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81.6 GHz, 24 Cores, 96GB RAM in an Ikea Helmer cabinet!
Years ago, First Image has been inspired by the original Helmer to build our own Helmer-Renderfarm.
So we have started to buy the Ikea Helmer cabinet first to make all the planning for the Renderfarm. After a bit measuring here and there, it was clear that it can be a really compact solution if you need renderpower at your desktop. So we give it a try.
One of the big differences to the original Helmer is that we have optimized airflow for 24/7 desktop computing, We have also kept the drawers fully intact and the Ikea Helmer cabinet received no additional parts. It is just out of the box plus we have no Linux OS we use Windows 7, 64bit.
So here we go!
This is the Ikea Helmer cabinet. We have chosen the red one but there is also silver and white available.
As you can see, the space is really constricted with 25cm in width. In this space we need to place the motherboard plus all the additional parts.
We have choosen the ASRock H61M-DGS, LGA 1155, mATX which fits perfect in the drawer (22,6 x 17,3 cm). It comes with Intel HD Grafik which is enough for our needs. Keep in mind, if you use the HELMER-AIR cluster only for CPU rendering you dont need a grafik board at all. Gigabit LAN is also on board. One restriction is that this Motherboard can only carry 16GB RAM but this is enough RAM for our Renderjobs.
This is the ASRock H61M-DGS Motherboard.
Here are the RAM modules for the HELMER-AIR, 16GB-Kit Corsair XMS3, PC3
As cpu we have chosen the Intel Core i7-3770 Tray, LGA1155 we don´t have bought the 3770 K because we don`t use overclocking.
CPU- cooler is not the boxed one because our space is extremly limited and there we need a better performance on the cpu cooler. We have chosen the Cooler Master XDream i117.
As harddisk we use some 2,5" hdd from Western Digital, Scorpio Black, 250GB.
To keep the temperature constantly low we decided to mount 3 case fans. 2 fans mounted in the front panel. They blow fresh air in the drawer. 1 fan mounted on the backside which blows the warm air out of the case. We have chosen ARCTIC F8 PWM CO - 80mm with power management. So in the end each drawer carries 5 fans. 2 in the front panel, 1 in the back panel, 1 on the cpu and 1 in the power supply unit. All in all we have 30 fans in HELMER-AIR!
We use an ordinary atx power unit. be quiet! SYSTEM POWER, BQT S6- SYS-UA- 300W, 80plus, bulk
We only use Cat. 6, S/FTP, PiMF, PVC, 250MHz, cables for the network.
As network switch we have chosen TP-Link TL-SG108 Gigabit LAN switch.
Now our list of hardware is complete. We can order it to assemble one master drawer.
We have started to make some stenciles for cutting and drilling the HELMER-AIR case.
Then we came up with the idea that HELMER-AIR needs one power button to start up the Renderfarm. We also wanted to have a reset switch and power led + hdd activity LED. So we have ordered the lian li PT-SK05B kit.
Before we have mounted the motherboard in the drawer, we have placed a plastic layer underneath the motherboard to prevent it from short circuiting. Then we have brought all these fine pieces onto the motherboard and connected a dvd drive to the master and started a first testrun of HELMER-AIR. We have started the machine and it runs fine :) just a good feeling…
With the dvd we are able to install Windows 7 on the HELMER-AIR master. We installed all the drivers from CD that came with the motherboard. Then we have installed our rendersoftware, Autodesk 3ds max. After that we installed our plugins, VRay 2 and VRayScatter. And then we have installed Acronis TrueImage WD Edition which is freeware. But you can only use it with Western Digital HDD.
Then we setup the Auto login option in Windows 7 which we really recommend. With this you can have a user account with password but the machine logs on automatically after startup. This is needed because we want to have Remote access on every HELMER-AIR client. And for Remote access you need to have password protected user accounts.
So please type cmd in the command panel on your client. Then in DOS box you type in control userpasswords2 then hit return.
After that you can choose the user account and disable the option above.
Then click OK and type in your username and password.
Click OK and your machine logs in automatically after startup. Now you need to set up Remotedesktop to have access from your workstation to the client.
After all the setup we have integrated the master into our Windows network. We have given it a unique name and a unique (static) IP address. That`s it. HELMER-AIR is now running fine.
After the Master - installation was done we have ordered the hardware to build the other 5 HELMER-AIR clients.
The first step after receiving the hardware was cloning the hdd from the master to the other clients.
After cloning you need to rename the machines and give each a unique IP-address. Apply a new network ID and do the auto login procedure again for each cloned HDD. Remotedesktop works just fine, you didn't need to adjust something on the clients.
Then we assembled one drawer after the other with having the master in front of us as a template. This was really fun and with a lot of help from my daughter it was done in an afternoon. (thank you :) )
You can now push the 6 drawers into the Ikea Helmer cabinet.
We have mounted the network switch on the side of the HELMER-AIR and connected each client to it.
Then we have connected the power supply cords and started our first testrun with the complete HELMER-AIR Renderfarm.
It worked perfectly from the first second we have started the HELMER-AIR Renderfam. It connects with the other existing clients in our Rendernetwork. Autodesk 3ds max backburner server is in autostart on each client and came up directly after auto login. Now our 3ds max has 6 new friends...
HELMER-AIR has 24 cores, 81.6 GHz and 96GB RAM
See some work rendered by HELMER-AIR: www.firstimage.de
If you are not already a fan, you can now become one on Facebook, please support us. www.facebook.com/firstimage3d
If you want to see HELMER-AIR in action, please have a look on this short video breakdown, listen how silent it operates. It will also fit under your desktop!
Stay tuned for further informations.
The story continues…
Complete Helmer-Renderfarm
(klick for more pics)
(klick for more pics)
Tools, cutting, mounting
(klick for more pics)
(klick for more pics)
Mounting all together
(klick for more pics)
Helmer Renderfarm
(klick for all pics in one gallery)


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Federal jobless benefits going to 1.3 million Americans will officially expire on Saturday after Congress failed to extend them before leaving for the holiday.
NPR's Tamara Keith says it "means anyone who has been out of work and getting benefits for more than 6 months will see their weekly checks stop abruptly."
"Advocates point out that without congressional action another 73,000 people will lose benefits each week," she says.
President Obama is urging an extension when Congress returns. House Speaker John Boehner has said he would entertain such a move but that it would have to be paid for with spending cuts elsewhere in the budget. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has promised a January vote on extending benefits by three months.
The Associated Press writes:
"For families dependent on cash assistance, the end of the federal government's 'emergency unemployment compensation' will mean some difficult belt-tightening as enrollees lose their average monthly stipend of $1,166."
"Jobless rates could drop, but analysts say the economy may suffer with less money for consumers to spend on everything from clothes to cars. Having let the 'emergency' program expire as part of a budget deal, it's unclear if Congress has the appetite to start it anew."
As we reported on Thursday, jobless claims fell sharply last week:
"The Employment and Training Administration says there were 338,000 first-time claims filed last week, down 42,000 from the week before.
But, as Bloomberg News says, "the year-end holidays make it difficult to adjust for fluctuations in applications for jobless benefits, a Labor Department official said as the figures were released."
Copyright 2021 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

subset: commoncrawl


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From the Hans Christian Andersen biography "The Life of Hans Christian Andersen. Day By Day", written by DPhil Johan de Mylius:
5 July
Receives news of the peace settlement from 2nd July in Berlin.
H.C. Ørsted sends HCA part two of his Aanden i Naturen (The Spirit of Nature), which HCA reads. Visits Ørbæklunde Estate, where Swedish soldiers are billeted.
13 July
Fighting with the rebels of Slesvig-Holsten breaks out again. Hears (on 27th July) of the taking of Slesvig town and that Frederik Læssøe has fallen at Isted ("thought well of him, our time of youth" in the diary).
5 August
Departs from Glorup Estate. Travels via Svendborg, then by ship to Gaabense and from there by coach to Corselitze. Leaves again on 18th August. Along the way, he overnights at the home of Bishop D.G. Monrad, where he meets the poet Chr. Winther and his wife.
22 August
Return to Copenhagen.
12 September
HCA's "sisterly girlfriend", Henriette Wulff, departs on an almost one-year journey to the West Indies aboard the brig 'Mercurius', which her brother Christian had just been made commander of.
Late September
HCA sits 4 times for Elisabeth Jerichau-Baumann. Her oil-painting of him is completed during the next few months (and not as Ejner Johansson writes; at the end of the summer).


