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Zetta Reviews: XBLAZE: Code Embryo (PSV)
12:11 AM on 01.13.2016 (server time) 0
It is a rare moment where I take issue with animu tropes. Really, really rare. If you talk to me about this kind of thing or read my blogs regularly enough, you probably know that already, but so we can be clear on this, and I admit it is likely in part due to the dramatic decrease of anime consumption in my life in recent years, but, like, the point is, in video games, the oft complained plague that is known more commonly as animu tropes rarely bothers me.
XBLAZE though?
I gotta say, we really toed the line with this one.
XBLAZE: Code Embryno (PSV, PS3)
Developer: ArcSystem Works
As Localized By: Aksys
Originally Released: June 24, 2014 (US)
Starting right off the bat, let's talk about how the game works. Mechanically, the way this "plays" as a visual novel is unique and pretty interesting, though I'll be getting to that in more depth further down. Suffice to say, it's not quite what you would expect, which is both good and bad.
Visually, it's also actually different than what most normally expect from visual novels. Effort was put into this. You can tell that much. Rather than the expected mugshots staring at you, characters have multiple pieces of art from different angles and positions to show up in, allowing for much more dynamic looking scenes.
This helps, because the game's fight scenes, despite attempting to be dramatic and clearly emulate the style of other visual novels with fight scenes, often end up just being boring. Some are decent, but even if I hadn't read the visual novels I know they're very clearly aping, the fight scenes did not receive the same level of care that the normal scenes did, and even then, the "dynamic" way of going about scenes starts to feel forced once you get used to the style.
That CG I used up there? It's from very early on in the game, and I do not believe it's a coincidence that it's also from the only fight you'll find in the demo.
Speaking of boring things, let's talk XBLAZE's music. Because truth be told, I really, really expected more from a BlazBlue spinoff. Even if the writing was garbage, even if I hated the character designs, I was sure that no matter what, I'd come out of this game loving at the very least three of the tracks. I knew it to be so.
And then I didn't. I did end up liking some of the tracks, but of the ones that I can say were memorable, I don't think there were much more than two of them, and neither of them are particularly relevant or even that grand. One of them you only hear once at the end of the game's gag route.
Still! Even then, bland, "passable" music can be saved in a visual novel by its other aspects, even if music and sound is one of the most important parts of the experience. And as I just mentioned, the visuals are pretty good. The character designs? Well... The art looks nice, as expected of a BlazBlue spinoff, but they're strangely reminiscent of... other things... But hey, the writing, how about that?
To put it nicely, good god do the visuals and the mechanics not save the writing.
Umineko no Naku Koro ni, with its muppet people and no choices to make compared to this game's many, tops this easily. Writing, music, everything. Then again, why in the world am I even comparing the two visual novels? They're not even in the same league, and I'd be willing to bet most of you reading this have, comparatively, probably had a better chance of at least hearing of XBLAZE.
And to the untrained eye, XBLAZE would be the better game. It "should" be, right?
It's prettier, it's newer, it's actually available in English without having to go to lengths importing and installing patches for a Japanese PC title that's years old and didn't have a huge release, and so on and so forth... but this just felt like the BlazBlue writers were trying to see how much they could rip off from Fate/Stay Night while cramming it into BlazBlue's universe without getting sued, while also trying to see if they could give it as little comparative depth as possible.
Some Neptunia titles feel as though they have more depth as visual novels than this does, for crying out loud.
If I sound like I'm being too mean here, let me break this down for you.
Teenage hero (Touya Kagari / Shirou Emiya) is just a normal Japanese teenager. Save the mysterious incident that happened ten years ago, of which he is seemingly the only survivor and that destroyed a chunk of the game's setting, he is totally normal, save that survivor's guilt he seems to carry with him and the fact that he can't stand seeing people fight because of (reasons / actually kind of decent fleshing out of a character).
Because of the incident, he found himself orphaned, but it's okay, because now his every day life is filled with tits. The tits of his adoptive same-age sister figure (Hinata "The One With Boobs" Himezuru / Sakura "Best Girl" Matou), who in some endings he totally bangs, and his adoptive older sister figure, who is OFF LIMITS because she is fun and wacky and silly and needs to drop hints and tease her younger brother figure, who is thickheaded and going through puberty and such.
But all of this changes when one night, the protagonist of this tale is attacked by an man with otherworldly (powers / sexy blue hair) out for his life! And it's up to (Es / Saber), the (doll / knight)-like warrior clad in blue dress and armor, with her trusty special sword with special sword powers of swordness, to save him!
Little does (Touya Kagari / Emiya Shirou) know that that incident ten years ago left him with far more than he thought it did...
What I'm trying to say here is that, along with as many of your standard light novel and harem ideas it can, the game is ripping off Fate/Stay Night. Openly. Brazenly, even! And while I don't think "ripping off" is necessarily a bad thing, if the end result isn't really noteworthy, we have issues.
XBLAZE has some issues.
It is a pale imitation of what it's trying to emulate in the visual novel genre, and as far as a story goes, I feel like a straight BlazBlue visual novel might've provided something more entertaining and memorable in the long run.
There isn't really much depth to be found in this game or its cast, save some quirky characters are, while enjoyable, kind of already done similarly or better already in BlazBlue. It attempts to grasp depth more often than it actual achieves the real deal. Characters will throw out lines that make it out like there's something bigger at work, imply things that aren't going to come, like there might be something down the line, but there often isn't.
It's like a by the numbers theme park ride or attraction. Fun while it lasts, but you're going to forget most of the details once it's over.
The main plot is pretty standard. Your hero and his hot off the shelf superpowered waifu is unwittingly dragged into a supernatural mess, wherein he learns things about himself are not what he seems as the story goes on. You experience the daily lives of your hero and his friends and increasing party of waifus, who still go to school because this is totally normal life and must be kept secret and stuff, as things in his double life begin to escalate, with people targeting him because of things more and more and so on and so forth. He also goes out looking for people one night, totally not like that time that happened in Fate/Stay Night.
Sorry, I'll try to stop doing that.
I will give XBLAZE a... surprisingly high amount of praise for its "daily life" segments compared to the rest of the game, this being because the hero was actually pretty honest with the people around him - not that there were many of them in the game, mind, but even so. Save his coworkers and presumably never-had-a-portrait-or-line teachers, he was actually pretty upfront with the craziness going on as far as his close friends were concerned.
Considering in many similar stories, the heroes will keep unrelated parties out of the loop FOR-FREAKING-EVER, this was a surprising breath of fresh air - it's just a shame it was one of the only ones XBLAZE had to offer.
While we're on the subject of his friends... Can I just say I really wanted an ending where "the girl" was his best friend (then again I can't think of a game like this where I didn't want a bromance route - Conception II in particular was begging for it, seriously)? Even if they were just bros in it... Come on. If you've played XBLAZE even a little, you know the score. You know how it is.
Akira is best girl.
Anyway, as the story continues, things get real towards the end, there are multiple endings where how real things get is different depending on how the game played out, but overall, you can tell there's the "true" end and then everything else is mostly reused assets and dialogue. It came off as pretty lazy, to be honest.
All the while, they drop a ton of BlazBlue stuff all over, but I won't spoil that. Partly because that much was kind of fun, in a "this wouldn't be so bad if it was just an alternate universe" kind of way, partly because I found myself feeling masochistically "I kind of wish I didn't know about this but want to see more" about it. It does feel natural, at least.
If you're even more interested in seeing how things tie together, you can check the TIPS menu and read in depth explanations for pretty much every term the game mentions so much as once. This ends up being a pain when some of these only pop up right before the credits roll, but if you don't care about being dumb and not informed about everything, then hey, it's not a big deal, riiiiiiight...?
... or maybe the system is kinda flawed and they could've had these things listed in the Extras menu since they even include most of the game there once you play through the scenes. Still, the TIPS are a nice feature, even if they're not unique to XBLAZE.
Now let's check out our main character, Touya Kagari. He butts into fights, like the time he did so between someone assaulting him and the person who came to save him, even when he's got no way to really stop them... because... because? And he does this again later on. There's not really an explained reason for it, it's just kind of because.
I really don't want to keep drawing too many comparisons to Fate/Stuff here (this review was originally much longer and had many more before I stripped them out and rewrote a lot of this from a new angle - so believe me, I'm trying), even if XBLAZE is on the ground begging for it, but I really have to with this one, so forgive me if you're reading this and unfamiliar with what I'm talking about.
Still, I think most people in the visual novel and anime scene know or have maybe at least heard of Shirou Emiya's whole schtick with trying to stop Saber, the character Es from this game is emulating, from fighting. Despite the fact that he is a mere weak mortal and she is (Fate/Stay Night spoilers everyone reading this part knows goddamn well what they are). And love him or hate him, I feel like it's at least undeniable that why he felt that way was at least thoroughly explored and explained - to the point it's even shown to be a non-issue in other routes when events play out differently.
I never felt that way with Touya. Multiple times, he jumps into fights where he does not belong and doesn't really... have a reason for doing so. This is an issue throughout the game, but it's not really explored. Even from what I remember of Naruto makes me feel like it was able to, within just the first chapter even, lay out and explain the titular character's reasons for being the reckless way they were, even in hopeless situations.
That did not happen here.
They try to touch on it by pushing how he survived the incident ten years ago, but this is quickly overshadowed by how else the game uses this event, and it makes use of that event in many, many ways.
To its credit, many of those are wholly unique to XBLAZE, or at least not ripped from Fate/Stay Night. I actually quite enjoyed seeing some of them play out, in fact - mostly because they involved the flamboyant and absolutely wonderful Unomaru, who was my favorite character after Ripper, the flamboyant serial killer that needs to be put in BlazBlue as a regular last year, but that's another story.
What I'm saying here is that if the intention was for that to be the reason for why he was the way he was, then it feels like it could've been done better. Perhaps I'm being too critical, since I do acknowledge that maybe they tried to imply it with what they set up here, but... Another scene, just one, even a completely missable one, that is just about this aspect of the character's personality. Touya, to me, needed that to justify his actions when they were so much a driving part of the story.
I can like generic characters. Some would say many of the characters I like are as generic as can be, even if I could talk at length about them. So long as there is depth provided, quirks and curiosities and so on and so forth, even the most generic seeming character can be someone that members of the audience will be able to really like.
That did not happen here (with Touya).
Setting aside the main plot and such, there were also some random moments where you could find out that the characters liked anime and stuff like that. It's fine, I guess, but between them and the setting, it feels like it's trying really hard to fit in. I don't know if it was to get "the otaku audience" or "the eighth grade syndrome audience" into BlazBlue through this game, but while it can be made perfectly natural to go from darker subjects to how it's so wacky that that one character is secretly an otaku - I've seen it done! - I don't think XBLAZE really did it well. It didn't do it as badly as it did other things, at least, but as some of these scenes were optional, so they just felt like a way to show off the mechanic they barely took advantage of.
Really, in many ways, XBLAZE is a textbook self insert story. The helpless hero with some kind of special thing inside of them is suddenly surrounded by superpowered women, doesn't want to fight (or can't), still inexplicably goes to school, has amazing adventures towards the end, but in many of the ends, returns to life as it was when all is said and done.
Basically, any student can pretend they're living this game in their spare time, even when it's over.
As shallow and ridiculous as it is, even light novel series Highschool DxD provided its main character development, growth, and motivation to the point that he, rather than the poster girls one would think would be the draw of such a series, is by far the go-to reason someone should be interested in that series, at least in my humble opinion.
On a technical level, the way the game functions as a visual novel would be something I would consider unique, novel, and even pretty damn commendable, if not for the fact that the narrative does not at all take advantage of the game's unique mechanics and what it brings to the visual novel genre in general.
And, while it could be this too is something that's been done before and I've simply never seen it, the consensus seems to be as far as I've seen around that this game does bring something to the table in that respect.
Rather than being presented with your standard visual novel type choices, XBLAZE has you, at all times, equipped with a smart device of sorts. I never really felt clear about whether it was a small tablet or a phone or a fancy anime watch, but you've got one, whatever it is. On it, you're able to read news and blog articles whenever you want, or just ignore it, but opening it up and reading things which may not be there later will effect things in the story.
On paper, this sounds like it could make for some pretty cool stories, right? Having to make players actively seek out the choices in a visual novel, making them pay attention to articles tied to those choices-- This could have meant the evolution of the visual novel genre as we know it!
Until we look at how it was all actually executed.
On your first play through the game, you don't know who has read what article until after you've read it - a little annoying since there's still a bar that says THIS ARTICLE WAS READ BY THESE PEOPLE... under each article that is pointless until a second play through the game.That, or maybe my game glitched? Dunno.
