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Amid the frenzy backstage at the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball this month, an aura of businesslike calm seemed to follow Nick Jonas as he snaked his way through the underbelly of Madison Square Garden.
Wearing a heathered-burgundy sweater and tight black jeans, and with his immaculately parted hair and chiseled features, Mr. Jonas dutifully made the rounds required of a 22-year-old newly minted sex symbol.
At the behest of Ryan Seacrest, he sneaked up from behind a fan to sing a brief a cappella rendition of "Jealous," the first single from his current self-titled album. (Not to be confused with his other eponymous offering, "Nicholas Jonas," which he recorded when he was just 12.)
He mugged for the cameras with Elvis Duran, a radio personality, with a bag of Goldfish Puffs. And with the hurried efficiency of a department-store Santa, Mr. Jonas shuffled through a seemingly endless meet-and-greet with an army of gawky preteens.
"He smelled so good," a young girl barely in her double digits whispered to her friend. They were dressed identically, save for a set of colorful braces, in plaid midriff-baring crop tops, black spandex pants and white Converse sneakers.
Once a third of a boy band perhaps better known for purity rings than God-fearing hits, the youngest Jonas brother is now flashing his abs (and a lot of more) in gay clubs, in fashion spreads and on TV.
He is also popping up at events as disparate as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and an anniversary celebration for the William J. Clinton Presidential Library in Arkansas, as he remakes himself into a risqué pop provocateur who owes more to the rule book of Britney than Bieber.
Not surprisingly, showing off is paying off. "Jealous," which was released in September, just went platinum. (His last Top 40 hit was five years ago, when he was still with the Jonas Brothers.) In April, he will open for Iggy Azalea on her "Great Escape" tour.
"This is the most exciting time of my life," Mr. Jonas said in an interview. "It's one of those things where you just have to roll with it and, even though not everyone will come with you, push yourself to new places."
In October 2013, Mr. Jonas approached his two older brothers about disbanding the Disney-rock trio so he could go solo.
"In the past, there was certainly less freedom," he said. "I wasn't able to be as vocal about certain things."
Meanwhile, Joe Jonas, 25, seems to be concentrating on a possible career in fashion, regularly turning up at fashion shows and even working briefly as a fashion blogger for New York magazine, while Kevin Jonas, 27, has gone the reality-TV career route, appearing in an episode of "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" as a house contractor and signing on to be on next season's "The Celebrity Apprentice."
For Nick Jonas, striking out on his own meant ditching Christian guitar riffs for a flirty soul-pop sound injected with body-positive bravado. On the track "Wilderness" from his current album, he sings, "Naked as the day we were born/Did you know it could feel like this?"
Similar to the way Mr. Jonas and his management team enlisted producers like Sir Nolan and RoboPop for his adult-leaning sonic makeover, they approached Wilhelmina Models in August to discuss marketing the singer's untapped lack of modesty. During their first meeting, Mr. Jonas said, he discussed the growing pains associated with "the need to be transparent and lay it all out."
Taylor Hendrich, the head of the agency's men's division, which signed the singer, took his words literally. A call was immediately made to Flaunt magazine, a fashion and pop-culture magazine in Los Angeles, to conceptualize "some sort of major editorial that would be really forthcoming and open Nick up to who he is today versus who he was as a Jonas Brother," Mr. Hendrich said.
The result was Mr. Jonas wearing only a baseball cap and white underwear (his jeans were pulled down to his knees) as he grabbed his crotch in a homage to the 1992 Calvin Klein ad starring Mark Wahlberg.
The public striptease continued. The next month, he appeared in Details magazine glistening in sweat as he showed off his shirtless workout regimen, as well as in Attitude, a British gay magazine, in which he flexed his muscles yet again and said that being hairy was a "beautiful part about being a man."
The racy images' viral magic has ensued ever since. On "The Tonight Show," he popped up alongside Jeff Daniels and Usher. There he was strumming his guitar onstage at the unveiling of Lord & Taylor's holiday windows, swinging by a dinner for the opening of the Topshop Topman Manhattan flagship at Grand Central Terminal or posing in a zebra mask with Taylor Swift at her recent 25th birthday party.
Just last week, he jumped onto a giant piano in the F.A.O. Schwarz store on Fifth Avenue à la Tom Hanks in the 1988 movie "Big."
"A lot of male celebrities don't give themselves the freedom to be who they are, but Nick has grown up, and this is who he is presenting now," Mr. Hendrich said. "I mean, what can you say? He's hot."
Not since the R&B singer D'Angelo appeared in the buff for his music video "Untitled (How Does It Feel)" 15 years ago has a male pop act been so at ease objectifying himself.
No other crooner on today's charts sells his sexuality as overtly as Mr. Jonas, whether it's on his personal Instagram account (a belly-button-baring post from September received over 278,000 likes), ripping off his shirt while being interviewed for "On Air With Ryan Seacrest" or paying a visit to "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" with no pants on.
Then there is his burgeoning acting career. He stars in the new DirecTV series "Kingdom," in which he plays a (usually shirtless) gay mixed-martial-arts fighter struggling with his sexuality. In addition to his many bedrooms scenes, there has been much conjecture about a future scene in which Mr. Jonas may appear completely naked.
"Your body is a healthy thing to be comfortable about," he said. "And I didn't only want to talk about being comfortable in my skin, but show people the transformation I've made, too."
Cultural gatekeepers have taken notice of his sexual metamorphosis.
"I had some ambivalence at first because no one can capture how perfect Marky Mark looked in 1992 with that body," said Mel Ottenberg, a stylist for Rihanna and the fashion director of 032c, a magazine. "But in this era where people's attention span is zero, if everyone stops and thinks about what you're doing, you're doing it right."
Mr. Jonas is not the first man in pop music with an exhibitionistic streak. Prince was notorious for wearing itty-bitty black undergarments. Adam Levine and Kanye West (who showed off his pecs during Paris Fashion Week) have no problem flaunting their physiques. Justin Bieber is often (inexplicably) shirtless. Justin Timberlake showed some flesh for Arena Homme magazine in 2001 and a year later for Rolling Stone.
And of course there was Mr. Wahlberg, before he made the transition from '90s hip-hop performer to Hollywood actor.
What sets Mr. Jonas apart from other beefcakes is his understanding that social media has expanded the possibilities for expressions of male sexuality in popular culture. While Mr. Jonas is straight (he is dating Olivia Culpo, Miss USA 2012), he proudly kowtows to demographics outside his female fan base.
In September, he showed up at a gay Sunday night party at Up & Down, a club on West 14th Street, where he happily obliged a request from a drag queen to lift up his shirt. He also stopped by BPM, a gay club in Hell's Kitchen, where he unbuttoned his shirt entirely while Levi Karter, an adult-film star, danced in his underwear alongside him. At one point, he even tweeted, "I love my gay fans."
His courting of gays has sparked some debate. A recent article in the NYU Local, a college newspaper, accused Mr. Jonas of "queer baiting" and "cashing in on something he's not."
The erotization of young male pop stars can still make stars and their fans uncomfortable. Take the recent hiccups surrounding Mr. Bieber, whose "Beliebers" were criticized for defending their idol through homophobic language.
Louis Tomlinson, a member of One Direction, took to Twitter to defend his heterosexuality after a journalist from The Independent reported that a T-shirt Mr. Tomlinson wore was in solidarity with Apple's newly out chief executive, Tim Cook.
Mr. Jonas stands out by embracing the homoerotic undercurrents inherent to pop superstardom.
"Nick is the first straight male in the past few years to let himself be sexualized by gay men and not just be O.K. with it, but promote it," said Mitchell Sunderland, an editor at Vice who recently wrote an article for the magazine about Mr. Jonas. "Although there is a profit-based motive, it's still pretty revolutionary."
This approach appears to be more aligned with the calculated coming-of-age-by-stripping-down blueprint formulated by female image makers such as Britney Spears (another former Disney performer) and Miley Cyrus (a girlfriend of Mr. Jonas during her "Hannah Montana" era).
"I think Nick is more in tune with what is selling with the kids, and his openness will be a model for other guys in the industry to follow because it's been so successful," said Bradley Stern, an editor for the music website Idolator and founder of the pop blog MuuMuse. "Considering how much people bemoan the fact that female pop stars are forced to be sexy to sell, it's interesting that no one feels very much pity for Nick Jonas."
For his part, Mr. Jonas is characteristically transparent.
"I think it drives people to the music, and that's really where my focus is," he said. "At the end of the day, I'm just having fun."


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Purchasing properties in adult communities is somewhat different from other types of purchases. Adult communities can offer different features, amenities, and regulations. This blog covers tips on purchasing properties in adult communities in Waltham … [Read more...]
Home Buyer Tips
Tips On Purchasing Properties In Adult Communities In Waltham MA
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Colonial is a popular design for single family structures. This design originated in the 1800s and is therefore often found in historical homes. It has distinct features that distinguish it from other home styles. Below are features of Waltham MA … [Read more...]
2017 Tax Advice For Waltham MA Home Buyers
The income tax deadline this year is April 18, 2017! Home ownership offers several tax benefits, so be sure to take advantage of them. The 2017 tax advice for Waltham MA home buyers below may help with your taxes this year.Look for the Mortgage … [Read more...]
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Cape style homes are a common design for single family real estate. This design dates back to colonial America and was inspired by half-timbered structures in England. It was later modified to include pitching roofs to better suit New England weather … [Read more...]
Waltham MA New Construction Money Saving Ideas
Building a new home affords you the luxury of customizing options and materials to meet your needs. Most people relish the ability to build a new home. With any significant project, you must create and attempt to remain within a certain budget. The … [Read more...]
Common Blunders With Waltham MA House Remodeling Projects
House remodeling projects, minor or major, may be surprisingly complicated. Television shows make work seem so quick and easy that you may underestimate what it will take to achieve your goals. Whether you DIY or hire a contractor, here are some … [Read more...]
How The Waltham MA Real Estate Shortage Affects Buyers And Sellers
In many markets, there is a shortage of real estate inventory. Supply does not meet demand. This develops a unique experience for both buyers and sellers. Here is how the Waltham MA real estate shortage affects buyers and sellers. Competitive Market … [Read more...]
Waltham MA Condominium Vs. Single Family Homes
A common decision for first time home buyers is whether to buy a condominium or single family. Both offer different advantages. Buyers obviously look at prices between the two, but the one that is better for you will also relate to your lifestyle and … [Read more...]
Ways To Prevent Pipes From Bursting During Cold Months
Property owners should be conscientious of freezing temperatures and the issues it can cause. One major issue is bursting pipes. The following are several ways to prevent pipes from bursting during cold months. The Reason that Pipes Burst Inside … [Read more...]
Winter Home Maintenance Tips
Autumn is a perfect time of year to address several routine maintenance and get your home prepared for winter. Winter is damaging to your property. These winter home maintenance tips will help reduce damage from winter weather and make your property … [Read more...]

