text:
Cyclones rally to first outright NYPL title
Mets No. 24 prospect Mangum, Duplantis lead comeback victory
By Michael Avallone / MiLB.com | September 10, 2019 11:28 PM
An event bigger than baseball cost Class A Short Season Brooklyn a chance to win its inaugural New York-Penn League title on its own terms. On Tuesday, the Cyclones finally got their chance.
Yoel Romero's RBI single snapped a seventh-inning tie and Brooklyn held on to defeat Lowell, 4-3, in the final game of the best-of-3 Championship Series.
It was the second title in franchise history and the first since sharing the crown with Williamsport in 2001. The events of Sept. 11, 2001 forced the cancellation of the Finals that year, leading the league to declare the Cyclones and Crosscutters co-champions.
'I told the guys earlier today, 'It's the last game and since we've got to go home, let's go home happy,'" Brooklyn manager Edgardo Alfonzo said. "But either way, they did a great job all year. From the first game to the last game, they never gave up. They always kept fighting. ... It was a great, great game tonight."
Brooklyn entered the bottom of the seventh trailing, 3-2, after Lowell's Marino Campana hit a solo homer in the top half. Mets No. 24 prospect Jake Mangum singled off reliever Yusniel Padron-Artilles, who had allowed one baserunner in 3 1/3 innings leading up to the at-bat. Antoine Duplantis evened the score with a triple to right and Romero followed suit with a knock to left that gave the Cyclones the lead.
"It was a whole team win. It took everybody," Mangum said. "In that seventh inning, I went up there with the mind-set just to compete. I had a really rough series. The first two games I struggled and wasn't doing what I needed to do. I got here early today and straightened some things out mentally and physically. It's a grind. It's been a really long year for all of us. Most of us started playing in January in college intrasquad games. It came down to nine innings of baseball left to play, so forget about swing mechanics and everything else and just go out and compete. That's what it boiled down to."
Competitors collegiately at Mississippi State and Louisiana State respectively, Mangum was thrilled to celebrate with Duplantis.
"We've played against each other for a very long time and been friends through all that," the outfielder said. "To end our first year together on the same team and on a high note was really fun. But man, when Antoine pulled that ball and I saw it down the line I said to myself, 'I am scoring from first.' I was full speed. But credit Antoine there. I got on base and he came up with a big, big hit."
Brooklyn took a 2-0 lead in the second on Mangum's RBI single and a run-scoring groundout by Duplantis. Lowell tied the score in the next half inning, and stellar relief pitching on both sides held the game in check for a while after that. Mets No. 4 prospect Matthew Allan struck out a pair over three perfect frames. Padron-Artilles (0-1) was equal to the task until he allowed hits to three consecutive batters in the seventh.
"It was almost like we had to wait until they scored before we could score," Alfonzo said. "Lowell has a great pitching staff and Padron-Artilles is one of the best in the league. We knew it was going to be tough, but we put everything together that inning and came through."
Mitch Ragan (1-0) picked up the win despite surrendering Campana's solo blast in the seventh.
Andrew Edwards hurled a perfect eighth and worked around a single and a walk in the ninth to record the championship-clinching save. The 22-year-old struck out three in two frames and finished the postseason with eight strikeouts in four scoreless innings.
"Tonight was win or go home, and we all wanted to win, so I was preparing for that since I woke up," Edwards said. "I think losing [Game 2] gave us all that extra fuel and fire to get this done. We knew it wouldn't be easy, though. ... It was pretty incredible to have a chance to close out a championship. That's something I won't forget."
A playoff participant in nine of its first 12 seasons, Brooklyn had not played a postseason game since 2012. Alfonzo guided the Cyclones to their first McNamara Division title since 2010 on the strength of a 43-32 record that tied Hudson Valley for the best mark in the league.
"I hope they keep this feeling," Alfonzo said. "Any time you win the championship it's a good feeling. I had the opportunity to win one [as a player with Double-A Binghamton in 1994]. You teach the guys how to play the game, but at the same time, you have to learn how to win championships. It's a big part of the development of players in the Minor League system of any organization."
A 2000 All-Star who spent eight of his 12 Major League seasons with the Mets, Alfonzo joked about another reason he savors the first outright title in Cyclones history. His older brother, Edgar, skippered the club for three seasons including the 2001 co-championship campaign. He returned six years later for a two-season stint, losing to Auburn in the Finals in 2007.
"It means a lot to me, first off because I beat my brother," Alfonzo said with a laugh. "There were a few tough years here, but it was fun to develop, learn to compete and then win a championship. I'm so proud to be this team's manager."
Mangum agreed about his team's never-say-die persona while basking in the glow of his first championship since high school.
"You spend every day together," the 23-year-old said. "We all live at the Holiday Inn right down the road. You get close with everybody. You hate to see it come to an end, but you're happy you end on a winning note and with a championship."
Mangum and Duplantis -- New York's fourth and 12th-round picks in June's Draft, combined for half of Brooklyn's eight hits.
Boston's No. 19 prospect Nicholas Northcut singled twice for Lowell, which tallied five hits.
Spinners starter Jay Groome continued his rehab assignment while recovering from Tommy John surgery. The sixth-ranked Boston prospect was charged with two runs on four hits and a walk with three strikeouts in 2 2/3 innings.
Michael Avallone is a contributor to MiLB.com. Follow him on Twitter @MavalloneMiLB. This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.View More


text:
|Variable Cracker Hamadryas feronia
|Caxiuaña, Pará, Brazil
November 2005
The Variable Cracker is quite a common butterfly distributed from Texas in the south of the USA through Central America to Ecuador and Brazil.
There are several subspecies with variable appearance. They are usually seen perched upside down on the bark of a tree. The English name comes from the cracking noise when the males fly.
For more information see Butterflies and Moths of North America.
|If you do not see a menu on the left, you may have arrived at this page from another site. Please click Home to get to my main page.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Sessions run on Wednesdays and Fridays through the school holidays from 11am – 1pm at St David's Hall, Whitehawk Road, BN2 5FL.
At each session there will be a FREE, hot, healthy meal, fun crafts and outdoor games and activities.
Please visit our Register page to book your place.
Visit our Facebook page for news and updates.


text:
Querying Oracle using PowerShell
Yesterday, I wrote up a quick bit of code to query out our SQL Servers. Initially, I wanted a speedy way to hit, parse, and report back log4net logs in our "server status" scripts.
Well, never one to leave something alone, I started tinkering with Oracle support. In our enterprise, most of our key systems sit on Oracle and there are SEVERAL opportunities for quick data retrieval routines that could help out in daily work.
Plus, doing an Oracle query in PowerShell beats five minute process of cranking up Oracle SQL Developer for a simple, single query. 🙂
CODE: The full source of this is available here on codepaste.net.
param (
[string]$server = ".",
[string]$instance = $(throw "a database name is required"),
[System.Reflection.Assembly]::LoadWithPartialName("System.Data.OracleClient") | out-null
$connection = new-object system.data.oracleclient.oracleconnection( `
"Data Source=(DESCRIPTION=(ADDRESS=(PROTOCOL=TCP)(HOST=$server)(PORT=1521)) `
(CONNECT_DATA=(SERVICE_NAME=$instance)));User Id=USER_ID;Password=PASSWORD;");
$set = new-object system.data.dataset
$adapter = new-object system.data.oracleclient.oracledataadapter ($query, $connection)
$table = new-object system.data.datatable
$table = $set.Tables[0]
#return table
I chose to use the OracleClient library for simplicity sake. I could have used ODP.Net; however, that'd make my scripts FAR less portable. Since OracleClient isn't loaded by default in PowerShell, this script loads it. In addition, I chose to use the TNS-less connection string as I don't typically keep a 'tnsnames.ora' file on my computer. This further adds to the portability of the script.
Past that and the change from SqlClient to OracleClient, the rest of the code is the same from the prior example.
Dealing With Empty Strings and Nulls
One thing that I did run across that differed between Oracle and Microsoft SQL revolved around how empty strings were dealt with when parsing using PowerShell.
oq "SELECT * FROM Schools"
— —- ———————–
100 School
102 School
112 School email@example.com
140 School firstname.lastname@example.com
Now, what if I wanted to just see the schools missing a principal_email_address? I'd just rewrite my SQL query, right? Yeah, probably, but for the sake of argument and perhaps some scripting.
oq "SELECT * FROM Schools" | ? { $_.principal_email_address -eq ""}
No results.
What? Why not? I see two in my last query. Unfortunately, dealing with "nulls" and empty strings can get a bit tricky when pulling from database data. With Microsoft SQL, a text-based column (varchar, ntext, etc) seems to handle -eq "" just fine, but Oracle is less than pleased. @ShayLevy suggested -eq [string]::Empty but that didn't pull through either.
From a prior experiment, I also tried -eq $null and was greeted with something very different—it returned all results. Meh.
Randomly, I tried -like $null and it worked. Well, that's interesting. So the value isn't empty in Oracle, but it is "like" a null. After a bit more digging, I discovered that the real value is –eq [DBNull]::Value.
oq "SELECT * FROM Schools" | ? { $_.principal_email_address -eq [DBNull]::Value }
— —- ———————–
100 School
102 School
It makes sense… but more testing is required to see which is more reliable for a wide variety of data types. I like the concept of "like null" to simulate "string empty or null". Further testing required. 🙂
Configuring Oracle SQL Developer for Windows 7
I'm fully Vista-free now and loving it; however, Oracle SQL Developer has (once again) decided to simply be annoying to configure.
