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Courtesy: Saint Augustine's University
RALEIGH, N.C. (May 14) – Saint Augustine's University gained momentum heading into the NCAA Division II Championships after winning eight events in the Mount Olive Final Qualifier track and field meet in Mount Olive, N.C., on Sunday, May 13. The SAU men and women combined for 13 automatic and provisional times and marks at the meet, which took place at the Ray McDonald Sr. Complex.
Sunday was the last day to qualify for the NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, which will be held at the Irwin Belk Complex in Charlotte, N.C., on May 24-26. The Falcons are the five-time defending men's outdoor national champions, and the SAU program has won 39 national titles under Head Coach George Williams, who has won the most NCAA track and field championships of any coach, regardless of division.
In Mount Olive, the Falcons claimed five victories in the men's events. Brandon Valentine-Parris (Jr./St. Vincent) won the 400-meter dash in a provisional time of 46.72 which is the eighth-best time in Division II this season. Shaquille Dill (Jr./Pembroke, Bermuda) won the 800-meter run in a provisional time of 1:49.96 and the foursome of Dill, Valentine-Parris, Dontarian Evans (Jr./Gainesville, FL) and Adrian Kimmons (Sr./Cold Water, MS) captured the 4×400-meter relay in a provisional time of 3:09.64 which is the seventh-fastest DII time this season.
Shannon Kalawan wins the 400mh at Mount Olive Final Qualifier with a time of 57.45 @SAUFalcons @SAU_News @CIAAForLife @trackalerts @Track_Probs @NCAADII @NCAATrackField @rashidfdavis pic.twitter.com/QS1wXqZXyV
— Rashid F. Davis (@rashidfdavis) May 13, 2018
Dakarai Hightower (Sr./Tacoma, WA) placed first in the high jump with a provisional mark of 7-0.5. Justin Williams (Jr./Long Island, NY) was first in the triple jump with a provisional leap of 49-9.
The Lady Falcons were victorious in three events. Ade Hunter (Sr./Philadelphia, PA) won the 400-meter dash in a provisional time of 54.60 which ranks ninth nationally in the event. Top-ranked Shannon Kalawan (So./Westmoreland, Jamaica) finished first in the 400-meter hurdles with an automatic time of 57.45 and Magaly Tshipopo (Sr./Orleans, France) placed first in the long jump with a provisional leap of 19-0.75.
In addition to the winners, Shakera Hall (Sr./Bridgetown, Barbados) placed third in the women's 100-meter hurdles (13.89) and Amanda Crawford (So./Brooklyn, NY) was fifth in the women's 200-meter dash (24.35). Tshipopo finished second in the women's triple jump (40-10.5) with the eighth-longest DII mark this season.
#HBCUlove to the men's and women's track & field teams @SAUFalcons for winning another @CIAAForLife championship! Its the 15th title for the women and 21st *consecutive* title for the men https://t.co/8jtQ2Se2Fi
— The Hundred-Seven (@The107_hbcu) May 9, 2018
Evans placed sixth (21.36) in the men's 200-meter dash. The quartet of Gilbert, Valentine-Parris, Kimmons and Evans placed second (40.48) in the men's 4×100-meter relay.
Below are the Falcons' and Lady Falcons' top 10 finishers and where they placed at the meet. For total results, go to tfrrs.org.
200 Dash
- Dontarian Evans
- Damere Gilbert
400 Dash
- Brandon Valentine-Parris
800 Run
- Shaquille Dill
400 Hurdles
- Alazae Hester-Tayler
4×100 Relay
- Damere Gilbert, Brandon Valentine-Parris, Adrian Kimmons, Dontarian Evans
4×400 Relay
- Dontarian Evans, Shaquille Dill, Adrian Kimmons, Brandon Valentine-Parris
High Jump
- Dakarai Hightower
Triple Jump
- Justin Williams
200 Dash
- Amanda Crawford
- Leah Barker
400 Dash
- Ade Hunter
100 Hurdles
- Shakera Hall
400 Hurdles
- Shannon Kalawan
Long Jump
- Magaly Tshipopo
- A'Lexus Wells
Triple Jump
- Magaly Tshipopo
- A'Lexus Wells


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Jun. 2, 2013By: Marlys Healy
Plastic basins are used for all kinds of things in Cebu City. They are used for flowers, food, fish and bread, or for washing. They are everywhere in the city.
Of course, we have some pretty cool uses for basins at CSC, too. Basins make great bath tubs and swimming pools for our precious children!

subset: commoncrawl


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Sometimes the best gifts are those that come from people who have little but give all they have. That was the heart behind this true story of a little girl from the Cameroons who reached out to America during one of its darkest periods; the Great Depression.
WHY I LIKE THIS BOOK: The story most often coming out of Africa is one of poverty- stricken villages in desperate need of help from across the sea. Many well-meaning efforts are initiated to address the issues that make life difficult in this part of the world. For that reason it was refreshing to find a story where the tables were turned and Africans were reaching out to help people in a city miles away in the United States. Dedi is moved by the concern of her missionary teacher who receives news from New York of the struggles people are undergoing during the Great Depression in America. She requests help from her mother and the adults in her village without success. They point out how little they have and the challenge of making ends meet for their own families. However, Dedi's sincerity touches their hearts and an amazing response takes place. Mara Rockliff and Ann Tanksley provide a moving portrayal of the best of the human spirit in words and illustrations drawn from a true event in the lives of a little girl with a big heart!
For more about our learning services and resources visit http://www.martacollier.com.


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Do you have a recipe for a baked dog treat made with buckwheat and apples? My dog has dietary limitations due to allergies. His only permitted grain is buckwheat. Apples and watermelon are his choices for fruit. Thank you.
Chef's Answer ~ No, I'm sorry, I don't specifically have a dog treat recipe with buckwheat and apples.
I do have two apple dog treat recipes, though. They are my Apple Carrot Nibbles and the Dried Spiced Apple Slices.
One great thing about making homemade dog treats is that you can customize dog treat recipes. Since your dog can only have buckwheat, you can replace the wheat flour in most recipes with buckwheat flour.
I hope this helps. Happy Dog Treat Baking! :)
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text: The Importance of Conditional Love (part 1) Posted on June 6, 2019 by Carol Lightbulb! "The only real love is unconditional love." Does that phrase make you wince a little? I've heard that phrase and agreed with it… but it would be a lie that I somehow "... Read More


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The rider and the elephant – a model for change. I am listening in my car to a book called Switch by the the Heath brothers. http://heathbrothers.com/switch/ I have found much of his stuff really compelling and surprising. I really like his model for change. Our analytical side is the rider and our emotional, intuitive side is the elephant.
If the elephant wants to go a certain way, the rider must go along for the ride. However if the elephant is cooperative, the rider must want to go that way. The book tackles the challenges with great examples and stories.
Some of the stories are baffling. The example that comes to mind was some research done on chamber maids in a big hotel. They studied their activity level and found it was well beyond what most people did for fitness and they did not lose weight. They also said they were getting no exercise. They divided the group into two groups. One group they told them how much exercise they were getting and nothing to the other group. The first group after a few weeks had lost two or three pounds and the other group none. They could find nothing in the first groups lives that had changed. They had no explanation except the Placebo effect. They now believed that were doing something to lose weight and so they lost weight.
I am looking for models that will help me with my golfers who do not put in their scores. I need to get their elephant and the rider to cooperate.
Any ideas?


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Currently Reading
Wednesday 17 February 2010
Michelle Paver's Chronicles Of Ancient Darkness
4 comments:
You know, I've never looked at these books. I've seen the cover of Wolf Brother around, but I always over-looked it, it's never even occurred to me that it might be something I'd enjoy. I just think the cover says "kids book" to me, but I guess I'm wrong. They do sound terrific! I'm a huge fantasy fan, and this series sounds right up my alley! Thank you so much for the great review, Ryan!ReplyDelete
I'm ashamed to admit that I never even heard of this series. It sounds great and I have already added the first book on my wishlist! Thank you for this great review =)ReplyDelete
hmm, i often harass myself for being behind the eight ball with reading lots of books, but sometimes i find it's great to hear about a series AFTER they've been published so I don't have to do the torturous wait thing! thanks for this review, i'm going to put them on my list.ReplyDelete
I am in love with this series too but I still haven't read the final instalment. I have a signed copy but I can't bring myself to read it yet. What will I do when my journey with Torak is finished? I've been with this series for so long. And I agree Michelle is the most interesting and amiable person to talk to. Great post!ReplyDelete


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|Short meaning of Aalif
|Friendly and Hospitable | Kind, Compassionate and Tenderhearted
See below for detailed meaning
|Quranic Nature
(Learn more...)
|Indirectly Mentioned
|Alternate spellings of Aalif
|Alif Aliyf Aleph Alef Aleyf Aliph Alif Alyph Aaliyf Aaleph Aalef Aaleyf Aaliph Aalif Aalyph
All of the above spellings are acceptable for this name. You may also create your own spelling.
|Quranic Root
(Learn more...)
All Quranic baby names derived from A-L-F:
« AakifahAalaAalamAali Aalif AalifaAamadAameenAamin »
A Quranic Name for Boys
Most Popular Muslim Names in 2023
Muslim Names With Meanings Similar to Aalif
Categories: A-L-F | All Baby Names Starting With A | All Muslim Baby Names | Arabic Baby Names | Islamic (Quranic) Boy Names Starting With A | Islamic Names Meaning Friendly and Hospitable | Islamic Names Meaning Kind, Compassionate and Tenderhearted | Muslim Boy Names - Boy Names from the Quran | Quranic Names By Meaning | Quranic Names by Root
The content on this site does not constitute any type of legal or religious advice. Always consult your local imam or other knowledgeable individuals before making a decision about choosing a baby name.