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This article is more than 1 year old
P2P soars, licensed music flatlines
Today is a good day to die download
Freeloading music is more habit-forming than paying for legal downloads, according to polling in the UK.
Digital music consultancy MusicAlly and pollsters The Leading Question found that while 28 per cent of people surveyed have occasionally used P2P file-sharing - the same number as have bought licensed digital music online - the number of regulars differs. Only 14 per cent regularly used the licensed option, and 22 per cent regularly used P2P.
Digital downloads are considered to be too expensive, with punters picking 50p for a per-song download and 34p for a mobile download.
On average, only 3.32 licensed songs are downloaded each month, compared to 12 unlicensed P2P downloads.
"They might buy a few tracks from iTunes when they get a new iPod for Christmas but few go on to become regular paying downloaders," said The Leading Question's Tim Walker.
Another way of looking it is that 86 per cent of people never do P2P music, which as some angry Reg readers have pointed out, means a few internet users are simply jacking up the cost of the legal option.
Then again, if 86 per cent of people don't do P2P - why are the major record labels so obsessed with it? Modelling commissioned for the pan-industry Value Recognition Strategy in the UK suggested that P2P isn't the biggest factor in declining music revenue: it's cost-cutting from the likes of Tesco, people burning CDs at home, and the unbundling of the album.
When lawyers are busy, it looks like the whole company is busy - so firing off lawsuits subs in for a real strategy. ®


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Coherent Auburn Group
Лазеры Coherent Auburn Group
As one of the world\"s leading supplier of lasers and laser solutions, Coherent offers a diverse portfolio of laser sources, laser tools and laser accessories for a broad range of commercial and scientific applications.
Coherent Lasers
Coherent provides lasers and laser-based products across the entire spectrum of light. Coherent designs and manufactures the most diversified selection of laser solutions, with a laser product portfolio that addresses an ever-broadening range of applications. Laser sources from Coherent include: CO2 lasers for marking, cutting and scribing. Diode-pumped, solid-state lasers for advanced materials processing and instrumentation. Diode lasers and components for optical pumping and materials processing applications. Excimer lasers for LASIK procedures and manufacturing/production processes and fiber-based lasers for micromachining. Optically pumped semiconductor lasers (OPSL) offer a wide range of output powers and wavelengths, allowing OPSLs to be tailored to the needs of specific applications. Ultrafast lasers for scientific research, materials testing and materials processing. Structured light lasers include laser line generators and other pattern generators. Laser cutting tools and laser systems include a range of process development tools for c-Si solar cell manufacturing, as well as industrial-grade laser machine tools for laser cutting, marking and engraving a wide range of materials from metal and wood to plastics and paper. In addition to laser sources and tools, Coherent also offers range of laser measurement and control products including laser power and energy meters, laser beam diagnostics, laser measurement tools, laser mode measuring and spectral analysis instruments.
These laser technologies drive greater efficiency and productivity for customers today, as well as help develop insights that lead to technological breakthroughs in the future. Such advancements in lasers and laser technology led by Coherent have significant impact on commerce, industry and scientific research, and has been the hallmark of business for Coherent for over 40 years.


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The City Council and County Commissioners adopted the Master Parks and Recreation Plan for the Greater Missoula Area in May 2004, which defines the 15-20 year vision for parks and trails in the Missoula Urban Area. Since then, the Parks and Recreation Staff and Park Board have been working to implement its goals in order to increase the quantity and quality of parkland and recreational opportunities in and around Missoula.
Please contact Park Operations if you have questions or concerns about a Park or Trail inside the Missoula City Limits.
Phone: 406-552-6253
Sign up to get occasional updates on Parks programs, projects and special events...new subscribers are entered into a monthly drawing for fun prizes!