<rant>Yes, I realize Oracle hates Microsoft. Girls, you're both pretty—please grow up.</rant>
Anyway, after a bit of hunting, I think I've found a good mix for those of us who love SQL Developer for coding and testing, but don't "use" a lot of the Oracle proprietary
junk features that comes with it.
Originally, I was going to include a couple of the configuration files; however, they're spread out EVERYWHERE and, frankly, I can't find them all. 😦 I also can't figure out a way to import settings (without blowing my settings away first).
File Paths
As I mentioned before, some of the configuration files are spread out—everywhere. Here's where the most common files are located.
sqldeveloper.conf – <sqldeveloper folder>\sqldeveloper\bin\
ide.conf – <sqldeveloper folder>\ide\bin\
User-Configured Settings – %appdata%\SQL Developer\
I prefer to make my modifications in sqldeveloper.conf; however, a lot of the resources that pop up on Google make them in ide.conf. Why? I'm not sure. sqldeveloper.conf simply CALLS ide.conf. Meh.
Fixing Memory Consumption on Minimize
I found a reference to JDeveloper (another Java utility) that discussed how JDeveloper (and similarly, SQL Developer) pages everything when you minimize the window.
To fix this, open up sqldeveloper.conf and add the following line:
AddVMOption -Dsun.awt.keepWorkingSetOnMinimize=true
Fixing Aero Basic Theme
Tired of your IDE swapping back to Aero Basic whenever you launch SQL Developer? Me too. For now, Oracle reports that SQL Developer doesn't support the full Aero Theme… or does it?
To enable Aero support (or at least keep it from bouncing back to Aero Basic), open up sqldeveloper.conf and add the following line:
AddVMOption -Dsun.java2d.noddraw=true
The Oracle forums also recommend trying the following line:
AddVMOption -Dsun.java2d.ddoffscreen=false
That option; however, never resolved the issue for me. Your mileage may vary.
Cleaning Up The UI
The default UI leaves a lot to be desired for Oracle SQL Developer. Here's a few UI tips to try out. These settings are found under Tools > Preferences.
Change the Theme – Environment > Theme.
I like Experience Blue. It's clean, simple, and goes well with Windows 7's look and feel.
Change Fonts – Code Editor > …
There are quite a few fonts that can be configured. Here's what I changed:
Code Insight – Segoe UI, 12
Display – check 'Enable Text Anti-Aliasing'
Fonts – Consolas, 11
Printing – Consolas, 10
Disable Unnecessary Extensions – Extensions > …
Honestly, I don't use ANY of the extentions, so I disabled everything as well as unchecking 'Automatically Check for Updates'. I've noticed that load time for the UI is insanely fast now (well, insanely fast for a Java app on Windows).
Window Locations
The only thing that I can't figure out how to fix is the window location and placement. Example: When you open a new worksheet, the results area is not visible (you have to drag that frame up each time). That annoys me to no end and I can't find a place to 'save current window layout' or similar. Ideas?
That's it!
With that, SQL Developer loads up quickly, connects, and displays just fine in Windows 7.
Fluent NHibernate Repository of… integers?
I'd like to preface this by the fact that this "works" doesn't mean it "should". If there's a proper way to do this, I'm all ears. 😀
I recently needed to do some revamp to an application that queried lookup data from another data system. The system had a collection of composite keys (age and total score) that returned a percentile score. Easy enough; however, there are a couple dozen of these tables and I didn't want to create a couple dozen domain objects/repositories for a SINGLE query.
Typically, the NHibernateRepository* takes a type parameter that matches to the mapped object (and provide the proper return type); however, in this case, I didn't have a type to return, simply an integer. So why wouldn't that work?
public class ScoreRepository : NHibernateRepository<int>, IDisposable
With that in place, I can now add a query into Session:
public int GetConceptPercentile(int age, int total)
var result =
"select perc from tblConcept where age = :age and total = :total"
.SetInt32("age", age)
.SetInt32("total", total)
return result;
A few more of those, and our test looks like:
public void GetPercentiles_For_Student()
using (var repository = new ScoreRepository())
var languagePercentile =
repository.GetLanguagePercentile(ageCalc_72months.TotalMonths, 18);
var motorPercentile =
repository.GetMotorPercentile(ageCalc_72months.TotalMonths, 18);
var conceptPercentile =
repository.GetConceptPercentile(ageCalc_72months.TotalMonths, 18);
Everything "appears" to be working; however, the extraneous methods that each NHibernateRepository includes (Get, GetAll, FindAll, etc) are defunct and just sitting there—very messy.
So is there a better way to use NHibernate/Fluent NHibernate WITHOUT mapping objects—those "lookup tables"?
Adventures with Fluent NHibernate
Over the past few weeks, I've taken our existing framework library and reevaluated how we connect to our student information system (SIS) to pull information. Almost all of our applications read from SIS for some bit of information or another; however, nothing writes to it. Changes are only handled through the application itself as the business logic is blackboxed by the vendor.
In the old library, connectivity was a bit piecemeal. When someone needed something, we wrote a test, wrote the implementation PL/SQL, and slugged in some objects. It worked, was fairly quick, and provided a standardized mechanism for querying the system (avoiding EVERYONE recreating what constituted a 'student').
Unfortunately, maintaining the object relationships to the magic strings of PL/SQL code became tedious (at best) and a change was needed. I'd been evaluating NHibernate for a couple of projects (to replace LINQ-to-SQL) as Entity Framework still doesn't have sufficient Oracle ODP support out of the box (without paying for another provider). NHibernate seemed ideal, but XML configuration files made me cringe.
After a bit of syntax searching, I stumbled upon Fluent NHibernate (FNH)—an API that generates both the configuration and XML mappings and allows a MUCH better refactoring experience. I'm all for ReSharper friendly!
As you may have read, I managed to work out an Oracle9 persistance configuration for FNH that has worked out quite well. With that in hand, here's a summary of how things hooked up. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated as most of my learning has been, in my opinion, the best kind—trial and error. 🙂
Also, I'm using various bits from the S#arp Architecture project; however, not everything—remember, I just need readonly access and the amount of noise for all of the libraries was far more than I needed. I've also made several modifications to things such as the PersistentObject and NHibernateSession to include more specific casing required by our organization.
Note: I'm not using the AutoMap features of Fluent NHibernate. Why? At this time, our data structure is VERY wonky (vendor controlled data structure, no real rhyme or reason to it, readonly access), so I have a TON of "TheColumnNameIs" and such to map the properties to the oddball data field names. I am going to hit up the AutoMap features on my next project to better understand them. 🙂
Part #1 – [Code Here]
public void Fetch_A_Report_By_Id()
IReportRepository stubRepository =
Report stubReport =
stubReport.Id = 140;
.Expect(x => x.Get(140))
var report = stubRepository.Get(140);
A quick, simple test that looks for a repository and grabs a single entity based on Id.
At this point, I need an IReportRepository that has a Get method and returns a Report entity.
public interface IReportRepository : INHibernateRepository<Report>
I could simply call NHibernateRepository<Report>() (or INHibernateRepository<T> in this case) directly; however, I prefer to create entity-based repositories. I suppose if I had an entity that would NEVER have it's own specific methods, then I'd reconsider, but I don't like to mix access methodologies around.
Next, our Repository needs a Report object. Remember, just the basics.
public class Report : PersistentObject
Since our Id field comes from the PersistentObject base class, adding it again is unnecessary.
With our Test, IReportRepository, and Report entity objects—we're now flying green. At this point, everything is mocked using Rhino Mocks (v3.5).
Now, let's try an integration test and hit the database using a bit of test data.
Part #2 – [Code Here]
public void Fetch_A_Report_By_Id_From_Database()
var repository = new ReportRepository();
var report = repository.Get(140);
For this test, we need an implementation of our IReportRepository, ReportRepository:
public class ReportRepository : NHibernateRepository<Report>
The plumbing of the data connection also needs to be hashed out. Fluent NHibernate makes configuring NHibernate very easy.
Setting up the Entity Map
Generating the mapping files is as simple as using a couple of virtual methods. Id, Map, References, etc. will grow to be your friends.
public class ReportMap : ClassMap<Report>
public ReportMap()
private void CreateMap()
Id(x => x.Id);
In a few short lines of code, this has told the Fluent NHibernate API to create a mapping file for the Report entity, to use the Reports table, and to assign the data from the Id column to the Id property of the entity. Good stuff.
Setting up the Configuration to the Database
Replacing the challenging XML syntax is a VERY useful, fluent configuration API. I'm using a modified version of Init that reslugs in a default configuration since we're packaging these configurations for internal use.
public static class ExampleConfiguration
public static Configuration Default
get { return Production; }
public static Configuration Production
var config = new Configuration();
return config;
public static void Init(ISessionStorage storage)
Init(Default, storage);
public static void Init(Configuration configuration,
ISessionStorage storage)
// Any of the maps will do for the assembly mapping.
typeof(ReportMap).Assembly, configuration, storage);
Default – Set which of the configuration is the default; called by the overloaded Init method.
Production – Set to the production; you could have Test, AnotherTest, or whatever else your environment needs. The actual Configuration is using Fluent NHibernate's PersistanceConfiguration to generate the configuration.
Init(ISessionStorage) – An overloaded Init that calls the default configuration and passes the parameter session storage to NHibernate; this calls …
Init(Configuration, ISessionStorage) – Calls the base NHibernateSession.Init. This takes an Assembly, the configuration we're passing it, and the ISessionStorage.
Is there a better way? If there's a better way to get the Assembly passed along, I'd LOVE to know. I'm using this methodology since I keep all of my maps in the same library, but if one found its way into another library, this would break.