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Back in the day, the Google Play store is solely inhabited by games inspired by Farmville, Pac-Man, and Tetris. Not anymore, though. Today, Android's operating system is brimming with several games that could compete with that of gaming consoles. Hence, don't be surprised to find Fortnite, Minecraft, Grand Theft Auto, and a lot of other hardcore games playable on your mobile phone.
The thing is, playing these games on your phone or tablet can be a little frustrating without the help of a third-party peripheral. In fact, a lot of these games won't work well at all with touchscreens. For instance, you will have a much better experience playing Geometry Wars 3 and Tomb Raider if you use actual buttons to control the game.
This is where the best Android game controllers come in. Believe me; it is a lot easier to walk around the halls of Lara Croft's manor with a joystick or gamepad rather than your fingers. Plus, controllers make Android games all the more fun, immersive, and addictive.
Fortunately, there is a myriad of game controllers suitable for Android gadgets. Plus, they are so portable you can carry them around wherever you go. Whatever your budget and requirements are, there will be at least one model that will suit you best.
If you are currently looking for the best Android game controller for your smart gadget, then you have come to the right place. In this article, you will find out everything there is to know about these portable peripherals. More importantly, to help you with your search, we have also taken a look at the best Android game controllers out on the market today.
Best Xbox Android Controller
Beboncool Android Wireless Controller
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The Absolute Best
Razer Raiju Mobile
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Best for Comfort
GameSir G4s
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Razer Raiju Mobile
The Absolute Best
"Among its plethora of features include wired and dual Bluetooth connections, for multi-function customizable buttons, hair-trigger mode, and a phone mount to boot."
- Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 3 inches
- Weight: 14.7 ounces
- Price: $150
Considering all the great things that this game controller can offer, you will surely think that its high price is worth it.
Among its plethora of features include wired and dual Bluetooth connections, for multi-function customizable buttons, hair-trigger mode, and a phone mount to boot. It's not just any regular phone mount either – you can tilt it up to 60 degrees to promote a comfortable gaming experience.
The Razer Raiju Mobile is a controller for the pros – it fits perfectly in your hand, letting you play with 100% focus. It has over 20 hours of battery life and a super long USB-A to USB- C cable, allowing you to charge the controller as you play.
The controller is launched as an accessory to the Razer Phone 2, but it works perfectly with Android phones as well.
You can order the controller at Amazon for $150.
Key Features
- Pairable via Bluetooth
- Easy-grip
- Can be used on two phones simultaneously
- Hair-trigger locks
- Comes with an adjustable phone mount
- Comes with wired cable connections
- Compatible with any app that supports Bluetooth
Find Out More
"It offers consistently good performance."
8BitDo SN30
Best SNES Controller
"If you spent most of your childhood playing SNES, the 8bitDO SN30 is definitely a must for you."
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.8 x 2.6 inches
- Weight: 4.8 ounces
- Price: $29.99
If you spent most of your childhood playing SNES, the 8bitDO SN30 is definitely a must for you. The retro controller is sure to take you down memory lane the moment you start using it.
And while it looks exactly like the original Nintendo controller, it does not lack the modern technology we know and love today. It comes with Bluetooth connectivity that allows it to be played with not just Android, but macOS, Raspberry PI, Nintendo Switch, and Windows as well. As such, this controller is perfect for you if you own several gaming consoles.
The only concern we have about it is how it does not have a power switch. You instead need to use the Start and Select buttons to pair it with a device – which would sometimes result in an accidental pairing.
The game controller also has all the excellent modern features that you can expect from any advanced wireless controller. And, not only does it come in the classic and comfortable design of the SNES controller, but it also comes in the different colors of the GameBoy Color. The controller runs on a rechargeable 480mAh battery.
You can get yours for only $29.99.
Key Features
- Wireless version of the classic SNES controller
- Comes with D-pad and buttons
- Comes in various classic colors
- Compatible with Android and other consoles
Find Out More
GameSir G4s
Best for Comfort
"The GameSir G4s also has ergonomic handles covered in rubber, allowing for a comfortable gaming experience."
- Dimensions: 4.21 x 6.14 x 2.52 inches
- Weight: 8.5 ounces
- Price: $39.98
Do not be fooled by its name, because you do not have to look all formal to use the GameSir G4s. But if you do love playing mobile games, this controller has a lot to offer. It has everything you will ever need in an Android controller – great aesthetic, including sleek chrome accents on the edge of the Start and Select buttons, lit-up keys, and the familiar joystick we all know and love.
The GameSir G4s also has ergonomic handles covered in rubber, allowing for a comfortable gaming experience. Plus, it has a bracket at the center that can be attached to your smartphone.
The game controller could connect to USB devices via its MicroUSB B charging cord. However, the primary method of connection for smartphones is via Bluetooth. It even has a Bluetooth dongle under the bracket so it can still connect to devices that do not have Bluetooth.
The GameSir G4s comes with an internal battery that you need to recharge from time to time. You can monitor its battery life via the meter located on the top-left side of the controller.
Another thing we love about the GameSir G4s is that it does not require manual remapping to function with most games. For instance, if you use it to play Shadowgun: Legends, you can play it right away without setting up the controller.
You can have yours for $40.
Key Features
- Bluetooth, wireless, and wired connections available
- Keypad backlight
- Turbo button
- 600mAh battery capacity
- Compatible with Android, Windows, and PS3
Find Out More
Beboncool Android Wireless Controller
Best Xbox Android Controller
"You get a button and stick layout a lot, like the Xbox controller."You get a button and stick layout a lot, like the Xbox controller.
- Dimensions: 6.4 x 4 x 2 inches
- Weight: 7.2 ounces
- Price: $49.99
The Beboncool Wireless controller is a compact gamepad with a straightforward design. You get a button and stick layout a lot, like the Xbox controller. And considering that it's only 50 bucks, its build quality is actually pretty impressive.
The controller comes with 12 incredibly responsive buttons and analog sticks that function smoothly. It also comes with a built-in clip that can hold phones up to 6 inches long. It also has a 350mAh rechargeable battery – more than enough for mobile games.
The Beboncool Wireless controller is compatible with virtually any game on the Google Play Store, and can even be used in Samsung VR games. With its simple design, the controller is extremely portable as well.
Key Features
- Impressive battery life
- Precise controls
- Portable design
Find Out More
First, what is a game controller?
Also known as a joypad or gamepad, a gamer controller is a peripheral gadget that you can connect to your computer or console. It has several buttons (and some even a joystick) that lets you control the characters in your game.
Game controllers may be used in a wide array of games, including first-person shooters, sports, RPGs, and a whole lot more. In fact, some consoles, such as PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Nintendo Wii, are not playable without a gamepad. Other consoles, however, such as the Sony PSP, already come with a built-in gamepad.
Game controllers may be connected to computers, and now even smartphones, using a USB or a Bluetooth connection.
Specific modern game controllers are designed with haptic feedback, a feature that lets you feel some of the action in your game through vibrations.
Things to Consider Before Buying The Best Android Controller
Getting a brand new Android game controller could be really exciting, but you have to make a few considerations before you do.
The first thing you need to think of is compatibility. You do not want to spend your hard-earned cash on a brand new controller, and then, later on, realizing you can't use it after all. As such, you have to identify the version of your phone or tablet before you head to your favorite tech store.
Android gadgets that run on Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, Android 3.2 Honeycomb, and up can support game controllers natively. But, if your device is running on older software, chances are, controllers will not work well, or sometimes, at all, on them.
Keep in mind, though, that just because your phone or tablet runs on a newer Android OS, does not mean you can play all your games with a controller. Some games do not make use of Android controllers at all, so naturally, they won't respond to one. So, you also need to identify whether your favorite games can be played at all with a controller.
After all, what is the point of buying a new affordable Android game controller if it will only last a month? The best Android game controllers can withstand several falls.
The best Android game controllers come in a variety of styles and designs. Appearance is extremely subjective, so you can pick whichever suits your style the best. For instance, if you are used to the PlayStation controller, you can get one that comes in similar shape and design.
The point of getting a game controller is to let you control your game accurately and timely. The best Android game controllers will give you precision at every press of the button.
As much as possible, get a wireless game control so you won't have to deal with annoying wires. Just make sure to charge them appropriately so you won't lose battery life in the middle of an exciting game.
The best Android game controllers have a phone mount where you can affix your device while playing. This feature is incredibly useful, particularly if you do not have a stand for your gadget. It will keep your gadget in position, which will allow for comfortable gaming.
The price of an Android game controller varies depending on their make and model, and of course, performance. They are all relatively inexpensive, though. Do watch out of the excessively cheap controllers – these could cause a lot of hassle and may not regularly get maintenance updates from the manufacturer.
Why Should I Get the Best Android Controller?
Using a controller while playing your favorite game on your Android device has several benefits. Here are some of the advantages you get if you use one:
- Better function. The best Android controllers have more buttons that will allow you to control your game better. So, instead of just tapping or sliding your fingers on the screen, you get multiple buttons and even joysticks to choose from.
- Better control. From the term itself, a controller lets you control a game even better, allowing for accurate movements and, thus, better gaming experience. With a game controller, you can smoothly run, turn, and dodge bullets.
- Familiarity. Android controllers are designed similarly to the controller you are used to, such as that of the Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation consoles. As such, you can get used to them very quickly.
- Responsiveness. The best Android controllers respond to your actions immediately, which is essential in racing, sports, and fighting games. These speedy reactions could mean the difference between winning and losing a match.
- Better performance. With all these benefits, ultimately, what you get is better performance and gaming experience.
What Makes Android Game Controllers Better Than Others?
High Standards. Ever since the launch of Android's 4.0 version, the Ice Cream Sandwich, the company also released an official support service for its controllers. These controllers are integrated so well with Android gadgets that you can even control your device through a controller!
And, since Android does not require their controllers to work exclusively on Android products (such as Apple's iPhone licensing policy), Android controllers are more affordable than other brands.
Limitless Options. The most affordable game controller for iOS costs $50. Fortunately, you don't have to spend that much on Android controllers. And, you can even use specific Android Bluetooth controllers with your computer as well! Just be wary of compatibility problems, though, as there is a ton of Bluetooth controllers out there that do not work well on desktops.
If you get a wired Xbox 360 or Xinput-compatible controller, expect that you can use it on your Android phone or tablet. And, official Xbox, Dual Shock, and even Wii controllers will work fine with your Android gadget as well. Just keep in mind that most Android devices will require a USB host cable so you can plug the controller into it.
Game Controllers, A History
Gone are the days when computers are dominated by card and board games such as Solitaire and Monopoly, where you are only required primary drag and drop movements. Over the centuries, gaming interactions have upgraded into more complex motions. At the onset of video games in the 20th century, there emerged a need for a third party medium to interact with a game. Hence, the birth of the gaming controller: the link between the player and the game.
In the beginning, these controllers only consisted of two to three buttons. They were very simple since the games were also simple. For instance, Tennis for Two (1958) had just one knob and a button for controlling the game. Pong, on the other hand, made use of a paddle. Magnavox Odyssey (1972), the first home video game console, had two paddle controllers that had two dials each. It also had a separate gun that gamers used to shoot at enemies.
But, as gaming technology progressed, so did the need for a better controller that can accommodate advanced mapping. The Atari VCS (later Atari 2600) was famous not only for its games such as Adventure, Breakout, and Pitfall but for its joystick as well. The joystick had one button that allowed players to move in four directions. Apart from the joystick, the Atari also had a touchpad, a paddle controller, and a bunch of other third-party gadgets.
In 1985, Nintendo introduced the very first game controller. The NES gamepad offered a brand new approach to controllers. Instead of the standard joystick, the controller could be held by two hands and controlled by thumbs.
The NES gamepad also had two to four buttons that allowed players to perform separate actions at once, such as jumping and shooting at an enemy. It also had a start button, used to pause and start a game, and a select switch, which you press to change modes in the game.
But, perhaps the most vital contribution of the NES controller to the gaming community is the directional pad or D-Pad. The plus-shaped pad allowed players to move up, down, left, and right merely with their thumb, unlike the joystick which needed your entire hand to control.
And while the controller was far from perfect, i.e., it was not comfortable to hold; it still was a massive leap from the joystick. Its design set the groundwork for all game controllers we know and love today.
Shortly after, Sega Genesis released their version of the game controller, which, apart from the extra button, was a lot similar to that of the original Nintendo. Other versions later emerged, adding a few more buttons here and there. But, while many brands tried to enhance the gamepad, it was still Nintendo (or their successor, that is) that contributed the most significant improvement.
The Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) added two buttons to their original controller and enhanced its design with round edges. But the best contribution among them all was the shoulder buttons.
These are the L and R buttons at the top corners of the controller, which you will also see in modern gamepads of today. These buttons are controlled by your index fingers and allowed for simultaneous motions while gaming. The shoulder buttons were handy for one-directional input, i.e., rotating a camera or switching menus. More importantly, it allowed for more advanced mappings that developers can't design with D-Pads.
And then came an even more enhanced version of the controller – the Nintendo 64. It had a rather unusual design – a trident setup, where three hands are required to reach all of the buttons. However, you only need to hold two out of the three prongs to play a game effectively. The controller also got rid of the Select button but retained the Start button, which they placed at the center of the pad. The Nintendo 64 also featured an expansion port, which let you plug in a memory card.
But, despite those many many enhancements, the most epic one was the thumb-stick at the center of the controller. It worked a lot like the joystick, except it allowed you to move in all directions. It was a significant invention for gaming, particularly for 3D games. Finally, players could control the pace of their character's movements – they can now walk slow, run, sprint, et cetera. They are also no longer limited to four directional shifts, and can now travel in virtually any direction. Since the birth of the analog joystick, all controller manufacturers followed suit.
As if that was not enough, the N64 also introduced another state-of-the-art feature to gaming: the Rumble Pak expansion. For the first time ever, not only could players see and hear a game, but they could also feel it via force feedback. This new layer made games even more immersive and addictive. Once again, other manufacturers, such as Sony, followed suit.
The next generation of game controllers introduced the Dreamcast, Sega's final contribution to the world of gaming consoles. The Dreamcast was a circular device that's a lot like its predecessor, the Saturn 3D. The main difference was it had two fewer buttons. It also mimicked the memory card slots of the N64. But its most significant contribution is the analog triggers.
Analog triggers are a lot similar to shoulder buttons, but they are shaped like a gun's trigger. Depending on how hard you press the trigger, it produces different levels of input. Sadly for Sega, the birth of the GameCube, Xbox, and PlayStation 2 put the Dreamcast out of business.
The Playstation 2 made a few innovations from its predecessor, the DualShock. But, while the DualShock2 introduced pressure sensitivity, it did not prove to make any significant difference.
Nintendo also introduced a few enhancements to its GameCube controller. It was a lot like Playstation's DualShock, but it changed the placement of the left analog stick and the D-Pad. It also introduced the C-Stick, which is a second analog stick that replaced the C buttons of the N64. It featured one shoulder button called the Z button and two analog triggers. Most gamers found the new configuration challenging to use, but games specifically created for the controller did make use of this new design quite well.
Microsoft later introduced the Xbox that came with a humongous controller that, unfortunately, was not up to par with its competitors. The controller had way too many buttons located in awkward places, thereby could not be used effectively. All in all, it had eight buttons, two analog sticks, analog triggers, two memory card slots, and a gigantic logo at the center. It was so difficult to use that Microsoft later introduced a new smaller, lighter, and better version called the S controller.
For a while there it seemed that manufacturers ran out of ideas to further enhance the controller. Apart from improving the design and turning controllers wireless, the gaming community did not see any other significant improvements until 2005.
For years, Nintendo kept their newest controller under wraps until the Tokyo Game Show in 2005. The new controller for the Wii was so hidden that several rumors, including the infamous "Nintendo On," emerged. And while it was nothing but a hoax, it did set the stage for an equally impressive peripheral.
Initially, the Wii controller looked like a basic remote control with several buttons and a D-Pad. It did not look impressive at all at first glance. But, the seemingly basic controller did have remarkable features. Its piece de resistance is, of course, its motion-sensing capabilities that allowed for virtual reality games. The Wii Remote (a.k.a Wiimote) also had an analog stick attachment called the Nunchuk, which let you play more traditional games. Both controllers could be played in either hand and could recognize gestures. Shortly after, Sony introduced their own motion-sensing controller called the SIXAXIS.
Today, the Wii significantly outsells other consoles because of its appeal and affordability. But, it's still unclear how their technology will affect the new generation of games and controllers since there only exist a few games that capitalize on motion-sensing. While these games are incredibly fun, it might take some time before we see more games using this technology.
While it is not clear what the future might hold, Nintendo did announce that they are making further enhancements to the Wiimote that will make motion detection more detailed and accurate.
Today, game controllers are not only meant for gaming consoles and computers. You can now link them to your smart gadgets as well! And with the vast improvements, we saw for game controllers over the centuries; we can only expect even more exciting changes as technology becomes even more and more advanced.
The Best Controller-Compatible Android Games
Gone are the days when Android gaming only requires you to use touchscreen controls. However, not all games on the Google Play store can accommodate a controller. Here are some of the best games you can play with ease using the best Android game controllers.
Tesla vs. Lovecraft
While this intense shooter game is fun to play on your phone, it is even more fun to play using a controller. In this game, you play the role of Nikolai Tesla and are up against H.P. Lovecraft, who has found a way to open portals to let various monsters into the world.
In the game, Tesla has a wide range of weapons such as machine guns, shotguns, and pistols. But its piece re resistance is his mech suit that can kill a bunch of enemies in an instant. To enable the mech suit, you need to connect all five pieces that randomly appear throughout the game.
In each game level, you need to vanquish monsters and Cthulhu-spawning pools that appear randomly. Certain boss levels also require you to destroy a gigantic along with infinite hordes of monsters. These difficult levels are the best time to use the Perks you get from collecting XP.
You can collect different kinds of XP as you kill monsters. When you fill your XP bar, you unlock a specific Perk, such as a weapon upgrade that you can use at a certain period of time.
The game has more than 30 levels, each having three difficulty levels. Naturally, the harder the level, the better the rewards. You can also play the game in survival mode, where the goal is to withstand endless swarms of enemies.
You can play Tesla vs. Lovecraft on your Android device for $9.99.
Horizon Chase World Tour
This game is an entertaining retro-style racing game that resembles the classic 80's game Pole Position. It features fun and vibrant retro graphics in its over 70 race tracks. Each race starts at the back of a 20 car pack, where you need to run past your co-racers to win the game. If you keep winning, you get to unlock up to 16 different cars.
And the most fun way to play this fun game is by using the best Android game controller – it will totally take you down memory lane. You can play the app for free, but you need to pay $3.99 to unlock the entire game.
Evoland 2
It is one of the more premium and addictive games of Android. The original game was initially released on Steam in 2015. Evoland 2 has the same level of graphics and immersive gameplay as its predecessor. But, unlike Evoland, which had quite a short storyline, Evoland 2 has more than 20 hours worth of gameplay.
The original game focused on RPGs, its sequel incorporated other video game genres into its story. The game begins like any typical RPG, but as you progress in the game, you'll notice a subtle shift with both the gameplay and the graphics.
Evoland 2 also has a hilarious way of breaking the fourth wall, quipping several pop culture references from time to time.
You can download the game at Google Play Store for $6.99.
GTA: San Andreas
Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas is undoubtedly the best among all the games in the series. Its setting is a fictional model of Los Angeles and proved to be a masterpiece in graphics.
Ten years after its launch, the game was released in Google Play Store, and 100% definitely has to be played using a game controller. So if you're feeling a little sentimental, download this game and relive the journey of CJ as you wreak havoc along the streets of LA.
Modern Combat 5 Blackout
Even in its fifth edition, Modern Combat still remains to be one of the most sought-after first-person shooter games on the market. It has impressive graphics and a wide range of options to play. Whether you are playing solo in a campaign or online, your best bet at winning is with a game controller.
The game resembles Call of Duty: Modern Warfare in many ways, so if you are an avid fan of the game, this game is the one for you.
Riptide GP: Renegade
Here's another exciting racing game that's so much more exciting to play using a game controller. Among all the Riptide games, we deem the Riptide GP: Renegade the best one so far.
The game is reminiscent of Jet Moto and Wave Rage 64. You can play the game on story mode, quick race, and even online racing. It features premium graphics, including motion and water blur, that give off the effect of moving at speed.
The game is packed with tons of upgrades and unlockables as you progress through its career mode. You can download and play the game for $2.99.
Unkilled is yet another first-person shooter that features over 150 missions in the single-player campaign and a wide range of multiplayer modes online. If you play online, you can even choose your character class and upgrade weapons and skills.
And if you want to have that strategic advantage, you better play this game using a game controller. It will make killing AI zombies a whole lot easier.
Skate Party 3
If you're missing the days where you played Tony Hawk Pro Skater for hours on end, then Skate Party 3 is the game for you. It offers a somewhat similar experience to that of the classic game and is best played using a controller. It might take a while to get used to the game, but once you do, it's going to be really addictive. You can buy the full version for $1.99, but you can also test the waters first by playing the lite version for free.
BombSquad is a collection of mini-games that you can play with friends. It features vibrant and cartoony graphics and can be played in eight various modes.
This action-filled RPG is based on Zelda, so if you're a fan of the classic game, then you should definitely play this.
Oceanhorn was initially introduced on Steam and is now one of the most downloaded games on Google Play Store. You only need to pay once to enjoy the game – no need to pay for in-app purchases and be annoyed by those pesky ads.
The game is a combination of various genres, such as battles and puzzles. It features a ton of impressive graphics, as well. You can play the full game for $7.99.
Only One
Did you see that 2001 film, The One? It looks like the developers of this game are colossal Jet Li fans, as it's clear that the game revolves around the final scene of said movie.
The story is simple: you are standing on top of a column with a magical sword in your hand. The goal is to kill swarms of enemies that attack in waves. It has neat retro graphics and a pretty challenging difficulty level as you progress through the game. While the game is free, you'll be asked non-stop to buy in-app purchases.
Sega Forever Titles
Whether you're in the mood for a good-old Sonic the Hedgehog 2 game, Super Monkeyball, or Crazy Taxi, you can play them all ad-free by paying a one-time fee of $1.99. The Sega Forever app includes over 20 games to choose from. What's even better is that Sega adds more games to the app on a monthly basis.
Pew Pew
Pew Pew, a classic shooting game is also now available on the Google Play Store. The retro game has five different game modes – Dodge This, Chromatic Conflict, Pandemonium, Assault, and Asteroids. Best of all, the game is free!
Our Final Thoughts
While Android phones and tablets allow you to play games using just your fingers, why would you want to do so, knowing that you can use a game controller instead? A game controller lets you play a game the way it is meant to be played. And, let's be honest, games are more fun played with a controller. And considering how affordable these things are, there's no reason why you shouldn't get one for yourself. We hope that this buyer's guide has helped you narrow down your search for the best Android game controller. Happy gaming!


