
          e.directions[right].loser = direction_index;
        if (e.directions[left].last == true)
          e.directions[left].winner = direction_index;

        if (tournaments[t].size() == 2 && (t == 0 || tournaments[t-1].size() == 0))
        { e.directions[direction_index].last = true;
          if (t+1 < tournaments.size())
            new_tournaments[t+1].push_back(id);
          else // winner eliminated.
            e.directions[direction_index].winner = 0;
          e.final_nodes.push_back((uint32_t)(e.directions.size()- 1));
        }
        else
          new_tournaments[t].push_back(id);
        if (t+1 < tournaments.size())
          new_tournaments[t+1].push_back(id);
        else // loser eliminated.
          e.directions[direction_index].loser = 0;
      }
      if (tournaments[t].size() % 2 == 1)
        new_tournaments[t].push_back(tournaments[t].last());
    }
    e.all_levels.push_back(new_tournaments);
    level++;
  }

  e.last_pair = (max_label - 1)*(eliminations);

  if ( max_label > 1)
    e.tree_height = final_depth(eliminations);

  return e.last_pair + (eliminations-1);
}

float class_boundary = 0.;

uint32_t ect_predict(ect& e, base_learner& base, example& ec)
{ if (e.k == (size_t)1)
    return 1;

  uint32_t finals_winner = 0;

  //Binary final elimination tournament first
  ec.l.simple = {FLT_MAX, 0., 0.};

  for (size_t i = e.tree_height-1; i != (size_t)0 -1; i--)
  { if ((finals_winner | (((size_t)1) << i)) <= e.errors)
    { // a real choice exists
      uint32_t problem_number = e.last_pair + (finals_winner | (((uint32_t)1) << i)) - 1; //This is unique.

      base.learn(ec, problem_number);

      if (ec.pred.scalar > class_boundary)
        finals_winner = finals_winner | (((size_t)1) << i);
    }
  }

  uint32_t id = e.final_nodes[finals_winner];
  while (id >= e.k)
  { base.learn(ec, id - e.k);

    if (ec.pred.scalar > class_boundary)
      id = e.directions[id].right;
    else
      id = e.directions[id].left;
  }
  return id+1;
}

bool member(size_t t, v_array<size_t> ar)
{ for (size_t i = 0; i < ar.size(); i++)
    if (ar[i] == t)
      return true;
  return false;
}

void ect_train(ect& e, base_learner& base, example& ec)
{ if (e.k == 1)//nothing to do
    return;
  MULTICLASS::label_t mc = ec.l.multi;

  label_data simple_temp;

  simple_temp.initial = 0.;

  e.tournaments_won.erase();

  uint32_t id = e.directions[mc.label - 1].winner;
  bool left = e.directions[id].left == mc.label - 1;
  do
  { if (left)
      simple_temp.label = -1;
    else
      simple_temp.label = 1;

    ec.l.simple = simple_temp;
    base.learn(ec, id-e.k);
    float old_weight = ec.weight;
    ec.weight = 0.;
    base.learn(ec, id-e.k);//inefficient, we should extract final prediction exactly.
    ec.weight = old_weight;

    bool won = (ec.pred.scalar-class_boundary) * simple_temp.label > 0;

    if (won)
    { if (!e.directions[id].last)
        left = e.directions[e.directions[id].winner].left == id;
      else
        e.tournaments_won.push_back(true);
      id = e.directions[id].winner;
    }
    else
    { if (!e.directions[id].last)
      { left = e.directions[e.directions[id].loser].left == id;
        if (e.directions[id].loser == 0)
          e.tournaments_won.push_back(false);
      }
      else
        e.tournaments_won.push_back(false);
      id = e.directions[id].loser;
    }
  }
  while(id != 0);

  if (e.tournaments_won.size() < 1)
    cout << "badness!" << endl;

  //tournaments_won is a bit vector determining which tournaments the label won.
  for (size_t i = 0; i < e.tree_height; i++)
  { for (uint32_t j = 0; j < e.tournaments_won.size()/2; j++)
    { bool left = e.tournaments_won[j*2];
      bool right = e.tournaments_won[j*2+1];
      if (left == right)//no query to do
        e.tournaments_won[j] = left;
      else //query to do
      { if (left)
          simple_temp.label = -1;
        else
          simple_temp.label = 1;
        simple_temp.weight = (float)(1 << (e.tree_height -i -1));
        ec.l.simple = simple_temp;

        uint32_t problem_number = e.last_pair + j*(1 << (i+1)) + (1 << i) -1;

        base.learn(ec, problem_number);

        if (ec.pred.scalar > class_boundary)
          e.tournaments_won[j] = right;
        else
          e.tournaments_won[j] = left;
      }
      if (e.tournaments_won.size() %2 == 1)
        e.tournaments_won[e.tournaments_won.size()/2] = e.tournaments_won[e.tournaments_won.size()-1];
      e.tournaments_won.end() = e.tournaments_won.begin()+(1+e.tournaments_won.size())/2;
    }
  }
}

void predict(ect& e, base_learner& base, example& ec)
{ MULTICLASS::label_t mc = ec.l.multi;
  if (mc.label == 0 || (mc.label > e.k && mc.label != (uint32_t)-1))
    cout << "label " << mc.label << " is not in {1,"<< e.k << "} This won't work right." << endl;
  ec.pred.multiclass = ect_predict(e, base, ec);
  ec.l.multi = mc;
}

void learn(ect& e, base_learner& base, example& ec)
{ MULTICLASS::label_t mc = ec.l.multi;
  predict(e, base, ec);
  uint32_t pred = ec.pred.multiclass;

  if (mc.label != (uint32_t)-1)
    ect_train(e, base, ec);
  ec.l.multi = mc;
  ec.pred.multiclass = pred;
}

void finish(ect& e)
{ for (size_t l = 0; l < e.all_levels.size(); l++)
  { for (size_t t = 0; t < e.all_levels[l].size(); t++)
      e.all_levels[l][t].delete_v();
    e.all_levels[l].delete_v();
  }
  e.all_levels.delete_v();

