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Canon EOS-1D X Mark II
20.2 Megapixel full-frame sensor. 61-point AF system. Up to 14fps. ISO to 409,600. "The image quality plus the ISO performance, and the reliability in all kinds of weather, make this camera great for wildlife," says Marina.
How do you make money from wildlife photography? From photographing the magnificent 'Big Five' animals on safari to the nature closer to home, wildlife photography is one of the most popular genres among amateurs. With so many hobbyist photographers to compete with, as well as falling revenues in traditional print media, it's essential for pro wildlife photographers to diversify.
Rather than merely selling photos, wildlife photographers now sell a style, a brand or even an experience. Many professionals have multiple income streams across everything from workshops and seminars through to photobooks and pioneering forms of publishing.
Here, successful wildlife photographers Marina Cano, Vladimir Medvedev and Radomir Jakubowski share their advice for making money out of photographing the natural world, with each prioritising distinct approaches to their business.
Spanish photographer Marina Cano has built up a thriving career photographing wildlife across the world and become known for capturing drama and emotion between animals. But her love of wildlife photography began at the Cabárceno wildlife park just 15 minutes from her home in Santander, northern Spain. There she honed her photography skills and built up a portfolio that she turned into her first book.
Building up engaged social media communities, including half a million followers on Facebook, has been integral to her success. "At the beginning I was very present on Facebook and my community started to grow and grow," says Marina. "10 years ago I was publishing and speaking to people every day. I invested a lot of time in it, but I also loved it.
"Facebook and Instagram were very important to develop my career, so I always encourage people to be present, to share work and to comment and respond to people. They're also great platforms to see other photographers' work so you can learn from what they are doing."
Such engagement allows her to gauge the popularity of different images, with emotional shots proving most popular. "I love these kinds of pictures as well – mothers and babies, or very dramatic connections between two animals, or between animals and the landscape, like with stormy skies. My work is very emotional and I don't look for it, it's the work that comes to me, naturally how I take pictures."
Her weighty online presence across social media and her specialised website has also paid more direct dividends by enabling work to come to her. "People contacted me from magazines, to buy fine art prints, to publish books or to ask me to give a talk. This is the importance of social media – those people found me online because I was present there. [But] you have to be strict about what you publish to have the best quality of work online."
After graduating in economics, German photographer Radomir Jakubowski decided to turn his love of wildlife photography into his profession. "I asked myself, what were the possibilities to earn money from this," he says. "Wildlife photography is very popular, but you need a product that is more than just photography."
More than 10 years on, he has won scores of wildlife photography awards across Europe. He says, "I have lots of different ways I make money and photography is one piece of that."
While Radomir runs a diverse and innovative business, publishing remains a core pillar of that business, including regular articles and photobooks. "I usually write about one longer magazine article per month," he continues. "It's six to 12 pages about nature photography, conservation or photographic techniques, alongside my photos." He has published two nature photography books, with a third due to be published in 2020. In every case, editors approached him with a proposal.
Traditional publishing across magazines and photobooks is a mainstay of Marina's income, too. She has published four books – Cabárceno; Drama & Intimimacy; Inspiración + Naturaleza; and Wild Soul – two of which sold out, and she's working on a fifth.
"There are different ways to approach book publishing," she says. "The first book, about the park, I took to the director, who loved it and so they printed it. Sometimes people came to me and sometimes I did them by myself." Her second was self-published and she was approached by editors to publish her third and fourth.
"Education is another way of making money," Marina says. "With digital photography, more and more people are taking pictures. In a way you have more competition but in a way it's good because there are many people out there who really want to improve their photography, so education has become a great way to generate income."
Marina runs regular workshops and one-to-one tuition in the Cabárceno wildlife park. She also leads safaris across Africa, having previously run tours in Namibia, Botswana and Kenya.
Similarly, Radomir has been running photographic workshops since 2012 and estimates they provide up to a quarter of his income. Rather than focusing on destination photography, as is common in the industry, he sets thematic workshops around a certain animal or photography technique.
"My clients are really ambitious nature photographers who are very well equipped," he says. "It's inspiring to work with other people who see the world a little bit differently to you. We normally focus on one species of animals, like ibex or chamois, for three or four days. Or I run really artistic workshops – for example in Switzerland I take people to focus on the shapes and colours of stones and mountains."
"Wildlife really is the most popular and exciting genre among photographers," says Vladimir Medvedev. "These days photographers don't compete within a city or even within a country, because the internet has erased every boundary. There are now thousands of gorgeous wildlife photos online, so you have to be the best in the world if you want to reach success in this field."
Vladimir's accomplishments – from winning the Eric Hosking Portfolio Award at Wildlife Photographer of the Year in 2012 for his images of Banff National Park, Canada, through to chairing the Russian Union of Wildlife Photographers – have earned him recognition as one of his country's top nature photographers. For him, success has come from resisting the urge to follow the crowd to the big nature spots and carving out his own niche covering wildlife and the habitats they live in, with an artistic flair.
"If you want to sell, you shouldn't go where others are going – you need to be special," he says. "After winning at Wildlife Photographer of the Year, I realised it was time to look for new goals and thought about what I liked to do. I discovered the niche of creative nature photography, on the verge of art and decor. I keep sales statistics, so I know what people like best and what they will buy. For instance, one of my most popular photos is In the Mirror of the Marshes. This information is extremely important for me.
"Now I'm building my own brand and telling stories of my life. People get attached to this emotionally and want to take a fragment of my story into their homes. They buy my photos, hang them on the wall, and then tell their visitors stories about me, about those shots. An interior photograph is not just a mass-produced poster; it reflects our personality."
You don't have to have the very latest gear, but new and enhanced features in new equipment could give you a competitive advantage, and investing in a new camera can be a smart move if it enables you to make your work stand out. When Marina tried the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, for example, she found it "a big step forward". Its ability to shoot at up to 20fps in Live View mode with intelligent subject-tracking AF, she says, meant she could capture fast-moving wildlife and get shots she would have missed before. "The improvements in this camera are absolutely amazing," she says.
Vladimir's prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year win enabled him to launch full-time into selling creative prints, as well as giving him personal validation. "I realised that I could be a winner, that my shots had been expertly judged by highly esteemed members of the jury, and this allowed me to move forward. In financial terms, it is hard to reckon what I got from winning. Someone might have bought my photographs on account of my win, but overall, my senses tell me that it brought me only direct prize payments."
Vladimir stopped participating in photography competitions eight years ago, finding the market oversaturated. Neither does he now seek to earn money from magazines, where he made his first sales aged just 16, finding they tend not to suit his style of creative imagery and work better as a promotional tool for his exhibitions, prints and other income streams.
He does find professional satisfaction and financial reward in exhibiting his work, though. "People can only fully appreciate the quality of photographs at exhibitions," he says. "The usual print size at one of my shows is 1m x 1.5m, which provides complete immersion. Running a good exhibition is expensive, but that's the only place where your customers can see the final version of the photograph as a product, remember those impressions for years and hopefully purchase something for their home."
"There are many different sources to generate income," adds Marina. "I sell fine art prints and posters, and have even produced cushions with photography on them." For her "very large" prints, she says image quality is critical. When shooting nocturnal animals such as pangolin in the Kalahari Desert with the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, she found she was able to get print-worthy images she couldn't have got before. "The EOS-1D X Mark III's ISO performance is out of this world," she says, "and there's no colour noise at all." The DIGIC X processor at the heart of the EOS-1D X Mark III enables lower noise levels at all ISO sensitivities, improved sharpness with an all-new clarity adjustment, and extra dynamic range – helping create images that will really stand out in print at any size.
Building on the success of his exhibitions, Vladimir has been exploring the growing trend for presentations by photographers discussing their shots on a large screen. "You've got to understand that humans are changing, and just going to see an exhibition and looking at pretty photos is no longer sufficient," he says. "People want action, an interactive experience. With exciting stories, face-to-face contact, conversation and inspiration, it's really colourful and educational. I'm confident that this format will become at least as popular as contests or exhibitions."
It's a medium that Vladimir has been using through his involvement in the non-profit Russian Union of Wildlife Photographers, which has brought together more than 300 leading photographers. "One of the goals is to create formats that would help nature photographers efficiently apply their skills to their creative work while getting decent compensation," he explains. "We are trying to make live appearances into a beautiful, vivid show, a celebration of photography. It's important for photographers to be capable of not just making pictures but also speaking and telling vivid stories. The first forum, Nature Photo Talks, ran in April 2019 and was supported by Canon – we had a full house."
Viewing his images as "unique pieces of art to sell" has garnered Radomir success in selling his pictures to a range of publishers outside of traditional media. "I work with high-class calendar producers in Germany and I sell a lot of postcards," he says. "I think it's around 50,000 postcards a year, which wasn't something I ever thought would work. The company asked me if I wanted to do it, and I thought, 'Why not?' I give them the right to print the images and then invoice four times a year, so it's a really good connection for me."
By thinking outside the box, Radomir has also developed a successful sideline making a passive income out of online photography product sales. He says, "I work a lot with the photography industry, so when I see a cool idea or product, I try to get it to Europe and sell through one of my distribution clients." He brings photographic products to German-speaking countries.
"If you want to make a living out of photography, you have to want to do your style of photography and sell your unique ideas," he says. "The first steps are hard but once you start getting successful, you continue to get more success. People are talking to each other about you, or someone sees you on the internet and asks if you would like to do a project. I think the most important part of working as a photographer is getting a good network. I started running my business with a few connections and it's not easy, but I built it up over the years, so I think everybody can do it."
Marina concurs. "People see a lot of difficulties in their way to becoming a wildlife photographer," she says. "While it's not easy, it's not impossible. If you put in a lot of passion, a lot of love and a lot of work, you can be a full-time wildlife photographer, as in my case."
Autor článku
Key kit for wildlife photography
20.2 Megapixel full-frame sensor. 61-point AF system. Up to 14fps. ISO to 409,600. "The image quality plus the ISO performance, and the reliability in all kinds of weather, make this camera great for wildlife," says Marina.
Canon's new flagship pro DSLR, with up to 20fps, deep learning AF algorithms, and outstanding dynamic range and low-light performance – ISO expandable to 812,600. "I think it's the best camera on the planet," says Marina.
A super lightweight, high performance 600mm lens with Image Stabilizer and a fast f/4 aperture, perfect for wildlife. "For me it's a must-have in the wild," Marina says. "You can get extraordinary detail in the skin or the face of animals."
The professional, L-series super telephoto sports lens with a wide f/2.8 aperture and Image Stabilizer. "I love the fantastic out-of-focus backgrounds I can do in my pictures with this lens," says Marina.
A professional grade f/4 lens with a built-in 1.4x extender for huge flexibility and focal range for sports and wildlife. "Versatile with the quality of a fixed lens and the zoom advantages," says Marina. "One of my favourite lenses ever."
The wildlife photographer reveals how the super-telephoto L-series Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens has proved indispensable.
Wildlife photographer Thorsten Milse captures elusive jaguar, ocelots and giant otters in low light with Canon's new flagship action camera.
Marina Cano photographed curious creatures and elusive endangered species in the Kalahari Desert, in the first wildlife shoot with the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III.
Bird photographer Markus Varesvuo shares tips and talks about photographing the white-tailed eagle in action.
Click here to get inspiring stories and exciting news from Canon Europe Pro