In any case, naturally (and as you can see above), certain articles are tied to certain characters, and reading or not reading certain ones will get you to character endings or bad endings. This can make the first play through either exciting or frustrating depending on how you look at things.
On one hand: You have to consider what to read based on the title of each article, or what you've learned about characters from past articles that you've read that the character whose route you think you want to pursue. On the other: You have to do that, because the game doesn't tell you until after you beat it once.
Mind, this is presuming you understand enough about visual novels to know that much about how they work... or you looked at the ending list in extras at any point before beating the game.
For me, I think the system works well enough given what the game offers. There are two "core" routes that then diverge a little based on which of the two routes within those core routes you aim for (for a total of four altogether), with some bad ends and an unlockable gag route thrown in.
I say "diverge a little," but what I really mean is in one case, they're near-identical until the very end, and in the other, it's the abridged version of the other one because you chose the "wrong" girl, and so you get the shorter, kind of darker version instead as punishment.
I got that ending first, because of course I did, but I think that ending probably works best as the first one you get.
So about the whole reading-articles-thing? How does that turn out? Sadly, the basic gist of it isn't too great. Skip to the picture after the next picture if you don't want to read about the endings, though I'm going to be vague..
There are four bad ends outside of the gag ending, and you'd think, given that this game is already doing its damnedest to ape Fate/Stay Night, those would be something special.
In two of them, the game abruptly cut shorts scenes that normally continue for a longer period of time as the final boss character just randomly kills you out of the blue because you're indecisive because ha ha that's so meta and that's never been done before right?
In the other two, in scenes that are normally more entertaining in the main game, things are slightly less so, go slightly more wrong, and because you were indecisive the final boss character shows up and kills you because you're indecisive because ha ha that's so... oh.
They're basically cop out bad endings, which quite frankly, could almost be said for some of the games actual endings given how clear it is that much more went into what is basically the "true" ending. Then again, when one route is 13 chapters long and two of the remaining three cut off at 8, and they only even branch off at the seventh, it probably isn't that hard to tell that much.
THIS IS NOT CLEVER WHEN YOU DO IT HALF A DOZEN TIMES AND THAT IS BASICALLY THE MAXIMUM AMOUNT OF TIMES YOU COULD DO IT. IF YOU LOOK UP SUBTLETY IN A DICTIONARY, IT WILL SAY "DECEASED: MURDERED BY ARC SYSTEM WORKS" BECAUSE YOU GUYS SURE ARE KILLING IT HERE!
BY THE WAY, TOTALLY UNRELATED TO THIS REVIEW, BUT DO YOU GUYS LIKE CAPSLOCK? I LIKE CAPSLOCK.
The teal deer version of that is that every single one of the bad endings essentially does the same thing. "You stupid dingus, you're not playing the game with our Original Gameplay Mechanics Do Not Steal right. Do it again." It takes the "bad ending" idea... a little more literally than I've seen it taken. Only in the gag route do they even bother to try to make it entertaining for you. In the main story, this also means it is very possibly you'll need to go back one or more full chapters to fix things.
Depending on the player, this can mean completely replaying the main game over again if they didn't realize how the game worked and just went in reading it, possibly waiting for a choice to pop up in vain (which is a couple of hours), or even just ten, twenty minutes of skipping through text, desperately hitting buttons so the auto-skip stopped at points it was time to read articles and check profiles, and repeating the process.
Speaking of technical things? The game's interface in that respect kinda blows. For all the fast-forwarding they had to know we'd be doing, a "hold a button down to skip, let go to stop skipping" like a lot of games have is absolutely necessary, and this game not having it baffles me. Instead, you have to deal with the auto-fastforward having random stops in the middle of text you may not have even wanted it to stop at, and that's about it.
Outside of bad ends and the different routes, as far as "changing the story" went, reading articles didn't do that much. Only a couple of times did reading articles unlock scenes that also weren't on the way to one route or another. In the situations where scenes are just building up to different routes, I'm not sure it's fair to say they "alter the story" the same way the alternative does.
Considering not reading an article just means the game skips over that scene and nothing good or bad happens as a result in many, many cases, I'm not sure "alter the story" is even a fair description to begin with anyway. Like, it's nice that they put that in, but "add to the story where there would otherwise be nothing" might be a better, or at least more honest way to go about it, don't you think?
In short, while a novel idea that I really hope the sequel did more with, they might've been better off with a more traditional system given how little they really did with it. Hell, to be honest, even with a more traditional system, they still wouldn't be doing much with that if this was exactly the same otherwise.
Lastly, there's the localization. I know most reviewers of originally-foreign games don't consider this aspect of a game much or just treat whatever localization teams do as gospel because translation isn't direct and it has to be done anyway, but that doesn't make sense to me. And XBLAZE's localization was... an experience. Though I think some of the pictures I picked might've given a hint to that already?
XBLAZE was weird in this respect.
It wasn't so much that it comes off as a terrible localization, or even an unplayable one - very much one that often came across as juvenile, most definitely - no, it's that it feels like a really sloppy one. There is a liberal abuse of capslock where there absolutely shouldn't be, more than a few typos (which, while negligible in a normal game, can really stand out in a title that is only and explicitly nothing but reading), as well as a handful of weird visual glitches as well as errors that require you to replay the game without opening certain menus even once if you want something to happen the way it's supposed to. That seems like something that might need to be fixed, right?
This is taking into account the fact that I was playing the game after it had been patched at some point to fix some even worse bugs, so I'll give credit to them fixing some of whatever problems the game had before I got to it. Still, it could've been better. There is probably, no, there is most definitely BlazBlue fanfiction out there that is written better than this game was, and to be fair, that would probably be true before the localization, but you get my point.
And while there thankfully weren't too many, there's were some really jarring lines like the following one:
... that just pull a player out of the game.
Maybe some people find this kind of thing ha ha ha so funny, but to me, as a writer and reader who wants to get invested in this stuff, who might be at the time immersed in the game (this scene is near the end and it's a more serious one) not so much. It's just unnecessary.
See, that line's completely out of character, even for the English game's version of the guy, and in context, doesn't make sense, because the character he says it to clearly is reacting more to the original line than that the normally soft spoken character I don't think even called the villain so much as a "bastard" just out of nowhere called one of his close friends a bitch. It's jarring, to say the least.
The original line, if memory serves, would've been much more accurately have been conveyed with something like "Geez Mei, that's way too harsh..." or "Isn't that a little much, Mei?" or even "Lay off a little, would you?" if something more "hip" was truly required. It makes sense with the conversation - with this, even if it's a so ha ha ha funny version of what he said, it's completely out of place with the rest of the conversation.
None of these were necessarily direct translations, not at all - believe it or not, as many of the few who do get that there is still something of an issue with localizations don't, I get that we don't want those in localizations.
At least when, say, Nintendo completely rewrites characters and their personalities, they put in the effort to mask things, remove lines, and rewrite whole conversations to fit what they want to tell. Which is, in a way, technically worse than this, but at least they go all out about it so that casual players won't even realize what's going on. Here, you've just got a really jarring line that just doesn't belong.
Unrelated, but funnily enough, this is one of the big things that got me to stop playing Neptunia games - nothing on the actual games themselves, for the most part, but their localizations. Is inserting snark, over the top, out of place hostility, and bad jokes where there weren't any before just this unnecessary thing that transcends individual localization companies? Are standards for visual novel-style in general just really, really low because the English speaking community hasn't had much exposure yet?
Or is it that, as I sort of poked at when I was talking about Monster Monpiece the other day, there's a lack of caring?
Well, enough of that.
I suppose one of the bigger, underlying questions I'm left with is one that a lot of people probably were.
Why go with a generic harem setting for this BlazBlue prequel? Under normal circumstances I don't take issue with these settings, especially since despite how the concept has been done to death, you still get some enjoyable, even unique ones every so often. As I mentioned earlier, as a spinoff that just uses BlazBlue stuff, this might've actually been a neat thing, but as the thing that is the BlazBlue prequel?
It's not like BlazBlue isn't "anime as hell" or whatever, but the setting is crazy and fun and unique, the cast is quirky, and just... I know it's implied (and maybe outright stated, I can't remember) it's set in a post-apocalyptic world, and I don't begrudge spinoffs by any means, but of all the ways to go about a prequel... Was this the way to go?
Even then, if you were going to go with a generic harem setting, why not... I don't know... not rip off Fate/Stay Night? So obviously, anyway?
It just feels lazy.
Which is true for a lot of XBLAZE: Code Embryo, really.
To the game's credit, it did entertain me to the point where I completed it, all the endings, and even went as far as to get eeeeeverything the game had to offer. It has some neat "LAST TIME, ON..." segments that you'll almost never see unless you go out of your way to see them (... or, I suppose, if you're weird and played this on PS3), which were cute and added a little extra stuff to one or two scenes, but overall it was just a bit of a hassle filling that checklist out.
So... there's that? Then again, I'm deprived of visual novels as of late while I wait for glorious, glorious official MuvLuv (so excited!), so that could be one reason. I also like BlazBlue, and it's basically the only fighting game series I follow even a little, so there's that factor in the mix.
Still, I don't know if I could recommend it.
I feel like there's a middle ground and hardcore audience for this title.
If you can't stand anime cliches and are the sort of person to see a Japanese game of any kind and take issue with the "tropes" in it, well, your existence confuses and saddens me, and in many ways is downright alien to me.
Similarly, if you can stand them... this still may not be for you, because this will just look like it's trying to be a combination of many better things that you will likely have had exposure to already, either through the original works or through anime adaptations that have recently aired, and may make you question more than once why you're not spending your time with those.
That said, if you don't care, like the girls, want some cheap laughs every so often, something to just keep your attention for a while, or want the full scoop on the world of BlazBlue, there might be something for you yet here. If you don't care about BlazBlue but just want a visual novel fix, while there are better ones, maybe you could get something out of this if you can get it for cheap.
It's not great, I'm not even sure if it's good, but it's mildly entertaining and sometimes charming, so here's to that, XBLAZE.
May your sequel suck somewhat less.
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OverlordZetta
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About OverlordZettaone of us since 10:34 AM on 07.16.2014
Hey there! You seem to have taken a wrong turn, friend. Front page is thattaway, and Zetta is currently on vacation, in a manner of speaking.
But hey! If you actually do mean to be here for some reason, then hello! Although I am not really here at the moment, when I am active, I go by Zetta around these parts, I am an enthusiast of all things Kamen Rider as well as most things Vita, as well as all sorts of other nonsensical nonsense. Good times!
When I'm not busy writing annoyingly long comments, you can find me here, writing annoyingly long blogs. I dream of the day everyone on the internet can get along and be friends, like an annoying anime protagonist...'s even more annoying love interest, and in the meanwhile, am dreaming of putting my wordliness to good use in something creative someday, lest my existence be completely wasted.
My console of choice is the Vita, my favorite Kamen Rider changes with the tide, and I really have no idea how to end this at this point.
Time for a pose!
ZETTA'S BEEN PLAYING...
- Pokemon X and Alpha Sapphire
- Umineko no Naku Koro ni
ZETTA'S LOOKING FORWARD TO...
- TRianThology
- Danganronpa 3
- Persona 5
- Pokemon Moon
ZETTA'S STILL WAITING FOR ANNOUNCEMENTS OF...
- Soul Sacrifice 2
- Persona 3 Platinum
- Mega Man ZX 3
- Devil Survivor 3
- Zettai Hero Project 2
- Kamen Rider Warriors
... and of course...
- MAKAI KINGDOM 2!
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text:
Business Support UnitAdministrator2019-05-17T13:41:53+00:00
Invest in Laois/
Business Support Unit/
The aim of the Business Support Unit is to support entrepreneurs and their new enterprises and also help the development and growth of existing businesses in the County.
Laois County Council have introduced a Business Incentive Scheme to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises within designated areas of Portlaoise, Mountmellick, Abbeyleix, Rathdowney (Rathdowney Outlet included) & Portarlington over a three year period. This incentive scheme will assist new commercial businesses to set up in the traditional retailing commercial and social heart of each town.
With limited resources it is challenging for County Councils to implement initiatives to encourage new businesses to establish in commercial areas in economic decline. However, having considered the commercial reality of business in the above towns, Laois County Council is pleased to announce a Business Incentive Scheme to encourage the use of vacant commercial premises in the designated areas.
The intent of the scheme is to provide a grant incentive for new businesses to locate in premises that have been vacant for a period exceeding six months and to encourage diversity of retail opportunities within a designated area.
This grant can provide the financial assistance that makes it attractive for new business to consider setting up in areas where there are a number of vacant shop units. These premises are at present not yielding any rates income for the Council.
Business Incentive Scheme Application Form