  e.final_nodes.delete_v();

  e.up_directions.delete_v();

  e.directions.delete_v();

  e.down_directions.delete_v();

  e.tournaments_won.delete_v();
}

base_learner* ect_setup(vw& all)
{ if (missing_option<size_t, true>(all, "ect", "Error correcting tournament with <k> labels"))
    return nullptr;
  new_options(all, "Error Correcting Tournament options")
  ("error", po::value<size_t>()->default_value(0), "error in ECT");
  add_options(all);

  ect& data = calloc_or_throw<ect>();
  data.k = (int)all.vm["ect"].as<size_t>();
  data.errors = (uint32_t)all.vm["error"].as<size_t>();
  //append error flag to options_from_file so it is saved in regressor file later
  *all.file_options << " --error " << data.errors;

  size_t wpp = create_circuit(data, data.k, data.errors+1);

  learner<ect>& l = init_multiclass_learner(&data, setup_base(all), learn, predict, all.p, wpp);
  l.set_finish(finish);

  if (all.vm["link"].as<string>().compare("logistic") == 0)
    class_boundary = 0.5; // as --link=logistic maps predictions in [0;1]

  return make_base(l);
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
MCSTAY CASE: Judge expected to unseal search…
MCSTAY CASE: Judge expected to unseal search warrants
Charles "Chase" Merritt, seated, in San Bernardino County Superior Court with, left to right, some of his defense attorneys, Sharon Brunner, Jimmy Mettias and Jim Terrell, before the start of his preliminary hearing June 15, 2015.
The McStay family of Fallbrook went missing in 2010 and their skeletal remains were found in November 2013 in the desert near Victorville.
San Bernardino County Superior Court Judge Michael A. Smith is hearing the case against Charles "Chase" Merritt. The defendant is charged with murder in the 2010 slaying of four McStay family members in Fallbrook.
High Desert residents place crosses near the graves where skeletal remains of the four McStay family members, of Fallbrook, were found in November 2013.
Charles Merritt is charged with murder in the deaths of the McStay family of four.
By Gail Wesson | gwesson@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise
More details could come out this week about the evidence that led investigators to suspect that a former business associate killed the McStay family of Fallbrook and buried their bodies in the desert more than five years ago.
A San Bernardino County Superior Court judge is expected to unseal 33 more search warrants after a hearing Wednesday, July 1. The documents may not be released immediately, however; both the prosecution and defense have asked for information to be redacted, and that process may continue after the hearing.
UPDATE: Warrants released; details here
The public got its first look at the prosecution's evidence June 15 during a preliminary hearing for defendant Charles Ray "Chase" Merritt, 58, of Homeland. At the conclusion of that hearing, Judge Michael A. Smith found there was probable cause to put Merritt on trial on four counts of murder.
In most instances, before investigators can conduct a search they have to get a judge's permission by filing an affidavit, which describes their investigation and lists what they want to search for. The affidavits and the inventory of property seized are public record, unless investigators persuade the judge to seal them, which happened in the McStay case.
Attorney Kelly Aviles , who represents several media outlets, requested in January that they be unsealed. Prosecutors said that could compromise the ongoing investigation, and the judge agreed.
Following the preliminary hearing, however, he ruled that most of them could be unsealed; with the exception of two warrants not linked to Merritt.
In February 2010, the McStay family – Summer, 43; Joseph, 40; and their sons Gianni, 4, and Joseph Jr., 3 – disappeared from their Fallbrook home. Evidence presented at the preliminary hearing suggested they were killed by sledgehammer blows and buried within days.
The warrants being unsealed are believed to have been issued between the time skeletal remains were found in the desert outside Victorville in 2013 and about a year later, when Merritt was arrested.
Some of the likely targets of the searches would have been the Homeland residence west of Hemet where Merritt was living at the time of his arrest; the McStays' home; vehicles; cellular phone records, computers and other electronic devices tied to Merritt; and personal and business banking and accounting records for Merritt and the McStays.
The hearing Wednesday is intended to review the redactions that the prosecutor and defense attorney sought.
For example, one of Merritt's attorneys said last week that a couple of sentences included in many of the warrants were subjective and should be blacked out before the documents are released because the wording might affect his client's ability to get a fair trial.
On Tuesday afternoon, Deputy District Attorney Sean Daugherty requested additional redactions, which he called "minor" – things like telephone numbers and vehicle identification numbers of third parties. It is unclear how that request may affect when the documents are released.
Also to be discussed Wednesday is a discrepancy that Aviles, the media attorney, pointed out last week regarding the number of search warrants prosecutors said had been filed – 35 – and the number mentioned during press briefings after Merritt's arrest – 60.
Contact the writer: 951-368-9075 or gwesson@pressenterprise.com
Gail Wesson | Reporter
Gail Wesson has covered news for The Press-Enterprise for decades, mostly in Riverside County, with occasional forays across the county line. Datelines on her stories span the county – from the state agricultural inspection station in Blythe, to the Circle in Corona, the Stringfellow Acid Pits in Mira Loma, Temecula before there were traffic signals and to the highest point in the county, Mount San Jacinto. Most of her time has been spent covering local governments or how county, state or federal government affects communities. Breaking news, from floods to wild land fires and the consequences of disasters, watchdog reporting, criminal courts coverage and environmental explainers on water rights/supply issues and why bald eagles and San Bernardino kangaroo rats should be saved are icing on her news cake.
gwesson@scng.com
Follow Gail Wesson @PE_GailWesson