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By Alan Caruba
My Picks of the Month
There's no debate that North Korea is the classic "rogue nation", making nuclear weapons and missiles for sale to anyone that has the price. Ruled by dictators, now into the second generation, reading anything good about the place is rare. You will, however, find it in Eating With the Enemy: How I Waged Peace with North Korea From my BBQ Shack in Hackensack by Bobby Egan and Kurt Pitzer ($25.95, St. Martin's Press). It is the story of how Egan who was involved with the issue of POW/MIAs from the Vietnam War era caught the eye of government officials along with his Vietnamese contact, Le Quang Khai during a time when Vietnam was trying to normalize relations with the U.S. in the early 1990s. What occurred next with North Korea, however, was unprecedented. Khai talked to the North Korean consulate about Egan and recommended they get to know him. It led to a meeting with North Korean consul Han Song Ryol and an amazing friendship was forged over the course of a decade. Egan accomplished a great deal over the years using his gift for friendship. His story suggests that the effort can accomplish much even in the face of longstanding hostilities between the two nations. The World for Ransom by D.R. Burgess ($26.00, Prometheus Books) looks at the rise of piracy along the Somali coast. A jurist and historian, he argues a case for linking piracy and terrorism that goes much deeper than just the headlines. It may offer civilized society the key to fighting international terrorism if terrorists were defined as pirates. It would eliminate the current maze of legal restrictions that hampers the prosecution of both pirates and terrorists. For anyone interested in the legal aspects of dealing with terrorism, this makes for some very interesting reading.
If science is your area of interest, you might consider reading Absolutely Small: A Layman's guide to the Miraculous Realm of Quantum Theory that Explains Our Everyday World. Written by Dr. Michael D. Fayer, PhD, ($24.00, Amacom) it looks at everyday realities we take for granted and how physics attempts to explain them. Why are blueberries blue and oranges orange? Why does white-hot molten lava look red while the sun appears yellow? Most quantum physicists can only provide answers that will make your hair catch on fire, but Dr. Fayer has the gift of explaining the complex in a way that is completely accessible and, happily for me, free of math. This is an intriguing and excellent book that unravels the mysteries of nature and life around us. Those who keep an eye on such things believe that Iceland is in for a major volcanic eruption that could make the most recent one small by comparison. If such things interest you, pick up a copy of Volcano: Iceland's Inferno and the Earth's Most Active Volcanoes ($19.95, National Geographic, softcover), edited by Ellen J. Prager with a foreword by Marcia K. McNutt, Director of the U.S. Geological Survey. Despite the claims that humans are altering the atmosphere and causing climate change (they're not), even the most disinterested observer knows instinctively that the powers of the Earth are so much more vast that the claims are absurd. Volcanoes are living testimony to that and, an eruption in Iceland could transform the weather of the northern hemisphere as it spews enormous amounts of chemicals and cloud-filled particulates into the atmosphere. The other major volcanoes are examined with a reminder of what occurred when Mount Pinatubo altered the climate for years after its eruption.
Amil Imani's new book, Obama Meets Ahmadinejad uses satire to reveal some fundamental truths about these two men. Ahmadinejad, of course, is the president of Iran and so hated there that crowds filled the streets to protest. Iran is the classic Islamic nation that uses brutality and oppression against its own people. Imani's book ($17.95, Free American Press, softcover) has already been hailed by some of the leading voices warning against the Islamic threat to freedom and liberty. They include Robert Spencer, the author of "The Politically Incorrect Guide to Islam and the Crusades; Dr. Wafa Sultan, author of "A God Who Hates"; and Dr. Ali Sina, the author of "Understanding Muhammad and founder of FaithFreedom.org. It is available directly from his website, http://www.amilimani.com, or from Amazon.com. Amani, born in Iran, is an American with deep insights regarding Islam. He has been warning Americans and others around the world about the threat the present Iranian regime represents to its own people, the Middle East, and global peace. I add my voice to those recommending it. For those who want to delve into Islam, Ibn Warraq, the author of "Why I am Not a Muslim" has had a collection of his essays, Virgins? What Virgins?, published ($19.00, Prometheus Books) that are insightful, controversial, and frequently witty. He discusses the totalitarian nature of contemporary political Islam and explores whether there is any prospect for a reformation comparable to the Protestant Reformation in the West. Indeed, one essay is titled, "Why the West is Best." One really needs to read this and comparable books to truly understand the threat to western civilization that Islam poses.
Britain continues to produce some great literature, art and entertainment. A case in point was the television series, "Prime Subject", starring Helen Mirren. I watched every episode in the 1990s when it was aired and am delighted that Prime Suspect: The Complete Collection will debut in September in a 9-disc set of feature length mysteries as well as a 50-minute behind-the-scenes special ($124.99, Acorn Media.) The tenacious, driven, and flawed main character, Detective Jane Tennison, has risen through the ranks, solving some awful crimes while battling office sexism and her own demons. Mirren is an Oscar® and Emmy ® winner, and her performance in this series is testimony to her extraordinary talent. For sheer viewing pleasure, this is worth having in your own collection of great drama or as a great gift. Since the 1950s when I discovered the poetry of Dylan Thomas, I have often taken a collection of his poems from the bookshelf to read again and again. They are magical and totally unique. Along the way I have read biographies of the man, memoirs of his last trip to New York in 1953 where he died from what was medically deemed an "alcoholic insult" to the brain. His personal life was messy. A drunkard, he was married, the father of a son, Colm, and a daughter, Aeronwy. She took ten years to set her memories of him to paper, starting with the move her parents made to a boathouse in the small Welsh village of Laugharne when she was six. She would become her father's literary executor, a writer and poet in her own right. In 2009 she passed away just before the British publication of My Father's Places. The American edition will be officially published in September by Skyhorse Publishing ($19.95). For those who love his poetry and other writings, this book fills in a missing piece of the puzzle that was Dylan Thomas
I have always been fond of books that contain information in a compact presentation that would be difficult to acquire otherwise. Such is Nathan Belofsky's The Book of Strange and Curious Legal Oddities ($13.95, Perigee, softcover). There are those, including myself, who think there are just too many laws being passed, burdening enterprise and individuals without good reason. This entertaining book is proof of that as it reveals a plethora of often idiotic laws such as the one in 2006 that got a Brooklyn man sentenced to 5 to 11 years in jail for killing a goldfish. Reaching back in history, it is astonishing how frequently the death penalty was the choice for almost any infraction. The creation of writing, first on stone tablets, papyrus, and printing led to the publication of many laws, many of which dealt with crimes common to the modern times, but whose punishment was draconian. The proliferation of laws has led to the increase in lawyers, but the book does demonstrate that humans have long striven for order in society. Entertaining in a totally bizarre way is People of Walmart: Shop and Awe by Luke Wherry, Adam and Andrew Kipple ($12.95, Sourcebooks, softcover), due out in September. It is page after page of photos of people who shop there wearing and doing very strange things in such a public place. Every page makes you wonder whatever possessed these people to even leave the house. Weird tattoos. Weirder haircuts. Still weirder clothes. It would make a great gift for the Walmart shopper in your life.
Getting Down to Business
The paralysis that has seized the economy, accompanied by the massive government spending we're told will get us out of it has forced Americans to seriously question what some economists, particularly those writing for mainstream publications, keep telling us. Most people know that, if you're in debt, the first thing to do is stop spending, cut back on expenses, and begin saving as much money as possible. I am sure most people would be astonished to learn that, over the past twenty years, Americans have purchased $6 trillion more in goods from other nations than we have sold to them. This is just one of the many facts to be found in Ian Fletcher's book, Free Trade Doesn't Work, What Should Replace It and Why ($24.95, U.S. Business & Industry Council, Washington, D.C., softcover). Normally, reading anything dealing with economics makes my eyes glaze over, but Fletcher provides a lively look at the realities of why the U.S. is in such a terrible place economically. Primarily, we are not manufacturing goods as we once did and, when we do the work is often outsourced to nations like China and India, for assembling here. The result is fewer jobs for Americans, less tax revenue for the nation, and a trade deficit. Any time trade is discussed in terms of protecting U.S. industries, some people cry "protectionism", but the fact is that other nations practice it all the time. Free trade is a misnomer. Letting your global competitors beat your brains out is a very bad idea. I recommend this excellent analysis. I only hope those in power and executives responsible for making decisions for American companies will read this excellent book. The place to go is http://www.freetradedoesntwork.com.
Financial Serial Killers: Inside the World of Wall Street Money Hustlers, Swindlers, and Con Men seems ripped from today's headlines and it is surely interesting reading ($24.95, Skyhorse Publishing). Tom Ajamie and Bruce Kelly note that, in the fiscal year 2009, the FBI saw a 105% increase in new high-yield investment fraud investigations compared to 2008; 314 such cases versus 154. Many involved losses exceeding $100 million. The authors identify the warning signs and strategies that perpetrators of fraud use to scam average Americans out of their life savings. Ajamie is an attorney who has recovered hundreds of millions from fraudulent individuals, corporations, and organized crime organizations. Kelly is the news editor for Investment News and provides true stories of people who have been scammed, explaining how they could have avoided their losses. The problem is, like Bernie Madoff, some con artists can have good reputations. The book is full of good advice to save you from financial fraud. You're not too young or too old to read this book. Another book for people trying to figure out survival in these hard times is If I'm So Smart…Where Did All My Money Go? Balancing Your Financial Objectives for Lasting Wealth by Doug Warshauer ($24.95, CFMB Books, Morton Grove, IL). The author looks, for example, at why so many people bought homes they couldn't afford with mortgages they couldn't pay? Also, why people with good salaries can't seem to put money aside at the end of the month in savings or an investment account? The book is about financial stability for families, individuals, and senior citizens. Using a fictional financial seminar, he explains his recommendations through the stories of ten people attending it. If this is a problem with which you are grappling, this book will prove helpful.
Anyone hiring the "linkster generation", born after 1995, knows they are quite different from their predecessors such as Generation Y, born 1981 to 1995, and earlier ones such as Generation X and, of course, the Baby Boomers. All require special handling and skills. Happily, Meagan Johnson and her dad, Larry Johnson, have written Generations, Inc. ($16.95, Amacom, softcover) to provide the key to understanding the different comfort levels and expectation of these very different generations. The book addresses the need to create cross-generational alliances, reconcile disparate values, and different work styles. Today's manager may find themselves managing great talent from five or more generations and each has different approaches to the workplace. When I started in the workplace there were no cell phones, ipods, or computers. This old dog had to learn new skills and use new technology. I am in the "traditional generation", but many of the Baby Boomer generation, 1946-1964, intend to stay on past retirement age and they work well with others, but are experiencing age discrimination. Those in Generation Y cannot even imagine being that old! A lot of folks are trying to navigate through the new world of "social media" in order to use it more effectively to grow their business. Sherrie A. Madia, PhD and Paul Borgese have written The Social Media Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know to Grow Your Business Exponentially with Social Media ($24.95, Full Court Press, an imprint of Base Communications, Voorhees, NJ). Here's the lowdown on what Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube is all about. The authors offer advice on the best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and step-by-step strategies for creating smart social media campaigns. This is an excellent guide to the confusing new world of interactive websites, blogs, podcasts, social network sites, image and video-sharing e-communities, and so much more that is available to the savvy marketer. It no longer matters if you are a mom-and-pop operation or a big corporation. Knowing what choices to make and how to maximize social media to sell one's product or service is still the bottom line. Little wonder that the one job category that is growing these days is that of social media manager!
Better Make It Real: Creating Authenticity in an Increasingly Fake World by Jill J. Morin, ($32.95, Praeger) addresses the increasing demand for trust and transparency from corporations in addition to the quality of their products and services. The headlines are testimony to that, but how does a company achieve that? Ms. Morin provides a guide that focuses on organizational authenticity as a company strives to assure its many stakeholders from employees to customers, vendors and other business partners. It's not a destination. It's a journey. She provides a roadmap stressing perception, people, products and services, and place. The Corporate Storyteller: A Writing Manual Style Guide for the Brave New Business Leader by Elaine Stirling ($13.95, Rising Star, softcover) takes a look at the way texting, emails, Facebook and Twitter has changed the way people communicate. Ms. Stirling says formal letters, thank you notes, and snail mail correspondence are all disappearing. Too often, however, hitting the send button before proofing and editing one's message are frequent communication pitfalls. Too many business folk are fearful these days and this book will help eliminate that.
The Topic is Health & Happiness
Are you wondering how the new health care law will affect your life, your family, or your business? It's not light reading, but Bad Medicine: A Guide to the Real Costs and Consequences of the New Health Care Law by Michael D. Tanner ($10, Cato Institute) is just over 50 pages of tightly written, well researched, and carefully footnoted bad news. It's more a booklet than a book, but why quibble when you discover that Obamacare, as promised, does not achieve universal coverage, will cost more than $2.7 trillion over ten years of full implementation, will increase the cost of coverage for younger, healthier workers, and will increase taxes by more than $669 billion between now and 2019. My experience with Cato publications is that they are so well prepared that they are bulletproof to any charge of partisanship. Little wonder than surveys show that well over 65% of Americans want Obamacare repealed.
Judging from the news reports and ads on television, diabetes is on the rise. The disease is largely controlled with pharmaceutical insulin, but there was a time when that did not exist and many died as a result. Breakthrough: Elizabeth Hughes, the Discovery of Insulin, and the Making of a Medical Miracle ($24.99, St Martins Press) by Thea Cooper and Arthur Ainsberg is set to officially be published in September so mark your calendar if you find reading medical history of interest. This book tells how, in 1918, Elizabeth Hughes, the daughter of Charles Evans Hughes, who would become a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, was suffering from juvenile diabetes mellitus. At the time it was a virtual death sentence. However, in Toronto, a surgeon and his assistant had successfully purified insulin from animal pancreases and a little-known pharmaceutical company, Eli Lilly, would make insulin available. Elizabeth became one of the first to receive insulin injections. The whole story is fraught with drama due to scientific jealousies that nearly derailed the discovery along with intense business competition. I heartily recommend this book.
The Preemie Primer: A Complete Guide for Parents of Premature Babies—from Birth through the Toddler Years and Beyond is one of those titles that pretty much says it all as regards its contents ($16.95, Da Capo Press, softcover) and, for parents of premature babies it is "must" reading. Authored by Dr. Jennifer Gunter, MD, it reflects the fact that approximately five hundred thousands babies are born prematurely every year in the United States. Dr. Gunter provides a comprehensive resource that covers everything from delivery and hospitalization to issues involving preemie development. Virtually every aspect is covered in the book. In a similar fashion, Life Over Cancer by Dr. Keith I. Block, MD, is written by an author who, as medical director of the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment in Evanston, Illinois, has treated thousands of patients who have gone onto to live full lives beyond their original prognosis. Now he has distilled almost thirty years of experience into the first book that gives patients a systematic, research-based plan for developing the physical and emotional vitality they need to meet the demands of treatment and recovery. For anyone encountering cancer in their lives, this too is "must" reading. Atypical: Life with Asperger's in 20 1/3 Chapters by Jesse A. Saperstein ($14.95, Perigee, softcover) is an account of living with Asperger's syndrome, the mildest form of autism. I frankly was totally unaware of this syndrome, largely because it has been stigmatized for so many years that little has been written or spoken of it. This memoir demystifies a condition that is characterized by repetitive routines or rituals, peculiarities in speech and language, and difficulties with empathy that lead to socially inappropriate behavior. Until 1994, it was not even recognized as a separate disorder. Those afflicted suffer from being teased or bullied because of their inability to fit in. The book is itself a triumph over the disorder and is worth reading just for its story. Indeed, you may recognize its symptoms in someone you know.