Abbeyleix Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Mountmellick Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Mountrath Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Portarlington Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Portlaoise Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Rathdowney Business Incentive Scheme 2020 For Vacant Premises
Objectives of the Scheme
Promote the development and enhancement of retail floor space in the town centres.
Enhance the vitality and viability of the town centre and commercial well being of the towns.
Support the continued role of the town centres and its primacy in the retail hierarchy.
Encourage new businesses to occupy commercial premises/shops that have been vacant over a period of time.
Encourage diversity of retail opportunities within the town centre/retail core area of Portlaoise.
Provide limited financial assistance to make it more attractive for new businesses to establish in areas where there are vacant shops.
Provide rates income to Laois County Council that otherwise would not be available.
Job creation and employment.
Eligibility Criteria for the Business Incentive Scheme
The shop unit must be rated or rateable.
Premises vacant for more than six months would be eligible for a grant of 75% of rates in Year 1, 50% in Year 2 & 25% in Year 3.
Three years would be the maximum allowed for the grant regardless of the period the premises has been vacant.
In Year 4 the full amount of the rates due must be paid in the financial year.
The property must be owned by the applicant or subject to a minimum 12 month lease. Evidence of rent/lease agreement to be provided.
The scheme shall not apply to any business or person who owes money to Laois County Council at another location.
The scheme shall apply to the use of authorised premises only (where is unauthorised development or ongoing enforcement under planning legislation this should be regularised in advance of any application).
Building location
The building must be situated as marked on relevant map.
Abbeyleix B.I.S Map
Mountmellick B.I.S Map
Mountrath B.I.S Map
Portarlington B.I.S Map
Portlaoise B.I.S Map
Rathdowney B.I.S Map
History of being vacant
The building must be an existing building that has been vacant continuously for a period of more than six months. The Council may ask for evidence that a building has been vacant for the specified period. A building may be deemed to be vacant if the building has not been used for any retail, commercial or other business activity.
Proposed Use
The grant awarded to successful applicants shall only apply to the following types of premises associated with establishing a new business:
Use as a shop as defined under Class 1 of the Planning & Development Regulations 2001 (and any subsequent amendments).
Office use as per Class 2 and 3 of the aforementioned regulations.
Use for medical or health professional clinics.
Use as a crèche, day nursery or day centre.
Uses not covered by the Scheme
Amusement arcades or premises with gaming machines
Betting Offices
Nightclubs/Public Houses
Unwanted Jewellery (Cash for Gold) or clothes (Cash for Clothes)
Premises where unauthorised development has taken place or which are subject to enforcement proceedings.
Business relocating to a similar sized premises within Portlaoise will not qualify for grant relief under the scheme.
Payment of Grant Aid
A tax clearance certificate will be required as part of the application.
All approved applicants must sign up to the payment of rates by Standing Order and amount payable must be paid in full in the financial year applicable. Failure to adhere to this will result in the grant being withdrawn.
It should be noted that this grant does not apply to fees associated with other approvals which may be required to be obtained from the Council i.e. planning fees, licences under Section 254 of the Planning & Development Act 2000, as amended, commercial water/waste water and development contributions.
A number of initiatives will assist with this strategy:
Public Area Enhancement Scheme
Pilot Painting Scheme
Pilot Pop Up Shop Scheme
New Shop Front Scheme
Creative use of shop-windows to vacant ground floor retail or commercial units as exhibition or display space
Erection of signage
The Council wish to acknowledge the work of former Town Council's, Municipal Districts & relevant committees in each town and the various departments in Laois County Council that have assisted the process.
Any queries in relation to the scheme should be directed to: Linda Meredith, Business Support Unit, (057) 8664133, businesssupport@laoiscoco.ie
In accordance with the report "A Vision for Portlaoise – A Strategy for a better Town Centre" Laois County Council is seeking to improve the streetscape and public realm of Portlaoise Town. Lower Main Street, Bridge Street & the Well Road (areas designated on map below) is the first phase being addressed by this pilot grant scheme which will assist owners of properties to improve and enhance their premises through the painting of exterior buildings both commercial and residential.
The applicant must indicate their legal interest in the property.
The applicant must provide written consent from the owner if lease or tenant.
The completed application form must be signed by the applicant.
Completed forms should be returned to Linda Meredith, Business Support Unit, Laois County Council, County Hall, Portlaoise, Co Laois on or before 7th December, 2018.
Incomplete application forms may delay processing and may result in the application not being considered.
Photographs of the property must be included with the application.
The scheme is being conducted in association with Crown Paints. Laois County Council will provide the paints. The applicant cannot use their own paints.
The colour must be chosen from a colour palette specifically developed by Crown Paints in association with Laois County Council.
Terms and Conditions of Portlaoise Facade Enhancement Scheme
The scheme applies to both residential and commercial properties
The premises applying for the grant must be located in the area designated on the attached map
Laois County Council will be carrying out the painting works. The Colour will be chosen by reference to a Colour palette chosen by the Local Authority. The applicant will be consulted on the Colour but the final decision will be made by the Local Authority.
Grants are awarded entirely at the discretion of the Local Authority
Application will not be considered where there are local taxes or charges due to the Council
The applicant will receive a copy of the painting assessment carried out on the premises. He/She will subsequently be required to sign a consent form agreeing to the works to be carried out and the colour to be used. On receipt of the consent form and a 25% contribution from the applicant the painting works will be carried out by Laois County Council.
Application forms can available here: Facade Enhancement Scheme Application Form.
Submit completed application form and supporting documentation to:
Linda Meredith
Business Support Unit
Email: lmeredith@laoiscoco.ie
The Members of Laois County Council have allocated a fund in the 2018 Budget to encourage and support small businesses under the Early Payment Incentive Scheme 2019.
The scheme will apply to ratepayers occupying properties in Laois incurring Commercial Rates of €10,000 or less in 2019.
A 4% reduction will be given where:
1.) The Commercial Rates (including arrears) relating to the relevant rated property, are paid in full no later than 31stJuly, 2019.
2.) The Commercial Rates (including arrears) relating to the relevant rated property, are paid in full by agreed, regular, staged, payments commencing immediately and paid in full by the 31stDecember, 2019.
Directly to the Cash Office, County Hall, Portlaoise, Co. Laois or to the Revenue Collector for your area.
Credit Card or Laser Card – Phone No. 057 86 74308
Please ensure to quote Rate Account Number on all payments.
Further details can be obtained by contacting Brenda Earl on 057 86 64061 or brenda@laoiscoco.ie
Following the success of last year's scheme, Laois County Council is delighted to announce the launch of the Shop Front Grant Scheme for 2020.
Who/What Types of Buildings are Eligible for these Grants?
Owners or Leaseholders of Retail or Commercial Premises. Leaseholders must obtain permission of the owner if required by their lease contract (any community groups operating with the written consent of the owner may also be considered)
Independently-owned shops or commercial premises – not part of a franchise or chain
Ground floor premises fronting onto a public road
Premises zoned Town/Village Centre; in the case of Portlaoise premises zoned Town Centre Primary
Objectives of the Grant Scheme
To support the vitality and vibrancy of Laois Town and Village Centres
To enhance the appearance of retail and commercial premises in Laois Town and Village Centres
What costs will the grant cover?
Works that relate to the shopfront
Works that are sympathetic to the character and appearance of the building and street – having regard to planning law requirements and in particular Architectural Conservation Area and Protected Structure designations.
Where the works are being undertaken by the owner, grant assistance will be provided towards the cost of materials only
Works might include the repair of damaged/degraded parts of softwood shopfronts; general repair works; repainting of shopfronts or repainting of fascia advertisements; replacement of fascia advertisements or projecting advertisements with more sympathetic advertisements; removal of roller-shutter blinds and installation of security glass or more sympathetic internal shuttering.
A Shopfront and Streetscape Policy Document including photographic examples of good shopfront design is available on laois.ie
The grant shall not exceed 50% of the overall cost and is subject to a maximum grant of €750 per unit
Note: If the fund is oversubscribed, preference will be given to proposals that have the most potential to improve the appearance or the vitality and vibrancy of Laois Towns and Villages
Many of the works that might be proposed may not need planning permission; however you should consult the Council to clarify. Applicants may make an application for the grant in advance of obtaining planning permission (if required) and where successful will receive an offer of funding in principle. However, where permission is required, approved works cannot start until a final grant of planning permission is received.
When will I receive the grant?
The grant will be payable after completion and final inspection by a Council official and when all terms are complied with. All works must be completed before 30th September 2020.
Are there other financial terms to comply with before I get paid?
Costs will also have to be verified (submission of receipts/incurred expense) prior to the payment of the grant. The applicant must either have paid rates in full or be in compliance with a payment plan/agreement regarding rates.
Fill out the Shop Front Improvement & Accessibility Grant Application 2020 & submit other required documents specified at the end of the application form (e.g. written builder's/ tradesman's estimate).
Email the completed application form and other required documents to businesssupport@laoiscoco.ie
Alternatively post your application form and supporting documents to Business Support Unit, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, JFL Avenue, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
The current Development Contribution Scheme for Laois County Council have a very competitive rate of €34m2 for commercial and industrial developments.
The scheme also provides the following incentives:
New projects or grant supported expansions by the IDA/EI shall be subject to the following levy structure:
@ €30 per sq.m
2ndm @ €10 per sq.m
Above 1000sq.m @ €7.50 per sq.m
A 33% reduction shall apply to new business developments by local entrepreneurs where 5 or more new jobs are being created
A 33% reduction shall apply in the Retail Core of Portlaoise, Portarlington, Graiguecullen and Mountmellick as defined in the Laois County Development Plan 2011 – 2017 and Local Area Plans respectively and in the village and town centre zoned areas for each town and village within the County Development Plan 2011-2017.
Priming Grants - For Business Trading
A Priming Grant is a business start-up grant, available to micro enterprises within the first 18 months of start-up and may be available for sole traders, partnerships or limited companies that fulfil the following criteria:
Located and operating within the LEO's geographic area
A business which on growth will fit the Enterprise Ireland portfolio
A business employing up to 10 employees
A manufacturing or internationally traded services business
A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally
Need for money and having regard to deadweight and displacement
Eligible clients may be awarded a Priming Grant within the first eighteen months of setting up the business.
Expenditure may be considered under the following headings:
Capital items
Salary costs
Consultancy/Innovation/Marketing costs
General overhead costs
The maximum Priming Grant payable is 50% of proposed investment up to a maximum of €80,000, whichever is the lesser.
Business Expansion Grants - For Business Trading Less Than 18 Months
The Business Expansion grant is designed to assist the business in its growth phase after the initial 18 month start-up period and may be awarded to sole traders, partnerships or limited companies that fulfil the following criteria:
Located and operating within the LEO geographic area
A business, which, on growth, will have the capacity to progress to the Enterprise Ireland portfolio
A manufacturing or internationally traded service business
A domestically traded service business with the potential to trade internationally.
The maximum Business Expansion Grant payable shall be 50% of the investment, up to a maximum of €80,000, whichever is the lesser.
Feasiblity Study Grant
Feasibility Study Grants are designed to assist the promoter with researching market demand for a product or service and examining its sustainability. It includes assistance with innovation including specific consultancy requirements, hiring of expertise from third level colleges private specialists, design and prototype development.
The maximum Feasibility Study Grant payable in the BMW region is 60% of eligible investment or €15,000 whichever is the lesser.
Consultancy Costs
Technical Development/Prototype/Innovation
Salary/Own Labour Research
Miscellaneous Costs
To assist the small business community in meeting the challenges of the business world, we provide a wide range of high-quality training supports which are tailored to meet specific business requirements. Whether it is starting a business or growing a business there is something suitable for everyone.
A list of our current Training Programme can be downloaded here.
The Mentor Programme is designed to match up the knowledge, skills, insights and entrepreneurial capability of experienced business practitioners with small business owner/ managers who need practical and strategic one to one advice and guidance. The mentor contributes independent, informed observation and advice to aid decision making.
All applications for mentor assistance are dealt with individually and are preceded by a business needs analysis to assess the key needs of the business and determine the most imperative mentoring objectives.
The Mentor Programme is open to both new and existing businesses located in Co. Laois.
The Role of Mentor:
Listen, Advise and provide direction
Help the promoter identify problems and suggest areas for improvement
Discuss solutions and innovative ways of improving business activity
Help with the decision making process
Share experience and knowledge, provide structure and context for discussion
Offer assistance in compiling a business plan
Areas of involvement typically include:
Market Research, Marketing & Promotion
Corporate Organisation
Website Planning & Design
For full details on all LEO business supports click here.
Heidi Higgins
Fashion Designer,
Heidi Higgins Boutique
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Ballyfin Demesne
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Seamus Delaney
Internal Results
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Heidi Higins