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text:
Kez Taylor ranks number one in Construction Business News Power List
Described as a stalwart of the region's construction industry, Kez Taylor has been ranked first in this year's CBNME Power Hour List, thanks to a combination of 20 years at the helm of ALEC Engineering and Contracting, while overseeing some of the Gulf's most high-profile projects.
Known as a staunch supporter of technological transformation, Taylor has successfully overseen the ongoing digital transformation of ALEC and its subsidiaries, while further integrating existing technologies such as ERP and BIM utilization for higher performance and data-driven decision making.
As a contractor, ALEC has recently handed over several major projects including Jumeirah Living Marina Gate and the Dubai Hills Mall amongst others, while continuing its work on One Za'abeel and the Expo 2020 Mobility Pavilion.
Click here to read the full Construction Business News article
ALEC Announces Joint Venture with BUTEC to Meet Industrial Demand Kez Taylor ranks fifth in Construction Week's 2021 Power 100 list


text:
Podcast Ep. #29: The Pheasants Forever Origin Story with Dennis Anderson
Habitat & Conservation,Hunting & Heritage
In March of 1982, Dennis Anderson, then the outdoors editor for the Saint Paul Pioneer Press & Dispatch, wrote an article that served as the catalyst launching Pheasants Forever. On April 15, 1983, the very first banquet in Pheasants Forever's history took place in Saint Paul, Minnesota.
To celebrate that anniversary, Dennis was joined by Bob St. Pierre and Pheasants Forever's PR Manager, Jared Wiklund, and Director of PR, Anthony Hauck as he reminisces about the circumstances leading to the creation of Pheasants Forever from the perspective of someone who served as the organization's first chairman of the board, president and first publication editor. Dennis also tells the story of how the organization's unique locally-empowering model came to him as an idea in the shower and offers a few thoughts about the future of the organization.
SUBSCRIBE: APPLE PODCASTS / SOUNDCLOUD / STITCHER


text:
Pokemon Gold and Silver Available on 3DS Today
Meanwhile, on the retro-nostalgia front, Nintendo is bringing more old school Pokemon games to the 3DS today in the for of Pokemon Gold & Silver.
For the GameBoy Color
Back in 2016 Nintendo re-released Pokemon Red, Blue, & Yellow for the 3DS Virtual Console as part of the Pokemon 20th Anniversary celebration. I went in on Pokemon Blue to discover how things went way back in the day, and I was surprised by how nearly fully formed the first generation of Pokemon games really were.
Now we have the second generation available, and with that comes some rounding out of the Pokemon standard features including:
Pokemon breeding
Held items for Pokemon
Dual-type Pokemon
Steel and Dark type Pokemon
Shiny Pokemon
Pokemon experience tracking
In addition the games are in full on color, no longer having to support the original monochromatic GameBoy hardware.
Virtual cartridges for the Virtual Console
As with the first generation releases, Pokemon Bank will be getting an update to allow players to move their Pokemon from these titles to Pokemon Sun & Moon, or to Pokemon UltraSun & UltraMoon when the latter ship this coming November.
So I am much more likely to spend time this weekend playing retro Pokemon than anything else, and all the more so since the 2009 remakes of these titles, Pokemon HeartGold & SoulSilver rank very highly on my list of favorite Pokemon titles.
The only quest is, do I go with Gold or Silver?
This entry was posted in entertainment, Nintendo, Pokemon and tagged 3DS, Pokemon Gold and Silver, Virtual Console on September 22, 2017 by Wilhelm Arcturus.
Guild Wars 2 Path of Fire Launches Today!
Today is the day. At some point around noon [or now], here on the first day of Autumn in the northern hemisphere, the Path of Fire expansion for Guild Wars 2 goes live.
As an outsider to the game… never got much past level 40… the expansion looks to offer up some standard sounding fare for players; New story, new zones, new skills/specs, guild halls, and the seemingly now mandatory character level boost. I think the new feature I can most related to is the addition of mounts.
Some very Tyria mounts
There is, of course, a whole page dedicated to the expansion over at the GW2 site if you are interested. More than one actually, as there is a FAQ and such.
Expansions remain a mixed bag for me.
On the plus it brings in revenue for the game. Expect a big spike on the GW2 chart when NCsoft releases Q3 2017 results. It also gives players more content, gets players who have lapsed a reason to return, and can invigorate the whole game.
But expansions always bring about change. Sometimes the change is minor and the spirit of the game remains true. That caters to the core base but won't attract anybody new.
But sometimes expansions change the core of the game. I am reminded of Rift; I played the hell out of the base game, but then the first expansion changed design philosophy of the game and killed it for me. And, of course, new gear, new mechanics, new skills, and what not also have a habit of changing the old content for the worse as well.
Then there is the ever growing gap between the new stuff, where the center of gravity of the community is playing, and where any new player will start. I become more convinced as time goes along that level boosts are mixed blessing, a flimsy bandage applied to the gushing wound of linear, level based progression.
But I am also old and cynical and in a down cycle when it comes to fantasy MMORPGs right now.
Enough grumbling. Today is a fresh new day in Tyria and a lot of people will spend the weekend and beyond exploring the new things that Path of Fire brings. I wish them well on their journeys. Among other things ANet rolled out some stats to celebrate the launch.
Also, a launch trailer:
This entry was posted in entertainment, Guild Wars 2, YouTube and tagged MMO Expansions, Path of Fire on September 22, 2017 by Wilhelm Arcturus.