Initializing the Configuration
With that configured, I put the Init into the constructor for our test (using xUnit, constructors > [SetUp] :P).
public RepositoryBuildUpExample_2()
ExampleConfiguration.Init(new SimpleSessionStorage());
SimpleSessionStorage is a S#arp Architecture snippet for mocking NHibernate; works fantastic.
In a production application, such as an ASP.NET Web site, you would initialize the session in Session_Start or Application_Start and pass along a storage mechanism to save it in .NET session state (or another means).
That's it—everything's in place, let's rerun our test!
At this point, further requirements flush out:
- additional "Get" methods which are added to the ReportRepository,
- additional properties (columns) for the entity,
- and, of course, the tests that determine what code is needed.
For the "finished" example, you can download the [code here].
PersistanceConfiguration for Oracle/Fluent NHibernate
On Tuesday, I mentioned that I created a custom PersistanceConfiguration (based on the template for MS SQL) to connect to Oracle. I had a few individuals email me, so I went ahead and tossed the code out on Google Code for everyone.
Feel free to download the source here.
The class derives FluentNHibernate's PersistanceConfiguration<T> and uses the Oracle.DataAccess (ODP) driver.
To use it, run through just like the MS SQL version. I did, however, add an OtherOptions property to pass caching, pooling, and other Oracle-specific parameters. I could have put each to a separate property (and may in the future)—as soon as I can get F-NHibernate fully working. Heh. Priorities, right?
// Add our Oracle configuration to the NHibernate Config.
var oracleConfiguration = OracleConfiguration.Oracle9
.OtherOptions("Statement Cache Size=50;")
Fluent NHibernate With Oracle – An Answer…
Yesterday, I posted up a real annoying issue with getting Fluent NHibernate working with Oracle. After dinking most of the evening, I found (as with most things) that the issue had little to do with NHibernate and a great deal to do with my lack of understanding.
Ahh, the joys of learning.
So, here's where I glitched.
1. The ClassMap needs more than to have public constructors—but must be public itself.
public class StudentMap : ClassMap<Student>
public StudentMap()
Id(x => x.Id, "pupil_number")
Map(x => x.FirstName, "first_name");
Map(x => x.LastName, "surname");
2. The connection string is touchy. My original connection string looked like:
@"User Id={0};
Statement Cache Size=50;
Min Pool Size=10;
Incr Pool Size=5;
Decr Pool Size=2;
Data Source= (DESCRIPTION=(ADDRESS_LIST=(ADDRESS=(PROTOCOL=TCP)
Unfortunately, that doesn't seem to work with the non-ODP driver (aka: the Microsoft driver). Statement Cache Size and the Pooling Size are unknown parameters. That's TOTALLY understandable and is easy to fix.
For now, I can simplify this to:
@"User Id={0};
Data Source= (DESCRIPTION=(ADDRESS_LIST=(ADDRESS=(PROTOCOL=TCP)
I'll work out the ODP drivers as a next step..
That's it!
With those two changes, my tests pass without any problems AND return the correct information from our database:
Fluent NHibernate With Oracle – A Question…
Answer found! Read more here.
After success with standard NHibernate, I quickly became enraptured with the cleaner Fluent NHibernate API. No more XML; however, I have had VERY limited (read: none) success getting this working against Oracle—especially against our crazy Oracle environment (of which I have no control and readonly access).
Here's what I have:
A basic ClassMap of a Student object.
class StudentMap : ClassMap<Student>
public StudentMap()
Id(x => x.Id, "pupil_number")
Map(x => x.FirstName, "first_name");
Map(x => x.LastName, "surname");
A basic Student object.
public class Student
private Student() { }
public virtual int Id { get; set; }
public virtual string FirstName { get; set; }
public virtual string LastName { get; set; }
Note: My constructor is private because this SHOULD be a readonly object. Setting it public doesn't seem to matter either. 😦
A basic data provider.
public class SISDataProvider
public ISession Session;
public SISDataProvider(ISession session)
Session = session;
public T GetById<T>(int id)
return Session.Get<T>(id);
No save functionality—again, we just have readonly access to this database.
A basic session manager.
public class SISSessionManager
private readonly string _mappingAssembly;
private readonly ISessionFactory _sessionFactory;
public SISSessionManager()
_mappingAssembly = "SIS.Domain";
_sessionFactory = GetSessionFactory();
public ISession GetSession()
return _sessionFactory.OpenSession();
private ISessionFactory GetSessionFactory()
var config = new Configuration();
var configuration = OracleConfiguration.Oracle9
return configuration.BuildSessionFactory();
The OracleConfiguration is based on a FluentNhibernate.Cfg.PersistanceConfiguration that I created that calls the OracleClientDriver (not the ODP; that's OracleDataClientDriver—I'm simply wanting to get the architecture working for now and I'll dink with increasing performance with ODP as the next step).
Finally, the test.
public class creating_a_student
private SISDataProvider _provider;
private SISSessionManager _sessionFactory;
public creating_a_student()
_sessionFactory = new SISSessionManager();
_provider = new SISDataProvider(_sessionFactory.GetSession());
public void with_a_valid_student_id_selects_the_correct_student()
var sut = _provider.GetById<Student>(12345);
Unfortunately, all that and I get an error:
creating_a_student.with_a_valid_student_id_selects_the_correct_student : Failed
XunitException: NHibernate.MappingException : No persister for: SIS.Domain.Student
After some debugging, the Sis.Domain.Student is being added to the Mapping collection, but I'm not sure if that's the problem or not. A Google of "no persister" pulls up a few NHibernate hits for not having the XML files set to Embedded Resource, which isn't my problem here—is it? I thought Fluent NHibernate escaped XMLHell.
I'd appreciate any guidance on this—I'm stumped.


text:
Maternity Bean Bags
Here at GreatBeanBags™, our maternity bean bag chairs are made with mum in mind. Our variety of plush bean bags are designed to offer comfortable support for the neck and back and can be ordered in a range of sizes, colours, and styles to suit mum's style.
3 Items
3 Items


text:
M. S. LOEWENSTEIN, M.D.; R. A. RITTGERS, M.D.; A. E. FEINERMAN, M.D.; H. Z. KUPCHIK, Ph.D.; B. R. MARCEL, M.D.; R. S. KOFF, M.D., F.A.C.P.; N. ZAMCHECK, M.D.
Levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) activity were measured in 105 unselected samples of ascitic fluid submitted for routine cytologic analysis to ascertain whether this assay was useful in the detection of malignancy. The highest CEA level found in the 70 specimens of "benign" ascites was 10 ng/ml. Using values > 10 ng/ml as indicating a cancerous effusion, CEA assay successfully detected 14 of the 29 malignant ascites studied. Cytology, on the other hand, detected only 12 of these fluids. Combining the two methods increased the yield to 20. The CEA assay alone thus detected more than one fourth of these malignant fluids. The assay was particularly useful in detecting malignant transudates, nearly half of which had elevated CEA levels despite negative cytologic findings. The CEA assay of ascites thus showed promise as an adjunct to cytology in the detection of malignant ascites when used as part of a complete clinical and laboratory assessment.
LOEWENSTEIN MS, RITTGERS RA, FEINERMAN AE, et al. Carcinoembryonic Antigen Assay of Ascites and Detection of Malignancy. Ann Intern Med. 1978;88:635–638. doi: https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-88-5-635
Download citation file:
© 2020
Published: Ann Intern Med. 1978;88(5):635-638.
Results provided by:
Copyright © 2020 American College of Physicians. All Rights Reserved.
Print ISSN: 0003-4819 | Online ISSN: 1539-3704
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Tennessee began administering the UNIFORM BAR EXAMINATION with the February 2019 examination. The UBE consists of two Multistate Practice Tests (MPT), six Multistate Essay Examination questions (MEE) and the Multistate Bar Examination. Information regarding applications and deadlines can be found here. Suggestions for answering essay questions can be found at the end of this page.
Location for the February 2020 Uniform Bar Examination in Tennessee
Please pay close attention to the exam site location(s). The exam is given on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 25 and 26, 2020. Testing for the February 2020 Uniform Bar Examination will be conducted at:
Nashville Municipal Auditorium, 417 4th Avenue North, Nashville, TN 37201
The Board does not have hotel room blocks for the examination. There are several hotels within close proximity to the test location. At least four Parking Garages are located within a short walking distance of the Municipal Auditorium in Nashville.
Bar Examination Schedule
February/Winter 2020 Uniform Bar Examination Dates: Tuesday, February 25, and Wednesday, February 26, 2020
July/Summer 2020 Uniform Bar Examination Dates: Tuesday, July 28, and Wednesday, July 29, 2020
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Discover Colombia's Culture TourBOOK NOW
From £2260 - 15 Days
Rich Colombian Culture Awaits!
During this Colombia holiday, you will see the wide range of diversity featuring Colombia's landscape and culture. Visit the magnificent San Agustin Archaeological Park, the white city of Colombia, Medellin and romantic Cartagena on the Caribbean coast. Not only will you see some of the most specular landscapes during this journey through Colombia, you will also have the opportunity immerse yourself in the heart of Colombia's history, culture and traditions.
Learn about Colombia's history while visiting the museums in Bogota, the archaeological park and the historic cities of Popayan and Cartagena. You will also have the opportunity to visit and talk to members of the Guambiano indigenous community to learn about their culture and traditions. Plus you will visit a fishing family in La Boquilla, learn about the coffee making process, learn to dance salsa and how to cook a traditional Colombian dish.