subset: commoncrawl


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Sunday, April 26, 2009
Farewell, Florida
Kissimmee architecture
Castle for sale; the nobility evidently is hurting; actually, there's a lot of stuff for sale here
Shell World's incredible flying shark
Thirty-eight counter stations (count 'em) at the Dollar Rent-a-Car site at Sanford International Airport; and one employee. I was going to award Dollar the "most interesting business practice award" for the day. But when we returned the car the next afternoon, the place was swamped. Sanford apparently is where all the charters come in, especially from the UK. The airport terminal is studded with "look left" and similar signs.
So our time in Florida is at an end. It has been good, picking up the Grey Wanderer, outfitting it, seeing the signts, visiting with family. Most everything good here has been due to the extraordinary-beyond-extraordinary hospitality of Vicki's sister Marie and her husband Norm, who have put us up for a month and put up with us. Their patience, tolerance, and generosity is beyond praise or gratitude.
Monday we are off again, to Dublin, for three weeks of backpacking in Ireland. We'll rent a car but tent mostly, rain permitting. Marie reminds us there's a reason the place is so green. After Ireland, we'll move on to Germany, pick up the Grey Wanderer in Bremerhaven, and then head north to Scandinavia. The road goes ever on.
1 comment:
Don't forget to write a whole post on Sehestedt, Germany!
- April 28, 2009 at 7:49 AM
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21st January 2015
Tim and Yvonne
A Family Celebration In The Cellars Of 401 Rozendal
Pictures welovepictures Words Maike
Tim and Yvonne's wedding was just a plain and beautiful family wedding celebration. Don't get us wrong - they got married in a grand church, Yvonne's dress was incredible and their guests drank champagne out of marsala-coloured crystal glasses. But their wedding was plain in the sense that it was humble, simple, real and authentic. We actually think the word plain is often misunderstood. Plain is a great word. Other words for plain include truthful, honest, modest or unpretentious. The opposite of plain is pretentious or elaborate. Tim and Yvonne did it right. Their wedding was plain because they decided to get married for the right reasons. It wasn't extremely hip or too-cool-for-school. There were no over-emotional speeches and no-one fake-cried. It was just a celebration of two people who quite clearly love each other and want to celebrate this precious and honest commitment they made to each other, with their nearest and dearest. Thank you guys, we loved documenting this day for you.
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Sloan—Pretty Together
Murderecords, 2001
Maybe it's the fact that they are Canadian and American audiences just can't stomach them, maybe their songwriting is just too saccharine for most American tastes—who knows. Whatever the reason, Sloan will never get what they deserve from America. The press will never acknowledge them (although their 2006 album Never Hear The End Of It did chart on CMJ's Heatseekers list), the radio won't play them, and their audience here will always be limited to whoever has the brains to listen to a college radio station every once in awhile. In truth, that's okay for two reasons: One, it doesn't make Sloan any less awesome; two, they are HUGE in their home country, so America can just go bugger off, already. Hasn't everyone already figured out that Canada is a way cooler country than America anyway? They get free health care, their Jagermeister has opiates in it, and one of the best power pop bands of all time is commercially successful there. Seriously, America, take a hint! About the album, though…Pretty Together is one of Sloan's best, and features all four of the group's songwriters in top form. Unlike most Sloan records, this one finds the other members giving bassist Chris Murphy a dash for his songwriting cash. Drummer Andrew Scott's "In the Movies" and "The Great Wall" just might be the two best tunes in his repertoire, and guitarist Patrick Pentland's "If It Feels Good Do It" has become one of rock's great morally ambiguous anthems. But most noticeably, guitarist Jay Ferguson really comes into his own on Pretty Together, offering up what is easily one its biggest standouts, the knockout power ballad "Dreaming of You". Sloan may have reached their plateau with 1999's Between the Bridges, but Pretty Together was created while they were still hanging around up there.
Super Furry Animals—Rings Around the World
Epic, 2001
This album really scared a lot of rock purists when it came out. When those of us who lived by the 90's rock credo heard "Sidewalk Serfer Girl" for the first time, it became pretty apparent that everything was about to change. Actually, everything already had changed by that point; we were all just too stubborn to accept it. Rings Around the World helped us to accept it. After the initial scoffing and guffawing wore off, it was impossible to ignore how great this album was—not just how great it was, but how hard to dislike it was. Like a few of the records on this list, it is virtually perfect, though the varied styles of the album make that pretty arguable. One thing is for sure—Rings won't really sink in until it is viewed on DVD, a rock and roll experience as close to phenomenal as one is likely to get. At the time, it was so phenomenal that SFA decided it had been a little too much, and toned it down halfway to nil for their next release. But, think of it hypothetically—your band makes an album that is revered as a potential "top 5 of the decade" type of record, and in a couple years, you have to follow it up with another? You try it.
Elliott Smith—From a Basement on the Hill
Anti-, 2004
To be straightforward, if ANY other Elliott Smith album had come out between the years of 2000 and 2009, it would have been on the list in place of this one. But, Basement should still be recognized and adored as an imperfect gem that, while unfinished, still retains the feeling of a true entry in the Elliott Smith progression. During sessions for the album, Smith was supposedly teaching himself how to record on the computer, the only recording medium he had yet to master. Aside from the album being compiled posthumously by Smith's producer and his ex-girlfriend, it's this wonder-boy-amateur approach that gives Basement its dusty, pastiche-like feel. The acoustic songs are classic nods to Smith's early years, but the big rock numbers are something else entirely—specifically "Shooting Star", which teams proggy guitar licks with a gigantic chorus of stumbling drums. Seriously, there have to be at least three drum sets going on at once in there (listen closely). This feeling of extreme density permeates the louder songs, most successfully on the totally junked out "Strung Out Again" and "King's Crossing", a wrenching ode to desperation. It might be somewhere behind Brian Wilson's SMiLE on the aforementioned, forthcoming list of Could-Have-Beens, but Basement is still Elliott Smith, and Elliott Smith still rules.
Tags: Anti-, Brian Wilson, Canada, CMJ, CMJ Heatseekers, Elliott Smith, Epic Records, Jagermeister, Murderecords, Sloan, Super Furry Animals, techno


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On Single Founders
Hi. My name is Austin Hallock and I'm a single founder.
I'm writing this after learning Clay.io was rejected tonight by StartX, Stanford's Accelerator. Their reasoning was the fact that I'm a single founder, and this isn't the first time that has been a road block.
As many of you know, being a single founder is mostly looked down upon, especially by most accelerators and investors. For good reason too - it's incredibly difficult to handle the burdens of a startup alone. That isn't to say it's impossible. Successful companies can be built with just one primary founder, see Dropbox, Amazon and countless others.
My problem is the metric for number of founders holds too much weight. In my experience others will favor a company that has a well-rounded team on paper: designer, developer, business guy, even if they have achieved less in the same amount of time as a company with a single founder. Of course, the lone founder of a company needs to be a rare breed capable of all three of those things, but that does exist.
Single founders have the advantage of always agreeing with themselves. At times this can be a disadvantage, but one easily countered by having a strong advisory board.
With that said, building this company as a single founder isn't something I want - it makes life more difficult for me. Ideally I'd have one or two others who are just as passionate and committed as I am and I just haven't found that yet. I need someone who I know will do a better job with either the design, business, or the technical stuff, AND have a major passion for gaming. Until I find that person, I will work my butt off to fill those roles myself.
To everyone judging a startup for having a single founder: don't judge on the fact that there is just one face behind it, judge on its merit. How has the company evolved over time? What has been achieved for the amount of resources put into it? The history and traction of the company along with what the founder has built in the past should be more important than having the traditional team of a designer, developer, and business guy.
Of course, I am one of the more biased people out there for this argument, so I'd love to hear what anyone else has to say!