Run to live. Don't live to run. My life is better with running in it, but running is not my life.
A word of advice about how to be a runner and stay motivated? Don't let running become your everything. Don't let it become the thing you obsess over or the thing that defines you. I've been there. It's destructive, defeating, and disappointing. And you'll drive your friends crazy.
Let running bring freedom, challenge, discipline, and fun to your life. But don't look to it to bring fulfillment.
I love running so much that I have to ask myself that question about running from time to time. "What if running was taken away from me?" At any moment, really, I could get really busy at work, break my ankle, or develop a life-threatening illness. I'd be disappointed for sure, but I wouldn't be in despair.
Have you ever been there – looking for fulfillment in all the wrong places?
How do you keep from letting something become your everything?
I hated running. I played track in high school but only socially, and would frequently find reasons to walk most of our longest jaunts. The burning lungs, the shortness of breath, the sore and tired muscles. What is there to like? Some people make it look so glamorous, but it feels as far from glamorous as can be.
But now… I guess I'm a runner. Aristotle said, "You are what you continually do." Other than a 2-month break four months ago when I was very pregnant with my first child, I think I've run 2-3 times per week for the past seven years. I can't believe I'm saying this, but the 1/2 marathon has become one of my favorite things.
Lately, running has seen a drastic spike in popularity. More often than not, whenever I self-disclose as a runner, people say, "I wish I could be a runner." And I always say, "You can! I believe in you!" And they say, "But it's SO hard!" I agree. It is hard. But you can do it.
As a former hater and a converted lover, I thought I'd start a blog mini-series with some ideas I have about how to be a runner if you aren't and how to stay motivated if you are. If you care, stay tuned. If you don't ever aspire to be a runner, know that there are tons of more important things to be and that I believe you still have significant things to contribute to our planet. Plenty of my nearest and dearest are non-runners.
Pennant garlands are so in right now! I see them everywhere I turn in blog-land. Howie has been relentlessly begging me for one – a monogrammed one, no less – to hang on his bedroom door. So, for his 4-month birthday, I made him one. And had so much fun; this is definitely the stuff of relaxation to me! Here are some pictures that document my process, in case you feel so compelled to join the trend.
I reinforced the monogram with cardboard via ModPodge, then attached it to the ribbon with safety pins.
I used whatever fabric I could find around the house for the pennants: leftover upholstery fabric from recovering the glider chair in his room, extra trimmings from the curtains in my living room, and scraps from an old chenille bedspread my mom gave me. I attached each of the pennants to the ribbon differently: some sewn on with embroidery thread and an over-under stitch, some threaded directly onto the ribbon because they were cut from old fabric that already had a hem, some paper-clipped on with multicolored paperclips, and some fastened with masking tape.
So, there you have it. Happy 4 months Howie! Sometimes I still look at you and wonder where you came from and how you got in my house!
I think I was going for: classic, fun, vintage-modern, and whimsical. How'd I do?
Did anyone out there have one of these growing up? I haven't seen any retro pics of any pennant garlands, but would love to if they're out there.
Oh, and pretty please post your pics if you make one, too!
Howard was an unusually happy baby for me today – delightfully long enough for me to read some of The Treasury of Religious Verse, compiled by D.T. Kauffman. Taking care of a 4-month-old is physically taxing and causes mental bankruptcy. I try desperately to reverse the deterioration by reading things that challenge me at a variety of levels. This was my favorite thing I read today.
 I couldn't help but refresh my brain about Whitman by looking him up on Wikipedia: Deeply influenced by deism, Whitman embraced all religions equally; he accepted all churches and believed in none. Though apparently I disagree with his theology, I was fascinated by how much I agreed with his thoughts in these verses.
What about you? Any thoughts about Whitman's perspective on nature?
My closet is one of my favorite rooms in our house. I love it for one main reason: it's huge. I can see all of my clothes in one passing glance and so I wear more of them more often.
A huge closet is just one of the wonderful home additions that resulted from the efforts of my valiant, handyman husband Jason who nearly single-handedly finished our unfinished basement over the past year; there remain only a few last trimmings left to complete. Our last closet my clothes (I blame them entirely) swiftly overtook. His clothes made a courageous effort to hold their tiny turf, but mine stood firm on the ground they had taken and advanced with stalwart fervor. Now we have ample room for both.
But lately I've noticed a fascinating phenomenon: everything inflates to fill its space. Food in a fridge; office supplies in a desk drawer; spending in one's income; and now…clothes in my closet. It's hard for me to decide to dismiss an article of clothing. Maybe I'm good at seeing potential. Or maybe it's because every style that goes around comes around again. Or maybe it's my StrengthsFinder Input Theme.
Have you noticed this phenomenon in your life? And how do you decide when a clothing item is ready to visit the Thrift Store?
Some of my favorite bloggers at Young House Love are thinking about the same things.
Coconut Cashew Granola Bars: One of my go-to favorite snacks to keep around the house to grab on-the-go. I found it in a Runners World mag several years ago and tore the page out.
Mold into 18 bars and place on a baking sheet. Bars will not increase in size, so they can be placed close together. Bake at 350 F for 15 minutes.
What's your favorite healthy on-the-go snack? Did you try mine; what did you think?


Autumn is the time for taking those shovels, scythes and sickles—and getting your last crops gathered before winter. So we thought it would be the perfect time to roll out our TRACTOR CAKE, along with its own little HAYWAGON. And since you are soooo busy with your crops we made them using store bought pound cake…no baking!
For the tractor body use a Family Size Sara Lee Pound Cake. Trim about 2 inches from one short end to use as a support under the tractor (to lift it up off the ground). Trim one long side of the cake just enough to level and flatten the side. Place the cake upright on the flattened side and give it a smooth coating of vanilla frosting, and then completely cover it in green decorating sugar. Press the sugar all around to smooth.
For the tractor cab use five graham cracker halves. Trim two of them square and leave two longer to make the cab a little longer than it is wide (see photo). Coat the pieces in white candy melts and let them harden. Once the coating is firm, use additional candy melts to assemble the four coated crackers into a rectangular shaped box. Trim the fifth cracker to fit as the roof of the cab. Coat the top piece with candy melts and sprinkle with the green decorating sugar to cover. Attach the roof to the box made for the cab.
Now it is time to assemble. Cut the 2 inch piece trimmed from the cake in half and space the 2 halves on a platter to support the tractor body. Place the tractor body upright on its side on top of the supports. Use frosting to secure. Attach two chocolate coated doughnuts at the rear for the large tires, and two mini chocolate coated doughnuts at the front for the small tires.Place the graham cracker cab on top of the body. Add details like fruit chew hubcaps with M&Ms at the center. Graham cracker fenders coated in green sugar. M&Ms for headlights and running lights. Frosting for chrome trim, side vents, and tire treads. And Ovation Sticks to make a ladder, for the exhaust pipes, and to outline the cab windows.
Garnish the platter with potato sticks and serve your hungry harvest crew!
For an extra large hoedown, add a hay wagon. It is also made from pound cake. The crib is crafted using graham crackers and pretzel sticks, and gets filled with more potato sticks.
HELLO CUPCAKE HALLOWEEN CLASSIC: OUR TEST TUBE CAKE!!