EXPERIENCE TYPE Culture, History, Archaeology & Local Traditions
Tour Highlights
La Candelaria
Bogota is the capital city of Colombia. Bogota's famous colonial neighbourhood of La Candelaria contains most of the historic sites, museums, ancient churches and central government buildings. Practically every street corner in La Candelaria marks some important event in Colombian history and most buildings retain their colonial architecture and charm.
San Agustin Archaeological Park
Located in the foothills of the Andes in the central Colombian department of Huila, San Agustin Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to the largest group of religious monuments and megalithic sculptures in South America. The park is home to around 500 monuments of which most are related to funerals and burials. There are also impressive religious monuments such as the Fuente de Lavapatas, which is carved into a stream bed.
This beautiful city, known as the "white city of Colombia" for its chalk white buildings, is famous for its Holy Week celebrations and for its gastronomy. The Holy Week celebrations are the second-largest in the world (after Seville, Spain) and were declared by UNESCO as a masterpiece of the oral and intangible patrimony of humanity. Popayan was also declared by the UNESCO as the first city of gastronomy because of its variety of food and meaning to the intangible patrimony of Colombian culture.
This picturesque mountain town is known as the centre of the Guambiano region. The Guambainos are considered one of the most traditional indigenous groups in Colombia. They travel to Silvia every Tuesday to sell their produce, textiles and other products, providing a very traditional market experience.
With its fertile soils and steamy climate, Cali is Colombia's third-largest city and a destination not to miss. The area is known for growing sugarcane as well as being the salsa capital of the world. This is the perfect city to practice some salsa.
Salsa Class
Put on your dancing shoes in Cali and learn how to dance salsa, one the most popular types of music in Colombia. A salsa teacher will demonstrate steps and techniques so you can take part in this beloved Colombian cultural pastime.
Medellin is the second-largest city in Colombia and a world-class modern city with stunning architecture. Medellin delights visitors with its sophistication and wealth attractions. It is called the "city of eternal spring" because of its perfect combination of warm days and cool nights. Surrounded by flower farms, Medellin is one of the main flower producing centres in Colombia.
Food & Cooking Class
Learn more about Colombian gastronomy by starting the morning at Plaza de Paloquemao, one of the largest and most popular markets in Bogota. We then will go to a cooking school and learn to prepare a delicious Colombian dish. End this day tour on a sweet note at Colombian dessert shop.
Cartagena de Indias is one of the most fascinating, romantic and beautiful colonial cities in Latin America. Located on the Caribbean coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of history, colourful streets and great people, making it a fairy tale city of romance.
La Boquilla Fishing Village
This small fishing village is located about 7 km north of Cartagena. La Boquilla town sits on the northern tip of a narrow peninsula, bordered by the sea on one side and the Ciénaga de Tesca on the other. At La Boquilla, we will canoe through a mangrove forest and learn about the history and culture of this fishing town while mastering local fishing techniques using a net and crab traps.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at any time. We will pick you up at the airport and drive you to your hotel in Bogota (Check in after 3 pm).
Note: This tour should start on Wednesdays to be able to see the Silvia's traditional market on Tuesdays.
Meal Plan: None
Overnight: Bogota
Day 2
In the morning, we will go on a walking tour to see to some of the most iconic places in La Candelaria, Bogota's historic centre. We will have the chance to admire the world's largest collection of pre-Hispanic gold at the Gold Museum, and enjoy the diversity of architectural styles on display at this historic neighbourhood.
You will have the afternoon free to visit other areas of the historic centre or even go to Cerro de Monserrate.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Overnight: Bogota
Day 3
In the morning, we will have a cooking experience which will let you learn first-hand about Colombian cuisine. First, we will shop for lunch at Plaza de Paloquemao, one of the largest and most popular markets in Bogota. You will be amazed by the variety of fresh fruits and vegetables found there. Then, we will go to a cooking school to attend a class and learn to prepare a delicious Colombian dish. You will have the afternoon free to carry on exploring the city on your own.
Overnight: Bogota
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
In the morning, we will take a flight to Pitalito, a small town located 35 minutes away from San Agustin, where the famous archaeological park is located. This region, apart from being famous for the archaeologic sites, is also cultivates high quality coffee. Therefore, in the afternoon we will visit a coffee farm to learn everything about harvesting and making coffee, from planting the coffee beans to the picking and roasting process. We will learn how to select and pick only the ripe coffee cherries and also how to taste and evaluate the coffee's quality, just like a coffee expert.
Overnight: San Agustin
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 5
After breakfast, we will start our day trip to San Agustin Archaeological Park. At the park, you will visit the Alto de Lavapatas as well as the Fuente de Lavapatas, a complex maze of pools and water channels hewn from bedrock carved with figures of animals and humans. It was used for religious ceremonies and bathing. Furthermore, you will see the Bosque de las Estatuas and the different Mesitas.
In the afternoon, we will take a horseback-riding tour to visit El Tablon and La Chaquira and see other anthropomorphic statues and the spectacular landscape of the Magdalena river.
Overnight: San Agustin
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 6
In the morning, we will go to the Alto de los Idolos, the second-most important archaeological park in the region where you will see the largest statue (7mts). We will also visit the waterfalls of Salto del Mortiño (180mts height). After that, we will start our trip towards Popayan. On our way to Popayan, we will stop at "Valle de los Frailejones", where you can see the spectacular landscape of a Colombian Paramo surrounded by Frailejones. The frailejon, known as well as Espeletia, is the typical plant found at high altitude in the Paramo ecosystems.
During this journey towards Popayan, you will also have the opportunity to try a delicious agua de panela con queso, one of the most traditional hot beverages in Colombia. Early in the evening, we will arrive in Popayan.
Overnight: Popayan
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 7
Popayan is called the "white city" because of its chalk-white building. This beautiful colonial city boasts the country's largest concentration of churches per capita. Church steeples dominate the town's skyline and around every street corner is a different church to see. During Easter, thousands of people crowd the streets to watch or participate in the huge religious processions and ceremonial celebrations that take place throughout the most important week of the Catholic calendar.
During our tour in Popayan, we will visit various churches and historical places to learn about the history of the city and all the religions processions. You will have the afternoon free to carry on exploring the city on your own.
Overnight: Popayan
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 8
Today we will visit Silvia, a picturesque mountain town known as the centre of the Guambiano region. The Guambainos are considered one of the most traditional indigenous groups in Colombia. They don't actually live in the Silvia, but on Tuesdays they come to Silvia to sell their fruit, vegetable and handicrafts. They all come in their traditional dresses. It will definitely be the best day to visit the town.
After visiting Silvia, we will go to Guambia, where we will have the opportunity to visit a Guambiano indigenous community and talk to their Taita (tribe chief) to learn about their culture and traditions. At the end of this visit, we will go to Cali and spend the night.
Overnight: Cali
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
AM City Tour in Cali & Salsa Class
Day 9
Cali is known as the world's salsa capital, it is also one of the most important industrial and business cities in Colombia. In the morning, we will visit some of the most iconic places of the city including: Iglesia de la Merced, Mirador de San Antonio, Parque and Gato del Rio. At the end of the tour we will take a one-hour salsa class to enjoy and learn some steps of this fascinating dance. In the afternoon, we will go to the airport for a flight to Medellin.
Overnight: Medellin
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10
In the morning, we will visit Comuna 13, previously one of the most dangerous neighbourhoods in Medellin. The area is safe to explore now, thanks to the government's promise to improve the neighbourhood and the community's commitment to sharing this unique part of Medellin with visitors.
During the tour, you will ride multiple elevators installed on the side of a mountain to help people move through the community easier. The walls of Comuna 13 are adorned with bright graffiti and your local guide will explain the meaning and symbolism behind some of the works of art. Witness for yourself how one community that was once home to so much struggle and conflict has blossomed into a colourful spot in Medellin. You will also get a chance to see authentic Colombian culture up close.
You will have the afternoon to carry on exploring the city on your own.
Overnight: Medellin
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 11
You will have the day at leisure to carry on exploring the city on your own.
Overnight: Medellin
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 12
In the morning, we will go to the airport for your flight to Cartagena. Upon arrival in Cartagena, we will transfer you to the hotel.
In the afternoon, we will have the opportunity to visit the old city and the iconic Castillo San Felipe, the largest and strongest fortress ever built by the Spaniards in any of their colonies. The castle was built on top of the San Lazaro hill and defended the city from many attacks including a British siege in 1741. We will finish the tour at the famous Café del Mar to admire the spectacular sunset over the Caribbean Sea while having a refreshing cocktail.
Overnight: Cartagena
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 13
In the morning, we will go to La Boquilla, a small fishing village located 7 km north of Cartagena. La Boquilla sits on the northern tip of a narrow peninsula, bordered by the sea on one side and the Ciénaga de Tesca on the other.
At La Boquilla, we will take a trip in a wooden canoe through the mangrove forest in La Cienga de Tesca. During this trip, you will see some native and migratory birds and learn about the flora and other fauna found in this ecosystem. You will learn local fishing techniques like how to cast a net and set crab traps.
After learning to fish in the mangrove forest, we will eat lunch in a local home by the water. This is where you will learn more about the locals' day-to-day lives, their fishing tools and their culture. The lunch will be a delicious meal consisting of seafood, which is popular along Colombia's Caribbean coast. We will finish this tour after lunch around 2 pm and drop you back off at your hotel in Cartagena.
Overnight: Cartagena
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14
You will have the morning to relax or to go shopping. In the afternoon, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Bogota.
Overnight: Bogota
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Day 15
The tour ends today. At the time required, we will pick you up at the hotel for a transfer to the airport.