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Exploring Global Fund processes in three African countries
Conducting Exploratory Research on Global Fund Processes in Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe
Across the East and Southern Africa regions, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria is a lead financier of national responses to HIV. Within its current portfolio of HIV grants, three of the Global Fund's largest investments are in Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe, countries which each receive as much as US$500 million in three-year programme grants. The way that countries plan for, receive, and implement these grants has major impacts on their ability to manage their HIV epidemics.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is also an important partner in Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe where it is working with governments and other stakeholders to improve the effectiveness and impact of national HIV programmes. Given the central role of the Global Fund in these countries, it is imperative for the foundation and other technical partners like it, to understand how grants are planned for, structured and implemented so that their work can be fully aligned with these contributions.
- Identify challenges, gaps and opportunities in both the funding request development process and grant implementation stages.
- Establish a clear roadmap of solutions for strengthening Global Fund investments in Malawi, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.
- In addition to identifying actionable solutions, identify the stakeholders best equipped to implement the recommended solutions where possible.
Methodological approach
Data collection involved document reviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and participant observation at meetings and other events, covering the period from February to October 2017, which coincided with preparations for a new Global Fund grant cycle in
each country. Data analysis involved standard qualitative (thematic analysis) and quantitative (calculation means and proportions) methods, as well as triangulation. There were some limitations to the methodology, which included challenges to access some documentation and data, as noted in the report where relevant, and the reliance on stakeholder perceptions without, in some cases, the ability to independently confirm the validity or accuracy of what they described.
Key Findings
- All countries are strongly committed to inclusive processes for planning, monitoring and oversight of Global Fund programmes. However, since most funds are now applied to support multi-year HIV treatment needs, the relevance and effectiveness of these commitments comes into question given the limited scope for flexibility in decision-making on the use of what few Global Fund resources remain.
- Global Fund implementation structures continue to be largely vertical with their own complex financial and administrative management requirements, and operating for the most part outside of established health and community systems. This can increase transaction costs and inhibit integration and sustainability.
- Despite several years of investment in systems strengthening, health human resources, financial management, procurement and supply management, and monitoring and evaluation arrangements continue to cause challenges and to negatively affect grant performance and fund absorption.
- Reprogramming is not always undertaken proactively to shift resources to non-treatment priorities such as prevention. It sometimes occurs very late in the grant implementation period, increasing the risk that some funds remain unused.
- Although the Global Fund continues to work with countries to increase their domestic financing of national HIV responses, only small, incremental changes are occurring with significant risks emerging for HIV treatment programmes should there be even small changes in funding levels in future grant cycles.
A contextual analysis of country needs and priorities regarding HIV, TB and other health concerns.
A descriptive analysis of Global Fund investments and the processes that guide these investments, such as country dialogue, finding request development, grant-making and grant implementation arrangements.
Recommendations on how to improve Global Fund processes.


