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Peggy Walker (nee Gaines) (b. 1944) was born and raised in Nashville, in a family of four children. There was no specific professional music talent within the family at that time - her entry into singing was through church, school competitions and a variety of local and regional singing competitions, from around the age of ten years. Peggy attended Cameron High School where she sang in the glee club and school choir, before she met band leader Bob Holmes and embarked on a professional singing career.
Robert L. Holmes (b. unknown d. 2000) was born in Mississippi but raised in Memphis, where he first learned his craft as a pianist through music lessons paid for by his local church. As an older teenager he moved to Nashville to attend Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial University, and then onto other academic settings to study music. He was as comfortable playing and arranging R&B and gospel as he was with classical works. Holmes was also heavily involved with jazz artists, helping to form the first black youth string ensemble in Nashville, and was also the musical director for the Night Train TV show.
Bob picked up on Peggy's talent when she was around seventeen years of age. By 1961 she was performing live with his band in a number of Nashville clubs. Bob introduced her to Ted Jarrett who was a songwriter and producer for Hit at the time, and before long Ted invited Peggy to do some background vocals and session work.
Her first solo record was a cover of Dee Dee Sharp's novelty song "Gravy" (Giant 1012). On the 1962 Giant release she was credited as Mary Sue, but the song was released again in the same year (Hit 19) under her real name. A similar situation occurred with a competent version of The Marvelettes' "Playboy", which Peggy recorded with The Avons on background vocals. On the Hit release she appeared as Peggy Gaines (Hit 17) but as Betty White on another label (Caravelle 2002). Peggy had a further six releases for Hit over the next two years, including a version of "Dancing In The Street" (Hit 145) - once more under the Mary Sue pseudonym. Her other Hit 45s were recorded as June Richards and Peggy Thompson. To add to the confusion, two tracks listed as by Peggy Gaines ("Walk On By" and "Every Little Bit Hurts") were in fact recorded by Alpha Zoe. The use of multiple label releases and artist titles was partly a tactic of the label owner to create an appearance of a range of available artists at any one point in time. Another reason was to provide cover for moonlighting singers, although Peggy herself wasn't signed to another label at that time.
Between the Hit recordings (1962-1964) and the second stage in her recording career with Ref-O-Ree in 1969, she focussed on performing as a resident singer at Club Zanzibar, a popular jazz venue on Jefferson Street, and at another club on Payton's Place.
As a result of her Hit releases and popularity around Nashville as a club singer, Peggy appeared on the Night Train TV show in 1965 to present a version of the ballad "One Step Ahead". The song had just appeared as the flipside to Aretha Franklin's "I Can't Wait Until I See My Baby's Face" which had peaked at #18 on the R&B charts. Peggy performed the televised track with The Hytones providing backing, but it was never released as a 45.
The period after her cover of "Dancing In The Street" marked a temporary lull in Peggy's recording career, as she focused on performing at Club Zanzibar between 1964 and 1966.
Ref-O-Ree was the creation of Ted Jarrett, a year after Poncello folded, whilst he was still working for Spar. Bob Holmes came on board as songwriter, arranger and producer. Holmes by this stage had a history of studio work behind him, as arranger and producer at Excello, working with his own groups such as The Avons and The Hytones, and his position as the musical director on the Night Train show. Spar took on distribution of Ref-O-Ree and as a result sales and productivity progressively increased. The current catalogue owner Bluesland holds well over one hundred songs intended for release on Ref-O-Ree within their masters archive, and there were approximately thirty-five single releases on the label between 1968 and 1973. Peggy Gaines' first appearance on the imprint was in 1969 with the mid-tempo "Just To Satisfy My Baby"/ "Sweet Way of Living" (Ref-O-Ree 711). Two mixes of "Sweet Way Of Living" exist on the same catalogue number; one with the piano instrumentation high in the mix, and another with strings. These versions are visually distinguishable only by dead wax markings (R711A and R711X, respectively). Ref-O-Ree label collector Dave Halsall suggests that as the 711 release was the most common on the label, a second pressing run to meet demand may have occurred but a different master used - whether intentionally or otherwise. One other recording was made in 1969: "More" / "My Funny Valentine". This was assigned a catalogue number (Ref-O-Ree 726) but never released.
In the UK both Kent vinyl release exists of Peggy's previously unreleased "When The Boy That You Love (Is Loving You)", which is the song of most interest to the northern soul scene. Contrary to online reports, the recording is probably dated 1969, around the time of her signing to Ref-O-Ree. Kent's parent company Ace initially came across the recording via Ref-O-Ree masters procured under licence. The title appeared in 1998 on the Kent CD Music City Soul: From Nashville's Black Cats CD (CDKEND 157). The first vinyl release followed as a 100 Club Anniversary 45 (Kent Anniversary 6t14). An alternative unreleased take (likely from the same session) on "When The Boy That You Love" has remained in the can until very recent CD release by Kent. Ace / Kent have also released an earlier up-tempo version by The Avons with a male backing on the Northern Soul's Classiest Rarities Volume 5 CD (CDKEND 432) and on 45 (Kent Select CITY 041). The Avons' take was originally ear-marked for Excello, though never materialised as a vinyl release. An acetate format of the Avons take resides at the time of writing with UK soul collector Steve Green.
Kent have also released an earlier recording by Peggy Gaines called "Everybody Knows" on Lost Without You: The Best Of Kent Ballads 2 (CDKEND 439) which was procured via master-tapes from Bob Holmes. Whilst the origins of the recording are unclear, it is possible that this was recorded around 1965 perhaps as a demo for Bob Holmes' Southern Artists label.
By the early 1970s Peggy moved to Alabama to concentrate on raising a family. She continued to work as a session singer, and returned occasionally to perform at the New Era which had relocated due to federally mandated urban renewal projects (which would ultimately break up the African-American community and associated live music scenes). Peggy stills performs now with the John Bull Band in Montgomery, Alabama where she has resided for the last forty years. The resident riverboat blues and R&B band also compromises ex captain and owner John Bull on harp / vocals; guitarist Pete Terrell who has played alongside Ray Charles; James Strankman on bass, and drummer John "Clam Chop" Etheridge. The band's guitarist (and Peggy's husband) was Sheffield Walker, whose previous credits included work at Woodland Sound Studio for Slim Harpo's 1968 LP "Tip On In" (Excello LP8008). Peggy would occasionally come to sing with the John Bull Band, and has now become their regular singer since Sheffield Walker passed on in early 2015.
From House of Broken Hearts by E. Mark Windle, available in the new book section.


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How to survive hanging out with 6th graders
When you try to interact with people either older or younger than you, you are always bound to run into issues. Whether it's the fact that you don't understand your senior's jokes or try to unravel an elementary schooler's brain to understand the reference that they just made, it can be hard to have true, honest conversations. So if you ever find yourself in a room full of 6th graders, here are some tips to help you seem cool. You can use these tricks on your little siblings, kids you babysit, or wherever you find kids in the wild.
1. Try to talk to them about things that they care about. This trick is hard if you don't actually know the kid, so you can always start with asking them what their favorite color is, favorite food, or video game. Sometimes they will just tell you with one word, so try to ask engaging questions in which they will have to give you a long answer.
2. Listen to what they have to say, especially if they are excited about something. Whether it be a new cool toy or something that is happening in their lives, always take the time to listen to them. The best conversations are ones in which both people get to talk for extended amounts of time. Try your best to listen and ask questions along the way to truly get to know your little friend.
3. If they are younger, they are very impressionable, so you can tell them silly things that they are bound to believe or they try to explain to you why it isn't true. Whether it be telling them that a whale lives in the lake, named Fred of course, or that you saw a unicorn this morning when walking to school or work, this one works the best for large groups of kids as they can agree amongst themselves whether they believe you are lying or not. Either way, it gets them talking and interacting with you and their peers as they try to explain to you that, Idaho, is in fact, a real state.
As you may have found out by now, these tips can help you have nice conversations with people of every age, not just kids younger than you. Try to listen the best you can, ask questions to show them that you are listening, and try to engage them with things that you like or that you both have in common. If you do this, you will find that you will start to have better conversations with everyone around you. From the kid down the street, to maybe even your mom or grandparents, these are some great ways to have intriguing conversations.
Ella is a senior at Delphi and is thrilled to be returning to the Parnassus staff as a second year member. Ella loves hanging out with friends, reading,...