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Bath Stress Angels Ltd provide Indian Head Massage and Individual Tuition courses in Bath, Bristol, Newport, Somerset and Wiltshire.
For those new to complementary therapy, finding training courses can be a daunting experience. Some courses offer a diploma after just one day's training, however, I believe this to be neither safe nor possible (this opinion is shared by many leading massage experts, insurance companies and regulatory bodies).
After all, would you be happy paying to receive a treatment from a therapist with just one day's training?!
I offer a range of half day and one day workshops for groups no larger than 14 and three hour intensive individual tuition for two people ( after all, you will need someone to practise on!) These workshops give you an ideal opportunity to learn fantastic treatments that can be used on friends and family and can also be a useful way to find out if massage therapy is for you before committing to a full diploma. On completion of the day or session, you will receive a certificate of attendance.
These courses are ideal if you are looking to offer a team building day or session with a difference. If it's a special occasion and you would like to do something out of the ordinary why not get together a group of friends and I will come to your home or workplace. (For a minimum 6 people within a 30 mile radius of Bath – further distances by negotiation)
This course is ideal for beginners with no massage experience, as it is portable, requires no equipment and doesn't involve clients disrobing. The treatment relieves tension, headaches and stress with massage to the shoulders, neck, scalp and face. It also stimulates lymphatic drainage, helping to remove toxins and boost the immune system as well as restoring joint mobility and improving circulation. Within the course structure we will give you:
The perfect gift!
I will come to your home (within 30 miles of Bath) or you may come to my tranquil therapy room in Weston, Bath. Perhaps you suffer from headaches, sore back and neck from sitting at the computer, find it difficult to sleep or relax?
During our three hour tutorial I will teach you and your friend /partner an easily remembered massage routine, personal to each of you. This is a unique gift that will last forever. You will learn a new skill from an experienced holistic therapy teacher and just in case you forget the odd 'move' I will leave each of you with your own manual.
Cost £125 total including travel, Gift Certificate and manual.
Reflexology is a deeply relaxing treatment which encourages the body to rebalance by helping to relieve tension and stress, improve circulation and strengthen the immune system. This is achieved by stimulating reflex points on the feet and hands that are said to relate to specific organs and parts of the body.
* Those on a half day course will learn a luxurious foot massage routine plus some of the most essential reflex points and how to work them.
To Attend On-Site Massage students must have a massage qualification e.g. holistic massage, swedish, aromatherapy, IHM, sports etc - please get in touch with us if you're unsure.
On-site massage (seated acupressure) combines techniques taken from shiatsu (acupressure), Swedish & Advanced massage. The result is a unique massage experience that can be both invigorating and energising and thoroughly relaxing both mentally and physically. You will learn techniques to relax and soothe your client yet refresh them ready for a day at the office.
On Site massage is performed with the client fully clothed using a massage chair – the perfect therapy for corporate work.
We will cover:
On Site is a 2 day course.
Further practice will be required in the form of 10 case studies (five single treatments for relaxation and five single treatments for invigoration) plus successful completion of assessment day before receiving certification. A comprehensive On Site course manual covering the contents of the entire weekend will be supplied for future.
Cost £149
Arguably one of the most popular therapies around today, Hot Stone Massage is not only extremely relaxing, and very effective due to the heat introduced to tense muscles but also much less strain on the hands of the therapist - win win really!
This is an accredited, level 3 practitioner course and to attend you must have a recognised massage qualification such as Swedish Massage, Holistic Massage, Aromatherapy, Sports etc, if you're unsure just give us a call or email to clarify.
Accredited by the Federation of Holistic Therapists : 10 CPPD Points
Hot Stone Massage is a deeply relaxing treatment that effectively releases stress and tension in the body. The heat of the basalt stones encourages the muscles to release quicker than traditional massage and is particularly beneficial for muscular aches and pains, insomnia, back pain, stress, tension and depression. In addition the effectiveness of this wonderful therapy reduces the strain to your hands.
During this one day intensive course we will cover:
This will be a long but very enjoyable day during which you will have ample time to practice your new skills. A practitioner's certificate will be issued upon demonstration of a competent hot stone massage.
Please note: you will not be able to receive treatment on the training day if you are pregnant or have a medical condition that causes peripheral neuropathy (loss of sensation in hands or feet). Please make us aware at the time of booking if this applies to you.
Fantastic, thank you, RGD May 2011
This was an excellent course & great value, would recommend TEACH Therapy to others, KR May 2011
Brilliant, easy learning, enjoyable, would come again, May 2011
Price: £110
Location: Holiday Inn Express, Newport NP10 8BB - Near Cardiff and just 15 minutes from the Severn Crossing. Free all-day parking.
Tutors: Donna Thomas and Michele Broom
|Course Dates
|Location Newport
|Hot Stone Therapy
|Location Newport
|Thermal Auricular Therapy
|Location Newport
|Warm Bamboo Massage
|Location Newport
|Hot Stone Therapy
|Location Newport
|Indian Head Massage
|Location Newport
|Hot Stone Therapy
|Location Newport
|Thermal Auricular Therapy


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As Lovie Smith leads the Fighting Illini into his third training camp as head coach, his off-season moves show where he sees the program:
Any discussion of the 2018 Illini football fortunes must start with the elephant in the room: How does Lovie Smith address the quarterback situation? Last year's Quarterback situation included a running quarterback coming off major shoulder surgery (Chayce Crouch), a legacy player who started as a walk-on (Jeff George, Jr), and a true freshman who won 3 games as a high school varsity quarterback (Cam Thomas).
Very early, Crouch proved that his poor throwing skills were further diminished by injury, George proved why he was never offered a scholarship out of high school, and Cam Thomas showed great wheels and an erratic arm. The result was an offense that mustered only 19 touchdowns in 12 games. Ugly all around.
So what does Lovie do: he fired offensive coordinator Garrick McGee, sought out a new coordinator to bring in a completely different offensive system in Arizona's Rod Smith. He then goes out and signs 3 high school quarterbacks and brings in a graduate transfer. Lovie knows that 5 options at quarterback are better than last year's 3 and that someone has to step up to play competitively in Big Ten games in order for his program to take a step forward.
We all know the tough spot the Illini are in: Can't win without players, can't recruit players without winning. Add to that, can't win without representative quarterback play. With a returning late season starter in Thomas, the graduate transfer AJ Bush, and freshmen Coran Taylor, Matt Robinson, and MJ Rivers, Lovie is recognizing that fixing the QB problem is his most pressing need.
So, how does this break down during training camp? The biggest issue is how to get 5 inexperienced players enough reps in practice to gain proficiency and the trust of the coaching staff and their teammates. Thomas comes in with the edge in Illini game experience, and he got exclusive reps during spring ball in Coach Rod Smith's quick-hitting spread scheme. All four other quarterbacks have been on campus all summer working out, studying tape of spring ball, of Smith's Arizona offenses, working the white board, and developing timing with their receivers.
All of that work, whether the Illini coaches would ever admit it or not, has given Rod Smith a starting point to assess his quarterback pecking order. That pecking order will be evident early in camp, but it's not set in stone. Guys emerge, guys get hurt, and when the pads start popping, some guys rise to the top. Still, how do you get everyone a fair shake and a legitimate look?
I think the answer might be found in the pace of the Illini offense, which Rod Smith wants to be lightning fast getting to the line and running plays. With 5 quarterbacks to get reps for (6 if you count Cam Miller, the only guy to get in the end zone against Ohio State last year), I think we could see two separate offensive units working in opposite directions, with Smith standing in the middle orchestrating everything. One play run going east, the next play starting 10 seconds later going to the west, back and forth, with Rod Smith being the fulcrum, using a scripted system of practice plays to go through everything and get twice the number of reps in a traditional practice setting.
All the practices are filmed from 3 different angles, so this would be a way to get twice as many reps (for the defense, too) and create twice as many teaching opportunities.
Without seeing the quarterbacks in action, I have no idea how to handicap the competition. Cam Thomas has elite quarterback speed and a strong arm. Last year in training camp, many of his throws sailed high, and the same thing happened during games. If the game slows down for him mentally, he could have a breakthrough. His working knowledge of Rod Smith's offense should be ahead of the others, but he has to make plays.
The last ten days of camp, the pecking order will be pretty easy to see from the hill next to the Campus Rec fields. The top guy will get the most reps, the main backup next, and literally the other 3 will be fighting for scraps. Lovie has always leaned conservative offensively, so expect decision making and ball security to be high on the priority list. Players also know who is leading, making plays, and emerging as the Top Dawg.
As fans, we tend to watch the ball….quarterbacks, receivers, and running backs, but there is a lot more going on that we need to find out:
With all the spotlight on the quarterbacks, smart football people know that games are won up front, and last year's Illini offensive line was not only young and inexperienced, but it was pretty bad. It didn't help the offensive line that the quarterback situation was a mess, the best running backs were hurt, and the wide receivers were poor, but on it's own, the offensive line play was atrocious.
But let's put that youth and inexperience in perspective: Tackles Larry Boyd and Vederian Lowe came in with a LOT of baby fat, and Lowe was injured and basically missed all of camp. Alex Palczewski came in undersized and lacking the necessary strength to hold his own. Three names, all true freshmen. Doug Kramer, an undersized red-shirt freshman, got his first licks. Jake Cerny, another redshirt freshman, got some tick. Only Nick Allegretti, a junior and former US Army All-American, had seen real action and had any level of success.
Now this: the best thing about freshmen is that they become sophomores. Boyd and Lowe are in better shape, Palcho and Cerny have beefed up. Kramer is still short, but he's stronger and more experienced than a year ago. Allegretti is back, anchoring the line from either a guard spot or from center.
The Illini offensive line should be better, even if Larry Boyd misses time due to disciplinary reasons. Lots of returning starts, and guys better understanding the speed of the game. This unit should move from 14th in the conference to one that could be in the 9-10 range. The thing that could derail those hopes is injuries.
Last year when I watched three training camp practices, I was shocked at the drop off in talent beyond the top 6 linemen. Shocked. My thought was literally, "how did these guys get Big Ten scholarships?" They were that bad. The fact that they were so much worse than players who comprised the worst offensive line in the Big Ten is even more shocking. Some of those players have matriculated elsewhere. Some of them remain, and hopefully, they have gotten a whole lot stronger over the last 12 months. However, they were so far behind from a strength standpoint, from a footwork standpoint, that I wouldn't think any of those guys could ever start at any other public university inside the state of Illinois.
So, where does any quality depth come from? Highly recruited redshirt freshman Kendrick Green comes over form defense. 3 new true freshmen, Kievan Myers, Jordan Slaughter, and Ruben Unije come in to take their shot. Of the freshmen, my sense is that only Myers has a real chance to contribute this year. Slaughter is coming off major shoulder surgery and his surgeon didn't even let him begin rehab for 6 weeks. I can't see that shoulder being ready to hold up to the physicalities of Big Ten football practice. He may get in a game or two along the way, but I would be shocked if he's not red-shirted. Unije is a real project. He was a part of a true developmental high school at IMG Academy in Florida, but he is so raw that he played much of the year on the B team, and didn't see much action on the true powerhouse varsity squad. Unije is a huge young man, has good feet, and should be a real force on the line…..in 2022.
So, Illini fans, watch those offensive linemen drills and see who's stepping up.
The most talented position group on this team, in my opinion, is the defensive secondary. Two consecutive strong recruiting classes give the Illini real Big Ten caliber athletes on the back end.
My favorite part of last year's dismal Illini team was the young secondary. Safety Bennett Williams was an ESPN Freshman All-American. Tony Adams and Nate Hobbs showed real flashes of talent. Adams, coming off ACL surgery as a high school senior, was limited in camp and then hurt his shoulder midway through the season. Hobbs basically missed camp due to mono, then went right into the starting lineup. Again, all three of these players were true freshmen. There is real reason to believe that all three of them will be playing professionally once they leave UI. Real talent, with good freshman experience, developing.
Returning starter Stanley Green reruns as a hard hitting, if not personal foul prone safety. Solid Big Ten player.
The Illini need some of the newcomers to step up and be able to play as well as Williams, Hobbs, and Adams did a year ago. Nick Walker comes in as a juco transfer. Sydney Brown, a sprint champion and a heat seeking missile comes in at safety. The uber-athletic Jartavius Martin comes in looking the part of a Big Ten stud DB. Delano Ware and Dylan Wyatt are also coming in with length and aggressiveness. Today's spread offenses mean 6 and sometimes 7 DBs on the field at any given time. The Illini need to find out which of these newcomers is ready to ball.
The one on one practice battles that these receivers have against a more experienced Wide Receiver group will be very telling. Which leads me to the next thing I would want to see at camp:
Are the freshmen ready?
Lovie Smith inherited a collection of talent that, sadly, would not have fared well in the the FCS playoffs. He's got his second recruiting class in place, and they will be counted on more for depth than last year's freshmen. But, at any given time, those guys might be on the field and need to make a play in the second half to win a game against Maryland, Purdue, Minnesota, or Nebraska. Training camp reps will show us who is ready. Here are a few match ups I will be looking to learn from:
Freshman TE Daniel Barker vs Redshirt Sophomore LB Jake Hansen. Barker looks smooth and athletic. He should be a good test for Hansen, who Lovie and Defensive Coordinator Hardy Nickerson love, but is coming off ACL surgery. Starting TE Lou Dorsey will be a nightmare matchup for any linebacker in the country. Barker is a better barometer for the healing Hansen.
Freshmen Linebackers Khalan Tolson and Jacob Hollins in space versus Illini RBs Mike Epstein and Reggie Corbin. So much of the modern college game is played in space with offensive coordinators spreading defenses horizontally and vertically, creating one-on-one match ups. When healthy, Epstein and Corbin are Big Ten caliber backs with adequate quickness. If Tolson and Hollins can chase those guys effectively and make some plays in space, the Illini will have some very important defensive depth pieces and special teams contributors. Tolson, in particular, is incredibly fluid and has freakishly long arms. I think he could be a WLB who chases a lot of guys down from behind, comes hard off the edge, and I will predict that he blocks at least one kick this season.
Freshman S Sydney Brown vs Sr Mikey Dudek and Freshman CB Jartavius Martin vs Ricky Smalling. Both freshmen just seem to be exactly who you would recruit to cover each of those veterans. Dudek, the cagey veteran, the Julian Edelman pesky slot guy vs Sidney Brown, a player who on film explodes across the field and arrives with bad intentions. Smalling had a solid freshman season for the Illini and has a physicality for an outside receiver. To combat that, a defender must be long, athletic and tough. Training camp will tell us if Brown and Martin are ready to compete against that level of Big Ten talent. My guess is they will hold their own.
Freshmen tackles Verdis Brown and Calvin Avery against Senior Nick Allegretti and Sophomore Alex Palczewski. The freshmen were the centerpieces of this recruiting class, both playing in the prestigious Under Armour High School All-American game. Allegretti is the closest thing that this young Illini team has to a grizzled veteran. He's smart, tough, experienced, and will play well in the conference this season, like he did a year ago. Palczewski survived last year on the line because he has very good mobility and exceptional hand skills. He's packed on some good weight and should take a big step on the Illini offensive line. If Brown and Avery can compete against those two guys, maybe, just maybe, the Illini will be able to stop the run someday….and soon.
Offense or Defense ahead of the curve?
This will be really interesting to see which side of the ball is showing the most growth. I would suspect the defense will be ahead of the offense because of the continuity of the defensive staff and the embryonic quarterbacking situation. An offense only progresses as fast as the quarterbacks who lead it. This will really be amplified early in camp because Rod Smith insists not only on speed to the line, but on making very quick reads once the ball is snapped. Defense relies on alignment and responsibility, then reacts.
During last year's camp, the defense was so far ahead of the offense, and that held true during the season. Illinois played solid defense against Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. I expect that unit to be solidly better this year than last year, so Rod Smith has to be able to move the ball with zygote quarterbacks against a league average Big Ten defense. If he can have some practice success, I think we'll be pretty excited after the first two ball games.
How to practice hard and get ready vs safeguarding health….
Finally, Lovie knows he needs to win at least 4 ball games to move the chains. As fans, we hope that 6 or 7 wins are possible. That only happens with health. To prepare teams to play Big Ten football, you have to practice with a certain amount of physicality. This Illinois football team is thin, so any injuries are significant. After a couple more recruiting classes are in place, depth will be in place to cover injuries which are just a part of the game. But let's hope that Lovie can get the team to Soldier Field for the game against South Florida in week 3 with everything in tact. This team will need some good luck to find it's way to a bowl, none more important than physical health.