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Hi all,
I just wanted to give you a heads up that I will be participating in two upcoming fundraisers.
First up is one in Minneapolis and it is to benefit the Penny George Institute's Art of Healing Program. I currently have a bunch of Daily Zoo prints on exhibit at their location in Abbott Northwestern Hospital and they have invited me back to be a part of their Discover the Art of Healing event Thursday, May 20, 2010 at the Nicollet Island Pavilion. More than 30 local artists (I guess I count as local since my roots are there) will be exhibiting their work. Hors d'ouervres & light refreshments will be served. I'll be giving a short presentation around 6:30 pm and in my booth I'll have framed and unframed prints for sale, as well as books, notecards, and the first Daily Zoo t-shirts (hot off the press!).
Event details:
Thursday, May 20, 2010
5:30-7:30 pm
Nicollet Island Pavilion
40 Power Street, Minneapolis
$20 per person
RSVPs requested (612-863-6510)
Then on Saturday, May 22, 2010 I will be in the Los Angeles area selling various Daily Zoo sundries (how long has it been since you've heard that word?) at the Be the Match Bone Marrow Registry fundraiser. Consider joining us for a night of dinner, dancing, comedy, celebrity appearances, and helping out a great cause. Be the Match works to find life-saving marrow/stem cell donors for patients in need of a transplant.
Event details:
Saturday, May 22, 2010
6 pm
Stevens Steak & Seafood House
5332 E Stevens Place
City of Commerce, CA 90040
There is an entrance fee (I think it is either $55 or $65 per person - remember, it's a tasty dinner, a night of entertainment, and for charity!)
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Upcoming Events: Minneapolis & Los Angeles
Posted by Chris Ayers at 1:24 PM
2 comments:
- Lesley Vamos said...
Good Luck Chris - have great time ^_^
- May 10, 2010 at 12:17 AM
- Chris Ayers said...
Thanks Lesley. By the way, it was great to meet you at the Festival of Books. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your work!
- May 10, 2010 at 3:27 AM
Subscribe to: Post Comments (Atom)