subset: commoncrawl


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Omaha, NE – Protesters left severed pig heads wearing police hats outside the Omaha Police Officers Association (OPOA) building after holding a "pig roast" event at a nearby park on Saturday evening.
"Everything was beautiful," ProBLAC Omaha leader and event organizer Alexander "Bear" Matthews told the Beatrice Daily Sun. "We were grilling out, and it was just a typical cookout."
"We wanted to finish up by dropping off the pig heads and the flyers at the union doors," Matthews added.
The gathering at Montclair Park was organized in protest of a flyer Omaha Police Sergeant Anthony Conner, president of the OPOA, had distributed labeling former Omaha City Council candidate Cammy Watkins as being anti-police, the Omaha World-Herald reported.
"Cammy Watkins gives defunding the police a thumbs up," the flyer read. "Risking our families' safety. Increasing violent crime and gun violence. Jeopardizing Omaha's future…No Police. No Protection. No Peace. In Cammy Watkins' Omaha, no one is safe."
Watkins, an Independent, ended up losing the election to Democrat Dan Begley, the Beatrice Daily Sun reported.
The gathering at the park, which was formally organized by the Revolutionary Action Party, kicked off at 7 p.m. on May 22 with the "pig roast" and various speakers, according to the paper.
The group blasted Sgt. Conner for distributing the anti-Watkins flyers and complained that the Nebraska Democratic Party hadn't done enough to push back against the information the flyers contained.
The event wrapped up shortly before 9 p.m., at which point a mob of approximately 50 protesters marched over to the OPOA building at West Center Road and 134th Street, the Beatrice Daily Sun reported.
Some carried severed pig heads they'd obtained from a packinghouse employee, the Omaha World-Herald reported.
The group said they intended to leave the heads and copies of the flyer outside the union building, according to the paper.
Omaha police put out four announcements in a 10-minute period, warning the protesters that they were trespassing on private property and needed to disperse, the Omaha World-Herald reported.
The gathering was declared an unlawful assembly at 9:10 p.m., according to the Beatrice Daily Sun.
"Officers then moved in to arrest instigators and the crowd fled westbound towards the park" or stood in the street, refusing to move, an Omaha Police Department (OPD) spokesperson told the paper.
Police arrested seven suspects, including Matthews, by the time the situation was over.
They have been charged with a variety of offenses, including failure to disperse, trespassing, obstructing, disorderly conduct, unlawful assembly, and littering, the Omaha World-Herald reported.
Sgt. Conner later posted photos of the severed pigs' heads left outside the union building to Facebook.
Some of the heads were wearing police costume caps.
"What part of this is ok?" Sgt. Conner wrote.
Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert slammed the protest and denounced the group's tactics on Monday, noting that citizens "are fed up with hateful and divisive acts," the Omaha World-Herald reported.
"The disgusting incident at the Omaha Police Officers Association headquarters Saturday night was intended to provoke conflict," Stothert said in a written statement. "The responding officers acted professionally and responsibly after repeated attempts to peacefully clear private property."
Prior to the mayor's statement, the Revolutionary Action Party took to Facebook to accuse the OPD of turning "an entirely peaceful demonstration…into a violent man hunt."
The group said they held their "Pig Roast" event "only feet away from the Omaha Pig Union" in an effort "to expose and shine a light on Anthony Connor and his Klan of pigs for [their] Fascist, racist, sexist, and patriarchal propaganda."
This ongoing behavior is despicable. Dehumanizing those who serve and protect our community is shameful. It is way past time for @janekleeb, @Nebraskadems, @votedcdems to call out this behavior and say they won't tolerate it. pic.twitter.com/jJW7BQDsAK
— Don Bacon (@DonJBacon) May 23, 2021
"We organized this demonstration to educate the community while combating these oppressive entities. We organized this to hold these uncivilized, racists and misogynistic thugs accountable," the group claimed. "But once again, and to no one's surprise, OPD showed their true white supremacist colors during our final peaceful demonstration of the night."
The group said the marchers were trying to return the "racist, sexist, inflammatory mailers" against Watkins to the "pig union," but that "5 pig cars" blocked them from reaching their final destination.
"They then told us to leave the property, when we decided to stand our ground and stand behind our constitutional rights to peacefully assemble and protest," the Revolutionary Action Party wrote. "They threatened to use force on us, as well as chemical weapons despite the demonstration and the pig union being in the midst of a residential area with children and families outside watching the whole instance."
The group said they "chose to stand our ground, as our Omaha tax dollars pay for the pigs salaries."
A short while later, "over 20 pig cars and 30 pigs" were on the scene, according to the protest group.
The anti-police demonstrators claimed officers "invoke[d] intimidation tactics" and started singling out black people to arrest and "torment."
They further accused police of engaging "in a twisted game of hunting Black and Brown bodies through a residential area," and alleged "the pigs continued spewing fascistic, hateful, and racist comments towards" them throughout the entire booking process.
The group said those arrested were "charged with ridiculous and quite frankly baseless misdemeanors."
The Revolution Action Party demanded apologies from county and state Democrat groups and ordered them to "renounce and refuse any endorsements or financial support from the OPOA," according to the post.
They also demanded an apology from Begley and ordered him to create "adequate policy to implement that would combat these racist southern strategies to flourish in our community."
The group further demanded a resignation from Sgt. Conner.
"The Omaha Police Department is not here to protect us. They are not here to serve us. And they for damn sure, aren't here to respect our rights," the group declared.
Despite the Revolution Action Party's claims that police targeted protesters of color and let white protesters go, Douglas County Jail records showed that two of the suspects arrested on the night of the demonstration were white, according to the Beatrice Daily Sun.
Stothert said she backs the OPD and that she is "confident" that local citizens will do the same, the Omaha World-Herald reported.


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Research has shown that people who live in cramped cities tend to change their mood and their eyes relax by simply seeing greenery. This is because we are supposed to expose our eyes to green vegetation, thus helping reduce radiation to the eyes. For this reason, it's common to find that people who live in rural areas surrounded by more greenery have fewer eyesight problems since they are exposing their eyes to less sunlight, radiation, and glare.
Trees help create a link between different generations.
Everybody knows that trees help clean the atmosphere, purify the air, reverse the ozone effect and attract rain. But, some other products of the sun also need to be observed. However, it should handle like a personal responsibility to have a beneficial effect on planting trees. Trees grow into a historic reminder of previous generations, and families with more significant pieces of land tend to have trees planted by each generation, helping tighten the bond between the different family members.
Trees are a renewable source of energy.
Fuel wood has also been a source of energy used for generations, and scarcities in fuel; food have only been experienced in the past century due to over-exploitation and lack of proper forest management and reforestation. This has resulted, in the deforestation of large tracks of land which have not been regrown, resulting in the shortage. By each person making it the responsibility to plant an x number of trees each year, the number of trees will definitely grow without people needing to place special attention on growing trees. Even ensuring you add one tree to the environment each year will have a long-term effect and help generate fuel wood and reduce the pressure on natural forested areas.
Trees that produce important byproducts
When trees are discussed, many people will limit trees to producing timber and fuel wood, but trees have much more than this, with many making special oils, resins, and glue used for different purposes. One such example is the gun tree which produces rubber used to manufacture vehicles' wheels and most other rubber products. Many people will not realize their 99% of all moving vehicles depend on rubber trees. This is just one example of a tree- few people will know about it and not even take the time to consider its importance until discussed in public. Besides manufacturing raw materials, you may find that many trees and plants also produce medicinal properties.
This shows the importance of planting trees and reinforces the need for people to plant a tree in their surroundings. But at the same time, some research must be performed on the trees and plants and trees which have specific benefits grown, thus helping serve two purposes simultaneously, one being to create added greenery and the other to produce inevitable byproducts needed in the manufacturing industries today.


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.Mpeg2 Skills With Filestar you get 0 different skills for working productively with MPEG-2 Video .(mpeg2) files.
About .Mpeg2 NameMPEG-2 Video Extension.mpeg2 FormatBinary CategoryVideo DeveloperMotion Pictures Expert Group DescriptionVideo file encoded with the MPEG-2 codec, which is mainly used for over-the-air, satellite, and cable digital TV signals and DVD video; uses lossy compression for audio and video to significantly reduce the size of the video data; not as efficient as the H.264 format. MIME Typevideo/mpeg Wikipedia .mpeg2 on Wikipedia


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Gaming stuff. Screen, bibabo toys, games attributes: money, purses, cards, large plates "Theater", "Cash." Preparations for the game. Puppet show. Reading poems about the theater. Cooperative games with older children. By the same author: Code.org.
Manufacturing children attribute to the theater. Watch a movie about the theater. Playing a role. Cashier, checker, driver of the bus and artists. The game. Preparing to play the teacher can begin only after the children during the matinee will be shows a puppet show or they will visit the theater (besides, in front of them may make actors).
Be sure after this experience children caregiver must organize and summarize, considering them a picture and interviewing for its content. Then the teacher brings in a group of two dolls bibabo. A leading source for info: Bobby Sharma Bluestone. To maintain an interest in playing with these dolls and make it sustainable, the teacher must teach children the proper use of puppets to make with them through individual actions otobrazitelnogo character, to teach individual techniques of playing. The doll can shake hands, waving, clapping, bowing, scratching his forehead or cheek, stroking his head but the children, dancing, etc. Children as Typically, this is a great pleasure, and they are happy to imitate the caregiver, making the doll prodelyvat those actions which he showed them. So, gradually, children under the guidance and assistance to educators learn operate the puppets and the game master dedicated gaming techniques. The next step in preparing for the game may be making children playing attributes. Educator offers children draw a beautiful tickets make money.