Seth David Chernoff faced death as a two-time cancer survivor and, as a result, he learned to experience the fullness of life. He shares that knowledge in A Manual for Living: Reality, a User's Guide to the Meaning of Life ($15.95, Spirit Scope Publishing, softcover). With nearly fifty years of reviewing under my belt, I tend to steer clear of such books because, frankly, they come out every year in one form or another, but this one pulls no punches as Chernoff writes about the hard subjects of death, illness, fear, finding balance, a toxic environment, and our perception of what is real, our finances, and our need to accumulate things. He asks and answers questions we often ask about why are we always in a hurry? Are our physical ailments caused by frustration, anxiety or stress? And why is it such a challenge to maintain inner peace? Since life comes with no guarantees except an expiration date, it's probably a good idea to learn how to find a measure of real happiness. I suspect the increase in books about how to live life fully has something to do with the horrid economic times that are imposing hardships on so many. Finding the Zone: A Whole New Way to Maximize Mental Potential by Gordon D. Lawrence ($19.00, Prometheus Books, softcover) discusses the mental attitude we feel when we excel at work or play. He suggests that our minds are actually wired from birth to achieve the zone, though we often do not experience it enough. Based on research on the mind, attitudes, and motivation, he offers advice on how to find your own zone. Not due out officially under November, Tapping the Source by a trio of authors ($17.95, Sterling) this book asserts that success in life results not just from random choice, predetermined fate, good connections, or even hard work. Many comparable books encourage people to overcome negative attitudes and habitual thoughts, but say the authors, they often create more frustration than fulfillment. This book teaches a pragmatic daily practice that offers a seven-step process to quiet one's mind and tap into one's inner strength. I do not know if it will work, but I suspect it will be of great help to those seeking peace of mind and a more meaningful life.
Books for Kids and Teens
This is the time for a trip to the beach and, for the pre-school and early readers, Sunny Bunnies by Margie Blumberg and illustrated beautifully by June Goulding ($15.95, MB Publishing) tells in rhyme the story of a family trip that is charming and a good way to prepare any youngster for his or her first trip. As the world continues to shrink thanks to the ease of communications and travel, children need to grasp not only how big it is, but also how modernization is making nations more alike in many ways. I See the Sun in China, written by Dedie King with illustrations by Judith Inglese, has both English and Mandarin Chinese text that is aimed at children 5 years and older ($12.95, Satya House Publicans, Hardwick, MA, softcover) as it relates a trip by a Chinese girl who, along with her family, visits her aunt in Shanghai, a gleaming city of commerce, the equal of any such city in the world. It is officially due for publican in October along with I See the Sun in Nepal. For the young reader, it is like spending a day in either place. I thoroughly enjoyed it and so will the younger set.
It's written for ages 8-10 or thereabouts, any early reader, and it is hilarious. Clementine – Monkey Princess by Adam Knight and illustrated b y Nora Kay Golay ($11.95, Monkey Monkey Media, 552 12th St., Suite 101, Elko, NV 89801) Clementine is a very bright young girl who loves to climb things. Her dad nicknames her a Monkey Princess and the word got around. In fact, it reached a far off jungle where a group of monkeys decided they should have a Monkey Princess. A team of monkey commandos were dispatched to kidnap her! They immediately fell in love with her. Back home her parents were hot on her trail to the land of Flim. Much adventure ensues until she and her family return home. If you have a little monkey of your own at home, this book will keep him or her in stitches.
The Jewish new year celebration, Rosh Hashanah, arrives in September and Margie Blumberg, the author of the "Sunny Bunnies" series, teamed with illustrator, Laurie McGaw, to publish Avram's Gift ($10.00, MB Publishing). It is the story of a young Jewish boy, Mark, growing up in America. A picture on the wall of his home; that of his great-great-grandfather, Avram, portrays a stern-looking man. When the family gathers to celebrate, he learns the story of this man as his grandfather answers his questions. He learns of the shofar, a ram's horn, a gift passed from generation to the other and how each is linked to the past and to the ancient heritage of Judaism. Suffice to say, this is a story for a young Jew, but it is also every immigrant family's story. As the High Holy days approach, it would make an ideal gift. For teen Christian girls, there's a series from Revell called "His Princess" by Sheri Rose Shepherd intended to provide biblical insights regarding some of the questions that arise in a young girl's life today. His Princess: Girl Talk with God ($14.99, Revell) contains devotional reading that serve as a guide to those in these age group.
From Heaven to Hell as in Hellfire: Plague of Dragons will satisfy the demand for fantasy stories, resplendent with excellent artwork. Written by Robert Weinberg from a story and artwork by Tom Wood ($19.95, Running Press) this thriller based on the period of the Black Death in Europe, is the story of a lost manuscript and art by a 14th century French wine merchant who was a confidant of popes and kings, Robertus of Avignon, who along with his brother Thomas and a loyal, brave band of soldiers, must deal with a pack of dragons. Wood's work has sold millions of products since 2005. Weinberg, a prolific author, is a two-time winner of the World Fantasy Award, along with others. Though presumably aimed at teens, it would intrigue older readers as well. Elminster Must Die is a fantasy genre novel written by Ed Greenwood ($25.95, Wizards of the Coast). The book is part of The Saga of Shadowdale series and focuses on Elminster's shattered world after the goddess of magic's murder. Once the most powerful wizard in the world and the bane of villainy, Elminister is now a tired old man with a lot of enemies. Though the wizard is immortal, the author uses the story to explore what it means to grow old and nearly powerless. Any lover of fantasy of any age will thoroughly enjoy this story that debuts this month. It's back to school next month and that's the theme of Tianna Logan and the Salem Academy for Witchcraft Written by Timothy Craig Everhart ($22.00, American Book Publishing, softcover) it tells of how, after her parents are killed, Tainna is left in the care of her grandmother and enrolled in the Salem Academy for Witchcraft where adventure exists around every turn. She soon learns about the night her parents died and a book is discovered after being hidden in the academy and, surprise, it belongs to her. The story is filled with wonderful twists and turns that are sure to delight any young person who has read through all the Harry Potter novels and is yearning for more spooky stuff.
Novels geared to the younger set provide some fun summer reading, particularly for the girls. John Belushi Is Dead by Kathy Charles ($14.00, Gallery/MTV Books), a debut novel, offers an offbeat and unexpectedly moving story of two teenagers whose obsession with celebrity death begins to interfere with their lives. It follows pink-haired Hilda and her long friend, Benji, as they haunt the places where celebrities have died and, while their adventures begin as fun and games, neither can escape the danger and sadness inherent in their unusual hobby.
Teens have loved the debut series from Stephanie Morrill as have the identified with high school student, Skylar Hoyt and her struggle to discover who she is. So Over It ($ll.95, Revell) is the final book of The Reinvention of Skylar Hoyt series. Eager to get away at the end of her senior year, she jumps at the change to spend the summer with her grandparents in Hawaii. Revell is a leading Christian book publisher and the story has a religious theme to it, but is essentially a coming-of-age story. Also from Revell, Perfectly Dateless by Kristin Billerbeck ($9.99) is about the countdown to the prom for Daisy Crispin in which she has 196 days to find the right date, but she has a problem. Her parents won't let her data or even talk to a guy on the phone! She wears lame homemade clothes and possesses few social skills, so she has more than one problem. Can she turn her parents around? Can she enjoy one of the great rituals of teen life? You will have to read the book.
Novels, Novels, Novels!
There are so many novels being published these days that it takes a superhuman effort to keep up with them all. Here are just a few that have arrived at Bookviews.
Following up his debut with 8 in the Box, Raffi Yessayan is back with a terrific cop thriller, 2 in the Hat ($25.00, Ballantine Books). The author knows the Boston crime scene having formerly been the chief prosecutor of the elite Gang Unit in Boston's Suffolk County District Attorney's office. Now he is practicing criminal defense law and writing novels that portray a stark gripping portrait of law enforcement professionals on the job and under the gun. The title comes from cop lingo for "two shots to the head." The novel focuses on a major spike in gang homicides that has the city on edge. When a pair of students is bizarrely slain, homicide detective Angel Alves suspects there's a serial killer on the loose. His partner agrees, noting similarities to the work of the Prom Night Killer whose unsolved crimes are a decade old. This is the kind of book you cannot put down once you begin to read it.
James King tells a very different story in Bill Warrington's Last Chance ($24.95, Viking) about the main character's desire to make things right with his long-estranged children before a recently diagnosed disease takes its toll. His children, however, have their own issues. One is trying to raise her headstrong teenage daughter on her own while another is unable to move on with his life after his wife's death. A third's self-absorbed philandering threats his career and family. To get their attention, he kidnaps his 15-year-old granddaughter, April, who is a willing accomplice, eager to escape her mother. This is a compelling multigenerational saga told with humor, compassion, and considerable insight to a wounded family's dynamics.
I love history and when a novel incorporates it well it makes an entertaining read. This is the case of Tiberius Julius Alexander by Daniel M. Friedenberg ($22.00, Prometheus Books) that reconstructs the conflicted life of a figure from ancient Jewish history. Mentioned by Flavius Josephus, a historian in the days when Rome ultimately tired of Jewish resistance and destroyed Jerusalem, Tiberius was a real person, the son of a pious Jew living in the Egyptian city of Alexandria. He, however, was not interested in his heritage and became an apostate, joining the ranks of the Roman army, devoting himself to a career as a soldier in military and civil service. Friedenberg uses what is known of Tiberius's real life and times to serve up a fictional memoir that brings to life Roman society in the Near East of the first century with all its luxurious refinements, brutal realities, competing religious cults, and social unrest.
Let's take a stroll through the stacks of softcover novels. It's likely the theme of one or more of these books will catch your interest. One that leaps off the stack is The Breaking of Eggs by Jim Powell ($15.00, Penguin Books). A debut novel, it is the story of the curmudgeonly Feliks Zhokovski, Polish by birth, Communist at heart, who at age 61 finds that everything on which his life is based is crumbling. It is 1991 and the Berlin Wall as fallen and Communism has collapsed. What unfolds includes a reunion with a brother in Ohio he hasn't seen in fifty years and much more to fill the empty vessel that his life had become. Also set in foreign shores is The Debba by Avner Mandelman ($14.95, Other Press). In Middle East lore, the Debba is a mythical Arab hyena that can turn into a man who lures Jewish children away from their families to teach them the language of beasts. It is also the name of a play by the main character's father that was staged just once in Haifa in 1946, causing a riot. The year is 1977 and David Starkman, his son, has renounced his Israeli citizenship and is living in Canada when he learns of his father's gruesome murder. He returns to Israel to settle his father's affairs only to learn his father's will demands the play be staged within 45 days of his death. What unfolds is filled with dark forces as the novel barrels toward its shocking climax.
Murder and mayhem are major themes of novels. Here are a few that tap into them.
Murder in the Hamptons by Danita Carter ($15.00, Atria Books, division of Simon and Schuster) brings the worlds of music, money, and murder together when a rapper and his unruly crew move into an elite community in the Hamptons where Coco Beach is a private enclave of black society snobs are incensed when a rapper moves in. When the sister of TuSmArt is founding floating face down in the bay, the police deem her death a suicide, but he knows better and vows to find her killer. Dead in the Dregs by Peter Lewis ($14.95, Counterpoint) is set in northern California's wine country where renowned wine critic, Richard Wilson, makes a living elevating and destroying winemaker's reputation with the stroke of a pen. When he disappears after a Napa Valley wine tasting it is not long before his body is founding floating in a vat at Norton's Winery. What a way to go! His sister enlists the help of her ex-husband to hunt for the killer and, while the police work to quickly clear the case, the trail begins to fade. The trail leads all the way to Burgundy, France. My late Mother, an international authority on wine would have loved this novel. Cadger's Curse by Diane Gilbert Madsen ($14.95, Midnight Ink Books) is a debut novel with an interesting back story. Hired by a software giant in Chicago to vet some new trainees who need top security clearance, freelance insurance investigator, DD McGil arrives at headquarters to find her brother-in-law is dead. Her investigation reveals the trainees' strange connections, industrial espionage, and a counterfeiting operation that threatens the world economy. At the same time, her Scottish aunts arrives for the holidays with what might be a long-lost, unpublished Robert Burns manuscript. It is authentic? Meanwhile, the murders pile up!
Stephen J. Harper's novel, The Partnership, (Borealis Books) reminds us of why we love John Grisham novels involving lawyers. This one is a legal thriller that involves the behind-the-scenes of a large law firm with elements of a power struggle, some insider trading, with a dash of twisted romance and a friendship that turns horribly sour. The author draws on his own three decades as a lawyer. Having joined the firm as law student associates and clawed their way to the top, the two attorneys have become arch rivals and any trace of idealism they might have had is long gone as they compete for the premier position on the executive committee and the affections of a beautiful woman. Mystery and thriller readers will get their money's worth with this novel. An entirely different story can be found in Sweetwater Burning by Heather Sharfeddin ($15.00, Bantam Books) that is set in the small Idaho town of Sweetwater. It is there that Chas McPherson tends his sheep and keeps to himself. Honoring his familial ties, he hires a home-care nurse to help care for his elderly father in his last days. Mattie Holden arrives and makes her place in the home just as trouble ensues when the home of the town's lone Muslim family is burned on Christmas Eve and the town begins to point a finger at Chas. It is up to Sheriff Edelson, new to Sweetwater, to untangle the strange stories about the McPherson men and, in particular, Chas' father, Franklin, a long time minister believed to be able to look into people's souls. This is definitely not your standard novel, but it is a compelling story.
Finally, there's a coming-of-age novel Ticket To Ride by Philip Scott Wikel ($8.95, Julian Day Design, available via Amazon,com). Set in the 1970s, it is filled with allusions to literary and rock'n roll classics as Morgan and Livy move from being innocent 17-year-olds to becoming fully realized adults. This is an interesting look at an era that included the Vietnam War, the "sexual revolution", and a wide distrust of politicians, the government, organized religion, and anything considered part of the "establishment."
That's it for August! Tell all your book-loving friends and family about Bookviews. You can even sign up to be a "Follower" of this monthly report on the best in non-fiction and fiction. It's back to school time next month and Labor Day signals a new business cycle after the summer months. Lots of great new books on the way (some mentioned in this month's report).
Friday, July 30, 2010
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Ahh...the blind box. Love them or hate them, there are plenty of blind box series out there. Most companies have their very own platform toy. Artists work their magic on the platform. The designs are often given various ratios and sometimes secret chase figures are included. But the main draw of the blind box...is that you have no idea what figure/design you'll end up getting. It's the mystery!
5. Jinny Series Zero (Bitbots)
Even though they're named Series Zero, this is the first Jinny series from UK-based Bitbots. Designed by artist Jats Gill, the blind box line features a new platform sculpt and designs from an entirely UK lineup.
4. Floxy Series 1 (Patch Together)
Using the platform designed by the artist Soma, the Floxy blind box series signified the first blind box release from Patch Together. They assembled a nice mix of established and up-and-coming artists as a part of this first series.
3. Toy Story Cosbaby S (Hot Toys)
Toy Story 3 was one of the most popular films released in 2010, and Hot Toys released a pair of their Cosbaby series based on the film. The blind box mini series featured some of the most recognizable characters from the movie.
2. Blankie Series 1 (Aarting)
There's sort a theme going on here...a lot of first series blind box lines. The Blankie features an interesting new platform sculpt along with some great designs. And the printing quality on the vinyl is superb.
**WINNER** 1. Lunartik in a Cup of Tea (Matt JOnes)
There are a lot of platform toys out there, but nothing that looks quite like Matt JOnes' Lunartik in a Cup of Tea series - a little figure emerging from a cup of tea that's sitting on a saucer. And the different color variants each have a tea flavor inspired name.