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Forty year old Isidore-Jean-Louis Maurin marries the 18-year-old blonde daughter of one of his tenants, but Henriette soon begins to cheat on him with a young doctor from the flat upstairs.
"Their close proximity, the fact that they were separated from each other by nothing more than the thickness of a ceiling, sharpened their desire still more. At night, the lover could hear the husband coughing in bed."After a few weeks, Henriette ran out of excuses for visiting the second floor and a plan to get rid of Maurin was hatched.
"They were reluctant to resort to violence or crime. How could you possibly slit the throat of such a tame sheep? Besides, they were afraid of being found out and sent to the guillotine. In any case, the doctor, who was an ingenious young man, hit on a less risky by equally effective method, the bizarre nature of which fired the young woman's romantic imagination."Henriette staged several incidents which suggested her husband's madness. Compounded by gossip of neighbors, all of Maurin's actions are eventually construed as those of a madman, and he is taken away.
Forcible confinement of the allegedly insane was a timely issue in the late 1800's, and still evokes strong feelings today. Zola utilized the themes of madness and guilt very successfully in Therese Raquin and would return to them again in parts of the later Rougon-Macquart novel La Conquete de Plassans of 1874.
Unfortunately, I was not able to find "Story of a Madman" online, but if the plot interests you, I would strongly recommend reading Therese Raquin. My thoughts on that novel can be found here.
Short Story Monday is hosted by John Mutford at The Book Mine Set. Karen and Tamara are the hosts of Paris in July.