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Home / Entertainment / Entertainment News / Roughly Speaking play with rap, announcing full cast with Broadway performers about the Homeless
Roughly Speaking play with rap, announcing full cast with Broadway performers about the Homeless
RJ Frometa October 3, 2016	Entertainment News Leave a comment
Power Rangers: Battle for the Grid eSports League Announced
Roughly Speaking, a new play with rap by Shara Ashley Zeiger based on over 200 interviews with the New York City Homeless announces its full cast and creative team.
The Roughly Speaking cast will feature Franz Jones (Broadway's Big River), Danny Bolero (Broadway's In the Heights & Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat), Christopher Michael McLamb, Steven J. Michel, Michael Twain (European Tour of West Side Story), Madeline McCray, Troy Valjean Rucker (National Tour, Jesus Christ Superstar), Shara Ashley Zeiger and Joanie Anderson.
Roughly Speaking will be directed by Celine Rosenthal. Set Design is by Joseph Napolitano. Lighting Design is by Sophie Talmadge Silleck. Costume Design is by Shirlee Idzakovich. Roughly Speaking is presented by The Platform Group, in cooperation with Xavier Mission.
Roughly Speaking depicts a world we often walk by through the eyes of Lightning.Bolt, a rapper bound only by his wheelchair on a not so typical day at the soup kitchen. An existential struggle of survival begs questions of love, loss, and what's next. Roughly Speaking is a play with rap about those who are caught in a system which exists more to maintain the status quo, rather than offer a way out.
The Platform Group previously presented a successful staged reading of Roughly Speaking this past June at Manhattan Theatre Club. Those who attended the reading called the work "funny, sad and moving", "well-written, with good comic timing and heartfelt stories of anguish and struggle" and that "it captured the magic, sadness, reality, pain and humanity of the guests of Xavier."
All Sunday and Wednesday performances of Roughly Speaking will include a post-show talk back featuring members of the cast and creative team, along with experts on homelessness, community partners and volunteer staff of Xavier Mission's Welcome Table Soup Kitchen. Audiences will also experience the WE ARE ALL HOMELESS art installation of homeless signs by Willie Baronet set up in the lobby of Tada Theatre. (TEDx Talks, Democratic and Republican National Conventions, Upworthy viral video of 6 million hits, documentary film Signs of Humanity).
Roughly Speaking will be presented at Tada Theater, located at 15 West 28 Street from October 29 through November 20. Show times are Wednesday-Saturday at 8pm, Sunday at 2pm. There will be an additional performance on Monday, November 14 at 8pm and no performance on Sunday October 30, or Wednesday, November 16. All tickets are $25.00, with $3.00 from each ticket sold going towards purchasing backpacks for the homeless. Reservations: 212-868- 4444 or www.platformgroup.org. The approximate running time of the show is 90 minutes.
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Home > News in briefs > Ōtaki Domain Double Header for Sam's Day
Ōtaki Domain Double Header for Sam's Day
News in briefs
Rep Rugby
by admin - June 26, 2020 June 27, 2020
Ōtaki Domain will be packed out for Sam's Day on September 5th when Manawatū Turbos play Wellington Lions in a Mitre 10 Cup pre-season game and Horowhenua Kapiti take on Wairarapa Bush as a fundraiser for Sam Doyle.
Three of the four teams in action once had Sam Doyle running around in their colours. Sam Doyle (Horowhenua Kapiti representative #1039) was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, a type of cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood.
Sam Doyle makes a break for Rahui against Waikanae in 2011
Makaore Beavan Wilson, Rahui Football and Sports Club Club Captain said, "Sam Doyle is a huge part of the Rāhui and Ōtaki community. He has been a loyal club member since he was young, and he is one of our most successful and respected representatives. Over the years, Sam donned the red and blue for our premier side in 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2012. He also coached 1st XV rugby in the community and has been our Premier Coach for the last two years. We are proud to have Sam as a leader within our club, and Rāhui will support him and his whānau 110%. We would also like to acknowledge the tautoko/support of the HKRFU, WRFU, and MRU for this event, it is greatly appreciated. Nei rā ngā mihi nui ki a koutou."
The PGG Wrightson Cup will be played for between Horowhenua Kapiti and Wairarapa Bush. Wairarapa Bush are the current holders of the Cup after beating Horowhenua Kapiti in Masterton last year. Wairarapa Bush Heartland Team Manager Shay O'Gorman is looking forward to an exciting day of rugby.
"From our point of view, we are very excited to be involved in the fixture, to be supporting the cause for Sam, and to continue the great relationship we have with Horowhenua Kapiti. Our two teams have had some very close and exciting games over the past two years, and this promises to be the same," O'Gorman said.
"We thought a fantastic way of showing our support for Sam was to organise a day for him involving all three provincial Unions that he represented. It made perfect sense to have the day at Ōtaki Domain, his home ground. Sam has been a huge part of our rugby community for a number of years and we're really looking forward to a great day in Ōtaki. With Sam playing for Manawatū, Wellington and Horowhenua Kapiti among many other teams, this will be a special day for Sam, his whānau, and the Ōtaki community," said Horowhenua Kapiti Rugby Football Union Chief Executive Officer, Corey Kennett.
"I'd like to thank Rahui RFC and all the teams involved," Kennett said.
The Mitre 10 Cup pre-season game is a week out from the start of the Mitre 10 Cup and both the Turbos and Lions will be looking for momentum heading into their campaigns.
Manawatū Rugby Union Chief Executive Shannon Paku feels honoured to be part of the day. "Manawatū Rugby are grateful to be able to play a part in helping Sam, Tracey and the whānau through these challenging times. As a Hato Pāora College old boy, Freyberg RFC and Manawatū Rugby rep at various levels, Sam will always be part of our Manawatū Rugby community. While representing Manawatū he was selected in the NZ Colts, NZ Divisional Team & the NZ Maori All Blacks.
The Turbos are honoured to be playing the curtain raiser for Sams' Day in his home town of Ōtaki. We wish him all the best with his battle and recovery."
Wellington Lions Manager, Mila Poutoa, is excited for the Lions to play on a unique occasion. "Our Wellington Lions are ecstatic to be a part of Sam's big day.
Sam played four seasons with Wellington and managed to attain 30 caps for the Lions during that time. Sam has been a great servant of not only Wellington Rugby but rugby as a whole and we wish him all the best during these tough times."
The Wellington Lions v Manawatū Turbos game kicks-off at 1pm
and the Horowhenua Kapiti v Wairarapa Bush fixture for the PGG Wrightson Cup is set for a 3pm kick-off.
OBU – Norths headline second round of the Swindale Shield
Saturday 27 June – Wellington club rugby updates. Click here for scores and results
Pride starting NPC season back in Premiership ranks on Saturday
Short Passes 3 June (Queen's Birthday Monday)