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The line graph below shows the number of annual visits to Australia by overseas residents. The table below gives information on the country of origin where the visitors came from. Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information given.
Sample Answer of The Line Graph Below Shows the Number of Annual Visits to Australia by Overseas Residents
The line graph elucidates the number of yearly travel to Australia by natives around the world and the origin of travellers who visited Australia between 1975 and 2005.
Overall, it is clear that the number of visitors showed an upward trend. Meanwhile, the majority of tourists were from Japan.
Analyzing the line graph, people from overseas who visited Australia in 1975 were witnessed to be just below 10 million and the populace of international visitors inclined gradually to a little more than 15 million in 1985. After two decades, considerably more than 30 million travellers visited Australia.
Moving towards the table chart, in 1975, out of 8.8 million travellers, 2.9 million and 3.2 million visitors were from South Korea and Japan respectively, whereas only 0.3 million travellers were from China. The number of tourists from South Korea, Japan and China inclined to 9.1 million, 12.0 million and 0.8 million in 2005 respectively. In 1975, 0.4 million Americans visited Australia, and after 30 years, the number of American tourists grew to 1.1 million.
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Compound Lifts: Build Strength and Bulk up Fast
In the world of weight training, strength and muscle gains go hand and hand. Whether you are a power lifter or a bodybuilder, you are going to want to build strength to see results. The more weight you are able to lift with precise form, the more muscle mass you will put on. It's simply a matter of science.
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You are here
Reclassification of medical devices that are substances to be introduced into the body or applied to and absorbed by the skin
This guidance aims to assist sponsors of medical devices that are substances for introduction into the body with meeting their obligations and outlines transitional arrangements to help comply with new regulations.
From 25 November 2021, medical devices that are substances for introduction into the body will be required to meet regulatory requirements demonstrating the safety and performance for Class IIa (low-medium risk) or Class IIb (medium-high risk) devices.
This guidance is specific to medical devices that are composed of substances or of combinations of substances that are intended to be introduced into the body via a body orifice or applied to and absorbed by the skin.
What substances fall within scope of the new regulations?
- For devices that are introduced into the body via an orifice: those that tend to be locally dispersed upon application and rely on their inherent physical or mechanical properties to perform their therapeutic function. While some of these devices may appear similar in formulation and physical attributes to medicinal products, the important distinction is that they do not achieve their principal intended action by pharmacological, metabolic or immunological means.
- For devices that are substances applied to and absorbed by the skin: those that tend to be locally absorbed. Substances which act via systemic absorption would generally be medicines, although any systemic absorption of a device should be considered for safety.
The following devices are not in scope of this regulation:
- Invasive medical devices intended to be used by penetration of body orifices that generally do not locally disperse and depend on an external action or manipulation to achieve their intended purpose (e.g., tongue depressors, dental impression materials or intragastric balloons).
- Surgically invasive medical devices (e.g., surgical instruments, absorbable sutures)
- Non-invasive medical devices that are intended by the manufacturer to be used in contact with injured skin or a mucous membrane that are not absorbed (for example, wound dressings)


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Schematic rules are specific tasks that are executed during schematic diagram generation and update to either simplify the diagram content or create new schematic features based on its initial content.
Learn about automating schematic diagram content by specifying schematic rules
Schematic rules are specified at the diagram template level using Schematic Dataset Editor.
Learn about specifying schematic rules within Schematic Dataset Editor
Schematic rules work in memory during the diagram generation and update processes regardless of the schematic builder used to build the schematic features. They also apply on schematic features built from custom queries when these queries are evaluated at the diagram generation and update.
Schematics provides a set of eight predefined schematic rules that can be used to reduce/remove schematic features, relate schematic features contained in schematic diagrams, expand schematic feature links, and so on. You can also develop your own custom rules by using the Schematics API.
Learn about the predefined schematic rules provided with the Schematics extension


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IAG Cargo to open applications for 2024 graduate scheme at London Heathrow
IAG Cargo is taking applications for its 2024 Graduate Scheme.
The programme has been running for 11 years and specially selects the top 1.1% of applicants to launch their careers in global logistics.
Successful candidates will gain experience across a range of head office functions and have great opportunities for fast progression within the business.
IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is looking for eleven budding logistics professionals to join its two-year graduate programme commencing in September 2024 based at London Heathrow. Having first launched in 2012, the programme has produced numerous senior business leaders and provides valuable experience across different areas of the business from operations, revenue management, human resources to sales.
IAG Cargo supports many industries to transport goods across the globe, helping to keep the world's economy turning. By utilising the belly-holds of passenger flights across the Group's five airlines - British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL – IAG Cargo moves everything you can think of whether it's to keep the automobile production line on schedule, stock supermarket shelves, or to deliver life-saving medicines.
New intakes will benefit from IAG Cargo's brand-new learning hub to ensure a comprehensive induction into the business. Graduates from the 2023 cohort also had the opportunity to travel to IAG Cargo's hubs in Madrid and Dublin to provide an insight into the business' global operations.
Caroline Andrew, Chief People Officer at IAG Cargo said: "Our graduate programme is a key initiative for the business in supporting and developing early-career talent. Working within high-performing teams across the organisation, our graduates are provided with nurturing support in a collaborative setting, fostering their true potential and paving the way for their journey as future leaders."Alongside our enticing accelerated development opportunities such as our Leadership Programme Leading the Way, recently revamped fitness facilities, and travel opportunities, we are establishing an environment conducive for everyone to excel in their careers. We're looking forward to welcoming the upcoming wave of talented individuals and bringing their unique perspectives, and I send my best wishes to all applicants."
Jack Mulholland Kinsella, Logistics Graduate at IAG Cargo commented: "Participating in this graduate programme has been an enriching experience. From the onset, I've assumed significant responsibilities, collaborating with professionals from diverse sectors and drawing inspiration from leaders in the business. Each day presents unique problem-solving opportunities which provides an engaging work environment that continuously challenges and motivates me."
The programme is based at IAG Cargo's head office at London Heathrow and offers a competitive salary, in addition to several employee benefits, flexible work arrangements, including discounted flights.
Applications close at the end of January and applicants will hear whether they have been successful in April.
Find out more about the IAG Cargo Graduate Programme and how to apply.
About IAG Cargo
IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011. Following the integration of additional airlines into the business, including Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL, IAG Cargo now covers a global network covering six continents. It has a combined workforce of more than 2,250 people. Its parent company, International Airlines group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 558 aircraft at 31st December 2022.
For further information on IAG Cargo, please visit the IAG Cargo YouTube channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/IAGCargo or alternatively, visit the IAG Cargo website: https://www.iagcargo.com
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Nadia Bedra


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One man and his dog landed in Bude last week on their epic 8,000 mile hike around the UK Coast and it's islands to raise money for RNLI.
Tim Jones and his best friend 22-month-old staffy/boxer cross Monty are aiming to raise £500,000 for the RNLI.
Tim has spent a large part of his life living on the coast and was a keen follower of the RNLI and admirer of the work they do. Walking the coastline, where everyone is already invested in the RNLI was just the perfect combination for Tim and his fundraising plan.
When Tim's life threw him a curve ball he decided he could either sit in a corner and cry about it or set off and do something epic and he chose the latter. For Tim, the decision to support the RNLI was an easy one.
Tim and Monty set off from Exmouth RNLI on January 23 and have already made incredible progress. They have averaged around 60 miles a week and have even ventured over to the Isles of Scilly.
Tim said he is loving the experiences and that it is the "adventure of a lifetime for one man and his dog".
On their journey the pair stopped off in Bude to meet the RNLI team and were delighted with the warm welcome they received.
Tim told the Post: "Monty and I arrived at RNLI Bude yesterday (March 11) for a quick meet with some of the lads and to get warm and dry after being soaked through. My accommodation for both nights of my stay in Bude is provided by Debs Holloway. Big thank you to her for putting up with us!
"Local businesses who offered support include: Ian French, The Ultimate Fish Co. (Dinner, thurs night), The Barge Bude (breakfast Friday), The Split Bean (lunch Friday) and Crooklets Beach Cafe (tomorrow, on way out of Bude.)
"Massive thanks to all, for supporting Monty and I, and the RNLI."
Tim's adventures are documented on his Facebook page 'Supporters of Tim 'Walking the British coastline for RNLI' www.facebook.com/groups/691090702501293/?ref=share
His Just Giving page can be found at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/timsrnli


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Credit cards allow you to carry less cash for in-store purchases. However, credit cards also open up the world of online shopping. When checking out at an online retailer, you will need additional information besides your name, billing address, credit card number, and expiration date. Because you don't need to sign your name or enter your credit card PIN for online transactions, you will need to enter your security code on your credit card.
Jeff Cleveland/shutterstock.com
What is a security code?
The security code or card verification code (CVC) is a three or four digit code typically on the back of your card. It is not embossed to prevent anyone from making an imprint of your card and possessing all the card information to make fraudulent purchases.
What is the purpose of a security code?
The security code is an extra level of protection for when you make purchases online, by mail or over the phone. It is designed to prevent fraud for CNP (card not present) transactions. The cardholder that has the security code essentially authenticates that they are authorized to make the purchase and to actually be in possession of the card.
Never leave your credit card unmonitored or in someone else's possession. Card skimming is when a thief swipes the card through a skimmer or scanning device to extract the card details from the magnetic stripe. It only takes a few seconds to make a complete copy of your card. The thief can then produce a counterfeit card with the same card number and expiration date. These counterfeit cards can only be used in stores because of the magnetic stripe. Merchant databases should not store the security code number. In fact, if it is discovered that a merchant has stored this information, they may face substantial fines because it is against the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard or PCI-DSS guidelines. As a result, the thief cannot use the card in CNP transactions because he does not have the security code. This makes the thief easier to track and stop because he must be physically present in the store with the counterfeit card.
Where is the security code located?
The location of the security code is dependent on the card issuer. If you have a Visa, Mastercard, or Discover card, the security code should be on the back. It is usually in or near the signature box. It is the final three digits on the right-hand side. If you have an American Express card, you should be able to find your security code on the front of the card. It is either to the left or right of the embossed 15-digit card number. Your security code is a four-digit security code printed on the card and not embossed.
What to do if I can't read my security code?
If you cannot read the security code for some reason, because it is faded or has been scratched off, you will need to contact your card issuer. Be sure to call the customer service number listed on the back of your card. It is possible that if you can't read the security code, you may also not be able to read the phone number. In this case, carefully go to your issuing financial institution's website and find the phone number there. Because you will be requesting a new card, they will need to verify your personal information to confirm your identity.
Additional Tips
Your security code is a safety anti-fraud feature of your credit card. Similar to your PIN, it is a series of numbers that authorizes a transaction. Never give your code out to anyone or write it in a text message or email. It is not embossed for this reason so that no one can access all three essential components of your credit card: the card number, the expiration date, and the security code. Your bank or card issuer will never email, call, or text you asking for this information. The only situation for you to give out your CVC is when you have initiated the call to a trusted retailer, for mail orders from a trusted retailer, and/or for online purchases at a trusted retailer. Furthermore, your online retailer ideally uses website encryption. In other words, the page that you check out on has the extra "s" in https:// to indicate it is a secured website to input your financial data.
There are various names and acronyms for a security code. It is known as a card security code (CSC), a card verification value (CVV or CV2), a signature panel code (SPC), card verification data (CVD), a card code verification (CCV), and the most common acronym, a card verification code (CVC). A retailer's website may ask for any of these acronyms before they can process your transaction.
Your card's security code is different from your credit card's PIN used to make ATM withdrawals and different from your credit card's PIN used to process transactions in a physical store. Please be aware that you cannot choose the digits of your card's security code. In fact, if you get a new credit card, your security code number will likely change as well.
Final Thoughts
In order to protect consumers, credit card companies continue to come out with new security measures to prevent fraud. A security code is designed to stop fraudsters from being able to use stolen data in card-not-present transactions. You can always find your security code on the credit card itself. At times, the bank may recommend that you memorize that number and then block it out or scratch it off as an extra measure of protection. Be sure you are confident that you will not forget the code or take measures to ensure you will have access to the code if you decide to make any physical changes to the card. As always, if you see any suspicious transactions on your account, contact your card issuer immediately.