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Trades. Every league wants trades. They keep the league competitive and promote inspired conversation between league members. But it's very difficult to maintain the culture that allows for them within a league because they are the most dangerous version of in-season gambling.
Play a trade well…and you'll have the envy and hatred of the rest of your league. You're team will be better, stronger, and more playoff-bound, but you'll have to endure plenty of ridicule from those who feel you unfairly improved your team through a trade.
And make the wrong play? Well, if you lose on a trade, you're just going to be apologizing for the rest of season to your league as they lose to the monstrosity of a team you allowed your trade partner to create.
Much like the delicate rain forest ecosystem, trading is hard to sustain. Eventually, the trading parties dry up. Fewer teams are willing to trade, and those that want to trade fear getting screwed by the other party or being mocked by the rest of the league for making a bad deal.
It's a true test to the type of league you have if you can pull your league out of that nosedive to no-trade land. And this is where we find the league in the second episode.
When we last left the league, they were locked out of their own draft while Dirty Randy and Rafi filmed a porn inside Andre's apartment. Now they have to deal with the consequences.
Jenny's hitting the streets (and park bench advertisements) again as a real estate agent. Ruxin's tasked with getting Baby Geoffrey into the best Jewish prep school.
That leaves Pete tasked with successfully fixing the league by encouraging trades to balance the teams they autodrafted. But no one trusts Pete…or anyone else in the league, and why would they when your league is tossing out trades like Dwayne Bowe for Owen Daniels or Owen Daniels for LeSean McCoy and Tolbert (A little much, no?).
Unfortunately for Jenny, her first park bench ad for her return to the real estate game becomes the bed and motorboat of choice of a homeless man. Jenny tasks Kevin with evicting him, but Kevin confessing to the homeless dude that it was "that time of the month" only makes things worse.
Kevin ends up following Ruxin's example to get the problem solved, which is never a good way to solve a problem and come out clean.
Since the draft, Andre's noticed a few strange things in his apartment…but he hasn't caught on to what went on in there. Even though the rest of the league is disgusted to even enter his place, he only picks up on the hints when he contracts thrush through "immaculate infection."
Andre threatens the league with an offer: he'll trade any player to anyone who'll give him info about what went on in his apartment during the draft.
The ultimatum scares Kevin, always the weakest of the league, as he fears Ruxin will cave to Andre about "Sexfest 2011" to benefit from the trade. And upon hearing what the rest of the league did, Andre might, in anger, confess to Ruxin that the draft order was falsified when his name was drawn first overall.
The fear leads Kevin to allow Ruxin to throw his Sukkot, a Jewish harvest festival, in Kevin's own backyard. Ruxin's own house had to be ruled out because he was captured by Google Earth spray-painting a swastika on a pothole to get the city to fix it.
The Sukkot starts to get a little more like Festivus when Pete proposes an airing of grievances to reestablish trust in the league (even though the lies continue).
Once the ruse of truthliness is complete, Pete launches into an eight-way trade proposal, balancing the teams and filling all the position holes the autodraft created. It's actually quite impressive. Bravo, Pete. Bra-vo.
In the process of Pete's trade genius-ary, we get a glimpse of the full league roster, including the strangers we've never seen before. There's Jenny, Taco, Kevin, Pete, Ruxin, and Andre plus the mysterious twosome of Chuck and Ted.
Will we ever meet Chuck? Or Ted? One can only hope they make as great a first impression as Dirty Randy…and they better have really good excuses for drafting from afar all these years. Live drafts are the only way to fly.
With the fantasy football work done, the league gets to the Sukkot-ing, but the party is destined to fail as soon as everyone sees how deeply involved Taco is. He's made plans to host "Taccot," his own combination Jewish festival and shroom rave after the Sukkot in the same tent, but he's not content to keep the party elements at bay until the rave begins.
For starters, he volunteers his weed as the "plants" for the lulav tradition in the Sukkot ceremony, despite Ruxin's groans. Oh, the bitter herb. Luckily, the representative from the Jewish prep school Ruxin is trying to impress doesn't realize what she's working with during the ceremony.
Meanwhile, the trades have all gone through. Pete's happy to see that everyone's teams have improved, but Kevin comes to tell him that Andre has declined his trade with Pete. Andre wants to take Pete's place as "patient zero" of the league this year, the one who benefits from others misplaced trust, and he does so by screwing the master himself.
As Taco's intruding on the festivities continues, Taco sends Ellie to put a "sukkah" DVD that he made in honor of the festival, we're smart enough to know where this is going.
Instead of Taco's DVD, Ellie finds the first copy of the "Sacko" porn Dirty Randy filmed in Andre's apartment, and Ellie plays it for the masses at the Jewish ceremony on the outdoor screen.
Ruxin's hopes of Geoffrey going to private school? Ruined. At least he'll be able to hold his own in the preschool fantasy league.
Memorable quotes from Episode 2:
TACO: "What if she's in a terrible accident one day, and someone has to tell them how to put her titties back together?"
TACO: "Woah! He is motorboating those fakies."
TACO: "It's like a Jewish Bonnaroo?"
RUXIN: "Yes, minus the patchouli and underlying sadness."
RUXIN: "I've called the city 100 times, but they do not care about the plight of the upper-middle class white suburban male at all."
KEVIN: "We do not get our periods at the same time."
RUXIN: "Does a man ever tire of looking at the sunrise…when he's balls deep in Kevin?"
RUXIN: "It's like you trolling around the bar looking for a hand jibber, every once in a while, someone says 'yes.'"
TACO: "I was in the room. There was so much semen."
RUXIN: "And second, if I did look inward, which I won't, I think we would find that my Judaism is the least objectionable thing about me."
JENNY: "Problem plus swastika equals problem solved."
RUXIN: "Tell that to the Jews."
ANDRE: "This is not about me. I am the accuser. 'Cause I know there be a witch in this town, and you're all suspects, you cowpokes. And this dark city of Gotham's got a gloomy cloud…'cause I'm gonna ride my horse right down Main Street."
HOMELESS GUY: "She's the floating muse, a dreamscape of femininity."
KEVIN: "I'm not going to be trade-raped by my own wife."
JENNY: "I'd be so gentle."
KEVIN: "Maybe he's like a menstrual medium."
JENNY: "Are your brain and mouth connected, Kevin?"
KEVIN: "Sometimes."
TACO: "Taccot is an ideal plane of existence where the 12 tribes of Israel come together with people who are high on mushrooms and groove to Aphex Twin."
What is Aphex Twin, you ask? This…
PETE: "We've crossed the distrust horizon into the land of no trades."
JENNY: "You are the patient zero of distrust, Pete."
RUXIN: "Wait — an eight-way? But Andre's sister's not even here."
TACO: "I like kickers. They're the toughest."
ANDRE: "It's like a useless Good Will Hunting."
RUXIN: "I'm keeping her and her family of conquistadors away until Geoffrey's acceptance into the school."
ANDRE: "I didn't realize that sukkah was a high holy day."
JENNY: "You promise me. Never smoke the lulav, okay?"
TACO: "Let's get blazed, mother-sukkahs!"
KEVIN: "'I'm Baby Geoffrey Ruxin. I'm in the cul-de-sac, son!'"
And just because you've been good, here's the full version of Ruxin's Shiva Bowl Shuffle from the season premiere.