Available from the publisher, here, for CHF 25 / EUR 18 / £ 15 / US 24.95. More images at Tipitin, here.
"I became fascinated by Swedish artist-poet Karl Holmqvist (born 1960) as soon as I heard his distinctive voice in this hour-long 2012 sound piece, Untitled (A=T=O=M-I=Z=E=D), on MoMA's website. I was also delighted to see his work included in the exhibition Signs and Symbols at Jessica Bradley Gallery in early 2015. His deep, mannered voice seemed the perfect vehicle to deliver his darkly absurdist words, which cuttingly repeat seemingly ad infinitum, invoking some of the more ignoble facets of popular culture (with a distinctly queer edge) while carrying on some of the language experiments of Dada. Then -- miracle of miracles! -- he appeared at the Art Gallery of Ontario to perform a reading in tandem with their exhibition of the mystical and diaphanous paintings of Silke Otto-Knapp, Land lies in water. I was able to witness the man himself unleash his raspy, rhythmic incantations, perched on the stage at Jackman Hall. While many audience members -- clearly not realizing what they were in for -- fled the theatre, I was giddily enraptured, and soon went home to purchase 'K (2012), his handsome artist book. The volume collects a number of his brilliant texts, forming a veritable procession of concrete poems. Now whenever I pick up the book I can hear his voice as clearly as in that auditorium."
Jon Davies is a Montreal-born, Toronto-based curator and writer. He was Assistant Curator at The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery from 2008–2012 and Associate Curator at Oakville Galleries from 2012–2015, where he curated Derek Sullivan: The Missing Novella, on view until 3 January 2016, and Sky Glabush: What Is a Self?, which opens on 17 January 2016. He has written for publications such as C Magazine, Canadian Art, Cinema Scope, Criticism and Fillip, as well as authoring a book on Paul Morrissey's 1970 film Trash (Arsenal Pulp Press, 2009). He also recently co-edited issue 5 of Little Joe magazine and curated the film series Nothing Special: Andy Warhol's Star System for TIFF Lightbox, which runs until 24 January 2015.