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PBS: Escaping Eritrea … [Read More...] about ካብ ውሽጢ ቤት ማእሰርታት ኤርትራ
Fresh Prince: The Schemes and Dreams of Saudi Arabia's Next King
F. Gregory Gause III | May/June 2018 Issue | Foreign Affairs
It is not often that a Ritz-Carlton becomes a detention facility. But last November, when a large slice of the Saudi elite was arrested on accusations of corruption, the luxury hotel in Riyadh became a gilded prison for hundreds of princes, billionaires, and high-ranking government officials. Behind this crackdown was the young crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MBS, who is attempting to remake the kingdom's economy and social life, and even the House of Saud itself.
At only 32, MBS is already the most powerful figure in contemporary Saudi history, having sidelined other members of the ruling family with the full support of his father, King Salman. His concentrated authority and evident will to shake up the system make it possible for him to do great things. But he has also removed the restraints that have made Saudi foreign and domestic policy cautious, conservative, and ultimately successful amid the crises of the modern Middle East. Whether the crown prince can pull off his high-stakes gamble, which the Middle East expert Bernard Haykel terms a "revolution from above," without destabilizing his country and adding to the region's chaos remains an open question.
Conventional wisdom has it that the Saudi regime rests on a social compact among the ruling family, the religious establishment, and the economic elite. The system is lubricated by enough oil wealth to also fund a substantial welfare state. But that view is only half right. Over the decades, oil wealth has lifted the ruling family above its partners and the governing princes above the other members of the extended House of Saud. Religious elites are now state bureaucrats, not equal partners in governing. The business community is also a junior partner, more of a lobby than an independent actor. The crown prince's campaign is further redefining the role of the regime's traditional pillars of support while also appealing, in a most unmonarchical way, to an inchoate Saudi public opinion. So far, MBS appears to be popular among many Saudis (although accurate measures of public opinion are notoriously hard to come by in authoritarian regimes). The problem is that public opinion is fickle. The institutional interests of elites, as conservative and self-interested as they may be, are a much more reliable basis for monarchical rule.
The crown prince's most ambitious goal, which he outlined in his Vision 2030 plan, is to diversify the Saudi economy and reduce its dependence on oil. The collapse of oil prices in 2014 convinced him that the kingdom could no longer support the welfare state that has been in place since the 1970s. He has already reduced subsidies on utilities such as water and electricity, which were practically free in the past, and has imposed a five percent value-added tax (VAT) on many commercial transactions. The private sector is key to the plan's success. Right now, the vast majority of Saudi workers are employed by the state. Vision 2030 calls for the private sector to invest more in the economy and become a greater source of employment. The privatization of five percent of the state oil company Saudi Aramco—the most publicized element of Vision 2030—aims to generate revenue for the government's Public Investment Fund, which will invest both at home, in the local private sector, and abroad, as a sovereign wealth fund.
All of this made the Ritz-Carlton roundup even more puzzling. Why did the crown prince arrest the pillars of the private sector—the very people he needs to make Vision 2030 work? Saudi officials contend that a dramatic, public strike against high-level corruption will help level the playing field and encourage greater investment going forward. But the crackdown's opaque and arbitrary methods—detentions without public charge, financial settlements negotiated for unspecified crimes, and the alleged use of brutal coercive tactics—could lead the country in the opposite direction.
The path that MBS chooses in the aftermath of the Ritz-Carlton crackdown will determine his country's future.
The long-term effect of the crown prince's gambit will hinge on what kind of leader MBS really is. If he is like Chinese President Xi Jinping, he will use the anticorruption campaign not only to settle political scores but also to actually reform the economy. In that case, a reconstituted and chastened private sector might, with the right incentives and sound government policy, become an engine of growth. On the other hand, if MBS is more like Russian President Vladimir Putin, he will simply replace the old oligarchs with new ones of his own choosing. That path is certainly open: the Saudi government has obtained a substantial interest in at least one major company, the construction giant the Saudi Binladin Group, in exchange for releasing its chief executive, and it might be doing the same with the Middle East Broadcasting Center. This approach would solidify the crown prince's power but undermine the potential for meaningful reform.
Equally troubling, he might be more like King Henry VIII. Faced with mounting expenses from fighting wars overseas and consolidating his rule at home, the king of England took over monasteries and other religious endowments when he declared himself head of the Church of England. But rather than maintaining these institutions as a steady source of income, he sold most of them for a one-time infusion of funds. There is some indication that MBS is feeling similar fiscal pressures. The Wall Street Journal reported that King Salman had unsuccessfully implored leading businesspeople to contribute to the government's coffers before the November roundup. The wolf is hardly at the door: the government has around $500 billion in reserves. But some of the crown prince's more ambitious plans, such as building a futuristic city dubbed "Neom," have not excited much enthusiasm from the Saudi business elite. Shaking down business leaders would yield money for pet projects, but this tactic can be used only once. If foreign investors and domestic business elites think that they are perpetually at risk of being arrested or having their assets seized, they will be much less likely to invest in the country.
At a minimum, the crown prince has redefined what corruption means in the kingdom. The problem is that observers, both domestic and foreign, are not yet clear on what the new definition is. The path that MBS chooses in the aftermath of the Ritz-Carlton crackdown will determine his country's future.
On the social front, the crown prince has already made bold decisions. In September, he tackled the most fraught Saudi social issue by declaring that, as of June 2018, Saudi women will have the right to drive. This decision has elicited barely a peep of domestic opposition. As education levels rose and more Saudis experienced life abroad, the argument that the kingdom was "not ready" or "too conservative" for this change rang increasingly hollow. And the objections of some clerics that driving would endanger Saudi women's moral standing were risible, given that the alternative was for Saudi women to be driven by male drivers (either in taxis or in their families' cars) who were not members of their families. Saudi society had been ready for this change for some time; the country's leaders had simply lacked the political will to pull the trigger. The crown prince has that political will, in spades.
Having women behind the wheel will bring enormous changes to the country. More women will be able to join the work force. Hundreds of thousands of foreign workers employed as drivers will no longer be needed. Men will not lose productive hours transporting their wives, mothers, and sisters to doctor's appointments and other meetings. It is hard to overestimate the impact of this decision.
The crown prince has publicly talked about "going back to how we were, to the tolerant, moderate Islam that is open to the world." Although this interpretation of Saudi history is questionable, his commitment to change is real. In addition to deciding to allow women to drive, he has limited the powers of the religious police and opened up Saudi social life. Musical concerts, movie theaters, female attendance at soccer matches, and a greater number of public social events will help make the country more "normal," at least for those Saudis who have lived or visited abroad.
Undoubtedly, some in more conservative religious circles will object to all of this, and there might be isolated instances of a violent backlash, as there were when the country introduced television and education for girls in the 1960s. But history has shown that these changes will soon become normalized. The wives of clerics will be among the first behind the wheel.
All this social change gives a more accurate picture of the relationship between the religious establishment and the ruling family. Ultimately, the religious elites are state employees who take orders from above, not equal players with a veto over government policy. During every major crisis in modern Saudi history, the religious establishment has supported the government's decisions, including the implementation of social changes in the 1960s, the retaking of the Grand Mosque in Mecca from millenarian zealots in 1979, the invitation of foreign troops into the kingdom during the Gulf War of 1990–91, and the crushing of local al Qaeda elements in the early years of this century. Religious elites may not like the crown prince's policies, but they are not leading a charge against them. Religious opposition to the regime comes from outside official circles, from radical groups such as al Qaeda and the Islamic State (or ISIS) and from Islamist populists who call for both greater adherence to Islamic law and more political freedom. The state has been able to suppress these movements for the last century. There is no reason to think that has changed.
Equally audacious but less noticed abroad has been the crown prince's consolidation of power within the ruling family. Since the 1960s, the kingdom has been ruled by a de facto committee of senior princes—all sons of King Ibn Saud, the founder of modern Saudi Arabia—with the king as first among equals. Some kings were stronger than others, but all of them sought consensus on important decisions among their family members who held the key ministries and governorships across the country. This style of government had all the vices of rule by committee: it was ponderous, conservative, and not readily able to seize opportunities. But it also had its virtues: its decisions were well considered, there were checks on bad ideas, and everyone important was on board once a decision was made. As the sons of the founding king grew old, some observers questioned how the system would be sustained. Most Saudi watchers, myself included, assumed that the sons of that generation would take the places of their fathers and reconstitute committee governance. We were wrong.
When King Salman assumed the throne in 2015, he originally appointed his half brother Prince Muqrin bin Abdulaziz to be crown prince, keeping the succession in his own generation. But the king jettisoned Prince Muqrin a few months later in favor of one of his nephews, Mohammed bin Nayef. MBN, as he is known, is part of the Saudi royal family's third generation, the son of the former interior minister, who had inherited the leadership of that ministry from his father. MBN also became the main point of contact for U.S. officials in the burgeoning intelligence and counterterrorism partnership that had developed between the two countries after the 9/11 attacks. MBN was a safe choice to become the first king of his generation—experienced in government, successful in maintaining internal security against threats from al Qaeda and ISIS, and well known and respected in Washington.
But in June 2017, King Salman removed MBN from his position as crown prince and from his ministerial post and elevated his favorite son to become the heir apparent. The new crown prince's ascent was remarkably fast—MBS had become a minister only two years before, when he succeeded his father as minister of defense. At that time, the king had also appointed him to head a cabinet committee overseeing economic and social policy (MBN was in charge of a similar committee on security issues). With the cashiering of MBN, the new crown prince became the focal point for all major decisions in the government. Although some saw the Ritz-Carlton roundup as a consolidation of power, MBS had already secured his position by then. To be sure, a number of princes were involuntary guests at the Ritz. The most important of these was Miteb bin Abdullah, a son of the former king, who served as the commander of the National Guard. After his November arrest, he was stripped of that position and removed from the cabinet. But no one questioned that MBS was in charge, even before November 2017.
Today, the Saudi cabinet contains fewer members of the ruling family than at any time since the 1950s. The king is still the prime minister, and the crown prince is both the defense minister and the deputy prime minister, but the only other ministerial position filled by a family member is minister of the interior, which is held by a young nephew of the former crown prince MBN and thus a member of the family's fourth generation. (There are also two royal ministers of state, one of whom is another son of King Salman, but both lack a portfolio.)
In effect, the crown prince has cut out a large number of his older cousins, many of whom had previously held high positions in government and were looking to inherit their fathers' seats at the decision-making table. This has occasioned more than a little grumbling in family circles, some of which has seeped out into the Western press. But there are no indications, at least not publicly, of a serious mobilization inside the House of Saud to block MBS from eventually succeeding his father. Dangerous splits in the family have happened before, most recently in the late 1950s and early 1960s, when King Saud and Crown Prince Faisal contended for power. But the signs of that split were clear and public. People were fired from jobs and then returned when their man was on top, the protagonists took extended leaves outside the country after they lost a skirmish, and family councils were called to adjudicate the conflict. In the end, the family deposed King Saud in 1964.
Nothing approaching that kind of open contest for power is occurring now.
It is possible that MBS will face familial opposition when his father dies. The House of Saud famously tries to keep family business out of the public eye, so there could be things going on that outsiders do not know. Perhaps in anticipation of a move against him, the crown prince has been appealing to younger family members, particularly in the fourth generation, who are below him in the hierarchy but close to him in age, by appointing many of them to subcabinet positions in Riyadh and positions of authority in the regional governorates. They could become his supporters if trouble arises. For now, his path to ultimate power seems secure.
The crown prince now stands at the top of the Saudi decision-making process. He answers only to the king, who has granted him wide-ranging powers, allowing him to make difficult decisions that were previously kicked down the road, such as pursuing economic reform and allowing women to drive. But it also means that there are few checks on an ambitious and aggressive leader who may not fully calculate the second- and third-order consequences of some of his actions.
Some recent Saudi foreign policy decisions suggest a certain amount of recklessness. In November 2017, for example, as the Ritz-Carlton roundup was under way, the Lebanese prime minister, Saad Hariri, made an unscheduled visit to Riyadh. A few days later, he announced his resignation from the Saudi capital, under obvious pressure from MBS. This was clearly a Saudi power play meant to put pressure on the Lebanese political system in hopes of dealing a blow to Hezbollah, Iran's ally in Lebanon. Instead, the move backfired, as the United States and Saudi allies in Europe told the kingdom to back down. A few weeks later, Hariri returned to Lebanon and rescinded his resignation. Likewise, in the summer of 2017, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates led a number of other Arab countries in a boycott of Qatar, accusing the Qataris of supporting Islamist groups, backing terrorists, and meddling in the domestic politics of their neighbors. But far from knuckling under, Qatar has withstood the pressure and drawn support from Iran and Turkey. In both cases, Saudi Arabia did not achieve its objectives.
Some recent Saudi foreign policy decisions suggest a certain amount of recklessness.
Many would classify the Emirati-Saudi military offensive in Yemen as another example of an aggressive and unsuccessful MBS policy. Undoubtedly, the Saudis and their partners assumed that the operation, which began in 2015, would swiftly drive back the rebel Houthi militants and restore the Saudi ally Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi to the presidential palace in Sanaa. It did not turn out that way, and international pressure on Riyadh is mounting as the human toll of the campaign has reached alarming levels. But unlike the Lebanese and Qatari gambits, the Yemeni campaign touches more directly on what most Saudis see as their national security. One can argue about the extent to which the Houthis are tied to Iran, but Saudi Arabia considers Houthi control of Yemen as tantamount to allowing Iran a base of influence on the Arabian Peninsula. No Saudi government would have stood by and allowed that to happen. The war in Yemen is a drain on Saudi resources and a blot on the country's international reputation, but it still enjoys broad support among Saudi elites. The question now is how to bring it to an end.
Unlike past Saudi leaders, MBS can make dramatic and unilateral decisions. But this freedom of action also means that he can engage in foreign policy adventures that would not have moved forward under previous rulers. He may be learning from his mistakes, but given his ambition and impulsiveness, the world should expect more surprises.
The crown prince has few checks on his decision-making power from within the Saudi political system, but he still has to respond to public demands. More than any other recent Saudi leader, MBS has cultivated public support, especially among younger Saudis.
In January, responding to public grumbling about the increased prices of water, electricity, and gasoline and the imposition of the five percent VAT that took effect in mid-2017 and early 2018, MBS restored an annual pay raise for government employees that had been suspended as part of earlier austerity moves, and he granted government employees a bonus of about $250 per month for "cost of living." The crown prince also established a "citizen's account," which directly transfers cash to Saudis in the middle and lower economic strata. Saudi officials are now saying that the money recovered from those held in the Ritz-Carlton will be used to support this fund.
These new benefits could be read as a move away from the goals of balancing the state budget and making public-sector jobs less attractive, but it is better seen as a necessary reaction to placate public opinion. Two years of rising oil prices have made it difficult to impose austerity. Sacrifices that might have been acceptable to Saudis when oil was $30 per barrel seem less so with oil above $60 per barrel. Although the crown prince may be headstrong and aggressive, he still realizes that he needs the people behind him. But to transform the Saudi system, he will also have to inculcate a new understanding of what the state is going to provide its citizens. Reducing the welfare state without turning the public against him will be his most daunting challenge.
Perhaps nowhere have the crown prince's moves produced more curiosity, hope, and fear than in Washington. In U.S. President Donald Trump, MBS has an enthusiastic backer—at times too enthusiastic. The fact that MBS became crown prince just a few weeks after Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia in May 2017 left the impression that Washington had something to do with the change, and the White House was far too quick to imply that MBS had explicit U.S. backing. The president's excessive friendliness has already had consequences. In June, Trump tweeted his support for the Emirati-Saudi boycott of Qatar, stating that isolating the country might be "the beginning of the end to the horror of terrorism." This created tension with the Gulf state, which is a crucial base for the U.S. military's air operations in the Middle East, and undercut moves by Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and Secretary of Defense James Mattis to bring about a quick end to the imbroglio. The sense that the Saudis (and the Emiratis) can appeal directly to the White House through the president's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, has also made it more difficult for the regular organs of U.S. foreign policy to bring the Gulf standoff to a diplomatic conclusion.
Although Trump's close public embrace of the crown prince might not serve either's interest in the long term, it has undoubtedly given Washington considerable leverage with Riyadh in the short term. The administration should think carefully about how to use this influence. Bringing the Saudis on board for a new effort to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict would make sense, but only if the Trump plan has a real chance of success. The administration should not play the Saudi card on the peace process if it is not going anywhere—and there is little reason for optimism. When it comes to Syria, Trump has shown little interest in a new peace initiative, so there is no reason to engage the Saudis there. Riyadh is already in agreement with a more confrontational policy toward Iran. And the administration has successfully pushed the Saudis to reengage with the government of Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, which is a positive step in the long-term effort to stabilize Iraq and reduce Iranian influence there.
The place where Trump could most productively use his close relationship with the crown prince is Yemen. The administration should continue its efforts to push the Saudis to address the human catastrophe through more effective aid and more discriminate military action. The Houthis also have much to answer for regarding the suffering of Yemeni civilians, and international pressure should focus as much on them as on the Saudis. Any diplomatic initiative to end the fighting will require that the United States decide whether it wants to see the redivision of the country into two states, as was the case before 1990. It will also involve sophisticated outreach to Iran, the only regional power with any influence over the Houthis. This can be accomplished even as the Trump administration works to contain and roll back Iranian influence in the Arab world. Oman has acted as a conduit to Iran before, and European countries can also deal directly with the Iranians. If Tehran is at all chastened by the antiregime protests that broke out across Iran in January, it might be open to reducing its involvement in the regional conflict that least affects its interests. Stabilizing Yemen will not be easy, but such an effort would give Saudi Arabia a desperately needed exit ramp from a costly campaign and alleviate one of the world's most searing human tragedies.
Meanwhile, Washington should pay close attention to how the crown prince handles the aftermath of his anticorruption campaign. If MBS becomes his country's Xi, then the United States should maintain its pragmatic alliance, which is based on mutual benefit rather than shared values. But if MBS turns out to be more like Putin or Henry VIII, privileging political cronies and treating the private sector as his personal ATM, then the longer-term prospects of the kingdom in a world where oil prices are unlikely to return to the historic highs of the early years of this century will be much less certain. In that case, the United States will need to look elsewhere for a partner in stabilizing the region.
Related Reading: Mohammed bin Salman Is the Next Saddam Hussein