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Fast Turnaround
Quick turnaround times
for custom-made boxes.
Made in the UK
High-quality and locally
crafted wooden boxes.
We're a family-run business who have been delivering wooden products
to the hospitality trade for over 30 years.
About Us
The family firm values of honesty and fairness, safety and security, loyalty and respect are applied whether dealing with customers, suppliers, or staff. This has not only led to staff remaining with us for many years but has also created numerous loyal customers who have bought from us over successive seasons.
Make a lasting impression with Wooden Box UK! Our high-quality, custom-made chalkboards and wooden point of sale are perfect for any retail or on-trade point of sale.
With 30+ years of experience and a skilled team in sales, design and manufacturing, we guarantee the best possible service and end result. Choose from our wide range of materials and let us help you create the perfect chalkboard for your business today!
In 2001, two close friends (Mike and Ian) set up the Porter and Woodman Group after combining their hamper business with a wood manufacturing company.
The Group has grown somewhat and, in 2020, was taken over by our two existing directors, Matt and Andy, who were responsible for adding new ideas and energy to the company. At present we run three websites, Chalkboards UK, WoodenBox UK, and Porter & Woodman Gifts, all complementing one another at various times of the year.
Growth in all areas has seen staff numbers rising from an initial 15 to over 60 today. We are now the largest private employer within Stourbridge and have a deeply felt duty of care to both our employees and the local community.


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KLANG, 22 Apr: Former Chief Minister, Tan Sri Abdul Khalid Ibrahim will certainly bring back the Port Klang State Legislative Assembly (DUN) seat to the bosom of the people in the 13th General Election (GE-13).
This is a trust that has to be taken up after the candidate that he highlighted in 2008 jumped parties and betrayed the people, explained Abdul Khalid's political secretary, Faekah Husin.
"To ensure that the people are not fooled anymore, we have appointed the Chief Minister to contest here.
"The party did not choose me or any other candidate to contest here.
"But its is choosing the person who suggested and highlighted the 'frog' candidate in the last GE to redeem the mistake of 2008," he said in a talk held at Kampung Nelayan here at Pulau Indah last night.
Also present to give their talks was the Sekinchan DUN candidate, Ng Suee Lim, Klang Parliament candidate, Charles Santiago and also State Government Exco, Ronnie Liu, who is also the former DAP Assemblyman for the Pandamaran DUN for the previous term.
In the GE-12, the Port Klang seat was won by the PKR candidate at the time, Badrul Hisham Abdullah, who defeated BN candidate, Roselinda Abdul Jamil and Independent candidate, Nazir Mansor, with a majority of 4,440 votes.
He then declared that he left PKR in September 2009 and joined Umno six months later.
"Everyone at Port Klang, do not worry. Tan Sri Abdul Khalid will redeem the N46 for the people, this is his commitment," said Faekah ending her speech, representing the Chief Minister.
For the GE-13, Abdul Khalid will face BN candidate, Datuk Nasaruddin M. Zin, who is also the Klang Division Umno Deputy Chief.
The fare of these two candidates will be determined by the 39,972 voters in Port Klang.


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For the artists included in Matarau, lived experience and their artwork are completely connected. On opening day join exhibition curator Shannon Te Ao as he leads a discussion to open up the space in conversation.
The word Matarau refers to a multi-pronged spear used for fishing and eeling by early Māori. As a hunter or wayfinder must understand the shifting conditions around them to fulfil their purpose; the work of the artists in Matarau draw from a strong sense of who and where they are as a compass for their own practice.
Awareness of time, place and experience all drive the work of the artists featured in Matarau.
Shannon Te Ao (Ngāti Tūwharetoa) is an artist, writer and curator whose current research interests include performance and video art practices. The majority of Te Ao's recent artistic output has seen him investigating and responding to material drawn from Māori paradigms, testing the implications of alternative creative, social and linguistic models in relation to contemporary video art and other performative practices.
Please help us in supporting our communities' well-being by wearing a mask and observing social distancing while visiting.


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Szkolenia informatyczne: biuro, technologie internetowe, egzaminy technik
CENA - OFERTA: Jesteś zainteresowany/na kursem – zapraszam do kontaktu ze mną, szczegóły: www.poswojsku.pl .
Free training Successful sales or Professional Customer Service part - free online course - continued
Free training Successful sales or Professional Customer Service part - free online course - continued
A telephone is a good and often necessary way to start contact. You can call someone to see if there is any chance to establish cooperation, arrange a meeting, present your offer, gather information, etc.
Telephone sales - an effective method of acquiring customers
Thanks to the telephone you can have almost uninterrupted contact with the person with whom you want to make contact, however, in the case of advanced sales talks in trade negotiations - the telephone is not always the best means of communication, because in this type of contact there is no interpersonal chemistry, influence on the partner, etc. Of course, this contact is not always needed, and some deficiencies in telephone communication can now be supplemented by modern multimedia communication (internet).
Telemarketing calls are characterized by:
- conciseness,
- they can't be long
- tedious arguments,
must be:
- short,
- concisely,
- and about
Often these conversations boil down to the monologue that the telemarketer says, but this is not the rule because it all depends on the client he encounters. Telemarketer during his work must remember that by phone he will not show the customer the goods or services advertised, so he must choose words and phrases so that they are able to show through the client's imagination what we have to offer.
The materials come from the training:
By using verbs and adjectives, we are able to influence the listener in such a way that he sees through the eyes of the imagination what we tell him through the telephone handset.
How to make a fruitful phone call? What is telemarketing? How to speak so that the client listens to us? You will find answers to these and many other questions in our training: "Telemarketing - profession of the future" soon available on our platform www.edukacja.poswojsku.pl


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Washington state law (RCW 28A.210.410 and 43.70.830) now requires that drinking water be tested for lead in all K-12 public schools -more information is available HERE. Earlier this summer, the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) collected samples of drinking water from each of our schools. Test results from those samples were reported to us on August 10, 2022.
What We've Learned
On June 4, 2022, DOH staff sampled water from 92 fixtures throughout the district. This number of fixtures represents every fixture that provides drinking water to students or is used to prepare food*. Results show 11 water samples (5 at Home Link-Clayton and 6 at Deer Park HS) that had lead levels above 5 parts per billion (ppb).
What We're Doing
- Immediately after being notified of the results, facilities & maintenance staff took each of these 11 fixtures out of service.
- Our plan is to replace every fixture that tests above 5 parts-per-billion for lead (it's important to note that Washington's standard only requires replacement if results are at 15 ppb or higher).
- New, Certified Lead-Free fixtures have been ordered and will be installed as soon as they are available.
We will continue to work closely with the DOH, and resample and test water from each of these fixtures once they have been replaced. Deer Park School District is committed to taking every step possible to ensure drinking water in our schools is safe.
Why Lead is a Concern
We are exposed to lead from a variety of sources. Exposure sources include – dust from old, deteriorating lead paint, contaminated soil, take-home exposures from parents who work in certain industries, and many other sources. Each of these contributes to the amount of lead in our bodies.
It's important to reduce exposure from every source as much as possible. Children six years old and younger are the most susceptible to the effects of lead. Their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults and their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.
If you are concerned that your child has been exposed to lead for any reason, ask your healthcare provider about having them screened for lead.
For more information about water quality in our schools, please contact us at 509-464-5545. Public comment on this issue and the district's proposed action plan can be shared with Deer Park's Board of Directors at their meeting on Sept. 26. Related documents, including the District's draft plan being presented to the Board of Directors, are available using the links below:
- DPSD Board Policy 6800 – Safety, Operations and Maintenance of School Property
- Washington State RCW 28A.210.410
- Drinking Water Safety Management Plan
- DPSD Water Safety Action Plan
* This number excludes fixtures that were tested prior to 2022 and were found to have lead levels below the action threshold or have already been replaced and retested.