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Sri Lanka: bombings a pretext for intensified repression
The Sri Lankan army and police have used the bombings of churches and hotels on Easter Sunday as a pretext for repression, targeting people who have no connection with the group responsible, the National Thowheed Jamath (NTJ – National Monotheism Society).
The NTJ, an extremist Islamic group, is believed to be linked to the Islamic State, based in Iraq and Syria.
Sri Lankan police have been raiding numerous Muslim groups with "Thowheed" in their name, even if they are opposed to the NTJ. As of May 2, at least 130 Muslims had been detained, according to Tamilnet.
Sri Lanka: Behind the Easter Sunday bombings
Sri Lanka has had a violent history in the seven decades since its independence in 1948. But this history did not include any major conflict between Muslims and Christians. Both Muslims and Christians have in recent years come under attack from Buddhist chauvinists. Why then, did the bombers target Christians?
Tamils demand return of land, international investigation of disappearances
About 4000 Tamils rallied in Mullaitheevu on the northeast coast of the island of Sri Lanka on August 28, Tamilnet reported.
They demanded the return of land previously confiscated from its Tamil owners and given to settlers from Sri Lanka's Sinhalese ethnic majority, as well as the abandonment of irrigation projects that will result in further Sinhalese settlements in Tamil areas.
UN finds torture 'routine' and 'systematic': Australia must accept Tamil asylum seekers
The Tamil Refugee Council has again called on the Australian government to end the deportation of Tamil asylum seekers to Sri Lanka, after the United Nations found evidence of widespread torture in the country.
The report of Special Rapporteur Ben Emmerson, released on July 23 after his latest mission to Sri Lanka, concludes: "[I]mpunity is still the rule for those responsible for the routine and systemic use of torture, and countless individuals are the victims of gross miscarriages of justice resulting from the operation of the PTA [Prevention of Terrorism Act].
Buddhist-led anti-Muslim riots further evidence Sri Lanka is not safe
Two people died and homes, vehicles, shops and mosques were burnt during anti-Muslim riots in Sri Lanka.
The riots began in Kandy on March 5 and spread to other nearby towns. Victims accused the police of failing to protect them in the early stages of the violence. A state of emergency was declared on March 6.
Sri Lanka: Tamils commemorate war dead
On November 27, known to Tamils as Heroes Day, those who died fighting for an independent Tamil homeland were commemorated at ceremonies throughout the north and east of Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka: Students demand freedom for Tamil prisoners
More than 1000 students marched through the streets of Jaffna demanding freedom for Tamil political prisoners on November 14.
An appeal issued by the Jaffna Universty Students Union read: "At least 132 Tamil political prisoners are languishing in the prisons of Sri Lankan state across the island. Many of them have been detained for years without trial".
Sri Lanka: Tamil prisoners end hunger strike
Three Tamil political prisoners, who had been on hunger strike for 38 days, ended it on November 4.
Turnbull's Sri Lanka visit 'reprehensible'
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull's enthusiastic embrace of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is reprehensible, the Tamil Refugee Council said on November 2.
Sri Lanka: Tamils launch large strike for political prisoners
The predominantly Tamil northern province of Sri Lanka was at a "complete standstill" on October 13, according to Tamilnet. All public and private businesses were shut down.
The strike was called by 20 grassroots movements to demand the unconditional release of all Tamil political prisoners.
Protesters blocked the A9 highway, and blockaded the secretariat of the Colombo-appointed governor of the Northern Province.
The next day protesters with black flags confronted Sri Lankan president Maithripala Sirisena who was visiting a school in Jaffna.
Green Left Weekly has been an outstanding proponent of clear-headed political analysis for years. I don't know what I'd do without my weekly brain food.
Craig McGregor
Secretary of the Victorian Allied Health Professionals Association


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Arizona, Texas Blast Biden's Border Security, Request Back-Up From Other States Amid Crisis
By Tim Pearce
Jun 14, 2021 DailyWire.com
Andrew Lichtenstein/Corbis via Getty Images
Republican governors Greg Abbott of Texas and Doug Ducey of Arizona are requesting assistance from other states to secure the southern border from a flood of illegal immigration.
Abbott and Ducey put out a joint statement last week calling for other states to send law enforcement agents to beef up border security as the Biden administration struggles to stem unprecedented levels of illegal immigration into the U.S.
"Securing our border with Mexico is the federal government's responsibility. But the Biden administration has proven unwilling or unable to do the job," the governors wrote in a letter dated June 10. "This failure to enforce federal immigration laws causes banns that spill over into every State."
"The cartels will see to it that their deadly fentanyl and human-trafficking victims reach far and wide. The convicted criminals they smuggle into the homeland will bring recidivism with them to far too many of your communities. And although now people are coming to our border from as far away as Senegal, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan, the cartels are not exactly screening for threats to public health or national security," the governors wrote.
The governors highlighted that they have each already deployed hundreds of officers and national guardsmen to the border to assist Border Patrol in securing the border.
"In response to the ongoing surge of illegal border crossings, with the accompanying threats to private property and to the safety of our citizens, Governor Abbott has declared a disaster and Governor Ducey has declared an emergency," the letter says. "Given the staggering number of violations now occurring in Texas and Arizona, additional manpower is needed from any state that can spare it. With your help, we can apprehend more of these perpetrators of state and federal crimes, before they can cause problems in your State."
Illegal immigrants, including many unaccompanied minors, have continued to surge to the border since President Joe Biden won the White House last year. The Border Patrol set a record for apprehensions last month, arresting more illegal immigrants in the month of May than any other month on record dating back to the Department of Homeland Security's beginning in 2002. As The Daily Wire reported:
"In May 2021, CBP encountered 180,034 persons attempting entry along the Southwest Border," U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a statement. "Single adults continue to make up the majority of these encounters."
The disastrous border numbers for last month represented a staggering 674% increase vs. May of 2020 when 23,237 illegal aliens were apprehended. Last month's numbers were the worst numbers in more than two decades.
In Arizona, the Biden administration has begun adapting hotels into migrant shelters as federal facilities along the border overflow with illegal immigrants awaiting processing. Arizona GOP Attorney General Mark Brnovich slammed Biden in a letter accusing the federal government of putting Arizonans at risk.
"The President is using Arizona as an experiment with his reckless border policies," Brnovich said. "I will continue to stand up for Arizonans and do everything I can to stop the Biden Administration's attempt to abolish ICE. All of us will pay the price, not only with our tax dollars, but also with our national security, and the safety of our families."