Meal Plan: Breakfast


text: Consultants Committee Pay Scotland Last updated: 31 January 2019 Understanding your payslip This short guide to understanding your payslip aims to clarify some of the entries on the consultant payslip in Scotland, and also highlights the areas that you may need to look at more carefully. Understanding what should be on your payslip is the first step to spotting any mistakes and avoiding any potential unwelcome surprises. Simon Barker, chair of the BMA Scottish consultants committee, explains the different elements of pay that you might receive and how this will show up on your payslip. If you think that you may have a problem with your pay, BMA employment advisers will be happy to offer advice and assistance.


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What makes the perfect fitted curved hem tee?
Ah the T-shirt. The staple in every man's wardrobe, and favourite style piece for every occasion. Day wear: sorted! Evening wear: well mostly sorted as long as it's the right one and is accompanied but a smart pair or jeans or shorts.
It's simple and stylish, like most men, and requires very few decisions when wearing one as long as it's complimenting the footwear.
Long the default item of apparel for most guys whatever the occasion, we buy them in bulk, often from the same brand. But when you make them as good as we do, we understand why. The long-term favourites are often not replaced until they start falling apart. I've thrown away curved hem tees with more sentimental value than most of my relationships.
But this is not the best route to take. Paying careful attention to the style of your t-shirt is just as important as any other part of your urban wear wardrobe. Your previous favourite go-to brand have probably started to worry about margins rather than making good clothes and are making the tees for less. Suddenly they are falling apart quicker, losing the shape and developing holes around the seams. It's time to try something new, and we can help. For those interested in street fashion, and curved hem tees in particular, then listen carefully.
If you are in the market for a new t-shirt then pay attention to these crucial aspects – fit, colour, fabric, feel, style, and function.
The best fitted tees hug your body like a beer-jacket on a cold night, showing the muscles but hiding the sins. Get it right and you can look like you frequent the gym more than the pub, even when not true. While 100% Cotton seems like a dream, the 10% Polyester mix keeps the shape better and makes them slightly more durable. That stretch can be ideal for those who do work on sculpturing their bodies.
Urban wear curved hem tees tend to come as part of the core collections, with the logo either colour matching or contrasting. The core ranges tend to be constant so are the safe colours of white, black, grey, navy blue, khaki green, burgundy red or the like. Outside of core there is often the summer floral patterns, or the usual attempts to be stand out with flowers, birds, moths or skulls which are more the norm than unique. Ultimately these tees can rarely pass as evening wear however. Check out the full range of curved hem tees here.
Of course some people are unsure of spending £30 on a t-shirt when the high street can offer them for a fraction of the price. But that is the difference between a tee that holds it's shape for years and one that falls apart after a few washes. And we all know that wearing a nice tee can make you feel a million dollars that makes the cheap ones stay in the drawer.
Of course the curved hem tee fit might not be everyones, er cup of tea. So what other fit styles are there and what does each name mean? Firstly before all is explain below, lets talk about distressed tees. We need too, as this is the practise of intentional distressing the clothes to make them appear worn and torn. The practise actually started back in the 70's with jeans in the punk movement. For the record skinny jeans came in the 50's in the rock and roll era, so while Generation Z think they are the coolest people on the planet, they are literally dressing from their parents and grandparents generation. Personally I think there is a thin line between the fashionable distressed style and being mistaken for homeless, and it can be crossed all too easy. But let's end that there and move into fit details and answer those questions that we often get calls about.
What is a Curved Hem Fitted Tee?
It's all about the bottom of the t-shirt, which is known as the hemline. If it is listed as a curved hem tee, then this hem line will be curved.
What is a Straight Hem Fitted Tee?
As above, but with a straight hem will mean this is in a straight line.
What is a Longline Tee?
Longline means the t-shirt is longer than usual but the rest of the fit is the same. Short people beware as this can look odd. It's just extra long, and not to be confused with:
What is an oversized Tee?
Without being obvious, it's big all over. Where the longline is just extra length at the hemline to cover more of the crotch and rear, oversized means it's baggy all over including the arms and chest size.
What is a drop shoulder tee?
The standard tee has sleeves that traditional come halfway down the bicep. Drop shoulder means it completely covers the bicep and is due to the shoulder seam being dropped lower. Hence the name "drop shoulder".
What is a Raglan Sleeve Tee?
A Raglan sleeve has clear stitching on the sleeve which is separate to the body, where the colour is normally contrast to the body.


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Whilst chatting to a colleague the other day we struck on a perennial topic, journals and the fact that a common error made by learners is to post them the wrong way round.
It started me thinking about why this happens, and I wonder whether a possible explanation is that at Foundation level our understanding of accounting theory is new. We are still struggling with which elements of it are double entry and which are not.
So let's go back to basics and think about an accounting system. It's there to record the transactions of a business which are evidenced by primary records, such as invoices, credit notes and bank statements. There are lots of documents but no double entry. The details of these documents are then recorded in the books of prime entry; sales, sales returns, discounts allowed, purchases, purchase returns and discounts received daybooks plus the petty cash book, cash book and journals. The day books are fundamentally just lists of transactions designed to summarise information from primary records. They are the first point of entry for transactions to be included in an accounting system but they are not part of the double entry system.
The journal is slightly different to the other day books as it is an instruction rather than a list. It is used less frequently and often for non-routine transactions, for example, opening balances, the correction of errors and year end adjustments. However, the important point is, that like the other day books it sits just outside of the double entry system, setting up the information to be double entered but not actually doing it.
Let's think about the sales daybook for a moment, it lists the details of credit sales invoices and totals the gross, net and VAT amounts at the bottom. It is only at the point that these three total amounts are posted into the sales ledger control account, sales and VAT accounts in the general ledger that the double entry happens. Likewise when we prepare journal entries we are simply writing down an instruction. That instruction will be to make a double entry posting in accounts in the general ledger but until the journal is posted, no double entry has taken place.
One of the confusing issues with journals is that in order to be able to write them we need to understand the double entry required. Therefore whilst we are learning we often sketch T accounts to help us think about what to debit and what to credit, and that can make us think that the double entry comes before the journal. The other issue is that when we complete a journal in a computerised accounting program, the result of saving or approving it also initiates its posting. The reality is, that when we use accounting software, writing journals (not double entry) and posting them (double entry) becomes integrated.
We need to be aware of these issues and understand what they mean for us whilst we study manual accounting. Let's work through an example to correct an error that has arisen because an invoice for a £120 credit sales has been posted as a credit note.
The first thing we need to do is work out what has happened and sketching T accounts is a really good way of doing that as long as we remember these are just workings:
Then we need to think about what should have happened:
By comparing the two, we can work out what instructions need to be given in a journal, to remove the incorrect entry……
…and post the correct one:
We can now prepare the journal entries needed, remembering that the journal is the first step in the accounting system to correct the error but not part of the double entry system:
If we were using accounting software, the program would now take over, follow the instructions in our journal and make the entries into the accounts. However, as we are learning manual accounting we have to complete step two of the correction ourselves. We have already worked out the double entry so just have to post the entries, in other words, simply follow the instructions in the journal:
Whilst the journal tells us the amounts to enter and which accounts to enter them in, the details that we write in those accounts follows the simple rule that:
The details should reflect the name of the account to which the other half of the double entry is posted
Extra care needs to be taken to ensure we do not reverse the journal but that we do reference correctly to the opposite account.
The final point to note is that as journals only give instructions to make double entry postings, they only include accounts in the general ledger. As our example corrected an error in the sales ledger control account then the error may have been replicated in the customer's individual account in the sales ledger. If that is the case, then a further correction will be required but as the subsidiary ledgers (sales and purchases) are not part of the double entry system and only contain memorandum posting, this will not be instructed by a journal.
Browse the full range of AAT study support resources here
Gill Myers is a self-employed accounts consultant. She has taught AAT qualifications since 2005 and written numerous articles and e-learning resources.


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Get to know Guam: Pago
Located on the eastern coast of the island of Guam, Pago is one of the oldest villages that predate Spanish contact with the ancient Chamorros. The village was settled near the mouth of the Pago River, which feeds into Pago Bay, the largest bay on the island; it is also the site of several important archeological investigations.
The village name Pago is likely derived from the Chamorro word pago (pagu), which is the wild hibiscus plant that grows abundantly in this area. The bark of this species of hibiscus traditionally was used to make ropes. The combination of river and ocean resources made the area ideal for fishing as well as plant cultivation including yams, taro and mangrove plants.
According to Chamorro legend, the bay was formed by a giant fish that ate the central part of the island, thus explaining the almost hour glass shape we see today. In the legend, the women of Pago were known to scent and color their hair with lemon peels. When lemon peels were found in neighboring Agana Bay, the women in Agana knew the giant fish had bored an undersea tunnel beneath the island. Eventually, the fish was captured by the Agana women who wove a giant net from their hair.
During the Spanish reducción in the late 1600s and early 1700s, many Chamorros were removed from their homes and forced to settle in mission villages on Guam. Pago was one of the six villages selected as a relocation point for thousands of Chamorros from Tinian and Aguigan. The reducción effectively removed the Chamorros from their traditional lands and the practices that held much of Chamorro culture together.
With the imposition of Christianity and influences of Spanish, Filipino and Mexican cultures, ancient Chamorro society underwent major change. In 1856, a smallpox epidemic led to the decimation of much of the population and Pago was abandoned. Survivors moved to other villages. Today, a drive along Route 4 near the village of Yona provides a breathtaking view of Pago Bay. The shores of the bay are popular for fishing and other recreational activities, and now, the bay is a site for major new housing developments. Nevertheless the ancient village site remains archeologically significant, giving insight into ancient Chamorro life and cultural practices.