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- Type
- Posted on
- Location
- Expiry Date
Company: Kingdom Builders Academy
Please Share
Kingdom Builders Academy, an esteemed private secondary school in Zomba, Malawi, is seeking dedicated and passionate English and Chichewa Teachers to join our dynamic team.
We are committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating learning environment, and we invite enthusiastic educators to be part of our mission to empower young minds and prepare them for future success.
- Curriculum Delivery: Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging and comprehensive English and Chichewa lessons that align with the school's curriculum and educational standards.
- Classroom Management: Maintain a positive and disciplined classroom environment that fosters respect, active participation, and constructive learning.
- Assessment and Progress Monitoring: Regularly assess student progress through evaluations, tests, and assignments, providing constructive feedback to students and parents.
- Individualized Support: Identify and address the learning needs of individual students, providing additional support and challenges as required.
- Cultivate Reading and Writing Skills: Foster a love for literature and language by encouraging reading habits and refining students' writing abilities.
- Extracurricular Involvement: Encourage student participation in English and Chichewa-related extracurricular activities such as debates, writing clubs, or literary events.
- Collaboration: Collaborate with other subject teachers and school staff to facilitate cross-disciplinary projects and maintain a cohesive learning environment.
- Parent-Teacher Communication: Maintain open communication with parents/guardians, providing regular updates on student progress and addressing any concerns.
- Professional Development: Engage in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay updated on teaching methodologies and educational best practices.
- University or equivalent degree or certificate. Preferably in English Language or related field (Education, Literature, etc.)
- An experienced teacher, with positive track record
- Previous experience in teaching at the secondary level is preferred
- Proficiency in written and spoken English with excellent communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to create engaging lesson plans and classroom activities.
- Strong classroom management skills and the ability to create a positive learning environment.
- Familiarity with educational technology and its integration into the learning process.
To apply, please submit your updated CV, a cover letter detailing your teaching, and any relevant certifications to:
Please specify "English and Chichewa Teacher Application – Kingdom Builders Academy" in the subject line.
Application deadline: January 12th, 2024.
NOTE: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation and interviews.


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An innocent game of hide 'n seek turns deadly when four friends witness something they were never meant to see.
When Emily, Tess, Cam and Dylan decide to ignore the new town curfew during their Friday-night game of hide-and-seek, they get more than they bargained for. Down by the river, they witness a shady deal go down involving some criminal types who recently moved into their neighborhood. When the teens are discovered, they are hunted through the dark streets and back alleys. They will have to use all their hide-and-seek skills to save each other. Ultimately, Emily, the youngest of the group and the best hider, discovers that sometimes staying hidden is the best way to escape.
"Fast-paced…a good start for reluctant teen readers."
– Kirkus Reviews
"This is a suspenseful page-turner, written in the easy to read format typical of Orca Soundings. Ready or not, well worth a read!"
– Resource Links
"I read Hide and Shriek in one sitting. The plot left me hanging on the edge of my seat, needing to find out what would happen next. A page-turner! Highly Recommended."
– CM Magazine
CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens | 2019 | Commended


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3. Apply for a travel document if you're outside Canada
Question & Answer
I'm a permanent resident. Do I need a PR card?If your expires while you're outside Canada, you need to apply to a Canadian visa office or Visa Application Centre for a Permanent Resident Travel Document.
The application package includes:
You can use the Travel Document to prove your status when returning to Canada. Once you're back in Canada, you can apply for a new permanent resident card.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will refuse to give you a Travel Document if they think you've lost your status as a permanent resident. This could happen if, for example, they think you've not met your .
If IRCC refuses your application, you have 60 days to appeal that decision.


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James Logan
Why you should listen
Professor James Logan's research group explores the complex interaction between arthropod vectors, and his groundbreaking research has led to the discovery of novel methods for the control of vectors that transmit pathogens that cause diseases such as malaria, Zika, dengue, trachoma and Lyme disease. His work extends into field evaluation of vector control tools in developing countries, and his recent research discovered that malaria infection causes changes in our body odor, making us more attractive to mosquitoes. He's now working on translating that to develop a novel, non-invasive diagnostic for malaria.
Logan is a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society and has a first-class BSc honours degree in Zoology from the University of Aberdeen and an award-winning PhD, which he completed in 2005. He is also an entrepreneur, having spun out two companies from his University, and holds the position of Director and Founder of ARCTEC and Director and Founder of Vecotech Ltd. Logan regularly advises UK government departments on aspects of vector biology, invasive species and vector control.


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"Dick Whittington" at Birmingham Hippodrome – review
The production is big on spectacle with some impressive special effects including a giant King Rat whose menacing red eyes and sharp teeth gleam into the auditorium and a double-decker bus that takes to the skies to transport Dick back to London in his quest to become Lord Mayor.
Not that the story of Dick Whittington is particularly central to the show – the plot is thin on the ground with the emphasis firmly on the comedy routines, gags, songs and general silliness rather than any strong narrative element.
Birmingham favourite Matt Slack returns for his ninth pantomime at the city's Hippodrome Theatre. While previously he has been the Silly Billy or the Wishee Washee to a leading man, this time round he has the titular role. This gives him plenty of stage time for a host of jokes and sketches – sometimes in tandem with another hapless cast member and often solo.
Slack knows what the audiences want and serves up the laughs in bucketloads – indulging in stories, sketches and a great routine in which he undertakes impersonations of a host of personalities including John Bishop, David Attenborough and Joe Pasquale.
There is no doubt that Birmingham audiences have come to love Slack but there is a risk that being both lead and comic foil, and being the focus for the majority of the show, he overshadows the other cast members and the production fails to capitalise on the star line-up it has secured.
Marti Pellow as the evil Ratman has a couple of good songs but there is plenty more scope to bring him on stage and give him additional menace – if only to provide the audiences a chance to boo the baddie. Suzanne Shaw is sorely under-used in the role of Alice Fitzwarren. We saw her shine as Cinderella in the Hippodrome panto five years ago and she has plenty of presence as a singer and dancer. Yet as Alice, she has little opportunity to do either.
Dr Ranj provides the glitz as the Spirit of the Bells, the Fairy Godmother-like character who helps Dick achieve his dreams. Clad from head to foot in sparkling silver with his magic snowflake wand, Ranj is a thoroughly loveable character who is, not surprisingly, the butt of lots of medical jokes.
Andrew Ryan returns as the Dame in some gloriously outrageous costumes and wigs to deliver plenty of double entendres and play up members of the audience. And Doreen Tipton's Doreen the Cat plays on the joke she is the laziest cat in town – not once does she make any real effort to catch a rat.
Written by Slack and Alan McHugh, there is a lot of adult humour in this production, helped by the fact Slack is playing a character called Dick, and while that nod to the grown-ups is a long-established panto tradition, the team need to be careful it doesn't go too far for some families.
Ian Westbrook's sets are packed full of colour and character, recreating the inside of the Fitzwarren's sweet shop, the streets of London and the Ratman's Palace. Teresa Nalton's costumes are equally bold and imaginative, particularly in the sweet shop where cast members are dressed up as giant gingerbread figures and Liquorice Allsorts.
Additional spectacle is provided by the fire dancing duo Dave Knox and Grace Billings whose pyrotechnic act is so impressive we forgive the fact it is shoehorned into the story and clearly there just to amaze us.
Directed and produced by Michael Harrison, Birmingham Hippodrome's panto is a grand finale for the festive season in the city. Bursting with fun, laughter and wow factor, it's a cracker.


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The corruption scandal known as "Qatargate," which has recently culminated in police raids on European politicians over alleged corruption involving Qatari influence, is shaking European institutions. But as policymakers investigate possible advantages secured by Qatar through illegal means, they should look at the broader picture and seriously reassess the European Union's reluctance to meaningfully address human rights violations taking place across the Gulf region while seeking closer bilateral ties.
Throughout the region, scores of human rights defenders, activists, journalists, and perceived critics suffer severe and pervasive state repression. Restrictive laws seriously undermine women's and LGBT people's rights. Likely war crimes by the Saudi and United Arab Emirates-led coalition in Yemen have contributed to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. And following those governments' arm-twisting to block any inquiry at the United Nations Human Rights Council, their actions in Yemen are no longer under UN scrutiny. Meanwhile, many Gulf countries' use of the death penalty, often following deeply flawed trials, remains a major concern, as do abuses and exploitation of migrant workers, which have tarnished the reputation of both FIFA, the world's football governing body, and Qatar, the first Arab country to host the FIFA World Cup.
In April 2022, Human Rights Watch urged the EU Commission to consider adopting human rights benchmarks for enhanced bilateral cooperation, and closer trade and political relations with Gulf countries. But our recommendations were ignored.
In May, the commission unveiled its vision for a "strategic partnership with the Gulf," going to great lengths to glorify purported human rights progress in several Gulf countries, while failing to identify serious shortcomings, or minimizing them as remaining "challenges." The strategy document doesn't even include a reference to the death penalty, perhaps the one topic on which EU member states have voiced firm opposition. Despite the document's weak human rights language, the European Parliament and EU member states both welcomed it.
Sadly, the strategy document has reinforced the EU's long-established approach toward Gulf countries, with business, trade, and energy interests prioritized over efforts to secure accountability for serious human rights violations. Scrutiny remains largely limited to "private diplomacy" and fruitless annual human rights dialogues. More forceful measures such as targeted sanctions or arms embargoes are nowhere in sight.
Ultimately, Qatargate is not the only "scandal" in town when it comes to EU-Gulf relations. Reassessing those partnerships should be part of the recipe to restore credibility in EU action.