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Justin Bieber -- More Weed. More Problems.
Justin Bieber More Weed. More Problems.
Justin Bieber's at the center of ANOTHER marijuana controversy -- TMZ has learned MORE photos of the singer holding a blunt were being shopped to media outlets.
The photos -- which we've seen -- show 18-year-old Justin and his bud Lil Za casually passing the weed-filled stogie back and forth while hanging outside of an L.A. home.
FYI -- Lil Za is the guy who was pulled over and detained for driving Bieber's Ferrari without a license early Friday morning. We're told the marijuana photos were taken Thursday.
It's not the first time Bieber's been photographed with grass ... just last month, Justin was pictured with another rapper -- Lil Twist -- holding a smoldering joint at a hotel party in Newport Beach. Ironically, Bieber loaned the same Ferrari to Lil Twist January 1st. You'll recall a photog was struck and killed by another motorist while shooting pics of Twist being pulled over for speeding.
We reached out to Justin's camp for comment ... about smoking pot and loaning his car to less-than-responsible people. So far no word back.


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ARPA-E awards IIT-Argonne team $3.4 M for breakthrough battery technology
Carlo Segre, Duchossois Leadership Professor of Physics at Illinois Institute of Technology, has received a $3.4 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA-E) to develop a breakthrough battery technology that may more than double the current range of electric vehicles (EV), increase safety, reduce costs and simplify recharging.
Segre and his collaborators John Katsoudas, also of IIT, and Elena Timofeeva, Dileep Singh and Michael Duoba of Argonne National Laboratory will develop a prototype for a rechargeable "nanoelectrofuel" flow battery that may extend the range of EVs to at least 500 miles and provide a straightforward and rapid method of refueling. Current EV ranges are 100-200 miles, with recharging taking up to eight hours.
Flow batteries, which store chemical energy in external tanks instead of within the battery container, are generally low in energy density and therefore not used for transportation applications. The IIT-Argonne nanoelectrofuel flow battery concept will use a high-energy density "liquid" with battery-active nanoparticles to dramatically increase energy density while ensuring stability and low-resistance flow within the battery.
"I am delighted by this award, not only because of the quality and importance of the proposed research but also as another example of the longstanding and effective collaboration between IIT and the world-class researchers and facilities at Argonne," said Russell Betts, dean of the College of Science at IIT.
Segre's expertise is in the structure and properties of materials using synchrotron radiation techniques. He has a wide variety of ongoing research projects, including fuel-cell catalysts and battery materials. Segre is deputy director of the Materials Research Collaborative Access Team (MR-CAT) beamline at the Advanced Photon Source (APS), located at Argonne; and director of the Center for Synchrotron Radiation Research and Instrumentation (CSRRI) at IIT.
Katsoudas and Timofeeva began their work on the IIT-Argonne nanoelectrofuel flow battery at Argonne, leveraging Timofeeva's expertise in nanofluids engineering and electrochemistry. Katsoudas is an expert in instrumentation design, automation of experiments and materials characterization.
Singh will bring to bear on the project his knowledge of how nanoparticle-fluid interaction effects the thermal management and behavior of nanoparticles in the IIT-Argonne nanoelectrofuel flow battery. Duoba's expertise in vehicle systems and EV testing, in particular, will provide critical guidance in the development of a nanoelectrofuel battery prototype for EV applications.
The IIT award is one of 22 projects across the country awarded a total of $36 million through the DOE's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy Robust Affordable Next Generation EV Storage (RANGE) program, which seeks to develop innovative EV battery chemistries, architectures and designs. ARPA-E was officially authorized in 2007 and first funded in 2009. The agency invests in high-potential, high-impact energy technologies that are too early for private sector investment.
IIT and Argonne will share the funding award to continue their research.
Founded in 1890, IIT is a Ph.D.-granting university offering degrees in engineering, sciences, architecture, psychology, design, humanities, business, and law. IIT's interprofessional, technology-focused curriculum is designed to advance knowledge through research and scholarship, to cultivate invention improving the human condition, and to prepare students from throughout the world for a life of professional achievement, service to society, and individual fulfillment. Visit www.iit.edu.
Provided by Argonne National Laboratory


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Yep, my trap is going to open up some this Friday here in San Francisco. Stop through. *Customed brewed keg from Muffin Street Brewery for your drinking pleasure.
John Trippe, Courtney Fink and Daryll Peirce will be talking about the art scene in San Francisco, both from the perspective of the artist (Daryll Pierce) and from the Curators (John Trippe, Courtney Fink). They all have a unique perspective as they have been contributing to it significantly for quite a while.
John will also be talking about running a successful multi-media web site and how that has brought him to the gallery culture.
John and Courtney both have experience with the full spectrum of the scene, from Low-Brow to High-Brow. Daryll has extensive experience working with curators to get his work into shows all over the world.
Artists interested in trying to break in to the gallery culture, as well as people from all walks of life who frequent the art scene won't want to miss this event!
R/GA San Francisco
35 South Park St
Friday, 6/10 (4:30pm - 5:30pm)
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Following up on the previous MO question "Are there any important mathematical concepts without discrete analogue?", I'd like to ask the opposite: what are examples of notions in math that were not originally discrete, but have good discrete analogues? While a few examples arose in the answers to that earlier MO question, this wasn't what that question was asking, so I'm sure there are many more examples not mentioned there or at least not really explained there. What reminded me of this older MO question was seeing an MO question "Why is the Laplacian ubiquitous?", since that is an instance of an important notion which has a discrete analgoue.
In an answer, it would be interesting to hear about the relationship between the continuous and discrete versions of the notion, if possible, and references could also be helpful. Thanks!


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The equation that couldn't be solved: how mathematical genius discovered the language of symmetry
By Mario Livio
Mario Livio's new book tells the story of the elusive quintic equation and how, from the mysteries of this unsolvable puzzle, group theory was born. This branch of mathematics describes and defines symmetry, and at the core of the book is a strong sense of just how much of our behaviour and appreciation of the world around us depends on our ability to perceive symmetrical proportions. Livio is very much present in the writing, an instantly likeable narrator whose passion for his subject is contagious. His descriptions of symmetry are punctuated by visual images, such as pictures of famous mathematicians, optical illusions and diagrams of words and numbers. For a more "hands on" read, the book contains some mind-bending equations, with appendices of solutions. There are also some fascinating side-comments, such as his observations on genius and how close (or not, as the case may be) we are to understanding its true nature.
The first chapters justify why the subject is worth delving into by providing a wide-ranging tour of familiar cultural icons and biological qualities that have some basis in symmetry. The range is fascinating: Livio covers the evolution of predator-recognition, the golden mean in art, strategies for choosing a life-partner, why some pieces of music work so well, and, perhaps most crucially, the best way of attacking a rubik's cube. The next part of the book focuses on the mathematical equations that underpin symmetry, and describes not only maths, but also mathematicians. Resurrecting my knowledge of quadratic equations (initially a daunting thought) was made worthwhile by Livio's enthusiasm. The juxtaposition of the surprisingly colourful lives of mathematicians and the dry facts behind their discoveries works well, and cameos of researchers such as Ferrari, Cardano, Tartaglia and Ruffini prove quite addictive. The two chapters on a "poverty-stricken mathematician" from Norway (Niels Henrik Abel) and a "romantic mathematician" from France (Evariste Galois), make particularly compulsive and poignant reading. These mathematicians had tragic and bizarrely symmetrical lives. Both independently demonstrated that the quintic equation could not be solved using conventional mathematics, thereby paving the way for the development of group theory. Perhaps most illuminating is the use their theories were put to, and the final part of the book clarifies the tremendous debt many key scientific theories owe to the mathematics of symmetry.
If the book has a weakness, it is that it jumps between disparate topics fairly rapidly, which can be stimulating but also disorientating at times. The book makes reference to a great many key theories in science and mathematics, taking the reader from quantum mechanics to string theory in a few chapters. The explanations of these are remarkably cogent, but even so, it's a whistle-stop tour, which may require a certain amount of re-reading or head scratching. It is also possible that readers with a limited mathematical background might find some of the material heavy-going.
What makes for a good read is Livio's coverage of many of the "life, the universe and everything" topics, and the reassuring knowledge that all this is based on well-grounded, well-researched fact. His references and notes are comprehensive enough to satisfy the most pedantic of readers, and although the book is likely to end up on a "popular science" table, the scholarship involved and breadth of his research suggests that it could make a useful reference tool as well. Better still, Livio has the rare ability to explain complex ideas in terms simple enough to remember and later wax lyrically about across your coffee table or local pub. It's a book to make you feel (if only temporarily) like a genius yourself.
Charlotte Mulcare has recently completed a PhD in human genetics. The project used a series of different statistical techniques to identify historic signatures of natural selection from modern patterns of genetic variation. She is currently job-hunting...


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Celebrate Fidel's 90th birthday
written by ACFS Perth
at Monday, June 27, 2016
Be part of the celebration of Fidel Castro's 90th birthday.
90 countries around the world join forces to celebrate the life of one of the most influential leaders of all times. Dance the night away with Latin Fusion at the Fremantle Navy Club from 7pm for dinner, music
starts at 8pm.
For bookings and tickets contact us by email: firstname.lastname@example.com or call 0419812872


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President Barack Obama kept his job and the Democrats held the Senate, while the Republicans kept control of the House of Representatives. While the same combination has produced little but partisan bickering and legislative gridlock in recent years, veteran lobbyists expect there to be a new dynamic now that the campaign is over.
"Even though in the big picture we have the same parties in control, I do think things have changed considerably," said Greg Wetstone, vice-president of governmental affairs at renewable energy company Terra-Gen Power.
The fact that Obama's second term will be his last should make it easier for him and his Republican opponents to compromise without giving up any political advantage. It also gives Obama the flexibility to more aggressively pursue his own agenda, which includes strong support for renewables.
At the same time, there are challenges. Momentum is building to overhaul the tax system in the US, essentially by lowering tax rates and at the same time cutting off some of the loopholes companies use to avoid paying taxes. That could pose a significant threat to the wind industry's key support mechanism, the $0.022/kWh production tax credit. Richard Glick, vice-president of government affairs at energy firm Iberdrola Renewables, expects to see the tax credit phased out.
"All energy tax incentives are going to be on the table," he said. "I think it would be foolish for the wind industry or the solar industry or any other technology receiving credits not to plan for that."
Given the fiscal challenges facing the US, said Glick, the industry will need to advocate for support that does not cost the government either cash or lost tax revenue. A possibility is a clean energy standard (CES), which would require utilities to supply a minimum quota of electricity from clean sources and could boost the market for new wind. The idea has the backing of both Obama and the Senate, said Glick.
The hurdle is Congress, where opposition to a CES is strong. It seems that the only way a CES could pass is as part of a broader energy bill that tackles more than renewables. "In that case, I think there is potential for bargaining," said Glick.
Tax reform
Although climate change issues barely registered during the election campaign, it did score a mention in Obama's victory speech, leading some to hope the president will take up the cause during his last term. While climate policy faces the same challenges as a CES, there may be a slight opening for progress. If tax reform results in big cuts to corporate taxes, the government will have to find new revenue. A study from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in August found a carbon tax would raise $1.5 trillion over ten years.
"There has been increasing chatter about a carbon tax, even among some Republican and conservative-oriented groups," said Glick. "Some might view this as a trade-off worth having if they get significant reductions in corporate taxes in exchange."
Beyond politics
Ultimately, the greatest impact on wind energy may come from the market and not the country's political masters. "We cannot ignore the huge impact of natural gas prices and how they are crowding out renewables," said Jonathan Weisgall, vice-president of legislative and regulatory affairs at utility MidAmerican Energy Holdings.
An extraction technique known as fracking has unlocked previously inaccessible gas reserves and sent prices tumbling to historic lows. Although there are environmental concerns associated with the practice, Obama seems unlikely to try to impose new regulations on the sector.
"I think you see in the president someone who is a pretty strong supporter of natural gas, who sees it still as that bridge to lower greenhouse gas emissions," said Weisgall.


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Legendary Heroes
Like any other world, Dominia has its Legends. In this new expansion you'll meet Johan, Gabriel Angelfire, Sivitri Scarzam, Hunding, and many more.
As you delve into Dominia's mythology, you'll discover 310 new spells, artifacts, and creatures with the power to defy death.
So enter the world of Legends and join the heroes in the struggle for Dominaria!
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Anthony Mann
Review by Victoria Large
Posted on 23 January 2013
Source Kino International DVD
Categories Noir Mann
Director Anthony Mann's relatively obscure noir, Strange Impersonation, has a premise that's at once outrageous and hooky: Nora Goodrich, a gifted research scientist, is disfigured in a lab accident engineered by her jealous assistant, Arline, who has designs on Nora's fiancé Steven. Nora subsequently fakes her own death, undergoes radical plastic surgery, and sets out to uncover the truth about what happened to her. The film may not be realistic, but it is awfully watchable: we're talking melodrama so high that it often feels surreal, clipping along at a brisk sixty-eight minute running time.
In his essay "Mann in the Dark: the Films Noir of Anthony Mann," critic Robert E. Smith expresses little admiration for the "overstated and coincidence-prone material," described above, but he nevertheless acknowledges that Strange Impersonation "points the way to what would be Mann's forte during this period: a nightmare landscape of pain, trapped characters, and vicious, unscrupulous villains." And indeed, though the film telegraphs many of its punches (including its final twist), Arline's rapidly escalating treachery and Nora's own willingness to go to wild extremes do much to create the kind of "nightmare landscape" that Smith describes. Adding to the nightmarishness is Steven's gullibility and general uselessness. (Supposedly an accomplished scientist, he causes an accidental explosion almost immediately upon entering Nora's laboratory in one of his first scenes.) While one could argue that the characters are too broadly drawn, that broadness also intensifies the potent through-the-looking-glass quality that permeates the film.
Strange Impersonation is a low budget affair from the independent Republic Pictures, but Mann is able to create bits of striking imagery, some of which seems to anticipate the noir-inflected fantasias of films like Tim Burton's Batman or Sam Raimi's Darkman. A flashing neon sign lights a cheap apartment. Arline's dark silhouette appears like a blot. A bandaged Nora peers out at the world from the single eyehole. Perhaps most memorable is the film's grim, groggy interrogation sequence, which finds Nora under a blinding white light, trapped in too-close close-ups while people tower over her. The scene builds to a queasy crescendo as images and voices begin to overlap. There's undoubtedly a touch of nostalgia in my fondness for all of this, but it's fun just the same.
Indeed, Strange Impersonation is easy to get a kick out of, especially when we encounter its wonderfully odd side characters. That includes H.B. Warner (who also played Mr. Gower in It's a Wonderful Life) as the plastic surgeon who tells Nora, "You can change your face — with clever surgery you can change your face completely — but you cannot change yourself. You cannot escape the person you are," and character actress Mary Treen as an oppressively optimistic nurse who refers to her patients as "we." (As in, "It gets awfully tiresome when we're all alone in the dark.") The film is unapologetically weird, and more interesting for it.
Yet while time has been kind to the film's occasional visual flourishes and notable character turns, its assumptions about gender are nothing if not creaky. For instance: when Steven asserts that Nora would have stood by him had he been the one who was disfigured, Nora insists that, "it wouldn't have been the same thing at all," and much of the conflict in the story stems from Nora's refusal to put her marriage to Steven ahead of her (apparently groundbreaking and valuable) scientific research. Steven may be little more than a dupe, but he's also the prize that Nora and Arline are vying for, and the film is not radical enough to question that, or Arline's assertion that "money, security, and comfort" are "everything a woman wants."
Strange Impersonation is both stylistically and ideologically of its time, and that serves as both a recommendation and something of an apology. The ending is at once predictable and conservative, but there's a great deal of loopy enjoyment to be had along the way.
Strangers in the Night
1944Strange Impersonation
1946He Walked By Night
1948The Great Flamarion
1945Border Incident
1949Side Street
1947We don't do comments anymore, but you may contact us here or find us on Twitter or Facebook.


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Here's a thing that happens quite often: some big geeky property, a comic, or tin of mints or wevs gets the film rights sorted, a writer is assigned, everyone dashes to imdb to check out the writer's cv, then posts annoyed comments on the internet saying things like 'How dare the writer of Slapdash Teen Comedy and Pisspoor Horror Ripoff be put in charge of our Beloved Geek Thing!'. I know, because I used to think exactly the same.
However, here are the scripts that don't show up on imdb, despite written by exactly the same writer:
Sensitive Yet Somehow Not Annoying Indie Romcom
Amazingly Multilayered Time Travel Comedy Thing
Ghost Story With Twist, But Not The Twist You Expected
Adaptation Of That Comic You Like, Done Just The Way You Would Have Done It If You'd Thought Of It
Mummy Feature That Somehow Makes Mummies Cool Again
Those script could all be out there, but they'd never show up on imdb because… they never got made. Any writer who's been around for more than five years will likely have all sorts of scripts that never got out of development, but are considered strong enough to get meetings, get more scripts commissioned, and the cycle continues. Even if one of those scripts does get made, it will likely be so neutered by the studios that the original script gains a kind of cult following, being passed around in a carved rosewood box that somehow feels heavier when you take the script out.
I've now built up a portfolio of scripts that never got made, but are solid enough to send out to various production companies as calling cards. Which is great and everything, but a script that never gets made is kind of a sad thing, like those Sunday supplements full of recipes you convince yourself you'll one day get round to making, but every six months end up gathered into a great bale and chucked into the paper recycling. Which lead to the following two confusingly contradictory conversations:
I am talking with a producer with whom I've worked for a few years on various projects, all of which have got right to the top of the commissioning pile… and then fallen at the final hurdle.
ME: So with this new one…
PROD: Mmm.
ME: Well if this were to get picked up, what happens to all the other scripts?
PROD: How do you mean?
ME: Well, if Dystopian Future Cornish Werewolf Series* happens, does someone with a big desk tell their minion to go and get my backlist, and take a fresh look at them, because it turned out after all, what the hell, the kid knew a thing or two? Could Snowboarding Victorian Elves** rise from the dead (which could also work as series in itself btw)?
PROD: No.
ME: Oh.
PROD: It doesn't work like that.
ME: Okay. I mean, I didn't think it would.
PROD: Well you were right.
I am meeting another producer, of at least equal status, which is to say: at least three television series produced, at least two of which got awards.
PROD 2: … and if this one gets picked up, well…
ME: 'Well'?
PROD 2: Then some of the other scripts we've worked on stand a very good chance of coming out of hibernation.
ME: I didn't think it worked like that.
PROD 2: Why wouldn't it work like that?
ME: I don't know.
PROD 2: You have a very strange idea about how this industry works.
So basically, William Goldman was right, and no-one knows anything. Including William Goldman, have you read that thing where he goes on about it being a stupid choice in The Big Lebowski not to show the culmination of the bowling competition? He missed the point completely, the boy's a fool.
* Not a real series. ** Also not a real series, but I want it to happen one day, just to annoy Richard Preddy.


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Tim's mention of a recent call for VAP applications got me thinking: There's been a lot of discussion about what the collapse of the job market for law school graduates ought to mean for the law school curriculum and the size of law school faculties. Everyone now acknowledges a basic change in the environment, and the debate seems to be about whether it's coming from a five-hundred-year flood event or a permanent change in the sea level. Nobody can seriously argue for expansion of legal education; the debate is about how much it should contract and what an altered version should look like. People seem to agree that it's not ethical to prepare vast numbers of students for considerably-less-than-vast numbers of jobs.
Because I'm at a law school that does not have a VAP program, I am not hearing discussion about the proliferation of these programs in recent years and whether it's ethical to sustain them in an environment where open faculty positions are, and will likely remain, fewer than in the past.
Are such discussions taking place?
This, by the way, is no criticism specifically of the VAP program that Tim mentioned, or of any other particular VAP program. It's a question about our field as a whole.


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Working Groups
Working groups are set up by a group of Ministries of Education to tackle a specific issue. The remit and duration are defined by the Ministries involved.
1.ICT@SCHOOL Indicators Working Group
Description: The ICT@school Indicators Working Group (WG) exchanges about existing national surveys on ICT at school, discusses their various results, and provides possible follow-up actions to improve the monitoring of ICT developments in education at cross-country, European, and global levels in a comparative way. In 2022, one focus of the WG was the national survey on the impact of COVID-19 in Croatia, which provided important insights on how the change of setting and logistics affected the teaching and learning experiences of teachers and students. The survey also highlighted the importance of students' socialisation and well-being. The WG also explored a report on the digitisation of education in Switzerland. The report provides an extensive literature review, including 56 meta-analyses of studies on the impact of digital education. Digital device use is correlated with lower student success, possibly because digital methods are used as a remedial action for low-achieving students. The report also shows the variation in digital resource quality and infrastructure, and the variation in digitalisation between schools and education systems.
The WG also exchanged about digital education action plans with a focus on Ireland, as many countries have developed or are in the process of developing their new cycle of digital strategy. Many WG members are currently working on their country's participation in international surveys such as ICILS and PISA and had the opportunity to share their experiences.
In 2022, the ICT@School Indicators Working Group (WG) grew larger, now counting 23 participating countries: Belgium (both Flemish and French-speaking communities), Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and Turkey.
2. Interactive Classroom Working Group
Description: The Interactive Classroom Working Group brings together seven Ministries of Education, from Belgium (Flanders), Czechia, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Portugal and Switzerland, to explore common areas of concern, share experiences and address policy challenges related to the integration of a wide range of technologies in classrooms and their impact on teaching and learning.
In 2022, the group met regularly to discuss the work plan and progress on the research on effective digital learning approaches and practices, contributing to the formation of the Guidelines for teaching & learning online as part of the 'new normal'. During the 2022 edition of the School Innovation Forum, the group had the chance to hold a hybrid meeting, and most members of the group attended the EMINENT conference in Dublin. The group has been reflecting on substantially reshaping and adapting the remit of the Working Group in 2023.
3. The Ministries of Educations' Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) representatives Working Group (MoE STEM WG)
Description: This Working Group is a platform of discussion and exchange for Ministries of Education regarding their STEM education policies. The overall objective of this initiative is to help lay the foundations for medium and long-term strategies and activities between Ministries of Education in the field of STEM education, especially within the Scientix project, following an agenda that addresses the Ministries' priorities and main interests. European Schoolnet coordinates the Working Group. The group was launched in March 2016, and the Ministries of Education are responsible for appointing members.
24 Ministries of Education from 23 countries have confirmed their participation and appointed a STEM representative as of 8 October 2020, including Belgium (Flanders), Belgium (Wallonia), Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, and Turkey.
4. Digital Citizenship Working Group
Description: The Digital Citizenship Working Group, composed of members or nominees from Ministries of Education (MoEs), was established in 2017. It tackles challenges related to digital citizenship while keeping teachers and schools actively involved in its debates and in the design of its action plans.
The Working Group typically meets twice per year with the aim to:
- - develop a strategic digital citizenship framework and give a steer to European Schoolnet's digital citizenship roadmap;
- - provide a platform for exchange between European Schoolnet network members, identifying best practices to share and challenges to overcome;
- - identify gaps and explore new areas of work.
There are 18 countries/members participating in the working group: Belgium (Flemish community), Belgium (French community), Denmark, Finland, France, Hungary, Ireland, Luxembourg, Malta, The Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Turkey, Latvia, and Serbia.


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Let $(C, \otimes)$ be a symmetric monoidal category (maybe braided is also okay). Then the category $\text{Mon}(C)$ of monoid objects in $C$ is also a symmetric monoidal category with the same monoidal product. The category $\text{Mon}(\text{Mon}(C))$ is, by the Eckmann-Hilton argument, just the category of commutative monoids in $C$; by a second application of Eckmann-Hilton, the process of constructing monoid categories stabilizes in the sense that the corresponding sequence of forgetful functors
$$... \to \text{Mon}(\text{Mon}(C)) \to \text{Mon}(C) \to C$$
stabilizes to a sequence of equivalences by the third functor at worst. However, the same argument shows that if $C$ is itself the category of monoids in some other symmetric monoidal category, then this sequence in fact stabilizes by the second functor, and if $C$ is itself the category of commutative monoids in some other symmetric monoidal category, then this sequence in fact stabilizes by the first functor.
So symmetric monoidal categories are divided up into three classes based on how soon the process of repeatedly constructing monoid categories stabilizes. Are there names for these three classes? Are there theorems characterizing them, for example theorems to the effect that if $C$ stabilizes early then it is nontrivially a category of monoids (not just $\text{Mon}(C)$ in the case that it stabilizes by the first functor)? (Vaguer question: is there some kind of homotopy-theoretic interpretation of these three classes?)
A somewhat nontrivial example of a category $C$ such that $\text{Mon}(C) \to C$ is already an equivalence is $C = \text{Set}^{op}$ with categorical coproduct (product in $\text{Set}$) as the monoidal product. This is due to the fact that every set has a unique comonoid structure given by the diagonal $X \ni x \mapsto (x, x) \in X \times X$. The corresponding monoid interpretation is that $\text{Set}^{op}$ can be realized as a suitable category of Boolean rings, which are commutative monoid objects in the category of abelian groups (with tensor product).


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Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant Full Time Float
Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on Indeed, that the salary rate/range set forth herein was provided by Indeed. Concentra's market specific rate/range will be provided during the interview process.
Concentra, one of the largest health care companies in the nation, is looking for a Float Physician Assistant who will provide comfort and care to patients when they need it most. As a Float Physician Assistant, you will be the go-to provider for examinations as you work one-on-one helping patients. The treatments you provide, based on the exam results you and your team review and interpret collaboratively, will make a huge impact on the wellbeing of your patients.
At Concentra, you are not only rewarded by helping thousands of patients feel better each year, but you are also recognized as a key contributor within the company. Hone your skills with the chance to join medical expert panels, educate colleagues, and more. Whatever your career goals may be, Concentra will help you get there.
Concentra's wide network of clinics ensure career growth opportunities and a healthy work-life balance.
- Clinic environment
- Training Provided in Our World-Class Occupational Medicine Process Management Model
- Production and Center Achievement Bonuses
- Medical Malpractice Coverage
- CME Allowance/Time
- 401(k) with Employer Match
- Medical/Vision/Prescription/Dental Plans
- Life Insurance/Disability
- Paid Time Off /Holidays
- Colleague Referral Bonus Program
If you're looking for an organization that cares for your growth and well-being as much it does its patients, consider Concentra.
This job requires access to confidential and sensitive information, requiring ongoing discretion and secure information management.
Concentra is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans
This position is eligible to earn a base compensation rate in the state range of $128,276.84 - $166,742.01 annually depending on job-related factors as permitted by applicable law, such as level of experience, geographic location where the work is performed, and/or seniority.
- 100% patient care, see on average, 3 patients per hour
- Evaluates and treats Center patients in accordance with Concentra's medical model.
- Establishes and monitors appropriate level of care for center patients.
- Completes all medical record documentation prior to end of shift.
- Works with Center Medical Director to ensure operations are consistent with medical and professional standards of care, Association and Concentra.
- Meet with Concentra's Medical Director or designate to discuss quality of patient care, review policies, procedures, outcomes reports, and records.
- Participates in quality management processes including encouragement of clinical support staff to assure proficiency in the delivery of clinical support activities.
- Calls client representatives following employee treatment for initial injury and/or at any significant change in status.
- Calls patients to ensure their well-being as needed following center visits.
Two to five years of experience in primary care, occupational medicine, urgent care, or an emergency medicine setting is preferred
- Licensure requirements of the state of jurisdiction
- Graduate of an accredited PA program or an accredited university
- Board Certification or eligibility
- Graduate of accredited PA program of accredited university
- Occupational Medicine experience preferred, but are willing to train otherwise qualified candidates in this area of medicine


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13 Nights | Europe
About Cartagena, Colombia
You will visit the following 7 places:
Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory on the south coast of Spain known for the Rock of Gibraltar (a major landmark of the region), a 426m limestone ridge at its centre. It is a very unique place for the curious traveller. You can take the time to explore the caves and tunnels. The inside of the rock is an absolute labyrinth with secret internal roads and tunnels four times longer than those on the surface. Military presence and security in this otherwise deserted area is strong but almost invisible. Also, at the Apes' Den (Queen's Gate) and in the area of the Great Siege Tunnels there is the rare opportunity to see semi-wild primates at close quarters. If you let them, the monkeys will be their captivating selves and behave in their everyday natural manner.
Palma is a resort city, the capital and largest city of the autonomous community of the Balearic Islands in Spain. It is situated on the south coast of Majorca on the Bay of Palma. As of the 2009 census, the population of the city of Palma proper was 401,270, and the population of the entire urban area was 621,000, making it the twelfth largest urban area of Spain. Almost half of the total population of Majorca live in Palma. The Cabrera Archipelago, though widely separated from Palma proper, is administratively considered part of the municipality. Its airport, Son Sant Joan, serves over 22 million passengers each year.
Seville is the artistic, cultural, and financial capital of southern Spain. It is the capital of the autonomous community of Andalusia and of the province of Seville. It is situated on the plain of the River Guadalquivir, with an average elevation of 7 metres (23 ft) above sea level. The inhabitants of the city are known as sevillanos (feminine form: sevillanas) or hispalenses, following the Roman name of the city, Hispalis. The tapas scene is one of the main cultural attractions of the city: people go from one bar to another, enjoying small dishes called tapas (literally "lids" or "covers" in Spanish, referring to their probable origin as snacks served on small plates used to cover drinks). Local specialities include fried and grilled seafood (including squid, choco (cuttlefish), swordfish, marinated dogfish, and ortiguillas), grilled and stewed meat, spinach with chickpeas, Jamón ibérico, lamb kidneys in sherry sauce, snails, caldo de puchero, and gazpacho. A sandwich known as a serranito is the typical and popular version of fast food.
The capital of Portugal, Lisbon (Portuguese: Lisboa) has experienced a renaissance in recent years, with a contemporary culture that is alive and thriving and making its mark in today's Europe. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is one of the rare Western European cities that faces the ocean and uses water as an element that defines the city. Lisbon enchants travellers with its white-bleached limestone buildings, intimate alleyways, and an easy-going charm that makes it a popular year-round destination.
Málaga is a large city in the southern Spanish region of Andalucia and capital of the Malaga Province. The largest city on the Costa del Sol, Malaga has a typical Mediterranean climate and is also known as the birthplace of famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. The city offers beaches, hiking, architectural sites, art museums, excellent shopping and cuisine. While more laid back than Madrid or Barcelona, Malaga is still the center and transport hub for the hugely popular Costa del Sol region, which is flooded with tourists in the summer, and the city has certainly cashed in on the sun and sand, with lots of new construction as well as hotels and facilities geared to tourists. However, Malaga also offers some genuinely interesting historical and cultural attractions in its old city and its setting on the coast is still beautiful.
Barcelona – Spain's enchanting capital, second largest and most populous city. It is a huge city that vibrates with life, and there's certainly not another city in the country to touch it for its sheer style, looks or energy. It is one of the world's leading tourist, economic, trade fair and cultural centers, and its influence in commerce, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science, and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities. Barcelona is home to masterpieces of many great architects – the most famous of which is Antoni Gaudí.
Cartagena is Colombia's most famous tourist destination on the Caribbean coast. The city is renowned for its colonial and colourful architecture. With a tropical climate, the city is also a popular beach destination. The city was founded on June 1, 1533, and named after Cartagena, Spain, itself after the original Carthage in Tunisia. However, settlement in this region around Cartagena Bay by various indigenous people dates back to 4000 BC. During the colonial period Cartagena served a key role in administration and expansion of the Spanish empire. It was a center of political and economic activity due to the presence of royalty and wealthy viceroys. In 1984 Cartagena's colonial walled city and fortress were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


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President Donald Drumpf's refugee and immigration policies, including a travel ban from several Muslim-majority countries, will be discussed by a panel of experts from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 4 in Daemen College's Wick Campus Center Social Room.
The panel discussion, "The Myths and Realities of Drumpf Policies on Refugees and Immigrants," will examine the new administration's policies, the controversial travel ban barring refugees from six Muslim-majority countries from entering the U.S. and its impact on area refugees, protecting refugee and immigrant rights, and strategies to address the policies.
"Our goal for this event is to help shed light on the significant impact these policies will have on refugees, a population that locally has changed the face of the Buffalo Niagara region," said Cheryl Bird, executive director of Daemen's Paul A. Saffrin Center for Sustainability and Civic Engagement, which is sponsoring the event. "Through various service learning opportunities, many of our students work with refugees in our community, and we remain committed to our efforts in assisting these families."
Panelists will include:
- Julie Algubani, civil rights/social justice activist.
- Dr. Myron Glick, founder and chief medical officer at the Jericho Road Community Health Center.
- Julia Hall, Amnesty International's expert on counter-terrorism and human rights.
- Karen Scott, executive director at Journey's End Refugee Services.
- Claude Welch, human rights expert and SUNY Distinguished Professor of Political Science.
The event is free and open to the public. Lunch will be provided. Additional information is available by contacting Cheryl Bird at email@example.com.


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