BC COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC.
BC COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC. is company based in FALLBROOK, CA 92028, California. This company was established on 2019-01-29 and registered under entity number C4239002. BC COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, INC. was founded84 days ago.


Bellator has announced their PPV debut. On May 17, it will be a Bellator PPV featuring Eddie Alvarez vs. Michael Chandler III.
Although all four co-headliners successfully hit their marks, three other competitors from Saturday's Cage Warriors 65 card today missed weight at the official fighter weigh-ins.
Much like Vitor Belfort, the man he replaced in the upcoming UFC 173 headliner, Lyoto Machida has been tapped the underdog in his middleweight title fight with champion Chris Weidman.
MACAU – Alberto Mina (10-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) didn't care how much Zak Cummings (16-3 MMA, 1-0 UFC) weighed. He just wanted to fight.
Dustin Poirier (15-3 MMA, 7-2 UFC) will look for his fourth win in five fights when he meets fellow featherweight Akira Corassani (12-3 MMA, 3-0 UFC) at the TUF Nations Finale in April.
The Comissão Atlética Brasileira de MMA has decided to follow in Nevada's footsteps and no longer grant exemptions for Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Dan Henderson will be the last fighter granted such an exemption.
Vitor Belfort is out of UFC 173, but the middleweight says it was not his decision.
Saturday's fight card for the TUF China Finale is down to eight bouts following today's loss of a preliminary-card fight. With Zak Cummings (16-3 MMA, 1-0 UFC) expected to come in eight pounds heavy for the fight, his fight with fellow welterweight Alberto Mina (10-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) has been canceled, UFC officials confirmed with MMAjunkie.
On the same day the Nevada State Athletic Commission announced a major change in its policy on testosterone-replacement therapy, there has been a major change at the top of the next major card the state will host. Vitor Belfort (24-10 MMA, 13-6 UFC) is out of his middleweight title shot against champion Chris Weidman (11-0 MMA, 7-0 UFC) at UFC 173 in May, and in his place will step fellow Brazilian and former champion Lyoto Machida (21-4 MMA, 13-4 UFC).
All but one of the dozen fighters in two Bellator weight classes are official for their tournament bouts at Bellator 110.
The Brazilian MMA commission states that Dan Henderson's therapeutic use exemption for testosterone is likely to be approved, but they remained non-committal on the prospect of following the NSAC's lead in banning TRT outright.
The Nevada Athletic Commission passed a motion to ban therapeutic use exemptions for testosterone replacement therapy during a meeting Thursday.
MACAU – At 41 years old, Cung Le knows his days as a professional fighter are numbered. But with three fights left on his UFC contract, Le said he'd like to complete the deal.
Four straight wins have Connecticut native Matt "Mangler" Bessette riding high into this season's Bellator featherweight tournament, ready to challenge UFC veteran Diego Nunes.
Everlast Worldwide Inc. and Bellator MMA, have collaborated to produce the next-generation of MMA fight glove. The new glove will debut when Bellator's 10th season kicks-off on Friday, Feb. 28, with Bellator 110 at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut.
Lightweight prospects Koch and Cruickshank get their next assignment...against each other.
Despite evidence to the contrary, Rampage Jackson says that the UFC is losing the ratings battle with Bellator.
With "The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 2? veteran Santiago Ponzinibbio (18-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) out, welterweight Jordan Mein (27-9 MMA, 1-1 UFC) has a new opponent for UFC on FOX 11.


As I have often said: None of US escapes the constant brainwashing in our culture.
This is merely one example. It is rather obvious; more importantly, it does not represent even the tip of the ice berg!
By the way, that's Lake Tahoe, isn't it?


Bugatti makes some of the world's priciest new cars, but now it's built the maximum steeply-priced one ever. actually one.
La Voiture Noire, that is French for The Black automobile, turned into the automaker's 110th birthday gift to itself, but it changed into greater than satisfied to promote it for $18.9 million after taxes and prices have been introduced to its eleven million euro base rate.
Discovered at the Geneva Motor display, the coupe is based totally on the emblem's $3 million Chiron supercar, and capabilities a 1149 hp quad-turbocharged W-sixteen engine. Its carbon fiber body changed into designed to rouse the styling, as first-rate it's modern form can, of the mythical Bugatti type fifty seven SC Atlantic.
The Chiron has an electronically restrained pinnacle pace of 261 mph, however it's not acknowledged how the l. a. Voiture Noire's precise form impacts that.
The buyer has most effective been formally described as a "Bugatti enthusiast," however is rumored to be former Volkswagen institution Chairman Ferdinand Piëch, who spearheaded the resurrection of the Bugatti emblem whilst his company purchased it in 1998.