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Kalman Cowl, a music professor at Columbia University, became friendly with some chassidim and would often visit them in 770.
Once, he was persuaded by his friends to sign up for a meeting with the Rebbe.
He was apprehensive about the meeting, though, for in his own words, "Although I felt fiercely Jewish, I didn't believe in G‑d."
At their meeting, after exchanging pleasantries, Kalman told the Rebbe, "I appreciate the privilege of being taught more about my heritage here in 770, but I don't want to be here under false pretenses. I have no faith."
The Rebbe thought for a few moments and said simply, "As long as you are concerned about that, I'm not worried."
G‑d said to Moses: Come to Pharaoh and say to him, "So said G‑d: Let My people go, so that they may serve Me. But if you refuse to let [them] go, behold, I will smite all your borders with frogs."1
"If not for the [plague of the] frog, how would G‑d have punished the Egyptians?"—The Midrash
A strange statement, that one, if not outright heretical.
The implication is that if not for The Frog, Pharaoh could not have been vanquished. But aren't there "many agents of G‑d"? Is His task force not huge and varied? And weren't the other nine plagues equally—if not more—effective in bringing Pharaoh to his knees?
The Three Stooges
In Biblical lore (to generalize) we find three ideologies, professed by three notorious characters, each of whom rubbed G‑d the wrong way, in varying degrees.
The individuals (listed non-chronologically) are: Balaam, Pharaoh, and Sennacherib.
Balaam was a complicated man.
A believer he was. After all, he was a prophet. And which prophet in his right mind would deny the existence of the G‑d for whom he claimed to speak? Rather than believing merely abstractly or theoretically, he well understood, and would later re-learn, the fact that G‑d is heavily interested and involved in world affairs. This we know from his own candid admission: "If Balak will give me his house full of silver and gold, I cannot transgress the word of the L‑rd, my G‑d, to do anything, small or great . . ."2
But his belief system was nuanced and complex. He took issue with the unity, though not the existence, of G‑d . . . but that's for a separate discussion.
On the other extreme we have Sennacherib the atheist, who denied the existence of a Higher Being, going so far as to make a point of cursing G‑d. His disbelief in G‑d took the form of active atheism. He was a religious non-believer, passionate and committed to discounting faith in a Creator.
In this way, both he and Balaam shared common ground; they were both equally disturbed by the notion of G‑d, especially one who supervises the world. They differed, though, in how they chose to deal with their respective frustrations: Balaam reluctantly resigned himself to G‑d's dominion, while Sennacherib spent a lifetime campaigning against it.3
Pharaoh, however, charted new ground.
He is the Bible's very first deist, believing that even if G‑d existed, He had nothing to do with the world's administration. The world's maintenence was man's domain.
In other words, in Pharaoh's books, the question of G‑d's existence was theoretical and removed from practical life. It made for great debate in the halls of the academy, but had no business being discussed in the streets or bars, let alone shaping government policy.
That this was Pharaoh's philosophy is clear from his very first words to Moses, "Who is G‑d that I should heed His voice to send out Israel?" which could be understood to mean, "Since when is G‑d involved in what goes on downstairs?"
Pharaoh's weltanschauung becomes more evident from Moses' words to him on G‑d's behalf, "If you do not let my people go, behold, I will incite against you, and against your servants, and against your people, and in your houses, a mixture of wild beasts . . . so that you will know that I am G‑d in the midst of the land."
Apparently, Pharaoh needed convincing that G‑d was chief not just in heaven but on earth as well, "in the midst of the land."4
So in sum, we have Balaam the (befuddled) Theist, Pharaoh the (makes-no-difference-to-me) Deist, and Sennacherib, the (angry) Atheist or Anti-Theist.
If you were judging these men and their philosophies, which would you rank the greatest threat to the institution of faith?
Perhaps unexpectedly, G‑d voted Pharaoh worst of the bunch.
For you're bound to hear G‑d's name in conversation with both Balaam and Sennacherib. Granted, when talking to Sennacherib, you'll hear it louder and fiercer; but let's face it, He's on both of their minds.
Talk to Pharaoh and you'd never know there's a G‑d.
From both the theist's arguments for, and the atheist's or anti-theist's arguments against, the existence of G‑d, one is informed of a power to be reckoned with. They're both G‑d-fearing, if you know what I mean.
To the deist, G‑d isn't even up for discussion.
Pharaoh gave G‑d the cold shoulder, and that's what singled him out for special attention.
And here's where the frog jumps in.
Animals can be broken down into three groups: those that benefit mankind, those that harm mankind, and those that seem irrelevant to mankind.
Dogs provide security and companionship. We like them. They're a creation of G‑d that is meaningful to us. Poisonous snakes can cause death. This lends the snake a definite character too. And if the person poisoned was wicked, there's some meaningful justice in a snakebite.
Then there's the frog, which (other than Kermit from the Muppets) seems to serve no purpose at all. It bears no indication of a design or a Designer. The frog, like Pharaoh, when encountered or observed, says nothing about its Creator.
Therefore it was chosen to bring punishment upon Pharaoh. As if to say, even this "random" creature has a purpose in this world. No creation is meaningless or unnecessary. The Creator of our world is also its Conductor. And in His ensemble, even a frog's croak is a song of praise.
What's In It for Me?
"The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it's indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it's indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it's indifference between life and death."—Elie Wiesel (US News & World Report, Oct. 27, 1986)
More for Me . . .
According to a recent Pew Forum report,5 "The number of people who say they are unaffiliated with any particular faith today (16.1%) is more than double the number who say they were not affiliated with any particular religion as children. Among Americans ages 18–29, one in four say they are not currently affiliated with any particular religion."
The terms "uninitiated Jew" or "unaffiliated Jew" must be written out of the Jewish lexicon and experience. The "relationship status" of today's Jewish Facebook page must begin to read: "Engaged," "In a relationship," even "It's complicated"—so long as it reads something.
(Based on Likkutei Sichot, vol. 21, pp. 38-44)


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Ilana Trumble from the CFAR Biostatistics Core presented a poster at the Collaboratory of AIDS Researchers for Eradication (CARE) Annual Meeting in June 2017, together with Yinyan Xu. This work… Read More
Dr. Joseph Tucker works globally to educate HIV researchers
The UNC CFAR has a robust membership of doctors and researchers who work internationally to increase knowledge, decrease stigma, and provide care and support in the field of HIV/AIDS. CFAR… Read More


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Why do the labels in the NYBG azalea garden list only genus name and cultivar, without a specific epithet?
This is a great question. Yes, plant names are usually written including both the genus and the specific epithet, for example Rhododendron maximum.
However, if a certain plant is used in the creation of many cultivars, the specific epithet is often dropped, leaving just the genus and cultivar name. Usually this is customary for a common or well-known plant with many different cultivars. In addition, sometimes people don't write out the entire name of a well-known hybrid.
For example, Artemisia 'Powis Castle', commonly called wormwood, is a popular perennial. It is a cross between two plants, A. arborescens and A. absinthium. But it's not customary to write out the entire name, Artemisia arborescens x absinthium 'Powis Castle'. Instead, the name is shortened to Artemisia 'Powis Castle'.
In the case of azaleas, many of those you see are known as PJM hybrids. These hybrids, started in the 1930s and 1940s, have been crossed so many times that they are known simply as the PJM Group. So the name for these azaleas is usually Rhododendron 'Cultivar Name Here' with no attempt to include the specific epithet or the parent plants. See the Missouri Botanical Garden's information page for more information about PJM rhododendrons.
Some cultivars are not developed from hybrids but rather from breeding the same plant over and over for a particular trait such as flower color. If one species is used to create many cultivars, the specific epithet will often be dropped in favor of just the genus and cultivar name.
For tips on a variety of gardening topics, see our Plant Information Guides.
- Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service
Ask a plant expert
Send us an email or use the question form below.