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We've discussed the subject before: Is nursing a profession or a vocation? I believe one of my take home points for why nursing is a profession is the continuing education (CEU) requirement. As nurses, we are required to maintain a certain number of continuing education units (or hours).
I vaguely remember some comments debating why or why not CEUs are good. I believe there are nurses out there who still think CEUs are a waste of time.
Here's why they are not.
We need to stay on top of our game–the "game" being the delivery of care (NO, I don't consider my job a game. It's just a figure of speech). If you haven't noticed, the "game" has been changing drastically over the past decade. Heck, it's drastically changed in the past 3-5 years!
We're using machines and seeing medications that didn't exist. We're also treating patients for disorders and diseases that were less known and less seen, not to mention our patients are living much, much longer.
Case in point. If you've been around a cardiac patient or even a surgical patient recently, you've probably heard of a new anti-coagulation medication that was recently approved by the FDA for the treatment of chronic non-valvular heart disease Atrial Fibrillation. I won't name the medication, but it's a unique drug that elicits the same end result as previous anti-coagulation medications with a very different mechanism of action.
It's this medication's mechanism of action that changes our "game." We as nurses need to understand this medication. How it works. Why it's used. And what about it raises our eyebrows during overdose emergencies, surgical procedures (pre- and post-op) and when prescribing it upon discharge from the hospital.
If we don't stay on top of our "game," guess who suffers?
That's right, our wonderful patients.
Who out there still thinks CEUs are a waste of time?


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Celebrate 30 years of marriage with this beautiful Personalised 30th Wedding Anniversary Photo Cushion.
Add any photo of your choice to this lovely gift to make a truly personal present for the special couple. The photo could be of them now or even a photo from their actual wedding day, 30 years earlier. The image will be printed inside the heart to the right of the big 30 displayed on the cushion.
The cushion is also personalised with the name of the couple and the date of the Pearl anniversary making this a gift that they can treasure and display in pride of place anywhere of their choice.


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Meeting Phytoplankton
[19-Apr-18] A family checks out a vial containing a culture of Emiliana huxleyi, a phytoplankton that plays an important role in the global carbon cycle. The cultures of three different species were displayed as part of the PACE exhibit at the NASA Earth Day event in Washington D.C.
Credit: Aubrey Gemignani (NASA). Download this image (JPG, 793 KB).


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Donna SoleDirector of Client Relations
Donna Sole, an Energizer Bunny whose batteries are charged with strong Colombian coffee, is Director of Client Relations at ReKon Productions. In her role as DCR, she not only builds awareness of ReKon's presence, values, and brand in the community, she also partners with new and existing clients to find solutions that are perfectly tailored to their needs. Her attention to detail comes in handy when collaborating with ReKon's internal team and clients to assure a smooth and easy process on any project.
Donna holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management with a minor in Psychology from Dallas Baptist University.
ACT TWO: Origin Story
Donna is no newbie to the entertainment world. Growing up as an accomplished figure skater she started out entertaining many while performing on ice. When her daughter joined the entertainment profession as an actor on a primetime show, they decided to move to Los Angeles from the Lone Star State. In addition to helping facilitate her daughter's acting career, Donna also became president of Sole Talent Partners, a company that represents motivational speakers and entertainers of all types. Prior to that, Donna had a successful career in the pharmaceutical sector where she spent years working in sales and business development.
ACT THREE: Meet-Cute
Donna's initial connection with ReKon Productions happened in 2013 onset of the film The Caterpillar's Kimono which Lesley co-produced and Donna's daughter acted in. While shooting, Donna became fascinated by Lesley's journey to find the infamous margarita guitars in Vegas! They met again on the ReKon Productions commercial The Shootout. Due to Donna's years of experience in business development, they both realized she would be a perfect fit in the Director of Client Relations role, so she joined the team in 2017.


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George Dickel 17-Year Tennessee Whisky
by Theresa Christine Johnson on 07/07/2016 | 4 Minute Read
Good things take time, and George Dickel 17-Year Tennessee Whisky is proof. This powerful limited release is the first in hopefully many special edition releases under the Dickel name brand. David Cole Creative developed the packaging for the spirit, creating something that emphasizes the scope of the brand as well as the great care with which the whiskey is distilled.
"A special package design for this special edition, 17-year old Tennessee Whisky. The label & closure designs are intended to relate strongly to the existing everyday Dickel family lineup, while conveying the premium, not-so-everyday nature of this rare, extra-aged (and extra-expensive), limited release. The age statement features prominently so there's no mistaking what makes it unique, followed in prominence by the important, location-specific 'Cascade Hollow message,' which indicates that this limited edition whisky is made on-site the only place the public will encounter it: in the tasting room at the distillery Tullahoma, Tennessee. In addition to the package design, the 'Distillery Reserve Collection' identity lockup is a new design and we can look forward to additional special edition releases under this promising sub-brand, available for sale only at the distillery in Cascade Hollow, Tennessee."
Gold foil and embossed details indicate a high-end whiskey, but rough kraft paper speaks to the hands-on, handmade nature of the spirit. It's a traditional small batch Tennessee whiskey with humble roots, and the label takes on a bit of an old-fashioned appearance, nodding to its roots. A rough border is finished with foil, allowing the label to stand out against the amber hue of the whiskey. The mix of fonts further emphasizes the traditional, old-timey nature of making the liquor.
Designed by David Cole Creative
Country: United States
City: Seattle