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After a succession of five stirring soundtracks by composer David Arnold, director Sam Mendes turned to Thomas Newman to write the original score for Skyfall, the 23rd movie of the popular 50-year-old franchise.
American composer, Newman, whose movie credits include American Beauty, Road to Perdition and the more recent The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, wrote most of the Skyfall soundtrack in London's Abbey Road Studios, embracing the true 'Englishness' of the Bond franchise.
The score was also performed at Abby Road including the lushly orchestrated theme track sung and co-written by Adele and recorded with a 77-piece orchestra. Newman describes the English musicians as 'fantastic' praising the 'real sense of ensemble on the way the orchestra plays'.
With a soundtrack that showcases a real mix of styles from rock rhythms and eerie orchestrations to perky comedy and lush jazz swaggers, the film has been slated as having one of the most impressive Bond scores to date, and we were excited to hear that Thomas Newman had also used 'tons' of Spectrasonics Omnisphere in the score. "Over 250 multis I'm told", remarks founder Eric Persing on composer forum vi-control.net.
Being one of Hollywood's more experimental composers, Newman was asked in a recent interview with filmmusicmag.com how 'far out' did he think he could go with Skyfall's score…
"You have ideas, and you see if they fly. In the case of the action, there was so much going on sonically that I wondered how much space was left to hear the intricacy, and detail in the manner that I've scored films with before. So at the very least, I knew that sounds really needed to hit the subwoofers to really hit the audience physically. So I think I recognized that I'd have to be more extroverted with "Skyfall's" score then maybe I'm used to being." You can read more of the interview here.
The ever-brilliant and informative soundworkscollection.com, posted a great video this week featuring the sound team behind Skyfall. Throughout the video, the Sound Mixers and Sound Editors reveal how daunting it was to integrate the sound effects with the music without obscuring the melodic lines of Newman's score and how they enjoyed using transitional sounds for swift mood changes within the movie.


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Methods for improving Hungarian foundations
Most home owners are unaware of the need to regularly check the home base since even small cracks can lead to rough problems later. There is a natural tendency to ignore or remove the foundation's improvement without recognizing what this negligence can later be. The main purpose of the Hungarian foundation is to move the weight of the whole home to the ground, the ground and the rock on which it rests.
Foundation issues can be a major problem if you do not participate immediately and under the guidance of a professional entrepreneur or founding engineer. You need to do the homework you need to find a trusted foundation improvement entrepreneur. As a rule, the lowest quotation can not be the only criterion. Quality fundamentals require special equipment and specially trained engineers to complete the job, and some of them may require higher prices.
Identifying the Foundation's problems will not necessarily be difficult if the Foundation can be periodically verified for possible repairs. Signs of failure often include apparent severe or cranial ruptures at home. Though smaller cracks can not be a serious foundation problem, major cracks should cause urgent repairs and concerns. Cracked and damaged businesses can potentially cause serious structural damage to their home and may endanger the structure of people's lives.
It is also a fact that if a home has a substantial basis, potential buyers can insist on the seller repairing the foundation before the purchase.
Structural engineers are the ones who need to be called immediately if the home is facing serious foundation problems. The engineer will be able to diagnose the source of the problem and propose possible fixes to solve the problem. It is very important to address the foundation problems immediately before the situation deteriorates. Foundation problems often gradually deteriorate over time and can greatly damage other parts of the structure if left unattended.
Due to the complexity of fixing the foundation, the best option is to rent a structural engineer followed by a trained foundation repairing contractor. These two specialists ensure that your home is scientifically and safely secured. Make sure the foundation's problems are solved by trained and experienced specialists and not by poorly trained or under-qualified engineers.
One of the things you have to pay special attention to repairing a change base is to avoid concentrating load on other points in the foundation. Of course, a reliable and experienced engineer will ensure that this does not happen. Improving the foundation is a well-researched industry and there are many methods and products that help to make constant ground improvements.
The traditional method of base repair is to set piers to lift the foundation off the extensive clay soil. The piers should be placed on the extensive or weak ground to provide stability to the structure. The piers have four major categories: steel press piers, helical piers, piles and concrete piles. Each has its own merit and logical application. Foundation repair can easily turn out to be the most expensive repair that one will do for a real estate.