subset: commoncrawl


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…and then there were two: Hillary and Donald. A week after Donald Trump accepted his party's nomination for president, Hillary accepted hers, the first woman to be nominated by a major political party in US history.
Running up to the big day in November, we'll be hearing a lot of these two names. So, what sort of etymological qualifications do Hillary and Donald bring to the White House?
The name Hillary broke its own glass ceiling, onomastically speaking: It was originally a male name. According to Oxford's Dictionary of First Names, Hillary comes from a medieval form of the Late Latin masculine name, Hilarius.
The Latin Hilarius means "cheerful." It was formed from hilaris and taken from the Greek hilaros (ἱλαρός), also meaning "cheerful." Greek's hilaros is related to hilaos, "gracious" or "kindly."
There may be a yet deeper root for these Latin and Greek descriptors, if we look to Proto-Indo-European: *sel-, which the American Heritage Dictionary of Indo-European Roots defines as "of good mood" and "to favor." This root yields solace and silly, which originally meant "happy" and "prosperous."
The name Hillary spread thanks to a 4th-century Gallo-Roman theologian, now saint, Hilarius of Poitiers. English observers honor St. Hilarius' feast day on January 13, when one can celebrate Hilary-mass to usher in Hilary-tide. The timing of this feast was also used to mark court and academic sessions, hence Hilary term, at Oxford and Dublin.
By the late 19th century, Hillary became more popular (and since exclusively so) for females. The double L spelling is a North Americanism.
Hilarius is a short way from hilarious, but this adjective is actually a late formation in the English language. The Oxford English Dictionary attributes it to Sir Walter Scott in 1823, when it meant, like its Latin and Greek forebears, "cheerful." It soon characterized a "boisterous joy," extended to and settling on "extremely funny" by 1925.
Sometimes with affection, sometimes with ridicule, and often with irony, Donald Trump often goes just by his first name: The Donald. Like his mother (and one of his golf courses), the name Donald hails from Scotland.
Donald is an Anglicized form of the Scottish Gaelic Domhnall. (The mh is pronounced more like a V. Domhnall also has its cousins across the Celtic languages.) Oxford's Dictionary of First Names notes that the English spelling Donald was a misinterpretation of the original Gaelic and influenced by Germanic names that end with a D, like Ronald.
The Gaelic Domhnall literally means "world ruler." Philologists think the ancient Celtic form was *dub-no-walos. This joins *dubno-, "world," from an Indo-European root meaning "deep," like the earth or ground, hence "world." *Walos is anchored in *wal-, "to be strong," seen in Latin-derived words like valor and value.
In the Middle Ages, many Scottish kings took the name Donald, as did St. Donald of Ogilvy, near Angus today. Clan Donald, also MacDonald ("son of Donald"), remains a major clan in the Scottish Highlands.
The origins of Hillary and Donald are fitting in their own ways, aren't they? Many want a wonkish Hillary Clinton to be more "cheerful," a complaint others see as tinctured with sexism. As for Donald? Well, many can imagine he might just start taking down his buildings' "Trump" signs to display some Celtic etymology instead.


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Gary Oldman Defends Mel Gibson's Behavior
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Movies, Rants, Features,
Gary Oldman has spoken out to defend Mel Gibson over his anti-Semitic behavior.
The Dark Knight Rises actor has blasted the "political correctness" which has seen the Lethal Weapo actor shunned from the movie world over racist and anti-Jewish slurs he is alleged to have made in recent years: "I just think political correctness is crap. That's what I think about it. I think it's like, take a f***ing joke. Get over it."
Mel is said to have made anti-Jewish slurs while being arrested for drink-driving in Malibu, California in 2006 with police reporting that he told his arresting police officer, "F***ing Jews ... the Jews are responsible for all the wars in the world."
Click to continue reading Gary Oldman Defends Mel Gibson's Behavior
Justin Bieber Upsets New Neighbors
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Music, Drugs, Meltdowns, Rumors,
Police have reportedly been called to Justin Bieber's new home twice already.
The "Believe" hitmaker is renting two apartments in a new complex in Beverly Hills - a penthouse and a property directly below - and even though he only moved in earlier this month, he has already ran into problems with his neighbors.
According to reports, the HOA (Home Owners Alliance) have been contacted because of excessive noise and marijuana use, and police were called on two occasions. One resident in the building told TMZ, "The smell of marijuana was permeating the floor, especially my hallway which is shared by [Justin's] unit."
According to the website, the 20-year-old star threw a party last week which went on until 4am and on Monday, he threw a small bash which saw his deck set up with bongs and a bar, and his entire penthouse was "hotboxed," meaning it was sealed off to maximize the possible high from smoking marijuana.
Click to continue reading Justin Bieber Upsets New Neighbors
Miley Cyrus Obtains Permanent Restraining Order
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Music, Legal Issues,
Miley Cyrus has secured a permanent restraining order against an obsessed fan.
Devon Meek - who was arrested near the "Wrecking Ball" hitmaker's Los Angeles home on May 16 and previously claimed he would rather die than spend another day without her - must stay 100 yards away from her for the next three years. The new court order also prevents him from going near any of the venues where the blonde beauty is performing, according to gossip website TMZ.com.
Miley's lawyers obtained the permanent protection order in court today after they filed an emergency restraining order last month. Meek, 24, previously claimed that Miley was communicating with him through the radio and believed she told him that she "adores" him.
A law enforcement source said Meek, who also said he hears "screaming voices" in his head, is still undergoing treatment after initially being hospitalized under a 5150 involuntary psychiatric hold. "Mr. Meek stated that when he is released from the hospital, he will not stop seeking Ms. Cyrus and that he will continue to go to Ms. Cyrus' residence until Ms. Cyrus accepts him or he dies," the insider also previously said.
Melanie Griffith Files for Divorce from Antonio Banderas
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Movies, Divorce,
Melanie Griffith has reportedly filed for divorce from Antonio Banderas after 18 years of marriage.
The 56-year-old actress has allegedly cited irreconcilable differences as the reason behind their split in the legal documents filed by her attorney Laura Wasser.
The Working Girl star is reportedly asking for child support and sole physical and joint legal custody of their 17-year-old daughter Stella, as well as spousal support, according to gossip website TMZ.com. It is believed the split is amicable, but their divorce could turn complicated when it comes to dividing up property as they own a number of homes in the US and Spain.
The Hollywood couple first got together after meeting on the set of the 1995 film Two Much, which led to Antonio's divorce from Ana Leza. The pair got married in a low key ceremony in London, England, in 1996, just one month after Antonio, 53, and Ana's divorce was finalized.
Click to continue reading Melanie Griffith Files for Divorce from Antonio Banderas
Quote of the Day: Shailene Woodley on Jennifer Lawrence Comparisons
Posted by Robin Paulson Categories: Movies, Rivalries, Features,
"As women, we are constantly told that we need to compare ourselves to a girl in school, to our co-workers, to the images in a magazine... How is the world going to advance if we're always comparing ourselves to others? I admire Jennifer Lawrence, but she's everyone's favorite person to compare me to. Is it because we both have short hair and a vagina? I see us as separate individuals. And that's important. As women, our insecurities are based on all these comparisons. And that creates distress."
- Divergent star Shailene Woodley explains why she told Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show that "Comparisons always lead to despair" when the SNL alum asked her how she feels being compared to Jennifer Lawrence (to which the audience booed at her response).
(Make sure to check out our other notable quotes.)
Read More | Vulture
Kristen Wiig Worried She Was Too Old for Hollywood
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Movies, Television, Features,
Kristen Wiig used to worry that she was too old for Hollywood.
The 40-year-old star - who shot to fame with her hit comedy Bridesmaids in 2011 - was concerned she was too old to make it in the industry after the excitement of moving to Hollywood wore off and she realized other most other aspiring actresses were far younger than her.
"When I first moved there, there was 'the dream,' as there is for a lot of people. Then I got really scared. I moved there and I was like, 'Oh, I don't have any experience,' and I was surrounded by people a lot younger than I am, a lot better looking than I am, who've been acting for a while, who've been taking classes, who already have agents and I just felt like, 'Oh, there's a lot of work I have to do.'"
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty actress first decided to pursue a career in acting during a class at an art college in Arizona, and although she struggled to find work after moving to Los Angeles she admits she came into her own after she joined an improv group, The Groundlings: "I was like, 'Oh my God, I love it,' which was weird because I was terrified of being on stage. But the idea of being someone else and not myself didn't scare me as much."
Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart Split
Posted by Robin Paulson Categories: Music, Break-ups, Rumors,
After nearly two and a half years together, Jennifer Lopez and Casper Smart have broken up.
Although the split is not too much of a surprise to the public - their relationship had been rumored to be on the rocks lately - sources close to the couple divulged that they had actually gone their separate ways two months ago.
There was also gossip about Casper's wandering eye being the root of their problems, but the insider denies that this is the case: "Casper has been a single guy and can text or see whoever he wants, but the idea that he was knowingly texting a transsexual is laughable... He's not that guy, but like a lot of single guys online he obviously likes to look at a 'lil T and A."
TMZ also reports that Casper is in the process of moving out while Jennifer is busy promoting her latest album.
There is no word (yet!) as to the actual cause of the pair's break-up.
Read More | TMZ
Lana Del Rey thinks that feminism "isn't interesting."
The "West Coast" singer, who is set to release her new album Ultraviolence this month, insists that she doesn't find feminism "an interesting concept," and admits she is often bored when people talk to her about it.
"For me, the issue of feminism is just not an interesting concept... Whenever people bring up feminism, I'm like, God. I'm just not really that interested. I'm more interested in, you know, SpaceX and Tesla, what's going to happen with our intergalactic possibilities," she said.
However, the star went on to explain that her idea of a true feminist is a woman who "feels free enough to do whatever she wants."
Meanwhile, the star, who debuted the title track from her new album yesterday on YouTube, also spoke about video footage taken by a fan of her crying on stage last year during a gig in Dublin, Ireland. "I'd been sick on tour for about two years with this medical anomaly that doctors couldn't figure out. That's a big part of my life: I just feel really sick a lot of the time and can't figure out why. I'd gotten these shots in Russia, where we'd just been. It was just heavy. It's just heavy performing for people who really care about you, and you don't really care that much about yourself sometimes," she explained.
Rosamund Pike Pregnant with Second Child
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Movies, Pregnancies, Rumors,
Rosamund Pike is pregnant.
The 35-year-old actress is expecting her second child with her partner Robie Uniacke, whom she has been dating since 2009, her representative has confirmed to E! News. It is not yet known when their new bundle of joy is due.
The couple already have two-year-old son Solo together, but kept the pregnancy underwraps until the star was seven months along and could no longer hide her bump.
Rosamund - whose engagement to director Joe Wright was called off a month before their wedding in 2008 - has always said she would like to become a mother and had planned to have more than one child. "As an only child, you've never known anything else. But I definitely know that I would like my child to have brothers or sisters. But I haven't got a child yet, not yet obviously," she said of Solo's birth.
Click to continue reading Rosamund Pike Pregnant with Second Child
Taylor Swift Donates $50k to Children's Cancer Hospital
Posted by Andru Edwards Categories: Music, Charity, Kind Acts,
Taylor Swift has donated $50,000 to a children's hospital in Philadelphia.
The 24-year-old singer has given the large sum of money to The Children's Hospital in Pennsylvania to help fund a music program for youngsters suffering from cancer. The specialized scheme promises to lift the spirits of young sick patients by allowing them to create and produce their own music during their treatment.
"Taylor Swift's gift will help lift the spirits of many patients during a difficult time. Taylor Swift's music is an inspiration to so many of our teen patients," said the CEO of the medical center, Steven M. Altschuler.
Lamia Barakat, director of the Psychosocial Services Program at the cancer center, added, "We can think of no better way to use her gift than to grow our Adolescent and Young Adult initiative designed to support the emotional well-being of our teens with cancer."
© Gear Live Media, LLC. 2007 – User-posted content, unless source is quoted, is licensed under a Creative Commons Public Domain License. Gear Live graphics, logos, designs, page headers, button icons, videos, articles, blogs, forums, scripts and other service names are the trademarks of Gear Live Inc.