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4698 Convoy Street Suite 203
San Diego, CA 92111
San Diego area dentist Dr. Gary Sigafoos offers dental payment plans so you can afford the treatment you need. Just talk with our friendly team about your needs.
We'll be happy to work with you to find the solution that fits your situation. We're committed to making your oral health a reality.
At San Diego Sleep Apnea Centers we offer a range of treatment options for sleep apnea. If snoring or obstructed breathing is a problem, call Dr. Sigafoos today to learn how we can help you breathe easier.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can cause serious health problems, so contact us now to schedule an examination.
San Diego Sleep Apnea Centers is a trusted San Diego area dental implants practice providing natural-looking, comfortable tooth replacement. We make it our mission to use a gentle touch during the process.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards to replace missing teeth and provide you with natural-looking results. Our goal is to restore your confidence and your bright, healthy smile.
Dr. Sigafoos has extensive experience providing gingivitis treatments in the San Diego area. Bleeding gums can lead to more serious health problems if not treated promptly.
Our friendly, professional team will evaluate your needs and design a personal treatment plan. We'll help you have healthy gums and teeth for life.
Gary Sigafoos, D.D.S., in the San Diego area accepts Delta Dental® insurance. Our experienced team at San Diego Sleep Apnea Centers will file your insurance claim for you.
We want your dental treatment to be affordable for you. We're committed to helping you maintain your life-long oral health.
9420 Mira Mesa Blvd Suite D
San Diego, CA 92126
If you need gum disease treatment, La Jolla area gum disease dentist, Dr. Sigafoos offers extensive experience. Unhealthy gums can be a risk factor for more serious health problems if not treated promptly.
Our professional team will assess your situation and create a personalized treatment plan. We're committed to your life-long healthy gums and teeth.
Dr. Sigafoos has extensive experience providing gingivitis treatments in the La Jolla area. Bleeding gums can lead to more serious health problems if not treated promptly.
Our friendly, professional team will evaluate your needs and design a personal treatment plan. We'll help you have healthy gums and teeth for life.
New and safe sedation dentistry with La Jolla area sedation dentist Dr. Gary Sigafoos means you can have years of dental treatments done quickly while you're lightly sedated, with little or no discomfort. If you've been putting up with discomfort, hiding your smile, or delaying scheduling dental work because you're too busy, your life is about to change. Make a sedation dentistry consultation appointment today with Dr. Sigafoos.
For comfortable tooth cleaning in the La Jolla, California area, Dr. Gary Sigafoos is known for having a gentle touch. The friendly team at San Diego Sleep Apnea Centers provides dental hygiene treatments for a whiter smile.
Maintaining good dental hygiene is the foundation for healthy teeth and gums. We're committed to helping you have a lifetime of oral health.
At San Diego Sleep Apnea Centers we offer a range of treatment options for sleep apnea. If snoring or obstructed breathing is a problem, call Dr. Sigafoos today to learn how we can help you breathe easier.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can cause serious health problems, so contact us now to schedule an examination.
Rancho Del Rey Center for Periodontics and Dental Implants
885 Canarios Court Suite 202
Chula Vista, CA, 91910
Addario, Nick D.D.S.
1351 Medical Center Dr # B
Chula Vista, CA, 91911-6977
Town Centre Dental Group
265 E St Ste E
Chula Vista, CA, 91910-2930
(619) 427-9440
AYE Dental
285 Quintard Street
Chula Vista, CA, 91911
Cosmetic dentistry, these days, sometimes combines science with fine art. This requires a craftsman's skill to make sure the tooth restoration is as attractive as it is durable. After all, your smile is too valuable to be spoiled by unnatural-looking dental veneers.
The goal of a cosmetic dentist should be to provide you with an attractive, natural-appearing smile. You have a wide array of choices, and a good cosmetic dentistry professional should be happy to review the possibilities with you. For example, porcelain onlays and inlays can return structural integrity to a broken tooth, while leaving it looking as good as (or possibly better than) the original.
This is especially apparent if you now have metal fillings or a gold tooth. Metal and gold, after all, are not normal components of teeth. There's a huge difference between gold or metal combination fillings and porcelain dental crowns that reflect the translucence of natural teeth. Plus, porcelain restorations are now as strong, or stronger, than your own teeth. Ask your cosmetic dentist to take before-and-after photos so you can see the difference for yourself.
Admittedly, these more natural-appearing restorations are also a little more expensive. And many dental insurance plans may not cover all of the cost for cosmetic dental work. But in terms of your appearance (and the self-confidence it boosts), there's no comparison.
The term "dental bonding" describes a dental procedure that is used for various purposes. Tooth-colored composite resins are applied to teeth for cosmetic reasons, to repair cracked and chipped teeth, protect exposed tooth roots against decay, or restore decayed teeth.
Usually the process is completed during one visit to your cosmetic dentist and doesn't require drilling or anesthesia. First, your tooth is prepared with an etching solution to help the dental bonding materials adhere.
Next, the resin is applied and contoured to the proper shape, then cured with either a special light or chemical treatment. The tooth is then polished for a natural-looking appearance. A follow-up appointment with your dentist may be recommended for additional polishing.
While the dental bonding materials are very durable, they still can chip and may need to be replaced periodically. Avoid excessive pressure such as chewing ice, hard candy or unpopped popcorn kernels. Dental bonding materials are susceptible to staining from tobacco, coffee, tea and berries. Alcohol and acid-containing foods such as vinegar, tomatoes or pineapple can damage the resin.
Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining good dental health and natural-looking teeth.
By Danine M. Fresch, DDS


text: Prosthetic components are being developed and updated all the time. While some technology may not be appropriate for everybody, it is always good to research the options that have been developed so you can discuss them with your prosthetist. At Dream Team Prosthetics LLC, we are committed to evaluating all new technology to determine what the advantages might be for the prosthetics user.


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By Andy Martin
It was my first year guiding full time on Oregon's Chetco River, and Easter Weekend took place in late March. Just a month before, dozens of boats crowded the lower river, as steelhead season was at its peak. On this day, there wasn't a boat in sight. It was sunny, warm, and despite low, clear conditions, the fish weren't spooked because there was so little pressure.
Our first pass at Emily Creek resulted in a fish. Three hours later, at Tamba Bar, we got our only other bite of the day, and despite the steelhead run being just about over, we'd landed two bright fish, a successful late-season outing.
Prime time on the Chetco has passed by the time March rolls around. But as the season wanes, so do the crowds, and anglers looking for a chance at one more steelhead before the side-drifting gear is put away for the year have good chances of finding success here.
Late Season Fishing
The peak season on the Chetco runs from the last few days of December through February. By March, many of the steelhead have spawned and are making their way back to the ocean.
On the upper river, where only a limited number of guides (including myself) have a Forest Service permit to fish, anglers sometimes encounter big numbers of downers. These fish fight well, and are often aggressive biters. When anglers encounter a group of "downers" the number of hookups can quickly add up.
On the lower river, fresh fish will continue to move into the river through the end of March. While the numbers of fresh steelhead are considerably less in March, fewer boats fishing them can lead to a solid day's fishing.
A solid late-season steelhead on the Chetco.
Some of the biggest native fish also arrive late in the season. While the majority of the Chetco's steelhead run 6 to 10 pounds, you never know when a 15-, 18- or even 20-pounder will show up. Some of the biggest spawners show up at the end of the run. These are the main stem spawners that spawn in the upper river.
Smaller steelhead also are common late in the season. March is when the "bluebacks" arrive. Bluebacks are one-salt steelhead that return to the Chetco and Winchuck rivers, as well as several Northern California coastal rivers, at the tail end of the winter steelhead run. These fish are usually very aggressive, and fight especially hard. They are basically a steelhead jack, and return to the ocean during the spring months after several weeks in the river.
Hot baits
I like to use roe cured with natural-colored BorX O Fire the entire season. I always add a little sugar to sweeten the cure. This is steelhead candy, and steelhead can't resist it.
Late in the season, the water is often low and clear, so I often reduce leaders to 8-pound test, use smaller hooks (size 4), and use darker colored Puff Balls, such as dark orange or red. This year it looks like we will have higher flows, so pinks and chartreuse Puff Balls also will be used.
Steelhead season closes the last day of March on the Chetco and other Southern Oregon Coast rivers, including the Elk, Sixes, Pistol and Winchuck. Fishing remains open on the Smith in Northern California through April. Like the Chetco, it can deliver a sold late-season trip, especially once the crowds are gone.
Editor's Note: Pautzke Pro Staffer Andy Martin is a full-time Oregon and Northern California fishing guide and charter boat captain. His web sites are brookingsfishing.com and wildriversfishing.com.


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Google has the new product called Chromecast, with the help of CastOnTV, you can easily play photos and music in your iPhone/ iPad/ Android devices to TV screen in a slideshow way. It also can play videos taken by devices to big TV screen in the same way.
Just put the Chromecast device to your HDMI TV, then photos, music, and videos in the device can be simply showed on TV with big screen under same Wifi network. It can even correct videos orientation to play it right.
And because it has both Android and iOS version, quite easy to share your memory with family or friends together.
Here is some screenshots:
Add photo and music to set as background music to play them in slideshow way.
Select video to play on TV.


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William of Cloudeslee and his Son
[Page 245]


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THE MOYLURG CÉILÍ BAND - The Rest Is History
The history here is that there has been a resurgence in the fortunes of céilí bands from the north Connacht region in recent years, with that region providing the winners of the prestigious All-Ireland Senior Céilí Band title in 2008 (Inisfree), 2009 (Dartry) and, in 2013 (after an epic recall!), Moylurg. The band is composed predominantly of musicians still in their early 20s; though rooted primarily in Roscommon, it has members from Donegal, Leitrim, Galway, Sligo and the London diaspora and sports musical influences that range beyond the traditional Irish yet maintains a classic Irish céilí band sound.
The majority of the tracks on this, the band's debut album, project the very life-and-soul, the verve of this ensemble, its characteristic lift and drive imparted by the strong teamwork in the playing and confident musicianship. Reels, jigs, polkas, hornpipes, barndances and the occasional march, all are dispatched with a keen sense of energy and commitment, and there's nothing to choose between these animated, heftily-steered performances – indeed, the parade of dances brings a certain degree of standardisation to the band sound that's both welcome and refreshing. There's also a small handful of lighter-textured selections, including a fleet-footed, flute-led Apples In Winter set and a pair of slow airs, although the latter errs on the side of tastefulness and only really comes to life in the second repeat of Carolan's Draught where other instruments join the piano keyboard in the melody line. A similarly anonymous ambience affects the three songs, whose status as worthy interludes is undermined by a distinct feeling of flagging even though the singers concerned prove able interpreters and their choice of material (which includes songs by Tommy Sands and Mick Blake) is not in question. And it's a matter of personal taste no doubt, but I do feel the band's treatment of Ewan MacColl's School Days Over comes across as a touch bland with its washes of keyboard accompaniment.
But all in all, the disc still affords ample justification for the Moylurg band's winning of that all-important award.
David Kidman