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Maltesh Ashrit, a TVS Apache owner and a blog buddy of mine has written the review of his bike exclusively for The Bike Cronicles of India
First about me, I am Maltesh Ashrit, a Mechanical Engineering student from Goa, an Auto Freak, and who's just fascinated by the Automotive World. I have a Blog dedicated to Automobiles, called 'Stay Undefined' and it's through which I met SP (Satadal Payeng). He requested me to review my bike, TVS Apache, and here it is.
I saw the bike, first in an Overdrive issue way back in Jan 06, and believe me from that day onwards I was dazzled by its looks. A blockbuster in terms of looks and performance figures being the best in the country. From the after months of convincing my Dad, I got this bike delivered to me in Nov. The first batch of bikes I test rode had some gearbox and vibe problems, which were sorted out with the bike deliveries starting Oct 06, & thankfully my bike was in the new lot.
You have a look at the bike, and you won't get a chance to turn your head. Well, that was the feeling I had when I first was the bike on road. The bike offers distinct new styling cues, which is very much different from the competition, and according to me it is still THE BEST LOOKING BIKE, currently on sale in India.
During the Run-In Period the bike, was running smooth and problem free, except for the gears. Yea, the gears has improved but is still hard. I had read on many forums that the bike gave problems of false neutral, but (touchwood) I didn't face a single problem of that kind. A peculiar sound was turning out from the silencer side which now after second servicing the service guys, have told me that there is a bug in the silencer assembly and the whole assembly has to be replaced, of course under warranty. This problem may be specific to my bike, and may not be faced by other Apachains.
After the run-in period of a 1000 Ks, I had full liberty in pushing the bike to its limits. I have been to max speed of 98 Kmph, couldn't go further as I saw some cows coming across the roads. I wonder if they pay road tax!
The pick up of the bike is very good and, the bike is very responsive. It's really a great pleasure riding this bike, in the city with heavy traffic on. Corner maneuverability, is the best amongst all bike in the class. The brakes (front disc and rear drum) also are very good, and very sharp. I wish if it had a more powerful headlight.
Now for the service, the guys over here at the TVS service center @ Margao, are good and understand the bike problems. No complains about them too, they do the job neat and fine, nothing to grudge about them.
Now, for those who buy a 150 and still bother about mileage figures, my bike gives a decent mileage of 55 Kms a litre. As you all would know, mileage figures are subject to riding habits. So, mind your wrist if you wanna squeeze more out of the fuel.
Presently have clocked some 1800 Kms on the bike, and I'm having a great biking experience on this machine. For those who wanna buy this machine go ahead do it, cuz it now or never and more for the fact that I believe it offers a better package than other bikes in the market today. But I would really suggest waiting as TVS is planning an upgrade to this bike, but I guess neither SP nor me have any concrete news about this. Keep checking our space for more.
[PS: I had written two reports of the bike, on my blog, after clocking 500 Kms, and 1000 Kms, respectively. Here are the links, read them for more.]
- 1000 Kms on my TVS Apache
- My TVS Apache: 500 Kms Report
- Got It !! (A post after I got the bike)
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- Exclusive Owners Review of the new Pulsar 200 c.c DTSI..!!
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- 150 C.C Test Ride Series: TVS Apache
This is to remind that the Views or Opinions in the blog are entirely mine unless explicitly stated. The Views and Opinions published in this blog should in no way be related to any other person or organization associated -- directly or indirectly -- with me.


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The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) on Wednesday charged Lokomotiv Moscow midfielder Dmitry Tarasov with improper conduct after he stripped off to reveal a t-shirt supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin in a politically charged gesture after a match in Turkey.
Tarasov revealed the t-shirt of Putin wearing a Navy cap above the words "the most polite president" in Russian after his team's 2-0 Europa League loss against Fenerbahce in Istanbul on Tuesday, as Moscow and Ankara are locked in a fierce dispute following the downing of a Russian fighter jet last year.
European football's governing body said that it would hold a hearing into the incident on March 17, with Tarasov facing a potentially lengthy ban under a rule forbidding players to display any "political, religious, personal slogans, statements".
Lokomotiv also sought to distance themselves from Tarasov's actions and insisted they would punish the player.
"The footballer did not let anybody in on his plans. His initiative was inappropriate and harmful both for the club and for himself," the club said in a statement.
"Tarasov will be punished according to the conditions stipulated in his contract."
The player himself, however, appeared unrepentant over the furore caused by the t-shirt, insisting he backed Russian strongman Putin but did not want to upset anyone.
"He's my president, I respect him and decided to show that I'm with him everywhere," the R-Sport agency quoted Tarasov as saying.
The player, who will miss the second leg of the last-32 tie with Fenerbahce in Moscow after being cautioned in the match in Istanbul, defiantly vowed to wear another t-shirt with Putin's image for his next appearance on the football pitch.
"I didn't mean to abuse anybody or provoke," Tarasov said in an interview with the Lifenews TV channel.
"There's nothing so terrible about what I did and people with sense, I believe, understand this clearly.
"Probably after the next match you will see me wearing another t-shirt with Putin's image and a different slogan."
The words on the t-shirt shown in Istanbul were a reference to the euphemism for the Russian soldiers who carried out the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. They are known as "polite people".
Relations between Russia and Turkey have been in tatters since Ankara shot down one of Moscow's fighter jets on the border with Syria in November, sparking a bitter war of words between Putin and his counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Tarasov's t-shirt incident sparked anger in the Turkish press, with the two countries also on opposing sides over the conflict in neighbouring Syria.
"A Putin provocation from a Russian footballer," fumed the pro-government Yeni Safak daily on Wednesday.
There were no reports of any serious trouble between home and visiting fans but the bus carrying Lokomotiv supporters to the stadium was reportedly attacked by Fenerbahce fans, who threw stones at their Russian counterparts.


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Agile: Succeeding or Regressing? Are We Learning as a Profession?
Steven Fraser – Panel Impresario
Software development practices have evolved over the past 70 years beginning with the first stored computer program which ran on "The Manchester Baby". Since then a variety of approaches to industrial-scale software development by teams of professionals have emerged. In 1970, Royce advocated the creation of software products with a disciplined engineering "Waterfall" process. This evolved to "Structured Design" (Yourdon, 1979) and "Object Oriented Design" practices (Booch, 1982) – which lead to the emergence of iterative "Agile" processes with publication of the "Agile Manifesto" in 2001.
Over the years, David Parnas, Steve McConnell, Bertrand Meyer, and others have discussed the evolution of software as a profession – and more recently, Agile has become the target of critical analysis. For example, see Dave (Pragmatic) Thomas's presentation on the "Death of Agile" (viewable on YouTube).
This panel will discuss whether agile is succeeding or regressing – and what metrics should be used to assess progress (in either direction).
Andrea Goulet
Before we can answer if we're succeeding, we need to first ask ourselves that all-important question: What does success look like? If we're judging success based on adoption and awareness, there's little doubt that we've succeeded. It seems that nearly every company that builds software, from small startups to large enterprises, is familiar with the term. Agile has even made its way into pop culture. I laughed so hard when a character on HBO's sitcom Silicon Valley whipped out a ready-made Scrum board that he kept on hand to motivate his development team.
Of course, there are always areas for opportunity and growth, too. I see so many teams who are struggling and as a curious observer, I like to figure out what the challenge is. To me, I see three key areas where we can improve.
Avraham Poupko
In many areas we are certainly succeeding. We are able to create very complex systems and have fun while doing so. However there have been quite a few regressions along the way, some of them devastating.
Part of our regression can be attributed to the capitalization of the word "Agile". Once agile became a "thing" we started evaluating software and process by how Agile it is and not by how agile it is. In other words, we sometimes evaluate ourselves based on conformance and not based on performance. Are we learning as a profession? A resounding yes. Are we learning the right things, and are we learning as fast as we can. Not always. But we are an open minded community interested in improving itself, so there is cause to believe that over time we will improve.
Andrea Provaglio
From my perspective, we are succeeding with agility and stagnating with Agile. What we call Agile today has evolved from what it was 16 years ago when the Manifesto was published. The fundamental values and principles are still valid, but they are now reaching a wider audience and what we see today are different approaches to "doing Agile" rather than "being Agile" — the latter being a mindset to operate in complexity. With the evolution of Agile "methods", came also confusion and a dilution the original term (probably inevitable when something goes mainstream). Which is why I believe that for us, long-standing practitioners, one of the responsibilities is to help clarify what agility is to those who approach it.
Silvana Wasitova
The short answer is succeeding, but that is not the whole picture. The more interesting questions are: how are we succeeding, how fast, and is agile the silver bullet. Startups are inherently more aligned with agile, but what about the established companies? The reality is that transition to agile is still laborious process for many, and at times painfully pits old habits and entrenched processes against the agile philosophy and values. This is an area that agile does not address: how to transition, how to adapt and adopt. More specifically, when established players fear they have something to lose, then agile is not very attractive. This is the area where more work still needs to be done, even today, 16 years after the Agile Manifesto was coined.
Claes Wohlin
In my view, it is not really about agile succeeding or regressing! It is about our ability to engineer software, and hence it is not about plan-driven development versus more lightweight development. There is far too much focus on specific approaches, methods and tools; we should take a step back and look at the big picture. The key questions are more related to the second question in the title of the panel, i.e. "Are we learning as a profession?" And even more importantly, how can we ensure that we learn as a profession? If not learning, are we even a profession?
The inception of agile and lean has been very important, since they have helped resurrecting the importance of the human aspects in software development. Furthermore, the focus on working code and customer involvement is very important. However, agile or lean is not a panacea for software development. So, what can we learn from the evolution of software engineering? After all, we turn 50 years in 2018.
In my opinion, the success of engineering software depends on our ability to manage our intellectual capital. We must understand the needs for succeeding with a task, a project or any development activity resulting in a system, product or service. Plan-driven development is mostly focused on the organizational capital, while agile development is more focused on the human capital and the social capital. However, success is about an appropriate balance between the different types of capitals. How do we balance human, social and organizational capital in a specific situation to succeed? This is in my view the key question we need to address for the future.