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Update: The First Step Act became law, after Congress passed it and President Donald Trump signed it in December 2018, with major revisions. Read our updated explainer here.
President Donald Trump and Congress may be on the verge of passing actual bipartisan legislation that would ever so slightly ease mass incarceration — after Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on Tuesday announced that he will allow a vote on the measure this month.
The bill, known as the First Step Act, would take modest steps to reform the criminal justice system and ease very punitive prison sentences at the federal level. It would affect only the federal system — which, with about 181,000 imprisoned people, holds a small but significant fraction of the US jail and prison population of 2.1 million.
The bill has come a long way since it was introduced earlier this year, when it passed the Republican-controlled House of Representatives. Back then, the bill made no effort to cut the length of prison sentences on the front end, although it did take some steps to encourage rehabilitation in prison that inmates could use, in effect, to reduce how long they're in prison. But Senate Democrats and other reformers took issue with the bill's limited scope, and eventually managed to add changes that will ease, albeit fairly mildly, prison sentences.
So although the bill would have already allowed thousands of people to earn an earlier release from prison, it would now let thousands more out of prison early, and could cut many more prison sentences in the future.
Even though Trump ran on a "tough on crime" platform in which he promised to support harsh prison sentences, the president has come to support the legislation — in large part thanks to the backing of key advisers, including son-in-law Jared Kushner. And the bill now has support from a wide array of groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the Koch brothers–backed Right on Crime, and other organizations on both the left and right.
That doesn't mean the bill has skated by without opposition. Some Senate Republicans, led particularly by Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas, have taken issue with the mild reforms in the First Step Act, even as Republican senators like Chuck Grassley (IA) and Lindsey Graham (SC) have come on board.
That opposition seriously endangered the bill: With Congress in the last few days of its current session, and with other legislative priorities on the calendar, McConnell had indicated that he may not allow the bill to come up for a vote — because he feared that lawmakers just wouldn't have enough time to work out their differences without causing serious rifts within the Republican caucus.
But McConnell, on Tuesday, said that the legislation will move forward.
What comes next remains to be seen. But at this point, the First Step Act is the closest Congress has gotten to passing significant criminal justice reform in years.
What the First Step Act does
Here are the major provisions of the First Step Act, as it stands now:
- The bill would make retroactive the reforms enacted by the Fair Sentencing Act of 2010, which reduced the disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentences at the federal level. This could affect nearly 2,600 federal inmates, according to the Marshall Project.
- The bill would take several steps to ease mandatory minimum sentences under federal law. It would expand the "safety valve" that judges can use to avoid handing down mandatory minimum sentences. It would ease a "three strikes" rule so people with three or more convictions, including for drug offenses, automatically get 25 years instead of life, among other changes. It would restrict the current practice of stacking gun charges against drug offenders to add possibly decades to prison sentences. All of these changes would lead to shorter prison sentences in the future.
- The bill would increase "good time credits" that inmates can earn. Inmates who avoid a disciplinary record can currently get credits of up to 47 days per year incarcerated. The bill increases the cap to 54, allowing well-behaved inmates to cut their prison sentence by an additional week for each year they're incarcerated. The change applies retroactively, which could allow some prisoners — as many as 4,000 — to qualify for release the day that the bill goes into effect.
- The bill would allow inmates to get "earned time credits" by participating in more vocational and rehabilitative programs. Those credits would allow them to be released early to halfway houses or home confinement. Not only could this mitigate prison overcrowding, but the hope is that the education programs will reduce the likelihood that an inmate will commit another crime once released and, as a result, reduce both crime and incarceration in the long term. (There's research showing that education programs do reduce recidivism.)
Not every inmate would benefit from the changes. The system would use an algorithm to initially determine who can cash in earned time credits, with inmates deemed higher risk excluded from cashing in, although not from earning the credits (which they could then cash in if their risk level is reduced).
But algorithms can perpetuate racial and class disparities that are already deeply embedded in the criminal justice system. For instance, an algorithm that excludes someone from earning credits due to previous criminal history may overlook that black and poor people are more likely to be incarcerated for crimes even when they're not more likely to actually commit those crimes. So although the bill would put checks on the algorithm, it's turned into a controversial portion of the bill even among criminal justice reformers.
The bill would also exclude certain inmates from earning credits, such as undocumented immigrants and people who are convicted of high-level offenses.
And it would make other changes aimed at improving conditions in prisons, including banning the shackling of women during childbirth and requiring that inmates are placed closer to their families.
All of this is subject to change, however, as Congress continues to debate the bill.
Nothing in the legislation is that groundbreaking, particularly compared to the state-level reforms that have passed in recent years, from reduced prison sentences across the board to the defelonization of drug offenses to marijuana legalization. That's one reason the bill is dubbed a "first step." Still, it would be a step — the kind that Congress hasn't taken in years, as it's debated criminal justice reform but ultimately failed to do it.
Some Senate Republicans threatened the bill
Supporters of the First Step Act claim that the bill would get at least 70 votes, out of 100, in the Senate if it were put up to a vote today.
But the bill has been mired by vocal opposition from some Senate Republicans. For a while, it looked like that opposition might win — until McConnell agreed to bring the legislation to a vote.
The opposition to the bill comes primarily from Sen. Cotton. In tweets and articles about the legislation, Cotton has said that he has several concerns about the bill, arguing that it would allow violent and high-level drug offenders out of prison early and make it far too easy to earn an early release from prison.
The bill's supporters argue that Cotton is either misunderstanding the bill or misleading the public about it.
For example, Cotton claimed that "productive activities" are defined so vaguely in the bill that federal inmates could earn early release by watching TV or doing other leisurely activities. But Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT), one of the legislation's supporters, countered that the early release programs "are designed by federal prison wardens, not prisoners. Federal prison wardens simply do not award time credits for watching TV. Furthermore, the bill mandates data analysis on the effectiveness of each recidivism-reduction program. If the program is not proven effective, wardens will not award time for participating in it."
Cotton has also claimed that some high-level offenders would be eligible for early release under the bill, because it doesn't exclude, for example, someone convicted of threatening to assault, kidnap, or murder a judge from earning time credits. But Jessica Jackson Sloan, the national director and co-founder of the criminal justice reform group #Cut50, argued that this misunderstands how the law is applied in reality: Someone convicted of threatening to kidnap a judge would also be convicted on kidnapping charges more generally — and those general charges would lead to exclusion under the First Step Act.
Cotton "should know better than a lot of the arguments he's putting out there," Sloan told me.
In reality, Cotton is simply opposed to criminal justice reform. He has argued that America actually has an "under-incarceration problem" — even though the US has by far the highest incarceration rate in the world. From his perspective, stiffer prison penalties deter crime, keeping Americans safe.
This goes against the empirical evidence on the topic, which has consistently found that more incarceration and longer prison sentences do little to combat crime. A 2015 review of the research by the Brennan Center for Justice estimated that more incarceration — and its abilities to incapacitate or deter criminals — explained about 0 to 7 percent of the crime drop since the 1990s, though other researchers estimate it drove 10 to 25 percent of the crime drop since the '90s.
Another huge review of the research, released last year by David Roodman of the Open Philanthropy Project, found that releasing people from prison earlier doesn't lead to more crime, and that holding people in prison longer may actually increase crime.
That conclusion matches what other researchers have found in this area. As the National Institute of Justice concluded in 2016, "Research has found evidence that prison can exacerbate, not reduce, recidivism. Prisons themselves may be schools for learning to commit crimes."
The First Step Act starts to chip away at this problem at the federal level, although its overall impact is unlikely to be very large.
Even if the bill passes, its effect on mass incarceration will be relatively small
The bill still faces an uncertain road through Congress. But assuming it passes, even its most ardent supporters acknowledge that it will have a fairly small impact on the size of the federal prison system and particularly the national landscape. The bill may let thousands of federal inmates out early, but, as Stanford drug policy expert Keith Humphreys noted in the Washington Post, more than 1,700 people are released from prison every day already — so the bill in one sense only equates to adding a few more days of typical releases to the year.
One major reason for the bill's limited scope: It deals only with the federal system, which is a fairly small part of the overall criminal justice system in America.
Consider the numbers: According to the US Bureau of Justice Statistics, 87 percent of US prison inmates are held in state facilities (and most state inmates are in for violent, not drug, crimes). That doesn't even account for local jails, where hundreds of thousands of people are held on a typical day in America. Just look at this chart from the Prison Policy Initiative, which shows both local jails and state prisons far outpacing the number of people incarcerated in federal prisons:
One way to think about this is what would happen if President Donald Trump used his pardon powers to their maximum potential — meaning he pardoned every single person in federal prison right now. That would push down America's overall incarcerated population from about 2.1 million to about 1.9 million.
That would be a hefty reduction. But it also wouldn't undo mass incarceration, as the US would still lead all but one country in incarceration: With an incarceration rate of around 593 per 100,000 people, only the small nation of El Salvador would come out ahead — and America would still dwarf the incarceration rates of other developed nations like Canada (114 per 100,000), Germany (75 per 100,000), and Japan (41 per 100,000).
Similarly, almost all police work is done at the local and state level. There are about 18,000 law enforcement agencies in America, only a dozen or so of which are federal agencies.
While the federal government can incentivize states to adopt specific criminal justice policies, studies show that previous efforts, such as the 1994 federal crime law, had little to no impact. By and large, it seems local municipalities and states will only embrace federal incentives on criminal justice issues if they actually want to adopt the policies being encouraged.
Criminal justice reform, then, is going to fall largely to municipalities and states, and a bill that might slightly cut incarceration on the federal level isn't going to have a very big effect. (To this end, many cities and states are actually way ahead of the federal government when it comes to criminal justice reform, with many passing the kinds of sentencing reforms that the federal system has struggled to enact.)
That's not to downplay the work of criminal justice reformers who are trying to reduce the size and burden of what amounts to a fairly large prison system at the federal level. But to understand the bill, it's important to put its full impact on mass incarceration in the broader national context.
For more on mass incarceration, read Vox's explainer.
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Soft and moist vegan almond cake with a crunchy sliced almond topping. This cake comes together in one bowl and can be made gluten-free! Or check out my crunchy vegan almond cookies.
What to expect
TASTE/TEXTURE: More moist and denser than a regular vegan cake. Fluffier and has more 'body' than marzipan or the almond filling for a croissant!
DIFFICULTY: Easy to make. You don't need a food processor, blender, hand mixer or any special equipment!
Simple ingredients you'll need
Notes about the ingredients
Almond flour adds moisture and flavor. I recommend using almond flour rather than almond meal (with the almond skin still on) for a lighter vegan almond cake.
All-purpose plain flour for structure and to bind the almond flour in the absence of eggs. Unfortunately, a cake made with just almond flour and no eggs will deflate and crumble. Flax eggs, aquafaba and other common egg replacers do not work for this recipe.
Oil doesn't only add moisture but makes the cake fluffier. For alternatives, see the section 'Customizing this recipe'.
Dairy-free milk. I recommend choosing a higher protein plant milk, such as soy milk as it makes a more tender cake. However, any milk will work such as almond milk or oat milk.
Almond extract and lemon zest to complement the nuttiness of the almond flour.
The full list of ingredient quantities and instructions are in the gray recipe card at the bottom of this post.
How to make a vegan almond cake
This almond cake is easy to make as you just stir the dry ingredients in a large bowl, add the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
For the fluffiest vegan almond cake, here are some extra tips:
- Rub the lemon zest with the sugar. This releases the oil in the lemon zest which allows it to disperse more throughout the cake batter.
- Avoid any big lumps in your cake batter. Mix the cake batter enough so there are no large lumps, but not too much otherwise the final cake will be dense and stodgy.
- The final batter is meant to be quite thick! This recipe works best with a thicker batter as a thin batter is more likely to sink when baked.
Tips for baking the cake
For extra crunch and almond flavor, I love decorating this cake with flaked almonds!
In most ovens, the almond topping will not burn. However, if your oven has a strong top heating element, your almonds may brown too quickly. If you know your oven tends to burn cakes on top, I recommend covering your cake pan with aluminum foil at the beginning of baking.
With the exception of a burning cake, I strongly recommend avoiding opening the oven door in the first 45 minutes of baking. Almond flour is a delicate gluten-free flour so inconsistent oven heat is more likely to make your cake sink.
Adding other ingredients to this cake
This cake is lovely by itself! However, the following ingredients would enhance the cake:
- Chocolate chips
- Dried fruit such as cranberries
- Dried coconut
- Fresh raspberries
For an apple almond cake, make the gluten-free version of my vegan apple crumble cake. It uses a combination of almond flour and gluten-free all-purpose flour!
Customizing the recipe
Yes, I tested this cake replacing all-purpose flour with all-purpose gluten-free flour and it worked well! However, some brands of gluten-free flour are more absorbent so, if your batter is very thick, I suggest adding a dash of dairy-free milk.
It depends on what kind of cake you're after. I tested this cake with as little as ½ cup all-purpose flour (and more almond flour) but it resulted in an overly moist cake that turned into a wet marzipan texture once you put it into your mouth. The cake was also more likely to sink.
If you want a 100% almond flour recipe, see my vegan almond flour shortbread.
Brown sugar and coconut sugar will work similarly to granulated sugar but they will add more moisture to the cake.
Granulated sugar replacers may work but I haven't tested them so cannot vouch for the results.
Liquid sweeteners such as maple syrup or agave syrup will be too heavy for this cake.
You can experiment by replacing it with more milk, applesauce or mashed banana. In my tests, replacing the oil with other ingredients made the cake denser.
Alternatively, check out my other vegan cakes that use almond flour and have no added oil:
- Whole Orange Cake
- Whole Lemon Cake
- Flourless Chocolate Cake
- Strawberry Cake
More vegan cakes using almond flour
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Vegan Almond Cake
Dry ingredients for almond cake
- 2 cups (200g) almond flour / blanched almond meal
- 1 ½ cup (190g) all-purpose plain flour, or gluten-free all-purpose flour (use grams, note 1)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, (note 2)
- 3 teaspoons baking powder
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest, or orange zest, optional
- Pinch of salt
Wet ingredients for almond cake
- 1 cup (250g) dairy-free milk
- ⅓ cup (85g) neutral flavored oil, light olive oil or melted vegan butter
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar, or lemon juice, optional (note 3)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
To decorate (optional)
- ½ cup (45g) sliced almonds
- powdered sugar / icing sugar
- For the best results, I recommend using a digital scale to weigh the ingredients for this recipe. It's difficult to accurately measure the key ingredients using cups and this recipe has been tested using grams (except the smaller ingredients).
Making the vegan almond cake:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line an 8-inch (20 cm) springform or loose bottom cake pan that's at least 2-inch or 5cm tall with parchment paper.
- Add all the dry ingredients to a large mixing bowl and whisk until there are no lumps. Add all the wet ingredients to the flour mixture and mix until just combined. The batter should be quite thick.
- Scoop the cake batter into your cake tin. Smooth the top of the cake with a spoon or spatula. Generously sprinkle the sliced almonds on top.
Baking the cake:
- Bake the cake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is ready when you can insert a toothpick in the middle and it comes out with no wet batter (a few moist crumbs are fine). For a cake with a slightly fudgy marzipan-like center, underbake the cake by 5 minutes. Allow the cake to cool in the cake pan for 30 minutes then cool on a wire rack.
- To serve, dust the cake with powdered sugar. Serve with fresh berries, yogurt or as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day, in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- I recommend using grams because not all brands of gluten-free all-purpose flour have the same volume measurements as regular all-purpose flour. Some brands will also make the cake batter much thicker than pictured. If so, add a dash of dairy-free milk to ensure the cake isn't dry.
- This amount of sugar creates a mildly sweet cake. You can decrease the sugar to ¾ cup (150g) but your cake will be denser and you may be able to taste the baking powder.
- The vinegar or lemon juice reacts with the dairy-free milk to make vegan buttermilk and makes a cake more tender. You will not be able to taste the vinegar or lemon juice in the final cake.
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Giants talking about Burress' future with the team
December 2, 2008
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The New York Giants might make a decision on Plaxico Burress' immediate football future before the justice system or the NFL hands down rulings.
In the wake of an accidental shooting that led to weapons possession charges against the Super Bowl hero Monday, the Giants management discussed its options.
The team recognizes there's a chance that the star receiver, who caught the winning pass in the Super Bowl, might be able to report for the team's next practice Wednesday.
"We are dealing with that," coach Tom Coughlin said in a conference call. "Today we have had some discussions. Those discussions will be ongoing."
The Giants have several choices for dealing with Burress, who on Monday was taken to court in handcuffs and released after posting $100,000 bail on the weapons possession charges.
They suspended him for a game and fined him earlier this season for missing a team meeting in September, so they could do that again – or possibly give him a longer suspension.
He also can be put on the non-football injury list, with the team having the option whether to pay him.
There are more extreme actions, such as releasing Burress. However, that could put a strain on the team's salary cap next season. Burress signed a $35 million contract days before the start of the season and $11 million is believed to be guaranteed.
The team could let Burress return to practice but not allow him to play in Sunday's home game against the Philadelphia Eagles. They also could let him play, but that seems unlikely if his history is taken into account.
Burress has been fined dozens of times by the Giants for violating team rules since joining them in 2005.
His suspension earlier this season seemingly is another strike against him.
Coughlin refused to say what the team was thinking.
"As I said, we are in the stages of trying to gather information and make decisions as to where we go from here," he said. "And at this point in time, I'm not prepared to say anything."
Burress did not comment at his court hearing in New York on Monday.
Drew Rosenhaus, Burress' agent, did not return messages left by The Associated Press at his Florida office on Monday.
Giants middle linebacker Antonio Pierce also is being investigated for his role in the shooting at the Latin Quarter nightclub Friday night. Coughlin talked to Pierce on Saturday and allowed him to play in New York's 23-7 win over Washington on Sunday.
It's believed Pierce took Burress to the car and then left with him, according to police. Burress was treated at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and released later Saturday.
Coughlin was asked if he was concerned the league and authorities might consider actions against Pierce.
"Again, I'm not in the position to say anything about that," Coughlin said. "I don't know anything, unless you know something. I'm not aware of anything."
Coughlin also was asked about reports running back Ahmad Bradshaw was at the club on Friday. The second-year pro spent almost a month in a Virginia jail in June and July for an old probation violation.
"I am disappointed, certainly," Coughlin said.
The Giants also took issue with comments from New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who criticized the team for not informing police of the shooting.
"We are working closely with the police and NFL Security," the team said in a statement Monday. "In the early hours of Saturday morning, as we started to get a sense of what we were dealing with, we did, in fact, notify NFL Security, which then contacted the police."
All the publicity seemingly has not affected the Giants (11-1), who are on the verge of clinching both a playoff berth and a divisional title. With four games left in the regular season, they hold a two-game lead in the race for the NFC's top seed.
"I think our team is a very resilient bunch," said receiver Amani Toomer, who is the longest-serving Giant with 12 years in the NFL. "We have a lot of competitive guys that really want to win and I think it is showing every Sunday when it doesn't matter what happens when we get on the field."
Linebacker Danny Clark added players are hoping for the best for Burress.
"Whatever happens with Plax, we are with him," Clark said. "Regardless, he is still our teammate, we love him, and our support is with him. But at the end of the day we are focused on winning our next football game and that is against Philadelphia."


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H2-No: The Show That Refused To Die
No one knew what to expect going into this year; would the event be successfully relocated? Or would H2Oi live on as this immortal gathering of unapologetic lunatics?
No one knew what to expect going into this year; would the event be successfully relocated? Or would H2Oi live on as this immortal gathering of unapologetic lunatics?
Despite near-triple-digit temperatures, car show enthusiasts showed up to Evolution Performance en masse to support a little boy and his dream of being disease-free.
The road less traveled is often costly and filled with pitfalls. Jace Nester has overcome them all—and become a force to be reckoned with on the track.
Consistency—and quick performances—are crucial to a drag racer, and Tony Alm has broken the secret to the formula with his Ultra Street Mustang. This Florida racer is in the hunt at every race he attends.
There have been many occasions during the 2016 calendar year that I've imprinted into my brain; here at Front Street I'm in a position to view automotive events in a way many will never encounter. As a journalist I tell stories through my camera lens and with my words; as we count down to 2017, here are some of the unforgettable occurrences of the year. Take a walk back through time with me!
Building a dragstrip stormer to run 9-second elapsed times with an engine platform designed to help boost Ford's Corporate Average Fuel Economy is a challenge not lost on BG Racing's Brad Gusler. His 2.3-liter Mustang's diminutive turbocharged engine screams down the track, and in the process, sets the trends for an entire subset of Mustang culture.
The Philadelphia suburb of West Chester is home to a weekly Cars & Coffee event which takes place on Saturday mornings – year-round if the weather is clear – and attracts the types of vehicles seen rarely in these parts. Check out the sights from this event right here!
The American Muscle Car Show took over Maple Grove Raceway last weekend; despite the fact that it was the hottest day of the year, the Mustang faithful turned out en masse to show off their rides and take in the sights and sounds of thousands of Mustangs in one place.
The NMRA's 2016 season continues in Ohio with a points chase that's heating up along with the weather. Check out Front Street's take on the event right here!
Formula Drift's 13th season opener in the rain was comparable to professional bull riding on ice. That is, if a rider had to navigate a bull sideways through the slippery city streets of Long Beach, California while riding next to another bull.