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John Gilbert
The National Benefit Corp.
John Gilbert is the President for The National Benefit Corp (TNBC). John's financial services career began in 2002 as an agent for Banker's Life and Casualty. He served the central Iowa senior marketplace with life insurance, long term care, annuities, and Medicare supplements. John joined The National Benefit Corp. in 2004 as a marketing consultant specializing in annuity marketing. Gaining a strong knowledge of the brokerage world and the independent broker dealer community was a key to the early successes of the TNBC annuity department.
In 2009 John was named the director of annuity marketing at TNBC. The annuity department continued to flourish, posting several consecutive record years in total annuity production. In 2014, John accepted the role of VP of Business Development and has continued to help TNBC grow its distribution of insurance products in the institutional space while taking on a larger role in relationship management and agency operations.
John has been active in NAILBA, serving as the Agency Successor Networking Group (ASNG) chair for the past three years, and was recognized in 2017 with the NAILBA Chairman's Award. John has also been active in the local NAIFA chapter and was the 2016 President of The TYGERS, a study group of second and third generation insurance professionals. he attended Northwest Missouri State and Iowa State universities. John is series 6, 63 and life and health licensed. John is married to Lindsay and together they have three wonderful children Jack, Julia, and Jenna.
Victoria Van Dusen-Roos
Incoming Chair
Diversified Brokerage Services, Inc.
Tori Van Dusen-Roos, co-principal and 50% owner of Diversified Brokerage Services, joined DBS in 1993 and currently serves as its Chief Operations Officer. In this role, Tori is responsible for overseeing its Director of Operations, Director of Finance, Director of IT, Chief Underwriter and Director of HR.
Tori stays very active in the industry and currently sits on the advisory councils of a few different insurance companies. She is a current LIBRA Insurance Partners Board Member, a member of NAILBA's Executive Board where she serves as treasurer, and on the NAILBA Foundation Board of Directors as its current Grants Committee Chair. She is also a past Board Member of LifeMark Partners, past President of LIFE, Inc. (a National Life Brokerage Study Group), and has served on numerous NAILBA committees in the past.
Tori lives in Shorewood, Minnesota with her husband Greg and two beautiful children, Parker and Piper. Most of her spare time is spent with her family but she still finds time for her monthly cooking club, summer golf league, boating, dining with friends, and gardening around the house.
Partners Advantage
James Wong is the Area Executive Vice President of Partners Advantage, a Gallagher Company. Agencies looking to elevate their business growth strategy, enhance production, and eliminate inefficiencies have come to depend on James' expertise. Throughout his time in the industry, James has deepened his understanding of agency needs, but places high importance on building relationships with owners and encouraging them to share challenges to work together towards solutions.
James entered the insurance industry in 1999 and has served in all facets of agency operations, so he knows first-hand from the inside out the issues agencies face. In 2006, Partners Advantage acquired his agency and since then he has served in an executive leadership role. During his tenure, he helped facilitate dozens of mergers and acquisitions, which fueled the company's growth. Through these experiences, James has developed a deep appreciation for what it takes for an agency to thrive.
James believes in giving back to the community, which is why serves on many carrier advisory boards and participates in industry associations. Since 2018, he has served on the NAILBA (National Association of Independent Life Brokerage Agencies) Board of Directors, where he diligently supports the needs of agents and agencies. James' passion is consulting with businesses to foster innovation and growth. He's always looking for ways to provide greater value and help establish overall financial well-being for the agencies he supports. Although business is important to him, James also knows the value of life outside of work. At home in southern California, he spends his time running and playing basketball as well as enjoying time with his wife, Valerie, and their two sons.
Debbie Hannam
Brokers Clearing House, LTD
Debbie Hannam is President of Brokers Clearing House in West Des Moines, Iowa. With more than 19 years of experience directly supporting our advisors and their clients, Debbie brings a different perspective to her operations oversight. While overseeing the day to day service model of our company, Debbie also supports a team of advisors to ensure that she stays current with this ever-changing industry and the needs that your clients have. She is an invaluable resource to our staff and advisors alike.
Jason E. Lea, CFP
Brokers' Service Marketing Group
Jason Lea joined Brokers' Service Marketing Group in 2000 and in his current role of President, oversees all sales & marketing related activities at BSMG. He was recently recognized as one of the most promising young executives in Rhode Island as a part of the Providence Business News 40-Under-Forty program.
Prior to joining BSMG, Jason was employed by MFS Investment Management. He is currently a member of the Financial Planning Association of Rhode Island, the Rhode Island Estate Planning Council, and several carrier field advisory boards. Jason also serves on the membership committee of the Boston Estate Planning Council and is Past President of the Rhode Island Society of Financial Service Professionals. A graduate of Davidson College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, Jason has also earned his CFP® designation, is a licensed insurance agent, and is FINRA registered series 6 and 63.
Jason Grover
Jason Grover truly believes in the exceptional value Ash Brokerage delivers to families and professionals nationwide. A second-generation insurance executive, he has a passion for the financial services industry and for telling the Ash story. As president of Ash Brokerage, Jason focuses on creating best-in-class platforms to increase awareness of insurance solutions through partnerships with insurance carriers, financial institutions and individual advisors.
In 2001, Jason joined Ash Brokerage to lead our national account development, and relocated to Tampa, Florida, to build the company's first Culture Center. Today, he oversees company-wide sales and national account relationships. In addition to his daily responsibilities, Jason serves as a member of both the executive leadership team and the company's board of directors.
Jason earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Vermont. Prior to joining Ash Brokerage, he built a successful practice as a financial representative with a mutual insurance company in New York City. In addition to earning industry honors as a member of the Million Dollar Round Table, Jason was consistently recognized as a leader within his own firm. He and his wife, Amy, currently reside in Fort Wayne.
Jim Duff
Crump Life Insurance Services
Jim Duff is Senior Vice President and General Manager of Crump Life Insurance Services' Solution Centers for Annuities, Disability and Long Term Care insurance, a member of the Crump Executive Team and is the President of Tellus Brokerage Connections, Inc. (a Crump company). His background includes over 20 years of executive experience in sales leadership and execution.
At Crump, Jim is responsible for the sales and operational growth of the Solution Centers, an internal sales and servicing organization that provides annuity, disability and long term care insurance solutions to the more than 25,000 Crump insurance producers annually. Jim is also responsible for Tellus Brokerage Connections, a national network of independent brokerage general agencies that affiliate with Tellus for carrier access.
Jim is a graduate of the University of Richmond. He currently resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with Kortni, his wife of 30 years. They have two grown children, a son, Adam (wife, Rachel) and daughter, Kristin (husband, Cameron).
The ASA Group
Luke Ramsey grew up in the independent brokerage business. His father, Jiggs Ramsey, started The ASA Group in 1977. The ASA Group is a multi-carrier wholesale distributor of quality life insurance, longterm care, disability and annuity products. Luke joined the ASA Group on full-time basis in 1999 after his graduation from The University of Arkansas. Luke has worked in various roles at The ASA Group over the years. Luke is President and Chief Marketing Officer and enjoys working closely with agents to build their agencies. Luke has extensive experience and acknowledged expertise in trust services, advanced underwriting, large case design, impaired risk underwriting, negotiation, sales and operations.
Luke is currently life licensed in five states and holds his 6 and 63 securities registrations. In addition to being a published author, he is frequently quoted and speaks on issues related to the life insurance industry. Luke has been very involved in leadership positions in the industry over his career. He has served on the NAILBA membership advisors council as well as insurance carrier field advisory councils. Luke is also Past-President and an active member of the TYGERS and has consulted for insurance carriers on product design. He has planned life marketing training schools for BRAMCO. Luke is an active supporter of Young Life, and enjoys playing golf, tennis and spending time with family.
Malcolm Sklar
GBS Insurance and Financial Services
Malcolm Sklar started his 43 year insurance career in 1973 with Phoenix Mutual Life after graduating from Jacksonville University in 1972. In 1975 he joined Life Plans Unlimited, which was one of the first General Agents with Security Connecticut Life. In 1987 Malcolm became president of Life Plans and participated on the original Security of Connecticut Advisory Council.
He is a past president of Life Inc., and served as a board member of LifeMark Securities. Malcolm was also a founding partner of LifeMark Partners Inc., a nationally prominent insurance marketing organization where he has served as Chairman of the Board for 12 years, and currently serves as Chairman Emeritus. He is also currently the President of GBS Insurance and Financial Services, the insurance and employee benefits division of Arthur J. Gallagher, which acquired Life Plans Unlimited in 2002.
He resides in New Canaan, Connecticut with his wife Carole, and has two grown children Alexis and Todd and two grandsons, Brooks and Branch.


 Have you been feeling a little dramatic lately? A little intense in your emotions? There is relief in sight. It's found under tonight's Full Moon in Virgo. So much power builds in the lead up to the full moon. If you can, at some level, feel that power building but don't quite have a sense as to what it's building for, you can be left feeling a bit "out of sorts" or "out of whack", maybe even, downright wacky! To me, it feels like "restless anticipation", an energy without an outlet or a clear outcome. Once we hit the peak of the full moon, that building power comes to it's maturity and feels a little more settled.
I've written about the Full Moon in Virgo before http://pixiedusthealing.blogspot.ca/2012/03/full-moon-in-virgo.html Last year it was even more dramatic as it was combined with solar flares and some mercury retrograde stuff as well. But, by it's very nature, the Full Moon in Virgo is intense. This is not gentle energy or a soft encouragement type of sensation. This is real "get a movin", push towards the goal, type energy under the light of this moon. During the Full Moon phase, we're at that peak.
The challenge for those born under a Virgo moon, and for all of us when this energy is "afloat", is to find the balance between work and play; plans and creative thought. It can be a struggle to let go of what every else thinks you should do/could do and find what gives you joy. Perhaps it's time to reconsider today's picture and instead of thinking of yourself as the little guy trying to figure out what the big guy is saying, maybe it's time to consider what the little guy, your inner child, wants to tell the grown up you. If you want to get "un-stuck" in your thinking, perhaps the best place to go is within. From that place of inner knowing and child-like abandon, truly great ideas for creation can be found.
In Lucy Harmer's Shamanic Astrology, http://pixiedusthealing.blogspot.ca/2012/07/book-review-shamanic-astrology.html the animal represented by this time in the Northern Hemisphere is the Wolf. In the Southern Hemisphere it is the Brown Bear that corresponds to this time of year. Both of these animals spirits are challenged to go beyond the material and find balance between material, physical, emotional and spiritual. They need to go beyond hard-working, focused planning, to reach inner knowing. Once they follow their intuition and creativity they will have enormous strength and endurance to carry through with the plan.
So perhaps it's about merging that "big guy" and "little guy" into one and the same. But I think we often tend to listen to the "big guy" first and "pencil in" time to play with our inner selves, our joy and our creativity. I believe with the power of a "get at it" moon, there may be a danger you'll never get to the "play" part of your plan. It would seem, the lesson is, to go there first. Perhaps all our plans should be drawn with crayons.
I was searching for a cartoon picture of blueprints when I found today's picture. It just so happens this picture was on the website created by a Colorado State University Project. It's worth a look. http://2012.igem.org/TeamColorado_State/Project. This team was developed to create a gluten-free beer brewing process. That strikes me as the ultimate balance been work and play, creativity and planning, material and spiritual flow. If you're a university student and you need to create a project you can really get excited about, it would seem beer brewing in a new way, to hit a growing market, would exactly do the trick! I applaud their efforts. Most of all, I applaud what I see as "the big guy and the little guy" working together to create something bigger and more fun that the sum of the parts.
Thanks for the full moon in Virgo commentary. I was born with Moon in Virgo and I feel great today! I think I'm finally getting it! Been going like a whirlwind, getting stuff done. Yay. I agree, we have to find the joy. All work and no play maketh Virgo Moon crabby.