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NORMAN, Okla. - The state and defense have delivered closing arguments in the final stage of a trial against a man convicted of beheading his coworker.
Alton Nolen, 33, is facing the death penalty for beheading his former coworker, Colleen Hufford, three years ago inside Vaughan Foods. He has already been handed three life sentences plus 130 years combined on assault charges alone for stabbing Traci Johnson and charging at other workers during the September 2014 workplace attack.
Hufford died from her injuries, but Johnson survived. Nolen justified his actions to investigators in 2014 by claiming he was a practicing Muslim and believed his actions were correct by the Quran.
During closing arguments Thursday, assistant DA Susan Caswell highlighted the four aggravating factors the state must prove in a capital punishment case: prior violent felonies, being a threat to society, whether the crime was heinous or cruel and whether there were other people at grave risk of death.
"This was a decisive act not driven by a mental illness," Caswell said. "I submit to you he would do it again in a heartbeat."
The defense's closing arguments were delivered by attorney Shea Smith, who urged the jury to consider Nolen as a 'complete' person, not just his current state. One of the mitigating circumstances presented by the defense include Nolen's family history of illness and his behavior as a child.
The circumstances, according to Shea, do not have to be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. They are factors presented for the jury to consider.
"You never ever have to give the death penalty," Smith said. "The law of Oklahoma is always satisfied with a verdict less than death."
Nolen is facing three possible sentences for murdering Hufford: life with parole, life without parole or the death penalty.


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Win a Sunshine Linens 100% Egyptian Cotton Bath Robe
Enter now to win a Sunshine Linens 100% Egyptian Cotton Towelling Bath Robe
*Image for illustration purposes only. Product will vary_
This competition is ad supported. You will have the opportunity to watch a video ad or interact with a sponsor to complete your entry.
Value: £15
Ends December 31, 2019.Official Rules
Share This Prize With Someone You Know Via:


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"We encourage unique identities.
But we insist on shared values."
Honesty, integrity, equality and mutual respect are prerequisite to any form of genuine success. These are not just words: we have enshrined them in practical policies and standards that govern all areas of our activity, including safety, security, human and environmental ethics.
We provide you with the opportunity to develop your skills, knowledge and creativity both for your own personal development and for the future success of Anchorwala School.
We encourage personal initiative and entrepreneurial behavior and seek to offer challenging and rewarding work environments. Join us !
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Sue Phillips Aldehydic Perfume
Soft aldehydic powdery notes accentuated with rich florals.
Powdery rose jasmine, with ylang-ylang, myrrh and labdanum. Classic, sophisticated and glamorous. This will remind you of the classic Chanel No 5.
This beautiful Perfume is available in an 8 ml or 20 ml Sue Phillips atomizer so you can create your own layered perfume or wear this perfume on its own.


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age of ultron
Avengers: Age of Ultron Review
By Charlie It's been a few weeks and I guess many people will have now seen it so here are some of my thoughts on Avengers: Age of Ultron. SPOILERS AHEAD (obviously) plus much waffling: – I've seen it twice now and overall I really like it. It's definitely not as good as the original […]Read More
Related Categories: Film Reviews, Films
Related Tags: age of ultron, Avengers, The Avengers


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Having suffered declining income over the last couple years primarily due to impairments arising from the mining industry, Standard Chartered Bank Botswana CEO Mpho Masupe says the bank has bounced back to profitability.
"We have always insisted that the fundamentals of the business are quite strong and we know exactly what has gone wrong and we would fix it," Masupe said on Wednesday this week as the listed bank unveiled its financial results for the half year ended 30 June, 2018.
The bank has registered P28 million Profit before Tax (PBT) and Masupe considers this a significant improvement if one takes into account where the bank is coming from in the last three years.
"We have done this through a number of things and the tenants that we have spoken of in terms of the strategy have been the pillars to get to the positive at the first half year in 2018," said Masupe, adding that one would expect that having attained growth in profit at half, they would certainly do better at the full year.
Masupe says they are beginning to see green shoots which are indicating that the trajectory is good as the bank also continues to control its impairments.
Even though the commercial bank registered profit for the first time in three years, Masupe says business has not been good during the first six months of the year as they would have expected it to be.
"We have been operating in an environment which has been benign to put it slightly, to an extent that you would have known that the economy only grew by 2.4 percent for the whole of 2017 which was not expected and therefore demonstrating exactly what was happening in the business environment that year."
Masupe says they are however comforted by growth that has been witnessed in the first half of the year, though it remains relatively subdued.
"Whist that was happening we have also seen that credit growth hasn't necessarily been growing as much as it should have. We are seeing 6.8 percent in credit growth for the year, mostly from the household side," says Masupe, adding that this is an area they are concerned about because it makes them a lot more cautious in terms of extending credit.
Though the bank exists to extend credit, Masupe says when they are cautious in terms of extending it, then it means there are indicators within the economy which are concerning for the bank not to extend credit fully.
"You are aware of some of the organisations that are retrenching particularly within parastatal sector and every time that happens banks think credit risk and banks begin to be a little more careful in terms of the credit that we extend, not saying we are not going all out and extending credit, but we become a lot more careful," Masupe explains.
The other thing that happens in the banking industry is liquidity which Masupe says affects everyone within the industry.
"But it affects others a little bit more depending on maturities that a particular bank may find themselves in at any point in time," he says.
Masupe says it would mean that reduction in liquidity or little growth of the total liquidity in the market will always play some strain in ensuring that intermediations happen as it should within the market.
"We are not saying it has affected any more than it has affected the next ban, but we are just mentioning the environment within which were operated for the past six months," he notes.
Indications, he says, are that it is all looking positive for the banking industry and hence he believes they would be able to continue the trajectory going into the second half of the year. They have geared the business to be able to do this.
The bank's Chief Financial Officer, Mbako Mbo, explains that the decline of the bank's topline came through net financing and non-funded income. During the period, the bank carried out some certain portfolio rebalancing and to de-risk from certain assets and sub-sectors.
"The decline that is reflected in income is something which was expected due to the de-risking that was carried out," says Mbo. They have also taken a look at the total operating costs.
In terms of impairments, Mbo says they are reporting a net recovery of P9 million, compared to the P120 million that was reported last year.
Mbo says they are now sitting with a healthier portfolio which is reflecting on the low impairments. He says the decline in income that the bank is reporting is actually coming with the positives with the assets that are generating the income.
The bank registered a three percent decline in overall assets, arising from the portfolio rebalancing and this happened only in two segments. The bank registered a five percent increase in the retail sector in terms of client assets.
Overall liabilities declined by five percent in line with the market trends. Mbo says they are still confident that the resilience of the balance sheet remains strong.


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Feel like Trying Something New? Check Out Dallas Museum of Arts' Learn to Draw
Architect Peter Brown facilitates a sketching tour at the DMA. After a brief introduction, the group will tour the museum creating a series of quick sketches along the way.
Through an iterative process, participants will flex muscles that are already in place between the eyes and hands, exploring design elements of proportion/scale, form/composition, and contrast.
At the end of the session each participant will have a sketchbook filled with the days observations, and a boost in confidence in their own drawing skills.
If you feel like escaping McCallum Properties, the premier apartment community in Dallas, Texas, for the day, this is a perfect opportunity to do just that!
Event Date/Time:
Tuesday, April 26, 2016 – 2:00 PM
Event Venue Location:
Dallas Museum of Art
1717 North Harwood Street
Dallas, Texas 75201
#Dallas #DMA
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I bought this really cute wicker patio furniture set at goodwill for 99.99
the one problem was the cushions were old and ugly! & I thought the wicker didn't have the comfy look without cushions. I was originally going to try to recover these one
But then i found these awesome outdoor pillows at Walmart on Clearance for 5 dollars each i love them! I think they look way better then it would have looked if I had recovered the old ones! They are my perfect colors even =]


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The cooperative sextet One For All was formed in 1996 in NYC at the legendary jazz club Augie's (now Smoke). Collectively, the band has forged a powerful, yet sleek sound which has become synonymous with hard-swinging, straight-ahead modern jazz. Individually, each member of One For All has earned a sterling reputation not only as a soloist/bandleader (via solo recordings and tours), but as a top-shelf, first-call player on the NYC scene.
As a band, One For All has worked hard to achieve their own unique sound, while at the same time placing a premium on assimilating the tradition from the masters. The group's members have played with a broad range of jazz icons over the years, including... Benny Golson, Curtis Fuller, Cedar Walton, Jackie McLean, George Coleman, Harold Mabern, Cecil Payne, James Moody, Jimmy Cobb, Louis Hayes, Jimmy Heath, Slide Hampton, Jon Faddis, Charles Earland, Lou Donaldson, Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, Pharoah Sanders, Johnny Griffin and Chick Corea.
Since 1997, the band has recorded 12 CD's and continues to garner rave reviews for their live performances in clubs, concert halls and festivals around the world. One For All has also recorded extensively for the Venus and Criss Cross Jazz labels.
All-Star Collective One for All Set to Release "Incorrigible" on Jazz...
Smoke Sessions Records
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Rene Descartes
He even arranged [in 1646] for the slaughter of a pregnant cow so that he could examine the foetus at an early stage of its development. (Clarke 2006:332)
Descartes tried to explain most of our mental life in terms of processes involving the pineal gland, but the details remained unclear, even in his own eyes. (Stanford Encyclopaedia)
Not until the 1870s was official action taken to limit disturbing laboratory practices. The substantial continuation was not considered satisfactory by the National Anti-Vivisection Society, founded in that same decade.
ENTRY no. 63
Copyright © 2015 Kevin R. D. Shepherd. All Rights Reserved.


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Positano Sings Its Siren Song
If Positano sings a siren song that attracts travellers the world over, it's for good reason. The town faces the islets of Li Galli, once the home of the Sirens, who attempted to seduce with song any who sailed by. You would have to be as strong as Ulysses to resist their call. Ballet legend..


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Again, haven't heard much positive come out of the situation. If that's the case, what are sportsman racers in the big three states meant to do?
Have there been any benefits whatsoever since IHRA came on board for racers or fans? Meetings at Perth don't seem to be any better than when ANDRA sanctioned and ran events there, in fact crowds seem to be down. The first meeting at Sydney last year was nothing out of the ordinary either.
I know ANDRA wasn't perfect, at times it was far from it. But in hindsight, was this switch worth it?
I would love to see a list of benefits that IHRA and 400 Thunder will have for racers and fans, not tracks, and what their plans for the future of the sport is. It's been a while and I haven't heard much from them lately.
So is this it? Is this what drag racing will be like from now on in Australia? Alternating meeting between Adelaide and Melbourne for ANDRA and what seems to be the exact same meetings and events at the other three tracks for the IHRA rounds?
The only thing that has seemed to happen after all this comotion is a big divide between racers and tracks that has only had a negative affect on the sport that doesn't seem like it will ever be repaired. In the big picture, it doesn't seem like there is anything positive that's going to come out of this.
Here is a report on the new streming servie:
http://www.nhra.com/story/2016/2/5/nhra … -programs/
If you purely have Foxtel for NHRA, you can now stream every event live with full coverage from Jnr Dragster to Top Fuel for just 100-150 a year as opoosed to paying around 100 a month for Fox, Check the NHRA website.
http://justdragracing.com/drag-racing-n … s-takeover
Interesting read
wadragracing wrote:Michael, ANDRA collectively promotes the championship. The tracks promote individual events but don't generally assist each other on a national level.
Good events are produced with team work. ANDRA sends the promotional trailer up, they help generate media coverage, they get stewards organised and fly officials in if needed. Plus they do a lot of the unseen work, helping new venues get off the ground, investigating safety - there is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes day to day in head office as well that people just aren't exposed to. Just because it isn't up there in lights doesn't mean it isn't occuring. When this is combined with an excellent group like the HVDRA the results are such as the event on the weekend which everyone seems to be very impressed with.
And with Ray Treasure on board with ANDRA now, I only see that as a huge positive for the sport and one big reason why people should stick with them. The event at Hidden Valley was an amazing success.
The only track that seems to struggle getting numbers is Sydney, and I think most can agree that is due to the things that have happened there in the past and little to do with ANDRA. Adelaide can struggle too, but that lacks the funding the big tracks have, the promoting of events is sometimes scarce and the facility is not the best which doesn't help.
Perth and Willowbank usually have good crowds and great racing and I think Hidden Valley can be added to that list for now.
I just don't understand why things such as entry fees and the TV levy etc can't be sorted out with ANDRA?
If the tracks put all the effort they put into going against ANDRA and instead work with them, wouldn't that create a much better outcome for the sport as a whole?
I haven't read much that has been posted, but one thing is for sure, and that is that the sport has looked like a joke the way both parties have gone about all this. It also seems very last minute considering the new season is about to start tomorrow, even though it has been in talks for a long time. I don't understand why it wasn't announced with a full package ready to deliver to the fans and racers.
This stuff about teams supporting the new series is a load of bull as well. It doesn't matter who is putting the series together, if you run a meeting teams will show up anyway because with the state of the sport at the moment, it has just become an expensive hobby where 90% of teams just want to have some fun.
Personally, I can't tell whether this is a step backwards or forwards, but I just hope the outcome of all this is for the better of the sport because I think a lot of people aren't really sure what to think at the moment.
A huge loss to the sport, they will be missed. They were nothing short of a world class drag racing team.
One positive I can think of is that most of the season will take place while the AFL is in it's off season which can help draw more spectators. The V8's also run a calendar year, but it goes from March till December giving ANDRA two months where there are no AFL or V8SC rounds to take advantage of and try and draw those spectator to the events. The biggest advantage is having no AFL from September to March and strategically dating events during those months where there are no V8 races could help boost crowds.
The A-League is run during the financial year and the crowds have picked up considerably over the past few years with no other major competition they have to deal with. Although they have been advertising and promoting the league in a big way lately.
Also, having the Winternationals as the final round just seems right!
I also think there needs to be changes in group 1 competition.
F1, Moto GP, V8SC and all other big motor sport classes are successful because of the package they can deliver which is very straight forward. It is very simple to get your head around a sport where all the cars are designed equally and the first to the finish line wins. Drag Racing has so many different classes and rules plus technical things people don't understand it is too hard to attract new fans. I think Drag Racing needs to be simplified to only a few group 1 classes where you can focus on delivering a good package to the fans. I would say Top Fuel, Top Doorslammer (with turbo) and Pro Stock (with EFI). The rest of the classes are great, I have nothing against them, but I think it becomes too much for people to wrap their heads around. Imagine if there was 6 different F1 classes!
16 car TD field, 16 car PS field and an 8 car TF field would work really well, providing we have the teams to make those numbers. And to give the fans that little bit more, TF could have an extra qualifying round when the rest run first round which is mandatory (with the first three not being mandatory the day before). This also gives to opportunity to make all events only two days long, three days is too much I think for drag racing. Pack them in for one big show!
This is just an idea I had thought of a while ago, some may not like it at all:
To make the ANDRA meetings more exclusive, the group 2 racers should maybe need to qualify to enter them. Maybe only the top 10, 20 or 40 (for the real popular classes) racers in each class get to go with wild card positions available as well to make up some numbers. Just an idea that might make that might make the sportsman rounds more interesting and the ANDRA meetings more prestigious.
EFI in Pro Stock
Thank goodness we still get to enjoy 1/4 mile action next year!
I only skimmed through this article, but this is a difficult topic to talk about on a forum. There is a lot I could write about and some people may agree or disagree, but I will clarify that my opinion is that of someone who has spent a lot of time at the track working with racing teams, but never on a Top Fuel car or any nitro burning car for that matter. I will try and make each point short and sharp.
Firstly, I don't think Scott Kalitta's death would have been avoidable if the racing distance was 1000ft. He seemed to have blown the engine before that distance and it was the impact at the end of the track that seemed to have killed him (correct me if I am wrong). Having a proper braking area and properly designed sand trap may have saved his life. The same goes for many other deaths in the sport, I don't like talking about it, but a shorter racing distance would not have saved the lives of many racers.
Secondly, I don't think it makes racing much safer because teams will eventually be reaching speeds of 300+mph in a shorter time and distance. Accidents and engine explosions will still happen which is evident in the NHRA. The only reason why I think there is less over there now is because compared to ten years ago there is less teams with more knowledge meaning the chances of accidents occurring would be reduced. And by less teams I mean that DSR, JFR, Kalitta and Al-Anabi make up over half the field and they all have very good people worked on each car making the right calls on nearly every race.
Thirdly, keeping racing 1/4 mile is what makes ANDRA unique from the rest of the world and if we can put on shows like we do at the Winters more regularly, people will love to watch some full 1/4 mile nitro racing from all corners of the globe. I bet there are tens of thousands of NHRA fans that would prefer to see 4.60 second 1/4 mile passes over 3.75 second 1000ft. passes.
Lastly, it may cut costs, but if teams are struggling that much that they need to cut the racing distance to save money, they probably shouldn't be racing in Top Fuel because everyone knows it is very expensive and if it is being considered simply because the NHRA did it, they might need to think hard about making the decision.
Only my two cents, but I don't have any experience around any Top Fuel teams, but if they think this is good for them and the sport then maybe it should be considered since they are the ones out there on the track.
There were a couple of scary incidents at the meeting and as long as all involved are okay, that is the main thing. Hopefully everything is okay with Ben Bray.
Other than that, the meeting was amazing, I wasn't even there and I was excited to just see pictures and look at the results. It is great to see we can still put on a good show for racers and fans and hopefully this gives other tracks around the country a confidence boost, especially the ones that are struggling. The Winternationals is one of the best drag racing meetings in the world, and although there are bigger meetings in the USA, I truly believe that our Winternationals out does most NHRA events. We might not have the low and consistent 4.4 second Top Fuel passes or Funny Cars anymore, but the whole show is brilliant to watch and the fact that the spectacle isn't just Top Fuel (which was brilliant this year) shows that our package at the Winternationals is better than what is happening in the NHRA at the moment. Hopefully we see more of this around the country!
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Our friend Mr. Greg Bridgeman of Wayward Goat Collectibles has shared another pair of teasers of his M.A.R.V., a Modular Armored Range Vehicle in 1:18 scale. This time around, we get to feast our eyes on a full color render and 3D Turnaround of this amazing vehicle! Check it out –
Full spin of the 3D MARV design.
Posted by Wayward Goat Collectibles on Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Make sure to follow Wayward Goat Collectibles on Facebook and Instagram to keep up on the action. Will you be getting in on this Kickstarter once it launches? Join us for ongoing discussion after the break on the Cobra Island Forums.
Wayward Goat Collectibles MARV Modular Armored Range Armament Revealed – Cobra Island
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France vs Australia
The finalist of UEFA Euro Cup 2016 France is one of the favourites for the tournament. The team has a star-studded lineup and would want to start their FIFA World Cup 2018 Campaign on a positive note.
When: June 16th, 3:30 PM IST
Where: Kazan Area
Australia is known for their grit and determination. The team doesn't give up when going gets tough, and will need to be at their defensive best to get a result.
Where to Watch France vs Australia?
You can catch the encounter France vs Australia live on Sony Liv and Sony TEN network.
Argentina vs Iceland
The two time World Cup champions Argentina is ready to mount another assault at the title. They fell short by an inch last time out and would want to make amends by showcasing a commanding display of football heritage.
When: June 16th, 6:30 PM IST
Where: Spartak Stadium
Iceland, on the other hand, is making its first appearance in this tournament and would want to make the most of this opportunity. Expect to see a Viking roar from the crowd when the team steps out.
Where to Watch Argentina vs Iceland?
You can catch the encounter Argentina vs Iceland live on Sony Liv and Sony TEN network.
Peru vs Denmark
Peru is making their return to the World Cup after a gap of 36 years and will have all the energy in them to show how valued they feel to be here. They are a dangerous team with clinical defensive ability.
When: June 16th, 9:30 AM IST
Where: Mordovia Arena
Denmark is one of the underdogs in this tournament, as their team has balance amongst its ranks. The strikers do what's asked of them, and with Christian Eriksen as your creative midfielder, the game can be changed in the blink of an eye.
Where to Watch Peru vs Denmark?
You can catch the encounter Peru vs Denmark live on Sony Liv and Sony TEN network.
Croatia vs Nigeria
Croatia's current crop of players has star quality in them. The Luka Modric led side will be gunning to show how good they are when they start their FIFA World Cup 2018 journey.
When: June 17th, 12:30 AM IST
Where: Kaliningrad Stadium
Nigeria has taken an extremely young squad to the FIFA World Cup, and it is down to the players to justify their selection. The Flamboyant Super Eagles always know how to put on a show.
Where to Watch Croatia vs Nigeria?
You can catch the encounter Croatia vs Nigeria live on Sony Liv and Sony TEN network.


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Bexar County District Clerk's Office Warns Against Phone Scam
Residents have called in reporting fraudulent callers asking for money.
For the past few weeks, employees in the Bexar County District Clerk's Office have fielded calls from numerous residents stating that they have received calls pretending to be a Bexar County Process Server, asking for payment over the phone.
The caller claims they are looking to serve them or they are being asked to verify their date of birth or social security number. At times, the caller gives another phone number to which they can call to pay the money that is supposedly owed to avoid further action.
"I strongly urge the public to be cautious and to never give out their personal information over the phone," stated Bexar County District Clerk Mary Angie Garcia. "If an individual receives a call and wants to verify its authenticity, they can call my offices directly and one of my deputy clerks can assist them. We will never request payment over the phone from anyone."
WARNING: This is a fraudulent scam! The District Clerk's Office does not employ process servers or contact the public by phone asking for payment.
For more information on the District Clerk's Office or to verify a phone call, please call 210-335-2113 or visit https://www.bexar.org/dc.


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Pats Hoop Earrings
Gold hoop earrings with 14K ear post in your choice of 10 Karat Gold or 18 Karat Gold. Shown here in 10K, which is a very buttery color -- an affordable option for gold.
These are made to order. Please allow 3 weeks.
Check out my matching stacking rings: Lorelei stacking rings.
Measure 3/4" H x 1/16"thick


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Chinese prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for an Australian jockey who allegedly tried to smuggle more than 3kg of crystal methamphetamine into Australia.
Anthony Roger Bannister, 43, from Adelaide, was stopped at Guangzhou airport from boarding a flight to Sydney on March 11 last year, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.
Customs officers detected the drugs, also known as ice, in envelopes stuffed in ladies' handbags in his luggage.
Bannister has told a court in Guangzhou he was unaware the drugs were in his luggage and claims he is the unwitting mule in an elaborate smuggling scam perpetrated by three men he identified as "Justin", "KC" and "John Law".
"I do believe that I have been set up," Bannister told the court in a trial which was held in October but which has only just come to light.
"They've used me as a mule."
Bannister said the three men had convinced him he could obtain a lucrative divorce settlement from his ex-wife, a Filipino woman he met while living in Japan, but first a series of documents needed to be signed in person in Guangzhou, resulting in him travelling to the city five times in the space of four months, usually only for a few days at a time.
Prosecutors said Mr Bannister's account was "conflicting and illogical" and that he chose to smuggle drugs because he was unemployed and had no income.
The prosecutors recommended the death penalty, to be carried out promptly.
Bannister's fate will be decided by three Chinese judges presiding over his case, who are yet to reach a verdict.
The accused man's older brother James said his younger brother, who had learning difficulties growing up and dropped out of school after year 9 to take up an apprenticeship as a jockey in Mount Gambier, was naive and trusting enough to fall for such a scam.
At least 10 Australians have been charged in China in the past year with serious drug offences that can attract the death penalty.
Most if not all these cases involve the trafficking of ice from Guangzhou, in China's south, which has become a hub for the ice trade to Australia because of its international transport links and ready availability of precursor chemicals.


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General Information
Hot Lure Report 6-22-16
In the early spring I like to start out running one line right on the surface with a small stick bait. Run a sinker 4 feet in front to catch any garbage. Stack my downriggers from 3 feet feet to 15. Like to run Speedy Shiners with orange stripe on a couple & some stingers in different colors.
Fishing Report 6-18-13
Just finished a solid week of fishing almost everyday. The salmon fishing has been spotty but we've been catching some nice ones and even a brown trout on occasion. The laker fishing has been great with some huge lake trout caught during the Champlain fishing derby. A 16 and 17 pound fish were caught and lots of 12 and 13 pounders mixed in. The lakers are set up on the bottom in all their spots and hitting anything that goes by. We cleaned one that had 10 alewife in its stomach. Come on up to Champlain and do some fishing. You may catch the biggest fish of your life.
Fishing Report 5-23-13
Fish are really starting to bite with the water warming up. Just spent 3 days on the lake and caught some beautiful salmon. Tuesday afternoon we couldn't keep the rods in the water. Salmon were are the bite big time and we boated some nice ones. Nice perch are already moving into the Marina and we caught a nice batch for dinner. The action is going to get better everyday.
Fishing Report 5-1-13
Just spent several days on the lake fishing and the fishing is really starting to take off. We caught some really nice salmon and a nice Brown trout. This warm weather is going to start to warm up the main lake and then get ready for some big time action. I plan on being there. Book a trip with us and you'll be in for some of the best fishing of the year.
Fishing Report 4-22-13
Even with the wind blowing pretty hard and the temp., a little cool we managed to boat 12 salmon on Saturday. Warmest water temp., we could find was 44 degrees in a sheltered bay and that's where the salmon were hanging out. Could only fish a couple hours Sunday and with better weather all the fishermen were out and there was to much traffic in the bay to fish. We managed to boat 1 nice salmon. Lakers will be showing up soon with the water temp., warmer up a little more and moving out into the deeper parts of the lake.


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you'r vs you're vs your – a study in idiocy
Well, someone here is doing great work.
I am legitimately not saying this to be an asshole, but this is really just not a good way to remember someone. I suppose the one scenario where this is a fitting memorial is when your friend had a terrible habit of always misspelling you're and you thought it was hilarious so you went and tattooed it on yourself, or hey – maybe you just hate your friend.
This tattoo got me thinking – how many people have made this error and tattooed you'r on their bodies, as if that's a word?
Evidently, shockingly few:
It's too bad your friends couldn't tell you what a terrible idea this was, and that your tattoo artist was either too stupid or just plain lazy to tell you how completely incorrect this is.
You'r apostrophe is superflous, ma'am.
No, I would prefer otherwise. Thank you.
I also found this one poor, unfortunate business in my internet ramblings:
Verdict: not fuckable


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Need a good graham cracker crust recipe?
Here's one that's made with organic ingredients to avoid the chemical additives and other icky stuff in the non-organic graham crackers… This is so good, I like to taste-test it a lot before pressing it into the pie pan…
Homemade Graham Cracker Crust
Yield 9 inch pie plate
Use this with any pie recipe such as my yummy chocolate cheesecake (pictured above)!
- 1-1/2 cups crushed organic graham crackers, about 10-12 whole ones (It goes fast in a food processor)
- 1/2 cup melted pastured butter
- 1/8 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup of your favorite natural sugar, I like palm sugar or I sometimes use organic brown sugar for recipes when brown sugar is extra yummy, like this one.
Mix all the ingredients together and press into a 9″ pie plate. Be sure and press it down well so it holds its shape. I use it as-is, but you could chill for an hour to get it more firm. Or if you're recipe calls for a baked crust, bake it at 375* for 7 minutes and cool.
Did you make a real food recipe?
I want to see it! Tag @KitchenKop on Instagram and hashtag it #KitchenKopRecipes OR share anything you know I'll love by tagging @KitchenKop and hashtag #KitchenKop -- see you over there!


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"Supporting awareness of Organ Donation is our number one objective, and the world record attempt is paying a long distance tribute to those who have donated and those who have received and continue to live life to the full" – Jon Harper, Founder, Yellow Hat Society
Well we have had The Match For Life, in 2017 we will see the first International Match for Life and now we are proud to announce The Ride For Life 24 hour distance world record attempt will take place in June 2018.
Our two founder YellowHatter, Jon Harper and Mark Birchall, once again have teamed up to go for this challenge. For the very fit, it will be hard; a rigorous training plan is in place because to make the challenge a little harder, a serious amount of body weight needs to be lost by one of the riders!!
Not afraid of these types of challenges, Jon and Mark have a number of long distance cycling events under their belts, but are very realistic that this will be the hardest event they have ever thought about attempting and are under no illusion just how hard it will be.
The event will take place in South Wales and the venue will be announced very soon.
The attempt will be made on a bespoke built recumbent tandem trike, designed especially with the record in mind and to meet the technical specifications for the World Human Powered Vehicle Association
The attempt team is coming together, with fitness coaches, medical experts, nutritionists, time keepers and the venue etc however, as Yellow Hat is a not for profit society, we don't have any income (All of the Yellow Hatters do events for free, often at their own expense) and we need Sponsors to help with the cost of the specialised trike for the attempt.
We have arranged for a local university to build and have many parts (wheels etc) from a collection of our own bikes, though we need to cover the cost of the lightweight frame and aerodynamic fairing materials
Please contact Jon (email@example.com) if you can help by sponsoring the cost of the materials.
Watch this page for updates over the coming weeks and months as we get ready for the attempt....
Find out how by contacting us at:
For General Yellow Hat Enquiries
E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com
Follow us on Facebook & twitter


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US Embassy to move to Jerusalem in May
The Trump administration is determined to move its US Embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in May, the State Department announced Friday (23/02/2018), coinciding with Israel's 70th anniversary.
The embassy will first be set up in an existing US facility in the West Jerusalem neighborhood of Arnona that "will contain office space for the Ambassador and a small staff," State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said in a statement announcing the plan. The facility will function as the official embassy while plans to secure a permanent location and design a building are drawn up.
"By the end of next year, we intend to open a new Embassy Jerusalem annex on the Arnona compound that will provide the Ambassador and his team with expanded interim office space," Nauert added. "In parallel, we have started the search for a site for our permanent Embassy to Israel, the planning and construction of which will be a longer-term undertaking."