To add an international fund or not?
I constantly ask myself this question. Sometimes, I am of the advice of JLCollins who says there is indirect exposure to international via VTSAX. Other times, I think I am missing out on international by not being directly invested in an international fund. I and currently all (other than my cash accounts) VTSAX, with a small amount in VSMAX. (I am 33, don't mind the risk at my age). If I were to add an International fund, I think I would like it in my Roth account, and would only purchase 3k to get into the fund. Which, if any, international fund would you suggest? I recently read an article that vouches for International Growth (VWIGX). Or is VTIAX a better option? Thanks for any advice!
Re: To add an international fund or not?
With your investment horizon of 30+ years, I'd wager to say there are compelling reasons to be diversified. Will US equities continue to dominate? Maybe...but maybe not. International stocks have outperformed before and they'll outperform again (imo).
If there is one thing that posters could do to make this space more welcoming to inexperienced readers it would be to use the full names and not just the abbreviations for these funds. I know that readers can look them up but wouldn't it be better if the poster took the few extra seconds to type these out rather than forcing multiple readers from having to look them up.
I know that posters are just trying to be helpful but their posts would be more impactful and save a lot of time cumulatively if they used full fund names rather than abbreviations.
Whether the U.S. market has enough international exposure or not, why exlude companies like Shell, Nestle, Samsung, Toyota, HSBC, Mitsubishi and Unilever? They are large, global companies.
It looks like you are leaning towards International and just need a small push, you need to ask yourself if you are comfortable holding International markets. You only know the answer. If you do, before determining what fund(s) to use, you need to determine your International Allocation in relation to your overall portfolio. I am about 35% INT but hovering around 33% so any new money goes to either WisdomTree International Small-Cap Dividend ETF (DLS)/ex-US Sm-Cap ETF (VSS) or Vanguard Total International.
Out of my 35% Int, I am 10% Small Cap/ 25% Total International and because Total International and VSS covers Emerging Markets, I do not have a separate EM fund.
There is nothing wrong putting International in Roth, but one thing to consider is that you might run out of room to get your desired allocation to where you want to be, but if you are comfortable with 3K, that is a good start.
Start with Total World Stock.
I agree. Diversification is always a smart move.
Which, if any, international fund would you suggest? I recently read an article that vouches for International Growth (VWIGX). Or is VTIAX a better option?
VTIAX is clearly the better option of those two. It offers broad international exposure at a relatively low cost.
Two other options which are arguably better diversifiers would be Vanguard Global Minimum Volatility Fund Admiral Shares (VMNVX) and Vanguard Emerging Markets Stock Index Fund Admiral Shares (VEMAX).
VMNVX holds both US and international stocks, so you'd probably want to double the weight in your portfolio to get the same net international exposure. It's a slightly more defensive way to hold international stocks, with an approach that optimizes diversification and minimizes risk.
VEMAX is somewhat opposite, in that it is a pure play on the riskiest international countries. Emerging market stocks, though, are less correlated with US stocks than are international stocks from developed nations. As a result, VEMAX is a more efficient diversifier than a broad index like VTIAX. It'll be more volatile but likely will offer more bang for the buck, so to speak.
I just turned 34 and have been in Vanguard Target Date's for both my RothIRA and my Taxable account, they are pretty much the 4 fund portfolio, I feel that why not own the world. I have good faith that the world will always strive and achieve greater than today.
And in the future, I may start up a REIT Index on the side for even more of a mix.
Are you ok not being exposed to ~50% of the global economy? I tilt US but I am personally not ok with being completely unexposed to a huge part of the global economy. Only you can make this call for your own portfolio. The decision to go active vs passive is yours as well. I personally do not feel the China tilt of VWIGX is something I want in my portfolio, but I also use more than index ETFs than VTIAX.
I get it---And I know the whole "past performance doesn't equal future performance" saying---but looking at VTIAX--since 2010 to today--its gone up $1 and some change...with a lot of volatility. I will probably add a little bit, but I don't get adding large sums to something that hasn't done anything in 8 years, while the US has had the longest bull run ever, I believe.
A more successful approach to investing might be to look at the same data and draw the opposite inference: "I don't get adding large sums to something that has had the longest bull run ever, while international has been getting relatively less expensive for 8 years."
I constantly ask myself this question. Sometimes, I am of the advice of JLCollins who says there is indirect exposure to international via VTSAX.
There is also indirect exposure to US via VTIAX. It goes both ways. As an argument for ignoring international, it's not a persuasive one.
I constantly ask myself this question. Sometimes, I am of the advice of JLCollins who says there is indirect exposure to international via VTSAX. Other times, I think I am missing out on international by not being directly invested in an international fund.I and currently all (other than my cash accounts) VTSAX, with a small amount in VSMAX. (I am 33, don't mind the risk at my age).
At age 33 I usually suggest a bond or other fixed income allocation as well, around 20%.
If I were to add an International fund, I think I would like it in my Roth account, and would only purchase 3k to get into the fund. Which, if any, international fund would you suggest? I recently read an article that vouches for International Growth (VWIGX). Or is VTIAX a better option? Thanks for any advice!
For better diversification and a significantly lower expense ratio I suggest Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund Admiral Shares (VTIAX) ER 0.11%, investing in stocks of 6383 international companies, both large and small.
Vanguard International Growth Investor Shares (VWIGX) ER 0.45% invests in stocks of 127 large international companies, with a heavy "growth" tilt.
For anything else you buy, do you get excited to buy it after it has skyrocketed in price, or before?
Why should stocks be any different?
See how your money goes to buy products not just from the U.S.? Don't you want a piece of that action as well?
Vanguard total international stock index fund at approx. 20%.
I'll add two important reasons to NOT invest in International or underweight.
2. Currency effects (you price everything in dollars, but you buy businesses that generally operate in and are priced by other currencies). I think this boosts risk without boosting return.
Those being considered, I still go 60/40 and considered myself underweight in INTL.
I constantly ask myself this question.
Boy, oh boy, have you ever put your finger on one of the Bogleheads "hot topics". Whether to add international (and how much) is one of the most widely debated topics here. That being said, speaking strictly for myself, I do maintain an allocation of 30% of my equity to international index funds. I agree with many here that investing in U.S. companies carries some exposure to international markets. But I invest in international simply because it greatly increases the number of companies I'm invested in. Some here do a "market weighted" split of around 50/50 domestic/international. I back off that a bit (70/30) in an attempt to lower my currency risk a bit. It's what I've decided, and hopefully I'll stick with it come what may.
I have a traditional IRA (containing funds rolled over from my 401k at retirement), while DW has a 401k in her workplace, plus we have a Vanguard brokerage account jointly. In all three we hold international funds. In the Vanguard account, DW has some VEA (FTSE Developed Markets) that carried over from her days trying to pick stocks and ETFs, but the rest of our Vanguard international allocation is in VTIAX (total international).
It's not necessary that you add international if you conclude that you shouldn't. It's a personal choice. Whatever you decide, you should be prepared to keep to your decision in all market conditions, so give it plenty of thought.
Please keep in mind that bonds and international investing are probably the two most considered and contentious topics here.
Some say you will be alright with neither. Others vehemently disagree.
I'd humbly suggest that you are just fine right now. If you care to branch out to these other areas, I would spend a few weeks reading about these two areas and considering whether you would be able to hold them through thick and thin. There's no better way to hurt your returns than changing horses down the road. I wouldn't be in a hurry to change my asset allocation by selling a dime of anything until I was absolutely sure of my decision. The market is very volatile right now and you might wind up locking in losses only to change your mind later and perhaps lock in losses again.
If I were you I'd type in "why bonds" and "how much international" or similar in the search box and read till you know both the pros and cons of each (and there are to each, just like there's pros and cons with your current AA) and then come to a decision.
One of the best things I've read here is that someone's investment policy statement prohibits changes until the change is considered for a few months. Another great thing I recently read is that some of the most successful 401k investors forgot that they had a 401k. I'd only buy something I could stand to buy and forget about.
Personally, right now I couldn't buy and hold either bonds or international, but that's just me.
That said, if I were required to put some money in international I'd probably go with the total international fund rather than tilt to growth, emerging markets, etc. But, I'm not required to do that, yet, thank goodness.
I've participated in a few international-investing discussions around here and remain completely unconvinced that it's necessary or even advisable. There are some serious issues with international in my opinion.
Do yourself a favor read and read some more before buying.
30% international to 70% U.S. was the highest return per unit of risk (in the past). In other words, you got a higher return with 30% international without any additional risk of 0%-29% international (higher international like 31%+ may have resulted in higher returns (or lower) but carried more risk).
The vanguard link also shows how the volatility of a portfolio that includes international (to a point) decreased relative to a 0% international portfolio. Again, based on Vanguard's paper (link above) they showed 30% international lowered volatility more than less (0%-29%) or more (31%+) international.
That's why I go 30% international. Will the future look different from the past? Possibly, but until new research comes out that shows me a compelling reason to do otherwise, I'll stick to 70/30 (US/Int). In truth, it may not even matter that much in the long run. I don't do it to get higher returns, I do it to diversify risk, and lower volatility, which in my mind is a free lunch (not entirely free, international does cost more, slightly, but I think it's worth it).