Recently archeologists working along the shores of Pago Bay, on Guam's east coast, discovered previously buried archeological soils, features and artifacts indicating that people lived along the shores of this bay hundreds of years before the Spanish first arrived in AD 1521.
During the period from 2005-2009 four archeological projects were completed in Pago Bay. Three small projects were located northeast of the Pago River in the vicinity of Frank Perez Park, a public recreation area located on the shoreline, northeast of the river mouth. The fourth and largest project, the Laguna Pago Bay Resort, is located south of the river. These projects found that the lands bordering the bay on both sides of the river had been utilized during the Latte Period (AD 900-1521), and they revealed new information about the ancient village of Pago, the nature of its occupation and the range of activities traditionally carried out by the people who lived there.
Three separate projects completed on the north side of the river were situated on the accumulated sand deposits that lie southeast of Chalan Justice Monessa Lujan, formerly known as Inalado Road, and the shoreline. The large project completed on the south side of the river included a narrow strip of beach bordered by a limestone cliff with rock overhangs and upland areas developed on a limestone base that formed a plateau and slopes.
While all of the areas had been considerably disturbed in the past, the archeological projects identified scattered pockets of intact cultural deposits dating to the Latte Period.
Exposed in some soils were intact Latte Period cultural features, including an earth-oven, postholes (holes dug in the ground that indicate placement of wooden or stone posts), and prehistoric trash pits, as well as intact and previously disturbed human skeletal remains. Charcoal recovered from intact cultural features was radiocarbon dated. A variety of stone and shell tools and shell ornaments was recovered and described. Floral and faunal remains were identified, providing information about traditional subsistence practices.
Excavations in a previously disturbed area uncovered a probable limestone latte pillar and capstone. The exposed latte pillar was 0.87 meters (2.9 feet) long and the capstone was 0.24 meters (9.5 inches) thick, making a pillar/cap combination with a maximum height of 1.11 meters (3.6 feet). The disturbed latte elements provide tangible evidence that at least one latte set formerly existed in this area. But it is likely that the area once had more sets.
Human skeletal remains, which are generally closely associated with latte sets erected along Guam's shoreline, were exposed in three of the four project areas. Based on the scattered distribution of the skeletal remains, it could be inferred that latte sets had been built on the sand flat on the northeast side of the river and on the northern edge of the limestone plateau on the south side of the river.
Generally, the individuals had been placed into prepared pits dug into the ground, although outlines of pits were not always visible. The burials exposed in the sand deposits were preserved in place without being entirely exposed by hand. Thus, little information about burial practices, or the age, sex, or condition of those individuals was gained.
The previously disturbed human remains exposed at the northern edge of the limestone plateau south of the river were recovered, and they will be reburied on the property. Most of the preserved remains were adults. The recovered remains included adults and juveniles, as well as males and females.
A zone of stone cobble mounds located along the base of the limestone slope south of the Pago River was interpreted as an agricultural field where yams may have been grown. A grain of yam (Dioscorea) starch in a soil sample from this zone, as well as yam spines in the soils, provided tangible evidence that the tubers and the vines were once present.
Soil samples taken from the Pago wetland on the south side of the Pago River provided evidence that taro was once cultivated in this area. Other plants once present in this area included mangrove, breadfruit, coconut, ferns, pandanus and grasses. Seven radiocarbon dates were obtained. One date with a range of 210-30 BC was not associated with a cultural deposit. Four dates fell within the Latte Period and their calibrated ranges were AD 870-1020, AD 1020-1190, AD 1150-1280, and AD 1290-1420. One date had a range that extended from the late Latte Period into the early Spanish Period (AD 1440-1640). The seventh date was modern, post AD 1950. The dates indicate that people utilized the area from near the beginning of the Latte Period into early Spanish times.
Latte Period artifacts recovered from the project areas include pottery fragments, shell ornaments such as Conus and Spondylus beads, bone spear points, fragments of bone awls or needles, a small coral mortar, slingstones, basalt and chert flakes, basalt tool fragments such as pounders and adzes, Tridacna shell adzes, and Isognomon fish hooks and fish gorges.
Two probable pieces of ambergris (a waxy substance formed in the intestines of sperm whales) were recovered, providing the first archeological indication that Latte Period people may have been familiar with this material. Ambergris floats on the ocean surface and it sometimes washes up on beaches in the form of irregularly shaped lumps.
The fact that these two pieces, recovered from two different cultural features, appear to have a similar shape, suggests that people may have utilized the substance in some consistent way. Historic accounts from the late 1700s note that ambergris occasionally washed up on Guam's shores, but the account did not mention that the material was ever collected and/or utilized.
Based on the data collected, the Latte Period activities included cutting, chopping, scraping, pounding, abrading, tool making, tool repair, the production of fishing gear, fishing, mollusk collecting, farming, and cooking. The finished beads suggest that the people made and wore ornaments manufactured from marine shells.
The postholes and the latte elements indicate that they built houses or other structures, buried their dead near the areas where they made tools, and prepared food. The food and plant remains indicate that they ate breadfruit, yams, taro, a variety of shellfish including gastropods and bivalves, caught fish, including parrotfish and shark, and captured fruitbat and turtle.
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On Arrival in Chandigarh Airport/ Railway Station meet our representative and transfer by road from Chandigarh to Shimla. On Arrival check in at hotel. Overnight stay at Sarahan Hotel.
This Day after breakfast check out from the hotel proceed for in and around sightseeing of SHIMLA, visit KUFRI, India's one of the best holiday paradise Kufri in Shimla is beautifully tucked on an altitude of 2,622 meter. The place is a tourist hotspot for its awesome scenic and sports activities. Evening free to stroll in the famous shopping place of Shimla town – "THE MALL & THE RIDGE" This large open space in the heart of town presents excellent views of the mountain ranges. Shimla's landmarks - the neo- gothic structure of Christ Church and the neo - Tudor library building - are worth seeing.
Dinner and overnight stay in the hotel.....
Travel by surface from Shimla, the gateway to Kinnaur Enroute crossing the famous hill resorts of Kufri & Narkanda. Enroute also visit Rampur and view Padam Palace. Continue drive along the Satluj River and from Jeori clime up to Sarahan. On arrival check in at hotel. Evening visit the famous Bhimakali Temple at Sarahan. Overnight at hotel.
Visit remote village of Rackham and Chitkul Village .over night stay in camp/hotel.
After breakfast travel to Sangla which has earned distinction of one of the most beautiful valleys in Himachal. At Sangla visit Kamru village and make a small walk to visit kamru Fort which has a temple dedicated to Kamaksha Devi. Later check in at camp. Rest of day is free to relax and enjoy the pristine beauty .Overnight at camp.
Visit Nako village. Overnight in the hotel at Tabo.
Today visit to Tabo monastery, Lalung and Dhankar Gompa , Later then drive to kaza. Overnight in kaza hotel.
Today visit the Ki monastery and Kibber (4205) village. In the afternoon travel to Tashigong village to see the LA darcha Fair grounds and the Chao Kang Nilda peak.
Driving over Kunzam Pass 4558 m and Rohtang Pass 3980m. Arrive evening in Manali at hotel.
After breakfast visit to Vashisth Bath (Vashisth Springs is situated at Vashisth village, just 3 Km from Manali. Sulfur springs gush forth from the mountains here and these springs have medicinal properties. A bath complex with a restaurant caters to the tourists.)Temples dedicated to Sage Vashisth and Lord Rama are located nearby), Hadimba Temple (Hadimba Temple is one of the most important temples in the region. This four story wooden temple is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri). Tibetan Monastery, Club House. Evening free for shopping on The Mall Road and Ibex market. Dinner and Overnight stay at Hotel
After breakfast check out from hotel and depart for Dharamshala. Enroute cover sightseeing of Kullu Valley, Rafting Point, Kullu shawl industry cum showroom & Vaishno Devi Temple. Also cover Tea Gardens & Baijnath Temple inking Valley. Evening arrive at Dharamshala. Check into the hotel dinner and overnight stay.
This morning visit to Dalai Lama Temple in Macleodganj, Norbulinka Institute, Bhagsunag and Dal lake.
Early in morning drive to Amritsar on arrival check in to hotel after fresh up visit Golden Temple, Jillian Walla Bagh and Bagha Border ceremony dinner and overnight stay at hotel.
Next day check out the hotel and drive for Delhi .In evening reached Delhi and drop at Delhi Airport/Railway Station. End of our service and your journey.
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Today, education isn't only high marks and a big degree. Education today is truly all rounded. At our schools we practise this mantra to the letter. Naturally, therefore, when Quill Club Writers approached us, we accepted them wholeheartedly. In both the books that we have produced together, Quill Club Writers have proven their worth beyond our expectations. They not only made our children better writers but better human beings. We couldn't have asked for more. We shall continue to work with them for many, many years to come. Congratulations, Quill Club Writers, and best wishes, as always.
Since our first meeting at the Coonoor railway station at the launch of our first book- Blue Mountain Express- our relationship has grown in strength. Working with Hemant and Ruchira has been nothing but pleasure. I have watched the Master work his magic on our children at Riverside. He has helped them understand that creativity is nothing without the science that binds it together; that it's imperative to find the edge and still be grounded to transcend words to paper. QCW has helped our children believe that their words can linger on for eternity. I wish you the very best.
In this era of academic excellence only, our children took up the pen – not to write exams, but to write stories- with Quill Club Writers. This was perhaps what they were waiting for. Hemant and Ruchira are exceptional mentors. Two years and two releases later, we are proud of our authors. It has been a momentous journey. Manav Rachna will continue to encourage and nurture talent. We stand firmly committed to this cause and will encourage more schools to take part in this wonderful journey.