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[message]Revel Nail - Dip Powder - D353 Serena - 29g
Revel Nail - Dip Powder - D353 Serena - 29g
The Search Is Over! Revel Nail Dip Powder is here! The Next Generation in Nail Enhancement Technology Revel Nail Dip Powders FEEL and LOOK Natural and DO NOT DAMAGE the nail bed.
See why everyone is leaving traditional acrylics and switching to Dip Powders!
Compared to acrylics, Dip Powders are faster to apply and don't have an odour. They leave the nail bed healthy and undamaged.
Dip Powders are more durable than gel polish and just as durable as acrylics and can come in any colour, with glitters and other colour effects. You can get the same appearance as gel polish and also the perfect pink and white with same durability as acrylics.
Dip powder can stay on natural nails for 8 weeks (provided you want to let it grow out that long).
Dip Powder Product Features
- Light Weight & Flexible
- Strong & Durable
- Non-Toxic & Odour-Free
- Non-Porous
- Comfortable
- Forever Shine
- Non-Yellowing
- No Primer
- Maintenance-Free
- Crack & Chip Resistant
- Water Resistant
- Environmentally Friendly
- Calcium and Vitamin E Fortified
Follow These Steps for Dip Powder Application
- Sanitise hands.
- Use a fine drill bit or buffer/file to remove shine from nails.
- Apply liquid #1, Pro Base. Starting from one side of the nail and work your way to the other side. Make sure to brush lightly with low pressure to ensure an even application.
- After applying the Pro Base to the first finger, dip the finger in powder using a scooping motion and tap excess powder off of nail.
- Repeat steps 3-4 on each finger twice on first hand.
- Apply a generous amount of #2 Activator on all 5 fingers. Allow to dry. Be sure to cover edges and cap off the tips of the nails.
- Repeat steps 3-6 on the second hand.
- Once dry, shape the nails with a file. A drill can be gently used to remove excess powder from the cuticle area.
- Use a buffer to smooth out nails. Have customer rinse hands with water, no soap. Dry fingers/hands. If you do not want to wash hands, you can use a brush to dust off all particles.
- Apply another coat of #2 Activator to all 10 fingers. Make sure to wait 2 minutes for this to dry to get the best shine when applying the Finish Gel.
- Apply #3 Finish Gel to one hand. This first coat should be applied in 2-3 very quick brush strokes. Don't worry about getting close to cuticle area or capping edges.
- Wait 15 seconds, then continue on the same hand and apply a slower, more detailed second coat of #3 Finish Gel. Do not over brush as it may have an effect on the overall shine.
- Repeat steps 11-12 on the second hand.
- After nails have air dried for 1-2 minutes, apply Cuticle Oil to moisturize.
Please note:
Colours may vary due to print colours and computer screens not being 100% accurate


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Marketplace changes during the COVID-19 crisis have caused many companies to make major strategic shifts in their operations — and some changes are expected to be permanent. In certain cases, these pivot strategies may need to be reported under the complex discontinued operations rules under U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
What are discontinued operations?
The scope of what's reported as discontinued operations was narrowed by Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. Since the updated guidance went into effect in 2015, the disposal of a component (including business activities) must be reported in discontinued operations only if the disposal represents a "strategic shift" that has or will have a major effect on the company's operations and financial results.
A component comprises operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished, both operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the rest of the company. It could be a reportable segment, an operating segment, a reporting unit, a subsidiary or an asset group.
Examples of a qualifying strategic shift include disposal of a major geographic area, a line of business or an equity method investment. When such a strategic shift occurs, a company must present, for each comparative period, the assets and liabilities of a disposal group that includes a discontinued operation separately in the asset and liability sections of the balance sheet.
On the income statement, the results of discontinued operations are reported separately (net of income tax) from continuing operations in both the current and comparative periods. Allocating costs between discontinued and continuing operations is often challenging because only direct costs may be associated with a discontinued operation.
What disclosures are required?
Under GAAP, companies also must provide detailed disclosures when reporting discontinued operations. The goal is to show the financial effect of such a shift to the users of the entity's financial statements — allowing them to better understand continuing operations.
The following disclosures must be made for the periods in which the operating results of the discontinued operation are presented in the income statement:
- The major classes of line items constituting the pretax profit or loss of the discontinued operation,
- Either 1) the total operating and investing cash flows of the discontinued operation, or 2) the depreciation, amortization, capital expenditures, and significant operating and investing noncash items of the discontinued operation, and
- If the discontinued operation includes a noncontrolling interest, the pretax profit or loss attributable to the parent.
Additional disclosures may be required if the company plans significant continuing involvement with a discontinued operation or if a disposal doesn't qualify for discontinued operations reporting.
Unfamiliar territory
Today's conditions — including shifts to work-from-home arrangements, domestic supply chains and online distribution methods — have disrupted traditional business models in many sectors of the economy. These kinds of strategic changes don't happen often, and in-house personnel may be unfamiliar with the latest guidance when preparing your company's year-end financial statements.
We highly recommend you confer with your Miller Kaplan advisor to understand your specific situation and how this may impact you.


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II. The Old Law
1961 God, our Creator and Redeemer, chose Israel for himself to be his people and revealed his Law to them, thus preparing for the coming of Christ. the Law of Moses expresses many truths naturally accessible to reason. These are stated and authenticated within the covenant of salvation.
1962 The Old Law is the first stage of revealed Law. Its moral prescriptions are summed up in the Ten Commandments. the precepts of the Decalogue lay the foundations for the vocation of man fashioned in the image of God; they prohibit what is contrary to the love of God and neighbor and prescribe what is essential to it. the Decalogue is a light offered to the conscience of every man to make God's call and ways known to him and to protect him against evil:
God wrote on the tables of the Law what men did not read in their hearts.13
1963 According to Christian tradition, the Law is holy, spiritual, and good,14 yet still imperfect. Like a tutor15 it shows what must be done, but does not of itself give the strength, the grace of the Spirit, to fulfill it. Because of sin, which it cannot remove, it remains a law of bondage. According to St. Paul, its special function is to denounce and disclose sin, which constitutes a "law of concupiscence" in the human heart.16 However, the Law remains the first stage on the way to the kingdom. It prepares and disposes the chosen people and each Christian for conversion and faith in the Savior God. It provides a teaching which endures for ever, like the Word of God.
1964 The Old Law is a preparation for the Gospel. "The Law is a pedagogy and a prophecy of things to come."17 It prophesies and presages the work of liberation from sin which will be fulfilled in Christ: it provides the New Testament with images, "types," and symbols for expressing the life according to the Spirit. Finally, the Law is completed by the teaching of the sapiential books and the prophets which set its course toward the New Covenant and the Kingdom of heaven.
There were . . . under the regimen of the Old Covenant, people who possessed the charity and grace of the Holy Spirit and longed above all for the spiritual and eternal promises by which they were associated with the New Law. Conversely, there exist carnal men under the New Covenant still distanced from the perfection of the New Law: the fear of punishment and certain temporal promises have been necessary, even under the New Covenant, to incite them to virtuous works. In any case, even though the Old Law prescribed charity, it did not give the Holy Spirit, through whom "God's charity has been poured into our hearts."18
13 St. Augustine, En. in Ps. 57, 1: PL 36, 673.
14 Cf. Rom 7:12, 14, 16.
15 Cf. Gal 3:24.
16 Cf. Rom 7.
17 St. Irenaeus, Adv. haeres. 4, 15, 1: PG 7/1, 1012.
18 St. Thomas Aquinas, STh I-II, 107, 1 ad 2; cf. Rom 5:5.


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By BILL DISTLER
At a workshop on preventing veteran suicide I found myself extremely uncomfortable with the idea behind PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.) But I'm grateful to the presenters because it helped clarify my thoughts about what I consider the real problem. It should be called CRAS (Citizen Reality Avoidance Syndrome, pronounced "crass".)
PTSD needs a name change. I'm suggesting VSCRAS (Veterans Stressed by Citizen Reality Avoidance Syndrome).
Instead of the usual image of veterans needing to find their way back home, the new image would be of citizens realizing that they have sent their nation's young people into hell, and it is unrealistic to expect them to come back and return to normal. Instead of asking veterans to do all the work and return themselves to pre-war normal, citizens should be sharing the work by trying to understand veterans' newly discovered truths.
But instead of veterans being encouraged to describe the reality of war, there are all sorts of well-meaning family members, friends, and not so well-meaning politicians, who want to tell the story for you. Without being aware of it, their intention is not to take the burden off veterans (they can't); it is to take the burden off themselves. In other words, veterans are asked to come back to a society that is delusional, and their mental health is judged by how well they re-integrate themselves into the delusion.
The problem should not be seen as an attempt to return war veterans and survivors of war to a trouble-free, back to normal, unburdened way of thinking. The whole idea of veterans re-adjusting to everyday society seems to be more for the ease of mind of those who sent them than for the veterans themselves. Do you want veterans to spare you the trouble of coming to grips with what you've sent them to do?
When my daughter was five years old, we often played tag on the front lawn. Whenever I stopped to catch my breath I'd stare off into the distance. My daughter would say, "Dad, are you mad?" I'd always say, "No, I'm not mad." About the tenth time this happened I finally realized that she might need some reassurance. "I'm not mad at you. Is that what you think?" "No", she said. "What do you think I'm mad about?" "Oh-h-h, the war," she said.
At five years old my daughter had noticed something that I hadn't. Every time I stopped for a breather, scenes from Vietnam would start playing in my head. I wasn't mad, I was sad.
About a year later I was being evaluated for PTSD. The psychologist asked how much time I spent thinking about the war. I thought for a second and started crying. I realized I spent all my waking hours thinking about the war.
A few months ago, 47 years after returning from Vietnam, I became aware that there is always a film playing in the back of my mind. It is a wide screen surrounded by black. I see a line of children sitting on the ground, crying. Behind them, from the knees down, I see their parents standing there, helpless. They cannot comfort their children. They have nothing to comfort them with. Their countries are being destroyed by war.
It is our job as adults to stop these wars.
This film has been playing in my head for years. When it started the children were Vietnamese. In the 1980s they were children from El Salvador. Lately, they are Afghan children. The faces of the children change, but the film keeps playing.
We need to confront our national spiritual disorder. This disorder tells us that God doesn't mind if we kill some children, as long as it is for a good cause. It tells us that we always use war as a last resort, then we immediately go to war. The debate, if there is one, is not about how to save lives but about how to take lives more efficiently. The media presents the voice of war, currently represented by Senator John McCain and others, but there is no voice of peace.
I am willing to dig down and tell you every detail of every incident that I took part in or witnessed in Vietnam, if it would help the cause of peace. But I've gotten the impression over the years that you, the citizens, don't want to hear it. I don't know how many times I've been asked what it was like in Vietnam and as I start to form an answer, someone who wasn't there jumps in and sidesteps the question. "Oh, yes, those were really crazy times." This happens so often that it should have a name, something like "Citizen Reality Avoidance Syndrome" (CRAS). The reason that people who don't know war tell combat veterans what war is like is that they don't want to hear the reality; they need to superimpose their own fantasy over it. That makes it easier to cheerlead or remain silent during the next war. It's as if they are saying, "Oh sure, we all know war is very bad, so you don't need to tell us how bad. We're all adults here."
Unfortunately, we are not all adults here.
There are some Americans (maybe a majority) who can recognize the suffering of war without actually being in it. This is called empathy. Empathy may be a prerequisite for maturity, and maturity about war is surely in short supply.
The average veteran is not a poet or a great writer. Thank God for the few who are. But too many books have been written by people who are not troubled by war, or who think that their story is the whole story. People who are not profoundly disturbed by war should not be taken seriously.
To make a long story short, some of us who have been in war can't stand the casual way that some people advocate for more war. Veterans who are troubled by war are not disordered. We have things in the right order. We have become mature about war, if not about all the other things in life.
The real disorder lies in that part of the population that calls for war and then doesn't think anymore about it. They don't take responsibility for what they have done. This is the definition of immaturity.
CRAS (Citizen Reality Avoidance Syndrome), it turns out, is much more widespread than VSCRAS (Veterans Stressed by Citizen Reality Avoidance Syndrome), and much more deadly, to other people's children.


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Hi, I'm Robyn. This is one of my sites.
I'm too lazy to write a real "about" section, so just google my nickname and you'll find plenty of other junk to keep you occupied. Foreeever. I hope you're not bored enough to slodge through it all.
(I don't know what "slodge" means, but it seemed to be the appropriate word in this case.)
I make websites and I like getting paid for it, but I'm too lazy to do any more now because I already have a job and am currently working on a few websites. If you really want me—a webmaster of the highest degree of non-professionalism—to help you with a website, you'll have to pay me lots of money, like enough so that I can take a vacation to Oslo.
Haha. Just kidding. Kinda.
Here's the ol' contact info:
email: roboppy at gmail.com AIM: roboppy
Okay, that's it.


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Christchurch City Summary [PDF 159MB]
Business as Usual continues current trends of development spreading out around the Greater Christchurch area in new subdivisions north of the Waimakariri River and southwest into Selwyn, with some housing in urban renewal developments.
Christchurch City is growing. Projections of population growth, assuming Business as Usual continues unchanged, indicate Christchurch City's population will increase over the next 40 years from 327,200 in 2001 to 398,510 in 2041. The number of households is growing even more rapidly, from 129,700 in 2001 to an expected 170,293 in 2041. Around 40,593 additional dwellings required for 71,310 extra people.
Christchurch suburbs, such as St Albans, Linwood and Addington, would continue being redeveloped. Housing choices might include two to three-storey apartments and townhouses. Christchurch's outer suburbs will continue to expand outward.
With most development spread out around the area, people will spend more time travelling to their destinations. Arterial roads and city streets will become more congested as these out-of-town residents travel into Christchurch to work, attend school, shop, play sport and enjoy entertainment and recreation facilities.
For people living in Christchurch's Central City and inner suburbs, walking and cycling may be practical alternatives to driving, and public transport services should be good in Christchurch.
The social make-up of communities being redeveloped could change community facilities. Libraries, clubs and even schools could face closure as redevelopment changes the facilities required. The transition of population from old to new or redeveloping suburbs could also result in a loss of social cohesion.
With growth spreading outward from Christchurch City into the countryside, there will be fewer opportunities to create regional parks. The open space between existing towns will increasingly fill up with housing developments. People will need to travel further to escape built up areas and find open space for recreation and leisure.
Impact of Business as Usual Option on Christchurch City
Option A concentrates development within Christchurch and the larger towns of Rangiora and Rolleston. Existing housing would be redeveloped (for example, replacing older homes on larger sections with townhouses and apartments) and new subdivisions developed adjacent to existing areas.
Around 60% of new housing would be urban renewal, and 40% would be in new subdivisions. A green belt would be established to prevent urban areas of Christchurch, Rangiora and Rolleston, spreading into farmland or each other and to discourage further conversion of farmland and open space to lifestyle and rural-residential developments.
Redevelopment in suburbs such as Spreydon, Waltham, Linwood, Richmond, St Albans and Riccarton would increase as multi-storey townhouses, apartments and flats replace older villas and bungalows. Section sizes would be smaller as redevelopment increased and mixed developments of commercial space on lower floors and residential on upper floors would occur.
Concentrating development within existing urban areas will make some roads more congested. Some people in Christchurch may live closer to their work places making walking, cycling and public transport practical alternatives to driving their cars.
Concentrating development within existing urban areas increases the potential for new residents to maintain community identity through joining existing social, cultural and sporting groups. This should ensure the survival of community amenities such as swimming pools, libraries and schools.
Large numbers of new residents moving into existing communities could also change the services required. For example, more quality public space would be needed for people living in high-density developments with less private outdoor space.
By limiting growth to within and around the existing urban areas, green zones and regional parks can be created around each urban area to provide for recreational activities. Farmland can continue to be used for primary production, and outstanding natural landscapes, such as the Port Hills, can be preserved.
Impact of Option A on Christchurch City
Option B balances future urban development between existing towns and urban centres, increasing density in some areas of Christchurch, with some expansion into adjacent areas.
Urban centres or community villages focus around shopping malls and community facilities, including health centres, libraries and cinemas where local residents get many of their day-to-day services, and serve as community meeting places. Development of urban centres would include two and three-storey townhouses and apartments and mixed developments of offices, shops and apartments. Residents would be able to choose from apartments in the Central City, townhouses around urban centres, smaller sections in suburbs or larger sections in rural settings.
Urban centres might include Barrington (Spreydon), Eastgate (Linwood), Ferrymead, Hornby, New Brighton, Northlands (Papanui), Riccarton, Sumner and The Palms (Shirley).
By developing self-sufficient urban centres or villages local residents could be within walking or cycling distance of their workplaces, schools, shops and other facilities. By increasing the population around urban centres and villages there could be sufficient demand for improved public transport.
Locating development at existing urban centres should strengthen community identity. Existing shopping at urban centres might expand, offering greater product ranges and services in response to their local communities' needs. Community facilities such as libraries, swimming pools, health and recreation centres are also likely to be developed attracting people to live within close proximity. This influx of residents will in turn stimulate more economic and social activity at urban centres.
With growth limited to around existing towns, and within the City boundaries, green zones / regional parks between Christchurch and the neighbouring district towns could be developed. As well as providing valuable space for recreation, these regional parks would enhance eco-systems and habitats for the native species that live in the Greater Christchurch area.
Impact of Option B on Christchurch City
Option C disperses development out around the Greater Christchurch area away from established urban areas.
About 90% of housing development would be in new subdivisions and rural residential developments in areas to the southwest of Christchurch City around Rolleston and Lincoln, north of the Waimakariri River, around Rangiora and Pegasus Bay, and around the Lyttelton Harbour Basin. Christchurch would be contained within its existing boundaries with just 30% of the development being in urban renewal.
The look and feel of existing neighbourhoods in both inner and outer suburbs would change little. Sections would remain similar sizes within existing urban areas, though some renewal of areas already zoned for higher density (such as Philipstown, Addington and parts of St Albans) would continue. Limited redevelopment in Christchurch's central city would proceed.
With development spread out around the Greater Christchurch area, people will spend more time travelling from their homes to work, school and shops. Arterial roads and streets within Christchurch are likely to become more congested as out-of-town residents drive into the city to reach work, schools, shopping and recreational attractions. Walking, cycling and using public transport are unlikely to be attractive alternatives to driving.
The transition of population from old to new suburbs could result in a loss of community groups and facilities and social cohesion within older established suburbs in Christchurch. Existing facilities, sports and cultural groups in established suburbs may struggle to survive without a steady inflow of new residents. The ageing of the population will also impact upon demand for community facilities and for housing located closer to services such as hospitals, health and social centres and shopping.
By encouraging growth to spread outward, the opportunity to create large open spaces and regional parks is reduced. As development moves out into the countryside, productive lands currently used for market gardening and farming would be lost. The current separation of town and country would be blurred as development spread in every direction.
Impact of Option C on Christchurch City


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La Bella 2 Set Lattice Fabric Ottoman Round Wooden Leg Foot Stool
La Bella 2 Set Ottoman Round Stool Fabric Wooden Leg Foot - Lattice
Nothing beats putting your feet up for a good rest. And our footstool is just the perfect piece to please. The La Bella ottomans round stool are a great idea for apartments and open floor plan homes that share seating with more than one area. Use it to hold a snack tray or as a bedside table in a guest room-it's as versatile as it is beautiful. Its compact size allows you to store it easily in a wardrobe when you don't need it.
For easy colour combinations choose a colour from your walls, artwork, bring in complimenting colours to match your ottoman. Upholstered in breathable faux linen fabric, the footstool is generously filled and padded with sponge for supreme comfort. And with its neutral tone, the seat easily blends in with any existing home style with the minimum of fuss. The ottoman can blend in with the adjacent furniture, or compliment your existing decor.
Unlike other cheaper alternatives, our ottoman is made with a solid wooden construction can take up to 150kg loading.
Don't wait and get one now for your sweet home!
Product Features:
- Elegant breathable faux linen fabric
- Round shape can avoid collision injuries
- Sponge padded seat ,repeated sitting without deformation
- Compact size no space occupation
- Strong bearing capacity and high comfort
- Solid wood construction
- Design of antiskid foot mat, protect the floor no abrasion
- The cloth cover can be disassembled and washed, convenient and easy to clean
Product Included:
- 2X Ottoman Round Foot Stool
Product Specification:
Brand: La Bella
Upholstery: High-Quality Faux Linen Fabric
Frame and Legs: Pine Wood
Padding: Sponge foam
Shape: Round
Colour: Lattice
Max Loading: 150kg
Ottoman Dimensions: 30cm x 30cm x 22cm (L x W x H)
Weight: 2.5Kg


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Welcome to my online Home Evaluation system. The answers to your home-selling questions are just a click away! Let me help you find the value of your home. By running a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), I'll find the value of your property on the current real estate market.
Through the Comparative Market Analysis, I can evaluate the prices of properties similar to yours that have recently sold in your area. This analysis will give you a better idea of your property's market value, one of the first - and essential! - steps as you prepare to sell your home. All it takes is a few quick minutes to complete and submit the form below. Then let my system do the work for you! I'll contact you as soon as I have the results.
Finding your dream home is just a click away, start your search! Search Now | |||
contact me anytime
Office Location:1555 Marine Drive West Vancouver BC V7V 1H9 CA | Irmin BachI make myself available at all times. My web site is here to help you 24 hours a day. You can search listings at your own convenience, browse reports, and read up on real estate info on your own terms. When you are ready to see a listing in person, or just have a simple question, please don't hesitate to contact me! When you make the important decision to buy or sell a home, I am committed to going the extra mile to ensure that all of your needs are successfully met in a professional and honest manner. |


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That is exactly what happened recently for Nic Ungs (2-1, 3.25), who has reached Triple-A and went 4-7, 5.45 as a starter for the Somerset (NJ) Patriots of the Atlantic League this past summer.
Ungs, a 32-year-old right-hander from Alpharetta, GA, missed out on the perfect game when Brisbane's Brad Dutton shot a drive into rightfield. It was barely out of the reach of Melbourne first baseman Justin Huber, ironically, a teammate of the pitcher at Somerset.
Ungs is said to have already pitched one no-hitter in his career, which includes more than 70 professional victories.
Former Independent pitchers Eric Junge, Mike Parisi and Austin Bibens-Dirkx hold down the top three spots in the earned run average race in Venezuela this winter. Junge, at last report a free agent after working in the Los Angeles Angels farm system last summer, has a fancy 1.78 ERA and has won three of four decisions. He has played at both Lancaster, PA and Bridgeport, CT in the Atlantic League. Parisi, signed last season by the Los Angeles Dodgers after a stint at Long Island, NY in the same league, is 1-3, 2.09. Bibens-Dirkx spent his Indy time with Victoria, British Columbia, in the Golden League, and is the league-leader with seven victories (7-3) while ranking third in the ERA derby at 2.19. After being released this fall by the Chicago Cubs system, he has been a hard worker, starting 13 times so far.
John Rodriguez, who has been with Long Island the last two seasons, leads the Puerto Rican league with seven home runs, and shares fifth in RBI (17) with onetime Ducks catcher Robinson Cancel. The hefty Cancel, who has had several trips to the major leagues including a couple of games with Houston last season, also has played for Somerset and the traveling Road Warriors in the Atlantic League as well as with Edinburg, TX, when that North American League city had a team in the United League.
Get the independent minor league baseball trivia question of the day by clicking this link: Independent Minor League Baseball Trivia Questions


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In the realm of gastronomic excellence, the role of commercial boilers in food processing industries cannot be underestimated. These powerful and versatile heating systems play a pivotal role in unlocking the culinary alchemy that transforms raw ingredients into delectable delights. Today, we embark on a flavorful journey to explore the potential of commercial boilers, where precision, efficiency, and innovation converge to create a symphony of taste and quality. Join us as we delve into the world of food processing and witness how these boilers revolutionize the culinary landscape.
Precision and Consistency – The Ingredients for Success:
Commercial boilers provide precise and consistent heat, essential for achieving perfection in food processing. Whether it's blanching, cooking, baking, or sterilizing, these boilers offer precise temperature control, ensuring uniformity in every step of the process. This precision guarantees optimal results, preserving flavours, textures, and nutritional value. From delicate pastries to hearty stews, commercial boilers bring precision to the art of culinary creation.
Efficiency and Productivity – Streamlining Operations:
Efficiency is the backbone of any food processing industry, and commercial boilers excel in optimizing productivity. With their rapid heating capabilities and quick recovery times, these boilers minimize downtime, allowing for continuous and uninterrupted production. Their high energy efficiency translates into cost savings and reduced environmental impact, aligning with sustainability goals. By streamlining operations, commercial boilers enhance productivity, enabling food processing industries to meet growing demands and deliver products efficiently.
Versatility and Adaptability – Meeting Diverse Needs:
Food processing industries encompass a wide range of products, each with its unique processing requirements. Commercial boilers rise to the occasion with their versatility and adaptability. From steam generation for cooking and blanching to hot water production for sanitization and cleaning, these boilers cater to diverse needs. Additionally, they can accommodate different fuel sources, including natural gas, electricity, or biomass, allowing businesses to choose the most suitable option based on cost, availability, and environmental considerations.
Food Safety and Quality Assurance – Meeting Regulatory Standards:
In the realm of food processing, safety and quality are paramount. Commercial boilers contribute to food safety by providing precise temperature control, ensuring the elimination of harmful bacteria and pathogens. They also facilitate efficient sterilization processes, crucial for preserving the quality and extending the shelf life of food products. Compliance with regulatory standards is essential, and commercial boilers equipped with advanced safety features and controls help meet these requirements, providing peace of mind to food processors and consumers alike.
Innovation and Technology – Advancing Culinary Boundaries:
The world of food processing is constantly evolving, and commercial boilers keep pace with the latest innovations and technologies. From advanced control systems and remote monitoring capabilities to energy-efficient designs and eco-friendly solutions, these boilers push the boundaries of culinary excellence. The integration of automation and digitalization enhances precision, efficiency, and safety, allowing for seamless operations and improved product consistency.
As we conclude our exploration of the potential of commercial boilers in food processing industries, we are in awe of the transformative impact these heating systems have on the culinary landscape. Their precision, efficiency, versatility, and commitment to food safety unlock new levels of gastronomic excellence. Let us celebrate the fusion of technology and culinary artistry, where commercial boilers serve as the backbone of food processing industries, enabling the creation of delightful delicacies that tantalize our taste buds and nourish our souls. Together, we embrace the future of food processing, where innovation and expertise elevate the culinary experience to new heights.
ACEXM7, a prominent industrial expo organizer, recognizes the importance of showcasing these cutting-edge advancements, and as such, has announced the India Boiler Expo 2023, a title sponsored by Jindal Steel & Power. The three-day expo, set to take place from June 29th to July 1st at the Pragati Maidan in New Delhi, will serve as an ideal forum for professionals in the boiler industry to connect, learn, and network.
"We at India Boiler Expo 2023 are on a mission to make India self-reliable, forging a path towards energy independence and economic sovereignty. Join us as we revolutionize the boiler industry and contribute to India's growth on a national scale." – Shikha Chouhan, VP – Conference, Ace Exhibition Group.
To learn more about the expo, please visit:
ACEXM7 Website: www.acem7.com
India Boiler Expo 2023 Website: www.indiaboilerexpo.com
You can also connect on:
Kumar Deepak – 9911607755 or email@example.com
Shikha Chouhan – 8448015101 or email@example.com


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حفلات الزفاف
Small intimate weddings
Taormina has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the Mediterranean.
If you are planning a small private wedding in Taormina with family and close friends, if the number of your guests is below 20, then Hotel Villa Schuler is most probably one of the best locations for small intimate weddings in Taormina.
It may only be the two of you and a small group of loved ones, but that's enough to enjoy the beauty of Taormina and Sicily and the richness of its culture. Let us help you with all the details to ensure your romantic getaway is impecabbly planned and executed, so you can enjoy every minute of it.
- more personal celebration
- more time for the bride and groom to spend with their guests
- a cosy, romantic wedding
- our careful attention to details
- a photogenic backdrop with exquisite views and gardens
How to organize your perfect small intimate wedding in Taormina?
You can choose to celebrate a:
- Catholic church wedding in various beautiful small churches in town;
- Civil ceremony in Taorminas classic medieval Palazzo Duchi di S. Stefano;
- Symbolic Wedding
- to involve a wedding planner of your choice,
- or ask us to recommend you a local, reliable, english speaking one and putting you in direct contact.
You do not need to hire a wedding consultant for all details: there is many important details that we can organize according to your personal wishes without adding unnecessary commissions or extra-costs.
You will be put in direct contact both with the hotel managers, Christine and Gerhard Schuler, as well as with one dedicated, experienced reception staff member avoiding all middlemen.
Your small intimate wedding in Taormina will therefore turn out to be also a more approachable one.
There are many things that we are happy to help you organizing procuring for you the best possible deals from local vendors as:
- Beautician and Make-up artists from a professional wedding-specialised beauty salon;
- Hairdressers of our neighbouring professional wedding-specialised hair salons to do your hair on the day in the privacy of your hotel room at the Villa Schuler;
- Flowers and flower arrangements from a professional florist;
- Transport: wedding chauffeur driven limousine or vintage car service;
- You might also want to consider the classic convertible FIAT 500 wedding car or the funny Ape Calessino, as photographed above;
- Professional photography taken by a photographer for the best photo shots of your unforgettable wedding moments;
- Music during the Church ceremony / Civil ceremony and for the reception;
We will be helpful in organizing your small, intimate and unforgettable wedding in Taormina followed by a:
- Cocktail reception
- Banquet
- Buffet dinner or sit-down dinner in a unique setting
Weddings in Taormina for non residents
Religious weddings: non-residents can be married in Taormina in a Catholic church according to Catholic rites. To be married in a parish in Taormina you will need to obtain the "Nihil Obstat" from your local diocese, signed by your bishop. Local wedding planners in Taormina can also arrange a celebrant for Protestant, Jewish or Orthodox rites to marry you in a sacred location.
Catholic Churches in Taormina close to our hotel:
- Duomo of Taormina, 400m from the Villa Schuler. Capacity: up to 300 people;
- Church of Santa Caterina, 400m from the Villa Schuler. Capacity: up to 150 people;
- Church of Varò, 150m from the Villa Schuler. Capacity: up to 100 people;
- Church of San Giuseppe, directly on the main square of Taormina, 100m from the Villa Schuler. Capacity: up to 150 people.
Civil ceremonies: may be celebrated in Taorminas City Hall or ind the classic medieval Palazzo Duca di Santo Stefano, 400m from the Villa Schuler. Capacity: up to 60 people.
Symbolic weddings:
Simple symbolic ceremony: a personalised symbolic wedding ceremony with choice of readings, poems, personal promises and ring exchange vows etc (organised by email directly with the clients)
- Celebration of the ceremony in English on the wedding day
- Personalised printed keepsake ceremony booklet
- Commemorative gift parchment certificate
Complete symbolic ceremony: a personalised symbolic wedding ceremony with choice of readings, poems, personal promises and ring exchange vows etc (organised by email directly with the clients)
- One round bouquet of roses for the bride in choice of colour and style (approx 22/25 cms in diameter)
- One matching buttonhole for the groom
- Unity candles in base of seasonal flowers for the celebrants table (this is a lovely optional part of the ceremony which can be included)
- Basket of Rose petals for tossing after the ceremony
- Celebration of the ceremony in English on the wedding day
- Personalised printed keepsake ceremony booklet
- Commemorative gift parchment certificate
For more information please contact us, Christine and Gerhard Schuler: email@example.com


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Is your writing life or career brimming with creativity, vitality and forward momentum?
This past month I've talked to three people whose writing careers were so stuck that they started to cry when they spoke to me about the pain of not writing their books or working in dull, dull writing careers.
These conversations broke my heart, because so often the only thing standing between you and the practice of expressing your "brilliance" in your writing career is...well, it's you.
I decided to put together a new resource to help you break out of your dullness, finish writing your book and help you fire up your writing career. And I'd like you to have it for free:
Fire in the Belly
I've packed tips, case studies and a lot of heart into this simple-to-use audio and transcript. Give Fire in the Belly a listen and you'll get motivated and inspired to:
- Finish your book.
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Just enter your name and email above and you'll be able to download your special report instantly.
Come Visit
When you grab your copy of Fire in the Belly, you'll see that I've redesigned my website over at www.CoachMarla.com. Click the Services link (above) to check it out.
FYI, starting next week I'll be posting new blog entries to the new blog -- www.CoachMarla.com/blog/ and will no longer be adding new content to The Relaxed Writer. It's been a wonderful 8 years, and now it's time to grow. Look forward to seeing you in my new online home!
(While you're at it, I invite you to take a look at my new coaching programs and website. I'm very excited to share my new work with you.)
You'll be able to find my newest posts – including lots of video, hooray! – over at my new site, http://www.coachmarla.com.
Thanks for being a member of my community.
with love from your coach,
p.s. - Yes - please feel free to share this special gift with friends. This all-new new MP3 and 13-page transcript are chock-full of insights and practical tips to fire up your writing life and career: coachmarla.com/fire-in-the-belly/


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Best Western Hotels, Green Target Group Partner for Exciting New Hotel in Nilai
Nilai (Malaysia) – May 2, 2018 (travelindex) – Best Western Hotels and Resorts has partnered with the Green Target Group for an exciting new hotel in Nilai, the vibrant university town in Malaysia's Negeri Sembilan state, just 18 km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
"We are excited to debut the Best Western brand in the lively city of Nilai and bring yet another standout property to Malaysia," said Ron Pohl, Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer for Best Western Hotels & Resorts. "This hotel will be a welcome addition to our robust portfolio, as Best Western currently has 56 hotels, comprising more than 8,100 rooms across the Asia Pacific region. With another 40 hotels and over 9,000 rooms in the pipeline, our Asian inventory is on track to double in the coming years."
The 10-story Best Western Mesa Hotel will form part of Green Target Group's landmark MesaHill development. This major complex also includes residences and a major retail center, MesaMall, which opened late last year to become the largest shopping and lifestyle mall in Nilai.
Upon completion, Best Western Mesa Hotel will feature 200 contemporary rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi and an array of modern midscale facilities. It will be directly connected to MesaMall, providing unparalleled shopping opportunities for guests.
The agreement for the new hotel was signed in a major ceremony attended by Datuk Tan Hong Lai, Green Target Group's CEO and Managing Director, and Ketsara Chukhien, Best Western's Regional Director of Human Resources and Training – Asia.
"We are delighted to be partnering with Green Target Group on this landmark project," said Olivier Berrivin, Best Western Hotels & Resorts' Managing Director of International Operations – Asia. "With its perfect location, within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur, KLIA and the Klang Valley, Nilai is a town with a huge amount of potential. Home to many universities and colleges, this is already a young and dynamic destination and the opening of MesaMall has added another exciting new element to the area."
"Best Western would like to thank Datuk Tan for his vision and leadership, which has made this partnership possible. Malaysia is a hugely important market for Best Western, and the extended Klang Valley area holds many exciting opportunities. We look forward to working with the Green Target Group and welcoming guests to Best Western Mesa Hotel in future," Berrivin added.
Incorporated in 2007, Green Target Group has already undertaken several major projects in Malaysia, including the MYR300 million Green Hill Residence in Shah Alam, which won two prestigious international awards for its design, and a MYR137 million industrial development in Semenyih. Valued at MYR6 billion, MesaHill in Nilai is the group's biggest project to date.
Best Western Mesa Hotel will be situated just 18km from KLIA and 50km from Kuala Lumpur. It will become Best Western's third midscale hotel in Malaysia, following Best Western Petaling Jaya and Best Western i-City Shah Alam, both of which are also located in the Klang Valley – the well-connected commercial and industrial region surrounding Kuala Lumpur.
About Best Western Hotels & Resorts
Best Western Hotels & Resorts headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, is a privately held hotel brand with a global network of 4,200* hotels in more than 100* countries and territories worldwide. Best Western offers 11 hotel brands to suit the needs of developers and guests in every market: Best Western®, Best Western Plus®, Best Western Premier®, Vīb®, GLō®, Executive Residency by Best Western®, BW Premier Collection®, and BW Signature CollectionSM by Best Western; as well as its recently launched franchise offerings: SureStay® Hotel by Best Western, SureStay Plus® Hotel by Best Western and SureStay CollectionSM by Best Western. Now celebrating more than 70 years of hospitality, Best Western provides its hoteliers with global operational, sales and marketing support, and award-winning online and mobile booking capabilities. Best Western continues to set industry records regarding awards and accolades, including 64 percent of the brand's North American hotels earning a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award in 2017, Business Travel News® ranking Best Western Plus and Best Western number one in upper-mid-price and mid-price hotel brands, and Best Western receiving seven consecutive Dynatrace® Best of the Web awards for its leading hotel website. Best Western has also won nine consecutive AAA®/CAA® Lodging Partner of the Year awards, recognizing the brand's commitment to providing exceptional service and great value to AAA/CAA's nearly 58 million members in the U.S. and Canada. Best Western-branded hotels were top ranked in J.D. Power's 2017 North America Hotel Guest Satisfaction Index Study – ranking first in breakfast (food and beverage category) for midscale; and second in overall guest satisfaction. Over 32 million travelers are members of the brand's award-winning loyalty program Best Western Rewards®, one of the few programs in which members earn points that never expire and can be redeemed at any Best Western hotel worldwide. Best Western's partnerships with AAA/CAA and Harley-Davidson® provide travelers with exciting ways to interact with the brand. Through its partnership with Google® Street View, Best Western is the first major company of its size and scale to launch a virtual reality experience for customers, setting a new industry standard and reinventing how guests view hotels.
* All Best Western and SureStay-branded hotels are independently owned and operated.
* Numbers are approximate, may fluctuate, and include hotels currently in the development pipeline.
Contact information:
Marketing Communications Department
Best Western Hotels and Resorts – Asia
Tel: +66 2 656 1260
Sirimanas Maungrod
Email: email@example.com
Orapan Sornnuwat
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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A service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine
National Institutes of Health
Secure Your Prescription Drugs When Hosting Holiday Parties: Experts
Some guests might be tempted by easy access to medicines
Friday, December 27, 2013FRIDAY, Dec. 27, 2013 (HealthDay News) -- Prescription-drug abuse likely isn't on your mind when you open your home to holiday guests. But it's a major problem in the United States, and you should take preventive action when hosting a party, experts say.
"We don't like to think of guests rifling through our medicine chests, but it is a possibility," Courtney Stewart, a research associate at the Indiana Prevention Resource Center at the Indiana University School of Public Health, in Bloomington, said in a university news release.
"Play it safe. Guests will be using bathrooms and placing coats and purses in various rooms," she said. "Prescription drugs of any kind should be placed in a safe location where they are kept locked and out of the hands of guests."
Secure places to keep prescription medicines include a locked car or a drawer in a locked bedroom. Over-the-counter medicines such as aspirin and antacids should be placed in a handy but private location so you have quick access to them.
Overdrinking is another common problem during the holidays, said Carole Nowicke, a research associate at the Indiana Prevention Resource Center.
"Party hosts may serve stronger drinks than are usually consumed, and guests may drink many more beverages while under the influence of conviviality and cheer," Nowicke said. "Adults with alcohol problems and underage youth may find alcohol unmonitored and plentiful even in homes where alcohol typically is not available."
If you're at a holiday gathering, choose nonalcoholic drinks, Stewart said. If you're hosting an event, provide nonalcoholic beverages for younger guests and people who don't drink.
Avoid binge drinking, which is five or more drinks over two hours for men, and four or more drinks for women, the experts said. And be aware of possible dangerous interactions between alcohol and medications.
Recovering alcoholics should stay away from gatherings with alcohol, or bring their own drinks, such as soda, coffee or tea, Stewart and Nowicke said.
SOURCE: Indiana University, news release, Dec. 18, 2013
Copyright (c) 2013 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
- More Health News on:
- Alcohol
- Prescription Drug Abuse


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Despite falling in the state championship game this week, the Berlin Little League 9-10 All-Stars had a magical post-season run that included a District 8 championship. Pictured above, the players and coaches proudly show off their District 8 championship banner. Pictured below, Berlin All-Star catcher Grant Donahue fires the ball back to the mound during the state playoffs last weekend.
Photos by Mike Donahue


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January 7, 2013
Indian women hope that the debate sparked by a recent brutal gang rape will lead to changing attitudes. Women in India constantly live in fear that they could be sexually abused.
January 7, 2013
Indian women hope that the debate sparked by a recent brutal gang rape will lead to changing attitudes. Women in India constantly live in fear that they could be sexually abused.
Preeti Singh worries each time her 20-year-old daughter has a late night at the hospital where she's a medical student. If her daughter has to stay late, Singh tells her to wait for daylight to come home.
"I was brought up with the fear that once it's dark you should be at home," says Singh, a 43-year-old kindergarten teacher in Bangalore, India's technology hub. "I can't shake that fear."
Across India, women tell similar stories. Now there is hope for change.
For decades, women have had little choice but to walk away when groped in a crowded bus or train, or to simply cringe as someone tosses an obscene comment their way. Even if they haven't experienced explicit sexual abuse themselves, they live with the fear that it could happen to them or a loved one.
The gang rape and beating of a 23-year-old university student on a moving bus in India's capital has taken sexual violence — a subject long hidden in the shadows of Indian society — and thrust it into the light.
Following the Dec. 16 attack in New Delhi, which resulted in the woman's death, hundreds of thousands of Indians — both men and women — poured onto the streets of cities across the country, holding candlelight vigils and rallies demanding that authorities take tougher action to create a safe environment for women.
"At least now people are talking," says Rashmi Gogia, a 35-year-old receptionist in a New Delhi law office.
Associated Press journalists interviewed women across India, from the northern cities of Lucknow and Allahabad, to Bangalore in the south, and from the eastern cities of Patna and Gauhati to Ahmadabad in the west.
The outrage sparked by the heinous attack has given women at least a measure of hope that the country of 1.2 billion people will see meaningful improvement in how women are treated, though most realize any change is likely to come slowly.
"These protests have at least given women the confidence to talk about sexual violence," says Singh, the kindergarten teacher in Bangalore. "For too long, women have been made to feel guilty for these things."
Like every woman in India, Singh has her own rules for her daughter's safety. "We make sure she messages us when she reaches (the hospital) and when she leaves for home," she says.
Women who were willing to talk about an unwelcome touch or a crude remark they'd experienced said they had learned to ignore it. Most said they convinced themselves to shrug off these routine assaults and humiliations to avoid angering their attackers, or for fear of bringing shame upon themselves and their families.
"What can you do? You have to work, you have to commute," says Yasmin Talat, a 20-year-old graduate student and career counselor in Allahabad whose parents do not allow her to go out alone after 7 p.m.
"Sometimes I do get angry and say something," she says, "but I'm also scared. You never know what could anger these men."
Aparna Dasa, a 35-year-old saleswoman at a Gauhati department store, said whenever she gets into a crowded bus men try to hold her hand as she grasps the overhead support bar. "They try and touch at every opportunity."
"When I'm on a crowded bus and someone says something bad to me, in my heart I want to give him a tight slap, but I've learned to ignore it," says Gogia, the New Delhi receptionist. "What's the use? All the blame always comes back to the woman.
"We stay silent from a sense of shame," she adds, "or are made to stay silent."
The harassment and violence faced daily by millions of Indian women is a deeply entrenched part of a culture that values men over women.
The mistreatment starts early — with sex-selective abortions and even female infanticides that have wildly skewed India's gender ratio. India's 2011 census showed that the country had 914 girls under age 6 for every 1,000 boys.
Indian movies and television shows routinely trivialize women. In the often suggestive songs and dances of Bollywood films, it's not unusual for the leading man and a gang of his buddies to chase a coyly reluctant actress, touching, pulling and throwing themselves on top of her.
On television, the most popular soap operas show the ideal Indian woman as meek, submissive and accepting of her traditional role inside the home.
Any discussion of sexual violence has so far been taboo. In the past, politicians have said that women should dress modestly and not stay out late to avoid rape and molestations.
But following the New Delhi gang rape, a usually lethargic government machinery has responded more quickly, and with more empathy than before. Perhaps sensing the intensity of public anger — some activists and protesters have demanded that all rapists be chemically castrated, given the death penalty or even lynched in public — the government has vowed to enlist more women police officers and toughen sexual assault laws.
The public outpouring of anger and support has made many women across India feel like their fears and concerns are finally being heard.
Ranjana Kumari, director of the Center for Social Research and a longtime women's rights activist, said the fact that boys and men had joined the protests "gives us hope."
"Then it becomes everyone's issue, and not just a women's issue," she said.
But no one imagines that change will be quick.
"The process is gradual," Kumari said. "Extremely patriarchal societies don't change in short bursts. But this movement will certainly not go to waste."
Courtesy: AP


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