text:
A trademark will be considered unitary when it creates a commercial impression independent of any unregistrable element of the mark. If the mark is declared to be unitary, then no disclaimer is required. If an applicant can avoid a disclaimer it is recommended because disclaimers weaken trademarks. Disclaimers are statements that the applicant or registrant does not claim the exclusive right to use a particular element of the mark (disclaimers often involve descriptive or generic terms). Disclaimers may be limited to certain classes or to only certain goods or services. The examining attorney must consider several factors when evaluating whether a mark is a single or unitary trademark. Some of these factors include the relative location of the respective elements, the meaning of the terms as used in connection with the goods or services, and the commercial impression made by the mark as a whole.
For example, a descriptive word can be combined with a distinctive term and when evaluating the mark in its entirety in relationship to the goods or services, the descriptive significance of the word is lost. See In re J. R. Carlson Laboratories, Inc. 183 U.S.P.Q. 509, 1974 WL 20015 (TTAB 1974), where it was held that E GEM for bath oil containing vitamin E was a unitary mark and thus no disclaimer of the "E" was required. In other cases, the combination of the terms may not create a separate commercial impression and a disclaimer will be required. See In re Lean Line, Inc. 229 U.S.P.Q. 781, 1986 WL 83684 (TTAB 1986), where it was determined that the mark LEAN LINE for low calorie foods was not a unitary mark and a disclaimer of the term "LEAN" was required.
Compound words may be considered unitary marks and therefore will not require a disclaimer. A compound word is comprised of two or more distinct words that are merged together to form one word. Examples of compound words are PROSHOT, BOOKCHOICE, or PULSELIGHT. A compound word that consists of a registrable element and an unregistrable element combined into a single word, will not require a disclaimer. Similar to compound words, telescoped terms will also be considered unitary. A telescoped mark is one that consists of two or more words that share letters. Examples of telescoped terms are SUPERINSE, LITENERGY, or VITAMINSURANCE. No disclaimer of an individual element of a telescoped word is required. This general rule applies regardless of whether the mark is applied for in standard character or as a special design format.
If an applicant wants to avoid a disclaimer, it would be wise to consider a mark that contains a double entendre. A double entendre is a word that is capable of more than one meaning or interpretation. Therefore, when a double entendre mark is applied to the goods or services there will be two meanings or connotations. If one of the meanings is not merely descriptive as applied to the goods or services then the trademark will not be refused registration. However, the second meaning or significance must be one that the public would readily make based on the mark itself. Examples of double entendre marks are SUGAR & SPICE for bakery products and THE SOFT PUNCH for noncarbonated soft drinks.
Trademarks that create incongruity are another category of unitary trademarks. An example of this type of mark is URBAN SAFARI for recreational parks or SNO-RAKE for a snow removal hand tool. When challenging a refusal in an office action or a requirement for a disclaimer, applicants should argue that their mark is a unitary mark that should proceed to the Principal Register without the need for a disclaimer pursuant to Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure §1213.05.
An important rule to keep in mind when filing a trademark application with the USPTO is that an entire mark may not be disclaimed. If a mark is not registrable as a whole, a disclaimer will not allow it to register. There must be something in the mark over and above the unregistrable portion that will allow for registration. If you do not have a term or word capable of registration in your mark, then you must have a distinctive design that will allow the mark to register. It can be difficult to determine which elements of a trademark are distinctive or if two elements merge, do they form a unitary mark? If you need assistance determining if your mark would be designated as a single or unitary mark or if you need assistance preparing a trademark application for filing with the USPTO, please contact our office for a courtesy consultation.
What is a Unitary Trademark? | New York Intellectual Property Lawyer