I feel happy that my suggesting an anthology has done so well. 'All children are born with innate creativity; a lucky few get a chance to exhibit this when they get suitable mentors.' Hemant and Ruchira are brilliant mentors- guiding, encouraging and correcting the children when required. The entire experience of working with them was enriching for all stakeholders, not just the young writers. The Bakers' Dozen project lives in our hearts and our classrooms.
I'm told that if writing were easy, it would be called rock-climbing or sky-diving. Well, then mentoring is fighting a grizzly bear, hands tied. But for my mentor, it's all very easy. From pen on paper to print on paper, Mr Hemant guided us through every twist & turn. The sessions with him were a potpourri of life lessons, anecdotes and disciplined writing. That's how I've become a good writer and a better person. Here's to more steaming cuppas over plotlines and grammar. Cheers!


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Boswells Blog
- 21st September 2019
Your Guide to Our Student Check List Essentials
Whether you're heading off to university for the first time, or returning for another year of study, we've put together a guide to student essentials to get you started for the new academic year. Don't forget to sign up to our Student Club to get 10% off now and other offers throughout the year!
You can scroll to read the entire guide, or simply click the options on the menu below.
Arriving in Oxford Making Yourself At Home Bedding and Towels Kitchen Essentials Space Saving Solutions Making It Your Own On the Go Starting Your Studies Beating the Fresher's Flu Enjoying Your Time in Oxford
Arriving in Oxford
Arriving in a new place can be a bit daunting at first while you figure out how to get around and what to expect from your new location. Oxford has lots of exciting things to offer, from its iconic dreaming spires to its museums, restaurants, pubs and shops, but it's also an old city with many an interesting sight to be found off little side streets and winding passages. If you're new to the area we recommend picking up a copy of the Pitkin Oxford City Guide to get to know the area.
The guides are available in nine different languages, and offer a comprehensive guide to Oxford's attractions, big and small, along with a map of the city centre and suggested walking routes. If this is your first time living in the UK then a visitor to the UK travel adaptor will allow you to run 240v mains devices, like your phone or tablet, and so we recommend this as must have item.
We think Oxford is a fantastic place to live, but it seems that Oxfordshire's clothes moth population does too. Although the moths are pretty harmless (except to clothing) we suggest investing in something to keep them at bay, which will protect your clothes and soft furnishings from getting munched. Zensect Moth Proofer is a good way to do this, as you can discreetly hide the lavender scented balls, and there's no need to be spraying chemicals near your clothes.
Making Yourself At Home
One of the most important parts about settling into any new home, whether its student halls or a new flat, is making it your own. Partly this comes down to practical purchases, but also adding your own decorative flair to your new place.
Bedding and Towels
The first things you'll need are the more practical items—your bedding, towels and something to go in the kitchen. To get you started we highly recommend a bed bundle. The single duvet bundle comes with one hollowfibre 13.5 tog duvet (perfect for draughty college halls) and one free hollowfibre pillow.
The bundles are all non-allergenic, and great value as there's no need to buy a separate pillow. Plus, the double and king size bundles each come with 2 free pillows! We suggest also taking a look at our low cost range of sheets and pillow cases to get you started.
When you buy your towels you can mix and match the colour to personalise your bathroom a little. We recommend our range of Bliss Pima towels by Deyongs, which are currently at a fantastic price, and are made from 100% cotton (so they're nice and soft!). These towels are available as a face cloth, a hand towel, a bath towel and a bath sheet in a range of different colours.
Kitchen Essentials
Next you'll need to fill your kitchen with the essential implements to keep you well fed during your time at university. We highly recommend the 1.7L cordless kettle from Igenix, which has all the safety features you'd expect, like a locking lid and automatic shut off. The Igenix 2 slice toaster is also a fantastic buy, and a great idea for grabbing a quick piece of toast before your morning lecture!
For those of you with greater culinary ambitions than toast, we're currently selling a good selection of low-cost saucepans and frying pans in our Cookshop. In particular we suggest taking a look at our range of stainless steel Royal Cuisine saucepans, which are sold individually at 16cm, 18cm and 20cm. They're suitable for electric, gas, ceramic, halogen and induction hobs, and they're fully dishwasher safe, which means that whatever facilities you have in your accommodation these pans should do the trick.
Our China & Glass department is stocked up with lots of glasses, plates, bowls and mugs, and there's plenty to choose from within an affordable budget.
Student housing can often mean getting a little creative with space, so we have some items to help you out there as well. We suggest checking out our range of clothes hangers—its hard to appreciate just how essential they are until you arrive to an empty wardrobe with no way of hanging up all of your clothes! The mix & match range have proven to be a favourite with our customers, probably because they're available in 17 different shades, and come in a pack of 5.
A collapsible airer is also worth investing in so that you have somewhere to dry your washing that can also be packed away when you aren't using it. We also do a pop up laundry basket, which can be stored away when not in use. And for those of you with awkwardly placed plug sockets, an extension lead will give you a bit more freedom as to where you can set up any tech you've brought with you!
Making It Your Own
Once you've stocked up on the basics you may want to personalise your new place a little. We aren't going to lie to you, fairy lights aren't strictly speaking essential, but adding some fun touches to your accommodation can be a really important part of settling in to your new environment, especially if this is your first time away from home.
Other little flourishes that can make you feel more at home are things like throws and rugs. We highly recommend the Ultrasoft single throw as a great bargain. There are 7 colours to choose from, and they're as soft as the name would suggest—just the thing for keeping warm during the Autumn/Winter, and just generally great for brightening the place up.
On the Go
Since you won't be spending the entirety of your time at university in your room you may need a couple of items for when you're out and about. A Kikkerland portable phone charger is pretty useful; it charges via the mains and can slip into a bag or a pocket as a way of topping up your phone or mp3 player over the course of the day. A small umbrella to keep to hand is also a sound investment—if you're new to the UK, be prepared for unpredictable weather and rain that can start and stop with little warning. The Fulton Miniflat umbrella is ideal for unexpected rain showers as it fits easily in a bag, and won't cost you a fortune.
Starting Your StudiesFresher's week won't last forever, soon lectures and seminars will begin in earnest and you will need a few scholarly supplies. Firstly, it's a good idea to get hold of an academic diary. This will help you to keep track of your classes and deadlines, and the diary covers the entire academic year, so no need to buy a new one in January. We also have a good range of pens and notebooks in store at the moment to help you get ready for the start of term.
Morning classes can be a pain, and so it's also wise to get an alarm clock to help you get out of bed on time (which inevitably gets harder as it gets colder).
Beating the Fresher's Flu
Colds and flu spread through universities with ease and efficiency—and don't let the name fool you, it isn't only freshers that are at risk, fresher's flu will find you whether you're a first year undergraduate or a post-graduate veteran…even your lecturers aren't exempt. We're offering a walk in flu vaccination service in store over the Autumn and Winter, available from early October 2018.
If a cold or the flu do catch up with you though we also have a range of products in our pharmacy to help you manage your symptoms, not to mention tissues and throat lozenges.
Enjoying Your Time in Oxford
There's usually plenty going on in town, and the city has some great annual traditions that are worth keeping an eye out for. Don't forget to pop into Boswells or visit our website to take advantage of our student offers while they last, and to get 10% off with our Student Club! Finally, and most importantly, have fun, study hard, and make sure you make the most of your time in here in Oxford!
- 1st September 2016
The Ultimate Guide to Student Offers in Oxford 2016
There are shops, cafes and restaurants all over Oxford helping you save money with a variety of great student discount offers this Autum, and wiith great discounts being offered by a variety of both independent and high street shops you'll find yourself going home with a bit more money to spare. Many places will accept your student ID card but some deals are exclusive to NUS Extra, UNiDAYS or Student Beans, all of which are worth signing up to to make sure that you make the most of the discounts that are available!
Books & Stationery
Blackwell's (Broad Street) - Blackwells, one of the UK's biggest bookstores, loves students. They offer a number of deals, including up to 50% off text books. You can also get second hand books at a cheaper price as well as special course bundles. Pictured is the famous Norrington Room in the basement.
Paperchase (Queen Street) - Students get a 10% discount with a UNiDAYS code.
Ryman (Queen Street) - The famous stationer brand offers students a 10% discount with a UNiDAYS code.
Waterstones (William Baker House, Broad Street) - Our neighbour has a 10% student discount with a UNiDAYS code when you spend £25 or over. They also have a Student Rewards point scheme.
WH Smith (Cornmarket Street) - You can get 25% off stationery with an NUS Extra card until 30th September.
Fashion, Health and Beauty
Accessorize (Queen Street) - Get a 10% student discount with an NUS Extra card.
Ede and Ravenscroft (High Street) - Providing ceremonial robes, menswear, womenswear and graduation gowns for generations, this specialist shop offers a 10% student discount on certain items.
Fat Face (Cornmarket Street) - Enjoy a 10% discount with an NUS Extra card.
French Connection (Clarendon Centre, Queen Street) - Students receive a 15% discount with a valid student card or UNiDAYS code.
Jack Wills (High Street) - Get a 10% student discount available with a UNiDAYS code or an NUS Extra card.
Karen Millen (High Street) - 10% student discount available with an NUS Extra card.
Moss Bros (Cornmarket Street) - Students get a 15% discount with a UNiDAYS code.
Oasis (St Ebbes Street) - Discount of 10% for students with an NUS Extra card or a UNiDAYS code.
Office (Clarendon Centre, Queen Street) - 10% discount for students with a UNiDAYS code.
Schuh (Magdalen Street) - Get a 10% student discount with a valid student card.River Island (Cornmarket Street) - You will soon be able to get a 20% student discount with Student Beans. Check the River Island website for the start of this promotion.
Shepherd and Woodward (High Street) - As the largest supplier of academic gowns and robes for The University of Oxford, and selling classic & contemporary menswear, you'll be sure to be making a trip here. They don't have a student discount but they do have different package offers throughout the year.
Topshop/Topman (Queen Street) - Students get a 10% discount with a UNiDAYS Code or with Student Beans.
Anne Veck (St Clement's Street) - This award winning hairdresser gives students with a valid student card a 20% discount on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Specsavers Opticians (Queen Street) - Save 25% on the price of designer frames with an NUS Extra card or another valid student ID.
Superdrug (Market Street) - Show your NUS Extra card with a Superdrug Beauty card and get a 10% discount.
Vision Express (The Golden Cross, Cornmarket Street) - Save 20% on prescription glasses and contact lenses with an NUS Extra card and a voucher that can be downloaded from their website.
The Co-Operative - Get a 10% discount with an NUS Extra Card. Based in several locations around Oxford.
Cafés and Restaurants
You don't have to stop eating out when you're a student thanks to these great deals from local and national restaurants:
ASK Italian (George Street) - You can get 25% off your bill with an NUS Extra card on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
Bella Italia (George Street) - Check out the student menu (including pizzas, pasta and 2 for 1 cocktails) and dine for only £5, Sunday-Thursday. Look out, also, for their student nights, which give you the chance to get up to 50% off the bill.
Castle Pub (Castle St) - Is Hook Norton's first Oxford Centre pub. Jem contacted us in January 2018 and is keen for you to know that Student's get 25% off food on presentatio of Student ID.
Combibos (Gloucester Green) - This family owned and run coffee shop in the centre of Oxford gives students a 10% discount.
Dominos (Park End Street) - Deals include 25% off when you spend over £25 with an NUS Extra card.
El Mexicana (Gloucester Green) - 10% discount with a valid student ID card. You can also earn points for free food with their app.
Giraffe (George Street) - Students get a 20% discount with an NUS Extra card.
Gourmet Burger Kitchen (George Street) - A 30% student discount is available when you download their free app.
Jimbob's Baguettes (Magdalen Street) - This sandwich shop has a huge variety of bread and filling options to choose from and gives students a 10% discount.
Las Iguanas (Park End Street) - Get a 25% discount Sunday-Thursday with a valid student ID.
McDonalds (Cornmarket Street) - With a valid student card or UNiDAYS code you can get a free Mayo Chicken, Cheeseburger or McFlurry Original when you buy an Extra Value or a Wrap Meal.
Noodle Nation (Gloucester Street) - A 15% student discount is available with a valid student card.
Pizza Express (The Golden Cross, Cornmarket Street and Castle Street) - Offers up to 40% discount on Monday and Tuesday, 20% on Wednesday and Sunday, and 3 courses for £11.95 on Friday and Saturday with an NUS Extra card.
Pizza Hut (George Street) - Get 20% off food when you show a valid student ID card.
Yeti (Cowley Road) - Get 10% off some great Nepalese food with a valid student ID card.
YO! Sushi (George Street) - Eating sushi doesn't have to be expensive with 25% off when you join YO! Sushi's student club.
Zizzi (George Street) - You can get 40% off the total of your bill on Mondays and Tuesdays with an NUS Extra card, and 25% off on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Offer ends October 5th 2016.
Leisure and Travel
Taking some time out for a little fun is essential, and all the more affordable thanks to these great deals:
16-25 Rail Card (Oxford Station) - Save a 1/3 on rail fares within the UK. If you're over 25 and in full time study you're still eligible, you just need to get confirmation from your university or college.
Odeon (George St and Magdalen St) - Save money on the price of tickets with a valid student ID card, and get a further discount of up to 25% with an NUS Extra card! Prices and discounts may vary depending on the film, cinema and showing time.
The Oxford Playhouse (Beaumont Street) - Save £2 on ticket prices with a valid student ID card.
The Phoenix Picture House (Walton Street) - Sign up for student membership for £15 to get 2 free tickets and 10% off food and drink.
STA Travel (George Street) - Keep an eye out for great student deals and prices on amazing adventures throughout the year, after all, you'll need something fun to fill the holidays with!
The Ultimate Picture Palace (Jeune Street) - Students get £1 off standard ticket prices and £2 off Thursday matinees with a valid student ID card. Student membership (£20) will also get you lots of goodies like 2 free tickets and even more money off ticket prices.
You don't have to leave the house to get access to great discounts. A huge number of online stores also offer student discounts.
Adobe - A valid student ID card can help you get up to 69% off the price of software.
ASOS - Students get a 10% discount with a valid student email address.
Apple Store for Education - Save up to £339 off the price of a Mac and up to £50 off to an iPad with a UNiDAYS code.
Boohoo - 10% student discount available with a UNiDAYS code.
GHD - Students get 10% off certain products with a UNiDAYS code.
HP - Get up to 30% student discount with a UNiDAYS code.
I Love Fancy Dress - A 10% student discount is available with Student Beans.
Pretty Little Thing - Get a 15% student discount with a UNiDAYS code.
Spotify - Enjoy 50% off Spotify premium with a UNiDAYS code or NUS Extra card.
UniBulkBuy - Students get 25% discount with a NUS Extra card.
Treasurer's Treats
Treasurer's Treats is a card exclusive to University of Oxford students. Bought from The Oxford Union, this card gives deals and discounts at a variety of different businesses around the city. The treats change each term.
Department Stores
Boswells (1-4 Broad Street) - We couldn't very well leave ourselves out, could we? Sign up to our Student Club and you'll get 10% off everything in store and online between 6th September and 16th October. This 10% is also available every Wednesday the rest of the year, and we'll provide other offers throughout the year too!
We have everything you need to make your new room or flat feel like home in no time, including, cookware, bedding, desk lamps, rugs, plates and bowls, and of course those all important clothes hangers! For a few tips on what you'll need to get you started for your time at university, click here to read our blog.
You can join our student club here.Permalink
- 13th November 2015
Get Inspired by Adult Education
An academic life straight after school isn't everyone's cup of tea, but it can be a rewarding and enjoyable addition in later life. Rosie in our Pharmacy shares her experience at Oxford's own Ruskin College.
You're Never Too Old To Learn!
They say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, so be more cat. Academic life isn't for everyone and many people miss that first step from school to college. It's a doozy. They invented gap years and clearing to help with the transition from college to University, but, contrary to popular belief, the world won't end if you don't get the exam results you wanted. Reality can be tough and it often seems like your choices are limited, and life certainly fills up with chores, hobbies, friends, family, work and debts—and studying disappears from view. I certainly didn't get the results I had expected and had to radically change my plans. After re-taking exams at the local college I thought that I had enough to get a job. My friends who had studied, moved away to University. I gave up on education and settled for a more domestic life.
Still there was something missing. I tried the odd writing course at youth centres and theatres. I even went to Oxford Brookes to learn how to use computers! This wasn't taught when I was at school but seemed to be essential in the 21st century. With help from the local library and the job centre I gained qualifications that enhanced my C.V. When I started work in a pharmacy I found that part of my employment contract was to study all the medicines that I was going to be selling. With a lot of help and hard work I gained a Medicine Counter Assistant Certificate—and a pay rise!
You're never too old to learn, but it wasn't until a leaflet came through my door in 2012, about the courses at Ruskin College, that I was persuaded to follow my dream. I applied to Ruskin College to study Writing for Performance and was amazed that they let me in. It was the start of two of the most challenging, exciting and happy years of my life. I graduated last year with a Foundation Degree and now write pieces for the company blog (like this one) which I really enjoy—I would never have considered doing anything like that before.
Ruskin College is well known around the world for the second chance it gives to people, no matter what their background. Some take incredible journeys to get here because they want to learn and gain the bits of paper that had eluded them at school, or to go on to study at other universities, or improve their skills in their chosen profession.
Ruskin is aware of the obstacles that make it difficult to study at any age, and offer support for students both with their personal and their emotional difficulties. Several students discover at a mature age that they have dyslexia or other problems that were missed at school, and Ruskin offers specialist help to improve their learning experiences. Though Ruskin is a small college it welcomes students from all over the world with a wonderful sense of community. It was the staff and the other students that made it such a magical place to study for me. The college allows multicultural people of all shapes and sizes to learn together in a supportive environment in the leafy suburb of Old Headington.
What to Look For in a Course
Wherever you are thinking of studying I recommend looking for these facilities to make a truly supportive experience:
- Small class sizes and weekly tutorials to allow you to get time to work directly with a tutor and to develop your knowledgebase and skills.
- An excellent acedemic reputation with highly qualified staff who are there to support your learning every step of the way.
- A supportive and encouraging environment to boost your confidence.
- Opportunities for professional and career development .
- Funding opportunities to help you realistically balance your work, home and study life.
My friend, the late poet Davey MacArnold, used creative writing to help him overcome the horrors he had seen as a military veteran. Ruskin for him was a lifeline and led to performing his Homeless Oratorio in London. Philip Stevens has collected stories from Adult learners at various colleges (including Ruskin) in his excellent book Rita and Gerald: Adult Learning In Britain Today, so if you think studying isn't for you read about how others discovered a better life through education.
Stay curious and discover more about the things you are interested in. Perhaps you'll end up teaching or who knows, writing a book. Why not make an academic qualification the next chapter in your life?
For more information on adult education why not take a look at:
The Open University
Oxford Brookes
Ruskin College
Birkbeck College: University of London
Other Local Study Programmes