text:
Viscina designa uma substância mucilagínea, viscosa, translúcida, sem cheiro ou sabor noticiável, que é extraída da seiva de diversas plantas, com destaque para o visco (Viscum album) e múltiplas outras espécies da família Loranthaceae. É composta maioritariamente por polissacarídeos não celulósicos.

Polissacarídeos
Fisiologia vegetal

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The Ethiopian obtains the victory with a time of 2.09.25.
The Milano City Marathon, held yesterday in the Italian city, saw how the first and second place on the podium led by the Ethiopians. In the female category, the Kenyan Jepkoech Monica, with a time of 2.32.54 came in first place, ahead of the Ethiopians Tsehay Adana and Ababei Brihane. A team of the Mitja Marató de Barcelona, was present at the runner's fair all along the three days at the Palazzo Lombardia.


Awesome song. Really really beautiful and cool.
Oh... Amazing song. Really I have no words to describe how I feel when I listened it first time...! I was dancing...! I couldn't stop myself to do that...!
Awesome song listen to it every now and then... And the video is just mind blowing! This is better than danza kuduro!
I love this so g a lot, I love Don Omar your my favorite singer.. One thing your hot..
Since I was a little child I love this song!
She's on fire está encendida!
The chorus and beat is hot!
Amazing song. Reminds me of when I was younger, a lot naiver and madly in love with a "loser" who could of totally derailed my life. As well as having a wicked beat there is a totally important message in this song. Those men that are not worth a cent, maybe exciting to play with but run before they bewitch you.
It has a great beat and a very catchy tune to it. The lyrics bring joy and combined with the music and the Latino beat, it makes this song my favorite Don Omar song!
It's one of the best songs of don omar but y isn't it on the top ten list?
The great song ever. Even better than Danza Kuduro.
I love this song! Such an upbeat song and fun to dance to.
Awesome song... I like it!


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Home > Trout Unlimited Field Staff Recognized for Conservation Writing
Trout Unlimited Field Staff Recognized for Conservation Writing
Contact: Chris Hunt (208) 406-9106
LAKE CHARLES, La. -- Three Trout Unlimited (TU) field staffers were recognized for their conservation writing at the 79th annual convention of the Outdoor Writers Association of America this week.
Dave Stalling, a field coordinator based in Missoula, Mont., collected two second-place awards for his stories "Frozen Solitude," and "Angling for the Front," which appeared in Big Sky Magazine in 2005.
Tom Reed, TU field coordinator based in Bozeman, Mont., received a first-place award for his story, "The Free and Wild Life," which ran in Wyoming Wildlife News in November 2005. Reed also received a second-place award for his piece, "How to get Your Elk," which appeared in Wyoming Wildlife News in September 2005.
Riggins, Idaho-based field coordinator Scott Stouder received a second-place award for "River of No More Salmon," which appeared in IWLA Population in spring 2005.
All three field coordinators work for TU's Public Lands Initiative, which focuses its efforts on roadless backcountry protection, responsible oil and gas development and abandoned mine reclamation efforts.


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A protocol is a set of mutually accepted and implemented rules at both ends of the communications channel for the proper exchange of information. Protocols comprise standards which, at a basic level, include the dimensions of line setup, transmission mode, code set, and non-data exchanges of information such as error control (detection and correction).
5. Communication program on CCP (Communication Control Processor).
If the interface provided between (2) and (3) is not physically compatible with either of them, the DTE and DCE cannot be connected. And, even if they can be physically connected the DTE and host cannot communicate with each other if the communication procedures used for (4) and (5) are different. Therefore, it is necessary to use the same procedure for (4) and (5). This communication procedure is called a protocol.
A protocol is required for communication between computers. To connect different types of computers from a variety of computer vendors, protocols must be first standardized. The ARPA (Advanced Research Project Agency) part of the US Defense program was the first to introduce the concept of a standardized protocol. ARPA is a resource sharing network connecting different computers at universities and laboratories in the US. The concept of the protocol and its layer structure, which will be mentioned later, emerged from the ARPA network. ARPA developed an integrated network using packet protocol and is also renowned for its development of packet switching.
• Synchronous Protocol These protocols involve timing information of sender along with the data bytes. This helps receiver to remain synchronization with the sender. When the sender has no data to transmit, the sender transmits a sequence of alternating 0s sand 1s to maintain sender/receiver synchronization. This sequence of 0s and 1s is called idle flags. Data bytes are packaged into small chunks called packets including address fields and checksums. As error checking is an inherent feature of this protocol, this overcomes the major deficiency of the asynchronous protocol.


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Genesis Framework has one of the best security setup among all WordPress themes and foundations. The efficient performance, incorporated seo, mobile responsive designs and versatile codes that you can easily extend or customize are a few of the reasons that more than quarter of a million developers have actually currently endorsed and utilized the structure. Getting going with Genesis Framework is simple and simple. You can explore the theme options, develop or choose layouts in minutes and get the standard style in place with a few clicks. Thereon you can keep tailoring every function of the site till you produce what you need. There are custom page design templates. The variety of pre-made templates will permit you to get the standard property in place. There is a theme customizer that you can utilize to change whatever from the settings of the theme chosen to the colours and the kinds of material you submit. You can inspect actual time previews and apologize as and when necessary.
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Philippe Kirsch (ur. 1 kwietnia 1947) – prawnik kanadyjski, w latach 2003–2009 sędzia i zarazem pierwszy w historii prezydent Międzynarodowego Trybunału Karnego.

Specjalizuje się w prawie międzynarodowym i humanitarnym. Jest członkiem Kanadyjskiej Rady Prawa Międzynarodowego, otrzymał tytuł radcy królowej (1988). Członek Międzynarodowej Grupy Doradców Komitetu Czerwonego Krzyża oraz przewodniczący Narodowego Komitetu Prawa Humanitarnego.

Położył wielkie zasługi przy powoływaniu Międzynarodowego Trybunału Karnego. 1998 był przewodniczącym Głównego Komitetu Dyplomatycznej Konferencji Pełnomocników ds. Ustanowienia Międzynarodowego Trybunału Karnego, 1999–2002 przewodniczący Komisji Przygotowawczej MTK. 2003 został wybrany sędzią Trybunału (na kadencję 6-letnią) oraz pierwszym prezydentem Trybunału. Autor publikacji oraz uczestnik i organizator konferencji naukowych poświęconych problematyce karnej międzynarodowej, w szczególności ofiar konfliktów zbrojnych, współtwórca Statutu MTK.

Bibliografia

Kanadyjscy prawnicy
Urodzeni w 1947
Philippe Kirsch


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Q: Removing bounding box of text node (tikz) When I added some text into my Tikz figure, it also hows the bounding box how can I get rid of it. (I took the example from: TikZ Adding Text)

Here is what I've got:
\begin{figure}
\begin{tikzpicture}[scale=.8]

\draw (0,1.3) node[below] {$B$} --
(3,1.3) node[below] {$C$} --
(1.5,4.3) node[above] {$A$} -- cycle;
\draw (1.5,4.3) -- (1.5,1.3) node[below] {$D$};
\draw (1.5,1.5) -- (1.7,1.5) -- (1.7,1.3);
\node[draw,text width=3cm] at (4.5,4) {some text spanning three lines with automatic line breaks};

\end{tikzpicture}
\end{figure}

A: The draw key in the options list for the node tells TikZ to draw the node shape around the node. And the default node shape is rectangle. So this is why the node is boxed using the draw key.
Remove the draw key from the node options to not draw the node:
Code
\documentclass{standalone}

\usepackage{tikz}

\begin{document}
\begin{tikzpicture}
  \draw (0,1.3) node[below] {$B$} -- (3,1.3) node[below] {$C$} --
    (1.5,4.3) node[above] {$A$} -- cycle;
  \draw (1.5,4.3) -- (1.5,1.3) node[below] {$D$};
  \draw (1.5,1.5) -- (1.7,1.5) -- (1.7,1.3);
  \node[text width=3cm] at (4.5,4)
    {some text spanning three lines with automatic line breaks};
\end{tikzpicture}
\end{document}

Output

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange