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There are a lot of knifemakers who make excellent folders designed for tough use and to get you out of a scrape if necessary. There are also a lot of defensive instructors with decades of experience who can teach you exactly how to best use your defensive knife. However, there are only a small number of people who fit both categories, and Brian Hoffner is most certainly one of them.
Hoffner, a black belt in the art of Goju Ryu, has over 30 years of law enforcement experience as a patrol officer and a firearms/defensive tactics instructor in Texas. His comprehensive defensive training programs for law enforcement and civilians incorporate lessons learned from hands-on, real-world experience, including empty-hand defenses as well as folding knife tactics and pistol, shotgun and patrol rifle courses.
Hoffner's tactical experience has led him to his latest venture—designing the ultimate fighting folder. At first glance, the Hoffner Flatline Defensive Folding Knife appears like a fairly traditional folder, but every aspect of its design is based on Hoffner's experience in law enforcement.
"Look at what features I did not include on my knife, such as flippers, levers, skulls and everything else an attorney can use against you in court," noted Hoffner. Even the knife's name is intended to be non-threatening.
RELATED STORY: 10 Folding Knives For Self-Defense
This liner-locking folding knife features a 3.5-inch, 440C stainless steel, spear-point blade with a false edge that aids in penetration and helps lighten the blade itself. The Hoffner Flatline also features ambidextrous thumb stud opening for fast deployment. The blade is available with either a standard or partially serrated blade, which can be especially handy in tough cutting situations with thick rope or seat belts. The knife's handles are made from black G10 with an aggressive texture for a solid grip.
You also get a reversible pocket clip with each knife. However, due to the knife's design and intended use, your only option is tip-down carry. The spring-steel clip does allow the knife to sit low in the pocket and become almost invisible from the outside. Combine it with dark-colored pants and no one will know you are carrying it. The pommel also features a lanyard hole for added retention.
Ready To Defend
The blade itself is fairly conventional, but it is the handle that encompasses the most distinctive combat elements. Hoffner designed the blade to work in conjunction with his specific knife self-defense techniques. The scales feature "indexing divots"—deep, round, thumb-sized impressions that feature the American Tactical Apparel logo. These are designed as tactical pivot points to allow the operator to more easily and quickly perform transitions and switch styles from a hammer or saber grip to a reverse or spine-pick grip.
RELATED STORY: Keen Edges – 15 Tactical Folding Knives For 2015
The ergonomic shape of the handle and its aggressive serrations along the pommel provide a very secure grip. Combined with the textured G10 grip panels, the effect is to lock the knife in hand even in wet conditions. When this feature is combined with the indexing divots, it allows the user to get a rearward grip, which extends the blade's striking reach by 1.5 inches.
In an attack, you may not have time to fully deploy your defensive folder, and Hoffner has added a flat bolster at the front with sharp and very aggressive serrations. With the blade closed, these offer a less-lethal striking surface, which also provides the operator with the option of using the knife as a defensive tool without having to deploy the blade. Instead of being flat, the pommel comes to a distinct point, which provides additional striking capabilities for use as a compliance tool when applied to pressure points on an assailant.
Fast-Action Folder
In defensive applications, there are several methods that Hoffner advocates. He prefers carrying the folder in the support-side front pocket. This allows for a casual "thumb hooked in the pocket" look while prepping the knife inconspicuously for a fast deployment if needed. This is similar to the "hands in the pocket with a pocket pistol" method, which allows the user to have his hand on the grip of his pistol for a very fast draw while looking non-threatening on the outside.
In the icepick or spine-pick grip, the thumb acts as a counterbalance to prevent the blade from slipping out of the hand. This grip also allows a strong defensive stance with the support arm up to protect the head, with the blade, facing outward, angled along the length of the forearm. The icepick grip has another advantage in that it is very effective against attacks from the rear, such as an assailant attempting a chokehold or an arm lock.
RELATED STORY: 6 Knife Attack Survival Tips
The sabre stance is also very popular as an offensive technique. This stance allows the maximum distance between the defender and an assailant for thrusting attacks while also providing a high degree of mobility and speed for slashing attacks. This distance is extended by an additional 1.5 inches with the Hoffner knife's rearward grip, essentially giving the operator the equivalent of an extra 1.5 inches of blade length.
The Hoffner knife defense system is comprehensive, and he teaches it in the four-hour Basic Defensive Folding Knife Training course. In conjunction with the knife, Hoffner has also developed a DVD of his knife-defense techniques that is available independently or as part of a package with the knife. The package includes a red training blade. The training blade has the same handle design and blade materials as the live blade, but the blade is 0.5 inches shorter and is rounded and dulled. It is still made from steel so caution should be exercised when training with thrusting attacks with a live partner. It can be very effective when training at full speed against a sparring dummy.
Emergency Skills
The Defensive Folding Knife Training DVD is 60 minutes long and allows the student to proceed at their own pace and review specific techniques for practice and training at home. Among the topics covered on the training DVD is a discussion of the different types of carry folders and their advantages. Hoffner also covers mindset, which is key to defensive knife use, the different defensive stances to use against an assailant and proper carry techniques.
RELATED STORY: How To Take Down An Active Shooter With A Knife
Of course, the most important aspect of carrying a defensive folder is achieving rapid deployment. The Hoffner training DVD covers specific techniques for fast deployment that should be practiced. These include the traditional thumb flip into the saber grip position and deployment of the blade directly into the icepick or spine-pick position. This is accomplished by gripping the knife handle and using the fingers to push out on the thumb stud while flicking the blade open.
Hoffner covers effective transitions between the grip styles while discussing the advantages of each one and specific techniques to use with each style of grip.
For more information, call 281-855-8800 or visit http://www.hoffners.com.
This article was originally published in the 2016 GUN ANNUAL™ buyer's guide. Print Subscriptions are available here.


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Frequently Asked Questions About the KDA
What is the Kennedy's Disease Association?
A: The Kennedy's Disease Association (KDA) is a totally volunteer non-profit corporation, incorporated in California on Monday, August 21, 2000. The KDA is recognized under United States of America Internal Revenue Code 501(c)3 as a publicly supported organization as described in sections 509(a)1 and 170(b)1(A)(vi).
Why and when was the KDA formed?
A: Read: The KDA Story.
What are the objectives of the KDA?
A: The Kennedy's Disease Association has been formed with the following objectives in mind:
- Financially support and promote medical research to find a cure for Kennedy's Disease
- Improve awareness of Kennedy's Disease in the medical community
- Create a support system for those living with Kennedy's Disease
- Increase public awareness about Kennedy's Disease and its effects on families
- Share information about Kennedy's Disease for those who seek it
What services does the KDA provide?
A: Click on the following link: KDA Services
How many members does the KDA have?
A: As of January 2022, .the KDA has 1,159 registered associates living in 50 countries.
How does the KDA operate?
A: The KDA has a board of directors, elected officers, and a Scientific Review Board (SRB). All volunteer their services. The SRB is made up of four researchers and two other members representing the business and academic communities. The researchers are all involved in Kennedy's Disease research. Its roll is to review current research, provide direction for the funding of research grants, and be a resource to the board of directors.
Who are the researchers on the Scientific Review Board?
A: Our Scientific Review Board consists of:
- Dr. Andrew P. Lieberman – Chair.
- Dr. Kenneth Fischbeck – Chair Emertus.
- Dr. Diane Merry .
- Dr. Al La Spada
- Dr. Charlotte Sumner
- Dr. Pietro Fratta
- Dr. Alexander McCampbell
To learn more about the board, click here.
How is the KDA funded?
A: The KDA is funded by donations and the sale of certain products including cook books, coffee mugs, calendars, etc. Locally sponsored fundraising events are especially helpful in supporting the KDA.
Does the KDA help support Kennedy's Disease research?
A: Yes, in several ways. First, since 2003, the KDA awarded over $1,000,000 in research grants to help find a cure or treatment for Kennedy's Disease. It also funds KDA conferences where researchers and those afflicted with the disease come together to share experiences, current research, and knowledge. The KDA financially supports certain Kennedy's Disease Research conferences. It also worked closely with the National Institute of Health (NIH) to provide preliminary information on the feasibility of the Kennedy's Disease clinical drug trial that is currently in progress. It supports several Kennedy's Disease research labs across the country by providing tissue samples when human cells are needed to support research and testing. Kennedy's Disease tissue is currently stored at the University of Michigan Tissue Bank.
Besides supporting research, how are the donations used?
A: Because the KDA is a totally volunteer organization, since 2003 92¢ of every dollar went towards Kennedy's Disease Research Grants (84¢) and Education (8¢). During the same period, the KDA also supported Kennedy's Disease education through the mailing of 12,000 information packets to Neurologists. We also funded five KDA conferences and research symposiums as well as supported certain other Kennedy's Disease research conferences. The KDA only spends 8¢ of every dollar on Operating Expenses. These expenses include the maintenance of our KDA web site, our message forum, the three times a month Saturday chat rooms, office supplies, office equipment, postage, insurance premiums, banking fees, ISP charges, etc. To read more about where the money is spent see the following link:
Click here to see how your donations are used
How are research grants awarded?
A: Because the KDA is relatively small and funding is limited, our focus in recent years has been to provide "seed-money" to post-doc and other young researchers who do not currently have the funding or credentials to receive funding from larger organizations such as the National Institute of Health or the MDA. This "seed-money" normally provides the researcher an opportunity to further his/her research while giving him/her time to apply for other grants. The Scientific Review Board reviews all applications. The reviewers focus on research projects that are specific to or could be used in finding a treatment or cure for Kennedy's Disease. The reviewers ask three or four of the applicants to submit full grant applications. The Scientific Review Board reviews the finalists and recommends to the Board of Directors which applicant(s) should receive research funding.
Who has received KDA research grants?
A: Follow this link to read more about what research was funded: KDA Research Grants
How do I join the KDA?
A: There are two ways to join. Click on the "Join" link in the Top Menu. Or, write or send an email to the KDA providing your name, address, age, phone number, email address, and advise us if you have KD or are a carrier. The email can be sent to: Contact the KDA. The mailing address is: Kennedy's Disease Association, Inc., P.O. Box 1105, Coarsegold, CA 93614-1105 (U.S.A.)
Is there a place I can ask others questions or share my experiences?
A: Yes, the KDA has a forum. There are many topics posted covering a variety of subjects. The first time you visit the forum you must register. The forum is located at the following link: KDA Forum. The benefits of this service include:
- No advertising/pop-ups.
- Email notification when someone has replied to your message.
- Improved ease of use, message handling and storage.
- Private messaging is a means for community members to talk to each other outside the realm of the public community. Members never have to know each other's email, so this is a more secure way of having a private conversation within a community. Multiple members can participate in a private message.
I heard that exercise was bad for a person with KDA. Is that true?
A: No, in fact, several neurologists confirm that light and 'smart' exercising is good for your muscles and motor neurons because it stimulates them and keeps them functioning longer. Another benefit of exercise and stretching is that it can cause 'cell inhibition'. However, any type of activity that overly taxes your muscles could be detrimental to your condition. The key is to just do what the body feels comfortable doing and to never exceed your capabilities. The goal is to stimulate the healthy muscles and motor neurons without harming them. Remember to always consult with your doctor prior to beginning any exercise program. There is an exercise guide designed by a physical therapist available at the following link: Smart Exercise Guide. There are other exercise programs also available at this link: Exercise Tips.
I have Kennedy's Disease and am considering going on disability. I have heard that applying for and being awarded Social Security – Disability compensation is quite difficult. Where can I find help for this?
A: The KDA has developed a guide for applying for Social Security – Disability (SS-D). Feedback from associates who have used the guide have been very positive. However, this information guide should not be used as the only source for preparing your Social Security - Disability application. It is recommended that you consult with the Social Security Administration, your neurologist, and if desired, a legal professional before starting the application process. In developing the guide, the Social Security Administration's website (SSA-Disability) was used for much of the format and information provided within. For an overview of the process, click on the following link: SS-D Process Guide and Tips.
Q: What is the KDA memorial page all about?
A: The KDA memorial page honors those who have left us. If you have a loved one with Kennedy's Disease who has passed away and would like to have him/her added to the memorial page, e-mail the information to the KDA and, if possible, include a picture. If you do not have a picture on your computer to send via e-mail, you can mail it to us via regular US mail. The KDA can scan it and return the original to you.
How do I donate to the KDA?
A: Here are seven ways that you can help the KDA:
1. By Credit Card -Currently there are two ways of making a tax-deductible credit card donation. Both services use Secure Servers to process and route credit card payments to non-profit organizations. Go to this "Ways to Pledge" page to Donate Today and select a service.
2. By Mail - Send a tax-deductible donation (check or money order) to:Kennedy's Disease AssociationP.O. Box 1105Coarsegold, CA 93614-1105
3. United Way - Since the KDA is not listed as a national non-profit on the United Way pledge form, all a person needs to do is contact their local chapter and explain that you want to give to the Kennedy's Disease Association. They will give you a form to fill out which asks for the organization name and contact information. Give the form back to the United Way and they take it from there.
4. By Stock Transfer - Make a stock transfer. To receive more information on this type of transaction contact the KDA.
5. In Remembrance - Remember the KDA in your will, living trust or memorial request.
6. Donate Your Time or Services - Get involved with the Kennedy's Disease Association. For more information, contact the KDA.
Does the KDA need volunteers?
A: Since the KDA is an 'all volunteer' organization, we are always looking for volunteers for our committees such as Fundraising and Support Groups. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the KDA using one of the methods listed below. Any service you can provide will be much appreciated.
How do I contact the KDA?
A: You can call, mail, or email the KDA:
The easiest way is to use the Contact Us form.
Kennedy's Disease Association, Inc.
P.O. Box 1105
Coarsegold, CA 93614-1105 (U.S.A.)
Phone: (855) 532-7762
Phone: (734) 288-5580 (For Outside the US)

subset: commoncrawl


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ONE OF THE main arguments for bidding for the Olympic games—which are expected to cost £9.3 billion, against an original estimate of £2.4 billion, with Londoners contributing disproportionately—was that they would help revive a deprived part of the city. So once the litter has been swept up, what will London be left with?
There will be art, sports venues, a big office block, housing and a lot of space. The art is the ArcelorMittal Orbit, a red 115-metre sculpture of twisted steel (pictured) that looks like a sea-monster in pain. The venues are the Olympic Stadium, the velodrome and the aquatic centre (both rather beautiful), a handball arena and a venue for various Olympic and Paralympic events. The office block is the press and broadcasting centre. The housing is the athletes' village. The space consists of 200 hectares that are no longer polluted, with some attractive landscaping and water features.
There are some promising signs. The London Legacy Development Corporation (LLDC), which is charged with making the Olympics legacy work for London, has got ahead of the game. Most of the venues have been allocated to responsible bodies to look after them. The athletes' village is owned by Qatari Diar, the country's property-investment fund, and Triathlon Homes. The LLDC seems determined to learn from Canary Wharf's failure to connect with its neighbours: the park will have schools, clinics and roads linking it to existing communities around it. It expects soon to appoint a developer for the first tranche of homes to be built on the site. The east side of the park has got excellent transport and retail facilities, in the shape of Stratford station and the Westfield shopping centre.
But worries persist. There is not much call for velodromes or handball arenas in everyday life, so they will struggle to attract the revenues needed to maintain them. The stadium's future is uncertain: after troubled negotiations, it will remain in public ownership, and it is not clear what it will be used for. The LLDC is considering two bids for the press and broadcasting centre, one for a high-tech centre, and one for a fashion centre; but the 15-20 minutes walk from the centre to Stratford station will make it hard to offload. The private-sector housebuilders who the LLDC hopes will fill the rest of the park tend to want to build high-value housing, and there is little local demand for that. Much of the park is therefore likely to remain unoccupied for a while; and a large empty space in the poorest bit of London, randomly interspersed with sports venues that may or may not be used, may prove uninviting.
Leaving a government agency in charge of the park may not be not the best way forward. Perhaps only a developer will have the single-minded determination to make a place like this work. The model of Canary Wharf, a sort of private-sector mini-state in which a single developer plans how the land will be used and builds the infrastructure and the buildings, may have drawbacks, but it has turned a swathe of previously derelict land on the Isle of Dogs into a hive of activity. East London could do with some of that.
This article appeared in the Special report section of the print edition under the headline "Thanks for the memory"
From the June 30th 2012 edition
Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contentsExplore the edition


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(Three hours)
(Candidates are allowed additional 15 minutes for only reading the paper.
They must NOT start w riting during this time.)
Answer Question I (compulsory)from Part I and five questions from Part II, choosing at least
one question from each of the Section A, B and C.
The intended marks for questions or parts of questions are given in brackets [ ].
Question 1 [20]
(i) Mention any two tribal rights.
(ii) What is a trade mark?
(iii) What is the aim of Green politics?
(iv) Explain JFM.
(v) Mention two indicators of soil health.
(vi) What is free trade?
(vii) State two advantages of protectionism.
(viii) What is GNP?
(ix) Classify resources.
(x) What is land stewardship?
Answer five questions in all, choosing at least one question from each of the
Sections A, B and C.
Question 2 [10]
(a) What is meant by age structure of a population? Explain three population pyramids and illustrate your answer with suitable diagrams.
(b) What is genetic erosion? What are the causes of genetic erosion in animals and what steps can be taken to prevent it?
Question 3 [10]
(a) Critically examine the successes and failures of Project Tiger in its 35 years of implementation.
(b) With increase in income and educational level of women, there is a significant decline in birth rate. Justify the statement.
Question 4 [10]
(a) What is Deep Ecology? Discuss the main principles of Deep Ecology.
(b) What are the four laws of ecology propounded by Barry Commoner?
Question 5 [10]
(a) Differentiate between sustainable agricultural practices and conventional agricultural practices. For each of the practices, explain two methods.
(b) What are the push and pull factors and what is their impact on the rural sector? Question 6
(a) What is food security? Discuss the problems associated with achieving food security in the Third World Countries.
(b) What are the various constraints faced by the government in tackling the problems related to urban development?
Question 7 [10]
(a) Discuss in detail any three techniques for maintaining the fertility of soil.
(b) Green Revolution had increased the agricultural production dramatically, but led to the decline of per capital availability of land and water. Justify the above Statement with suitable examples.
Question 8 [10]
(a) What is I.P.R? Discuss any four types of I.P.R.
(b) What are transnational corporations? Why are they more effective while dealing with environmental problems?
Question 9 [10]
(a) Write short notes on:
- Need for cost benefit analysis.
- Natural capital regeneration.
(b) What is international aid? Explain its impact on the developing world.
Question 10 [10]
(a) Mention any three principles and any three functions of WTO.
(b) List the basic rules of GA'IT.
|« Previous
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The combination of chamomile and mint with CBD oil might be your next saving grace. This blend from THD can add to your time of relaxation after a long day, or assist as you cross off tasks at work. Because, sometimes, we need a reminder to chill out.*Contains 16MG of Hemp Extract. Brew 1 sachet per 12oz of water, up to 3x daily.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Ingredients: Chamomile, Mint, Hemp Leaves, Hemp Flowers, Hemp Extract.


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Here is the book illustration project I am currently working on…
Illustration Friday – Twirl
This week's entry for IF is a book cover I did a few years ago. Thought I'd dust it off for the subject of "Twirl".
By Lorraine Dey
Subject for "IF" is "Grounded"
My entry for this week's IF topic is from the current book I am working on.
Little LuLu was "grounded" for coloring on the cat! 😉
Lorraine Dey
A book-in-the-works!
I am taking on another book project. I am currently sketching out the page illustrations for a book I am working on. It features "Jodie", a little tiger cat that has no stripes!?! This sketch from the preliminary pages is perfect for this week's IF image. The topic is "Separated". Look for more on Jodie coming very soon. 🙂
Look for more on "Jodie" and the new book…"My Cat Wears Blue" by Lorraine Dey.
Happy Holidays! Thanks for stopping in. 🙂
Black and White Art!
I'm working on my B&W art style…
First, I have to say how sorry I am that I have neglected this blog for way too long. I am going to change up the format a little so that it is a easier for me to make regular posts. I will be posting my work in progress, my "Illustration Friday" entries, and news and updates as far as my work and publication efforts go.
This week's IF image is for the subject "Brigade". Click on image to view it at a larger size.
I may add interesting things that I have learned in this industry and helpful tips for other illustrators from time to time, but I will be turning my efforts over to my drawing table. I will also be posting sketches that are in progress, letting you in on current projects, and upcoming new projects. I hope you will keep coming back, and please feel free to comment!! 😉 Happy Holidays!
Lorraine Dey – author/illustrator
Inside the illustrator's Studio
Inside the Artist/Illustrator's Studio
I always find it interesting as an illustrator to see the various work spaces of fellow artists. We are very similar in that most of our work is done in solitude, we enjoy the work we do, and we are inspired by each other.
However our differences show in our work spaces and how we actually do the work… the tools we use, the reference, and the decor… of course the decor! 😉 Just kidding… most of us work amoung stacks of art boards, supplies, paper and books. I know for myself, I work much better if my space is organized somewhat and if things are getting out of hand, I have to take time to get it straightened out before I can really dive into that next project I need to illustrate.
I decided to take you on a mini-tour of a few artist's studio spaces. I will share some of my own studio images as well as several other artist's. We will start with mine…
Since I do the majority of my finished work on the computer as digital paintings in Adobe Photoshop or vector art in Adobe Illustrator, my studio is predominantly based around my computer set up. I also have a small art table for my initial sketching and pencil roughs, (although I usually sketch while sitting in my recliner or in a beach chair if possible!)
Fine artists like Todd White paint at their easels while digital artists sit at a computer for hours.
Above photo is Susan Sorell Hill's studio
Above photo is Mike Weber's Studio
The studio space is one that truly reflects the style and personality of the artist. They range from the eclectic and fun, to the sophisticated and organized. Check out some of the photo links below for more artist's studios…
Thanks for visiting. I hope you enjoyed the tours. 😉
Lorraine Dey
(click on the "about" tab above to see more about Deystudio, LLC)
This month's featured blog… "Building a Studio Space"
Featured image for this month…(from my RF stock portfolio)
"Get Ready For School Visits"
Get Ready For School Visits
First, I am so sorry for totally skipping July's blog posting. It was "one of those months". Happy to be back and focusing on my work once again.
This month's topic is inspired by a NJ-SCBWI conference I attended in June. I learned a great deal about getting set up for school and library visits. I thought I'd share a little of what I learned there.
Author, Sudipta Bardhan-Quallen offered an enlightening seminar on preparing yourself for the marketing end of things, the seminar was titled "School Visits as a Business". Just by viewing her "event kits" and "educator's guides" you can learn a lot about what types of things you might need to prepare and set up when getting ready to promote your book through school visits.
I also attended a talk led by Kristin Venuti, author of "Leaving The Bellweathers". Her seminar was titled "Yikes! I Sold My Book. Now What?" Kristin was helpful in many ways but one that stands out is the answer to my question, "Who do you actually send your school and library visit/marketing materials to?"
Besides the usual local newspapers/PR, when you want to promote a book signing, you can send your brochures and Bio to PTA presidents, Library Directors and School Librarians. The work comes up-front in compiling your list and sending the info. out but you should keep that list going so you can build on it for the next book. (Because there will be a next book once you've been bitten by the bug). 😉 Here is another PR avenue to try…a listing of Parenting Magazines.
I am very fortunate that I have experience as a graphic designer and I can produce my promotional materials myself, but as Sudipta shared in her seminar…you can develop something that works just fine by using your own computer and online affordable digital printing services. Be creative in preparing your material and have fun with it. Create activity pages to include in your educator's guide. This can be something as simple as a cooking recipe that kids can make. A simple desert or drink that uses the same name of one of your main characters for example: "The Duncan Ice Slush". If you are an illustrator, create a coloring page with a B&W line art image from your book. The more you offer the educators in support of your book, the more likely they are at inviting you in to the classroom. More on School Visits from the experts.
On a personal note: My first picture book, "A Sweater For Duncan" will be released next month and I am sending out my own promotional brochures, etc. for visits and book signings. To keep up with the schedule of events and "Duncan" happenings, visit the official site at: http://sweaterforduncan.wordpress.com
Thanks for visiting!
Lorraine Dey
(click on the "about" tab above to see more about Deystudio, LLC)
This month's featured blog…"Hosting a School Book Fair"
Blog post on how to host a successful school book fair.
Featured image for this month…(from my RF stock portfolio)
Vector vs Raster digital Art
Vector vs Raster digital Art
This month I thought I'd talk a little about the differences of digital vector art and digital raster art and why I choose one style over the other when illustrating a project. Most of my children's book art is done in Adobe Photoshop as raster digital files. I choose this style for a more painted look to the finished art. Using a Wacom tablet and stylus pen, I literally paint the image in a style of brush strokes similar to my traditional painting style in hopes of not looking too digitally produced.
Pages 6 and 7 from a picture book, "The Rain Forest Party" written and illustrated by Lorraine Dey and available in the Fall of 2011 from Raven Tree Press.
I almost always create a pencil sketch first. Then I scan the sketch to a digital JPG file on the computer and use the sketch as a basis for painting in the color and details in layers over the sketch. Most of the work I create for istockphoto as royalty-free licensed art is done as a vector digital file. I create a large amount of work in vector style with Adobe Illustrator CS for freelance clients as well. Here is a vector chef that was commissioned by T.Marzetti Company for use on their website as well as large display signs. A vector file is scalable to any size without losing clarity therefore it was a perfect choice for this project. The style was requested by the client.
Both styles will begin as a sketch that is scanned into the computer before beginning final work on the illustration. Vector art is perfect for technical and educational work such as instructional illustrations and charts. The clean, sharp edges and ability to scale to any size make it ideal for everything from web icons to full size bill boards or vehicle graphics.
Here is a tutorial on using the Pen Tool in Adobe Illustrator… The basics of vector illustration.
Here is a quick and simple vector tutorial video…Light Ribs.
Here is a high-speed video of a raster digital painting being produced… Spider Man.
For more instruction on creating digital illustration images in various programs try a visit to Lynda.com Enjoy!
Lorraine Dey
(click on the "about" tab above to see more about Deystudio, LLC)
FREE Vector of the month from Deystudio, LLC:
click on image above to get a PDF file.
This month's featured site…"The Association of Illustrators"
A resource for illustrators.
Featured image for this month…(from my RF stock portfolio)
"Creating More Natural Digital Colors"
"Creating More Natural Digital Colors"
For many, the switch to digital illustration is one that takes some getting used to. One of the issues that often comes up is how to get the same natural colors which traditionally came from mixing paint colors. Here are some tips on setting up your palate for a digital painting. Also, check out this article on the differences between RGB screen color vs CMYK process print color.
I find that you really need to look closer at actual colors in small blocks. If you are painting a shadow on the snow for example, take a close look at that shadow in real life first. Remember your traditional training and get out there and do some live paint sketches. Forget for a moment what the subject is that you are looking at and look only at a small area of the object, (such as a shadow in the snow) as if you were going to match a paint swatch. You may be surprised to find out that you will have to add an awful lot of blue in there that you never thought was there. Our minds want to believe that a color should be what we think it is.
Here is a closer look at choosing colors.
If you work from photos, you can try this experiment… Grab a JPG file of any photo that you like. In Photoshop, use your eye-dropper tool to select from a small area on an object in the photo. You may have to select a few times since you may be selecting from a tiny pixel that is actually darker or lighter than the pixel next to it in the same color area. Select with the eye dropper until the color block in your tool palate shows a swatch that pretty much matches the overall look of the object. Now you have a starting point for painting in your base color for that object. Add this color to your set up palate that you are building. Select from various objects and areas of the image, filling the color blocks in your pallet until you feel you have enough colors, (digital paint) to work with.
Check out some great tips and watch illustrator Jason Seiler paint digitally in his Schoolism Class.
Below you can see the differences in color appearance between RGB and CMYK digital color especially in the greens and reds. RGB version is on the left and the CMYK version on the right.
It's usually a good idea to set up your color palate before beginning work on a painting, (the same as in traditional painting). I create a separate pallet file and fill square blocks of color with the basic color theme I will be using. There are color swatch sample themes on websites such as Kuler But I like to create my own. Sometimes I will pick colors from a photo image that I particularly like the feel or mood of. I will use the eye dropper tool to select from various areas of the image, creating my color palate based on the color theme of the photo. Photoshop allows for you to make adjustments to your color but it will work out best if you start your painting using the colors that are as close to what you are looking for. You will want to keep in mind the end use for the image. If it will be reproduced for printing purposes such as a children's picture book, you will want to work in CMYK mode. If you work in RGB mode on an image that will be in print, you will wind up with a completely different look to the color when you convert it later from RGB to CMYK. Avoid the surprises and start out in CMYK. Happy painting!
Lorraine Dey
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In the secular world, we place a tremendous burden on our leaders. It should come as no surprise, then, that as leaders, we are tempted to think we are the ones who have to "do it all." Moses started out thinking that way. But then, as the people grumble more and more, he cried out to God and said: "I can't carry all these people by myself! The load is far too heavy!" (Numbers 11:14, New Living Translation). As Moses came to recognize the need to build teams of trusted advisers, and prepare his successor, Joshua, to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, God taught him an important lesson. That lesson is at the heart of this course, and it is this:
- If you follow this advice, and if God commands you to do so, then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace. (Exodus 18:23, New Living Translation)
Pursuing Your Mission from God: Leading Your Ministry Into the Promised Land, applies ten lessons of Godly leadership from the life of Moses to help you disciple and train your ministry team. My course, Think Like Jesus, Lead Like Moses, is designed for you to take by yourself; to examine your own leadership style, and help you become the leader God wants you to be. This course is well suited to be used in group study, allowing you and your ministry team to take a "deep dive" into discerning how to develop leaders within your ministry and equip them to do the work God has entrusted to you. Therefore, to get the most out of this course, I encourage you to have members of your church/ministry team take this course together.
Along with the course video lessons, you'll find downloadable workbooks that are to be used with each course session. Additionally, I've provided worksheet templates you can use as organization planning tools. Please feel free to download, print them, and/or modify them as you see fit.
Who is the target audience?
- Whether you are a pastor, paid staff person, missionary, or just someone called by God to volunteer in ministry, this course is a call to get out of the way, to get humble and to turn the world upside down as we learn to compete less and cooperate more. If you've been looking for a way to help organize people to be of one mind and spirit in your ministry, discipline others so you can get out of the way and let God go to work through them, this course is for you
- Having a note pad, an open mind, and an open Bible would come in handy as you take this course! I encourage you to invite others who are involved in your ministry to take the course with you, so that you might share ideas and encourage one another.
- Identify your mission from God for you and your ministry
- Understand and apply the principle of cooperative effort in building a ministry team
- Learn how to train the volunteers God has called to build your ministry
- Nurture a commitment among your volunteers and coworkers to lead the ministry into the "Promised Land" now, and in the future
- Identify the steps in Going to the Other Side of the Hill
In this video, David Lantz welcomes you to his course, Pursuing Your Mission from God. In this introduction, you'll learn more about how the course is organized, how it came about, as well as who David is and why you will want to take this course.
Please be sure to download the PDF syllabus file for the course to learn more how this course is organized.
In this session, we'll explore the process God uses to remove our SELF confidence and replace it with GOD confidence. Be sure to download The Cost of Discipleship Workbook to use as you review the lessons in this Section.
In this lesson, you'll learn that to effectively lead others, you must allow God to transform your view of yourself. You will see how God transformed Moses' view of himself – and how Godly leaders must go through a similar transformation if they want to think like Jesus and lead like Moses.
In this lesson, David introduces the first of the ten principles of Godly leadership: Gain Courage by Trusting the Lord. In this lesson, he reviews how Moses learned to give up on trusting in his own power, and to instead trust in God's power.
In this lesson, you will learn the importance of truly understanding your organization's "mission from God." You will see how Moses concept of his God – given mission changed as he came to realize that he could not rely on his own strength and abilities to do what God was asking him to do.
In this lesson, David shares second of ten principles of Godly leadership: Understand God's Plan for Your Life, and be Committed to its Execution. He reviews how Moses learned this lesson by confronting Pharaoh to demand that he let the Israelites go.
In this lesson, we'll show you that the culture you live in shapes your own personal values and priorities. For the Godly leader to be successful in "doing ministry," one must learn the importance of cooperating more and competing less. This can be especially more difficult for American Christians than for those who have grown up in other, less individualistic cultures.
In this lesson, David reviews the third principle of Godly leadership: Attract Lieutenants in Whom You can Place Your Trust, and Then Trust Them to Accomplish the Vision. You'll see how Moses dealt with the tension between bestowing your authority on others to enable them to do the work, vs. the temptation to "hoard" your power.
In this lesson, we'll summarize the key points of this session. You'll learn that to build community and create teams, you will need to exchange the belief that "I have to do it" for the belief that "God, working through us, will help us do this together."
In this section, you'll learn that Christian leadership should be focused on building community and creating teams to accomplish the Kingdom Vision God has given us for our ministry. Be sure to download the Building Community and Creating Teams workbook to use as you review the lessons in this Section.
In this Lesson, you'll learn that the quickest road to failure in your ministry is to put yourself first. You'll see that ministry is all about the sheep, not the shepherd.
In this lesson, David looks at the fourth principle of Godly leadership: Champion Your Followers, Even at Your Own Expense. You'll learn how Moses praised his people, and sacrificed for their good.
In this lesson, you'll learn how a crisis of confidence can threaten the very existence of a ministry. We'll examine how Moses faced his Crisis of Confidence, and consider how your ministry can do the same.
In the fifth principle of Godly leadership: Share Authority Through Delegation in Order to Ensure the Success of Your People, David examines how Moses' father-in-law, Jethro, encourages him to delegate the work he's doing.
Creating by-in to the ministry's Kingdom Vision can be challenging and lead to division within your ministry. In this lesson, you will learn about the barriers to building effective community, and about the importance of delegating and training your people to do the work as you encourage them to take on increasing responsibilities.
In this lesson, you will learn the importance of not only having a vision for your ministry, but of communicating it to your people on a regular basis. You'll discover there are four steps in creating a vision for going to "the other side of the hill." Finally, you'll be challenged to critically examine and define your ministry's goals and objectives.
In this lesson, we'll summarize the key points of this session. You'll learn that an important cost of discipleship is to exchange the belief that "I have to do it" for the belief that "God, working through us, will help us do this together."
In this session, we'll see how the Godly leader must understand and apply the principle of cooperative effort. Be sure to download the Training Up Leaders Workbook to use as you review the lessons in this Section.
The seventh principle of Godly leadership is:Resist the Desire to Justify Yourself, Allowing God the Opportunity to Defend You. In this lesson, David looks at how Moses had to work with people who were critical of his leadership, while exploring how God and others defended Moses from their attacks.
In this lesson, you will learn that when you build your ministry team, God has already called the workers/volunteers. Your job is to facilitate their call
The sixth principle of Godly leadership is: Affirm Your Followers' Self-Worth, and Remind Them that God Cherishes Them. In this lesson, David explores how Moses edified others around him, praising them for their contribution to the efforts of the Children of Israel.
In this lesson, you will learn the importance of building up and edifying your fellow ministry coworkers. As the saying goes, there is no "I" in "team." When you have completed this lesson, you will understand the importance of edifying your team in public so as to affirm them as individuals, while edifying them in private so as to restore broken relationships.
In the eighth principle of Godly leadership:Invite the Holy Spirit to Flow Through You, so That He Might Choose and Disciple Others with a Heart for the Vision God has Given You, the eighth principle, David considers how Moses invested himself in his protégé, Joshua.
In this lesson, we'll learn that we are called to build the Lord's ministry, not to cultivate a cult of personality. You'll see the importance of identifying and mentoring your replacement, just as Moses did.
Jesus called people to "Come, Follow Me." He showed them how to do as He did, He coached them in how to do it, and He turned them lose and said "go do as I did." In this lesson, we recap the lessons from this session, noting that we must follow the direction of the Holy Spirit to choose and disciple others with a heart for the vision God has given us for ministry.
In this 5th session, we'll look at getting people in the right place, making sure we have the tools needed in building our vehicle, and mapping out our journey to the other side of the hill. Be sure to download the Going to the Other side of the Hill Workbook to use as you review the lessons in this Section.
In this lesson, David looks at the ninth principle of Godly leadership: Acknowledge the Temptation to Let Success Go to Your Head – and Ask Your Advisors to Hold You Accountable. You'll learn how Moses succumbed to the temptation of allowing fame and success to go to his head, and how God dealt with him.
All ministries have certain subgroups. Who are the people currently a part of your ministry who lead, work as staff, and volunteer? Who could participate more, but don't? What sorts of gifts/talents are needed to make the ministry and its sub-ministries run smoothly? These questions, and how to answer them, are the subject of this lesson.
Once you identify your ministry workers, how might we bring them together and work cooperatively in the "vehicle" we're building to take us to the other side of the hill? We'll need several tools that help us communicate more effectively. This lesson describes some tools you can use to effectively build your vehicle.
As Moses looked out onto the Promised Land, he knew he'd never get to go there. He had to send the Israelites on their way without him. Therefore, the roadmap he was laying out before them would need to be good enough for his people to follow without him, as well as those yet unborn. How do you plan to create a roadmap for your ministry to follow? We'll discuss that question in this lesson.
In this lesson, David looks at the tenth principle of Godly leadership: Live a Life of Genuineness, Demonstrating a True Sense of Empathy and Understanding for Your Followers, Inspiring Them to Act Courageously as They Pursue a Vision to Enter the Promised Land. In this tenth and final principle, David examines how Moses led a life of genuineness.
Perhaps God has given you a vision for what is on the other side of the hill. Can you explain it to other people? Can you describe how those you lead will get to the other side of the hill? Can you build a vehicle that everyone can climb aboard and go on the journey with you? Let's recap what we've learned in this session.
In this concluding lesson, David provides information on how to contact him, and shares his own personal "Mission from God" and how you might join him in "Training Spiritual Warriors for Christ."
In this document, you'll find links to other resources I talk about in the Next Steps lesson, including a discount code to take my course, How to Teach Online. Additionally, be sure to download the free e-book, Discovering Truth at the Movies: If We Listen, We Can Hear God's Plan.
My Course, Pursuing Your Mission from God, was actually developed from a live workshop version of the course. From time to time, churches have me come to do a Friday evening talk and Saturday morning workshop.
In the summer of 2014, I had the pleasure of doing this at the Edgewood United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Pastor Jim Allen was kind enough to present the attendees with a survey which I have finally gotten around to compiling and creating a report for. You can access it through this lesson. If you'd like to share it with those who have not taken this course, you can download it at http://www.wisejargon.com/docs/Lead_Like_Moses_Survey_Results.pdf
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Learn all the Java and Android skills you need to start making powerful mobile applications with practical and actionable steps
Paperback766 pages
Are you trying to start a career in programming, but haven't found the right way in? Do you have a great idea for an app, but don't know how to make it a reality? Or maybe you're just frustrated that in order to learn Android, you must know Java. If so, then this book is for you.
After this crash course, we'll dive deeper into Android programming and you'll learn how to create applications with a professional-standard UI through fragments and store your user's data with SQLite. In addition, you'll see how to make your apps multilingual, draw to the screen with a finger, and work with graphics, sound, and animations too.
By the end of this book, you'll be ready to start building your own custom applications in Android and Java.
- Master the fundamentals of coding Java for Android Pie
- Install and set up your Android development environment
- Build functional user interfaces with the Android Studio visual designer
- Add user interaction, data captures, sound, and animation to your apps
- Manage your apps' data using the built-in Android SQLite database
- Find out about the design patterns used by professionals to make top-grade applications
- Build, deploy, and publish real Android applications to the Google Play marketplace


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On 5 December, Automobil Industrie's exclusive "EDL-Circle" forum will take place in Wuerzburg. At the event for automobile engineering service providers, Kian Saemian will hold a keynote on the topic of security-related autonomous driving simulations.
With a focus on visionaries and pioneers, the Automobil Industrie's second EDL-Circle will take place on 5 December in Wuerzburg. The exclusive forum by the renowned host serves the joint analysis of current problems and solution approaches in the field of digitization of the EDL industry. The conference includes future oriented specialist lectures, as well as current industry examples in exclusive locations.
In a keynote titled "Game Engines – for security-related autonomous driving simulations" Kian Saemian, Vice President Future Technologies at Mackevision, will give insight into a new platform concept for engineers. The so-called "Virtual Validation Platform" was developed together with Bosch and enables developers to virtually test sensors for autonomous driving efficiently and productively.
When and where?
Wednesday, 5 December | 4:45 PM | B. Neumann, Residenzplatz 1, 97070 Wuerzburg
Registration as well as further information for the event:


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Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition, but it is often accompanied by other symptoms like insomnia and fatigue. One connected condition that is often missed by doctors is neuralgia, which involves pain, numbness, and tingling as a result of damaged nerves. Trauma is often the cause of neuralgia, and many fibromyalgia patients find that their condition has set in after a head or neck injury, sometimes years later. Could there be a connection?
Fibromyalgia Symptoms and Neuralgia
Since fibromyalgia patients are already in pain, neuralgia symptoms can be mistaken as part of the condition. However, neuralgia often leads to abnormal sensations in the skin, tenderness, and trigger points that are sensitive to the touch.
Some of the nerves that are often affected when a person has fibromyalgia lead to a feeling of swelling in the hands and feet when no swelling actually is occurring. This often occurs in the morning when one is first waking up. Trigeminal neuralgia refers to pain in the face that can be triggered by things as simple as brushing one's teeth or smiling.
Some fibromyalgia patients have gone years without understanding some of their symptoms only to learn they were also dealing with neuralgia. Is there a natural way to get some relief?
Upper Cervical Chiropractic – Helping Fibromyalgia and Neuralgia Patients
The C1 and C2 vertebrae at the top of the spine protect the brainstem. Furthermore, they help facilitate blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow. Correcting a subluxation in this area has helped some to see improvements in fibromyalgia symptoms. Correcting spinal misalignments can also relieve pressure on the nerves that may lead to neuralgia.
Some fibromyalgia patients worry about the twisting and popping sound in adjustments, but upper cervical chiropractic is different. Adjustments are gentle and precisely administered. As a result, corrections stay in place longer and give the body time to heal. If you are suffering from fibromyalgia, upper cervical chiropractic may be the natural option you've been looking for.


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Upcoming Mobiles
iOS 11.3 Beta Hints the 2018 Apple iPad Pro to Feature Face ID
Apple yesterday released the latest iOS 11.3 public beta update for all the supported iPhones and iPads. The company has added four new Animoji's including Lion, Skull, Bear, and Dragon for the for the iPhone X. The iOS 11.3 public beta also includes ARKit 1.5 and updates for the iMessage, Health, and Apple Music apps. However, the option to disable the performance throttling on older iPhones is not made available via this first public beta.
According to Felipe Esposito, the iOS 11.3 reveals some interesting details about the upcoming Apple iPads. From the below image, we see the Modern iPad is mentioned multiple times in the code. Before the iPhone X launch, it is mentioned as Modern iPhone in the iOS code. While Apple will be unveiling new iPad Pro later this year, it is expected to feature Face ID and minimal bezels.
However, the company might not go with the iPhone X like edge-to-edge display for the bigger display iPad Pro. Even before to this, we have been seeing several rumors about the upcoming iPad getting Face ID feature. If the Touch ID is replaced by Face ID, then the new iPad will be smaller in size even with the same screen size as on the 2017 iPad Pro. We might also see OLED display in the iPad lineup for the first time with the 2018 iPad Pro.
Yep, there's definitely some references to a "Modern iPad" inside iOS 11.3. pic.twitter.com/JHHone2R1D
— Filipe Espósito (@filipekids) January 25, 2018
It will come powered by the Apple A11X processor, the enhanced version of the A11 Bionic Chip. The A11 Bionic chipset inside the iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus, and iPhone X had crossed every other mobile processor in the benchmark tests. With the enhanced A11X chipset, the upcoming iPad Pro should produce mind-boggling results. Stay tuned on PhoneRadar for more details about the upcoming Apple iPad Pro.
(Concept Render by @Carlosdlguerra)


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Installing Kubernetes Cluster with 3 minions on CentOS 7 to manage pods and services
Kubernetes is a system for managing containerized applications in a clustered environment. It provides basic mechanisms for deployment, maintenance and scaling of applications on public, private or hybrid setups. It also comes with self-healing features where containers can be auto provisioned, restarted or even replicated. Kubernetes is still at an early stage, please expect design… Read More »


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Decorating Ideas With Our Stone Wall Clocks
One of our most popular items is our line of stone wall clocks. Crafted from real imported stone, each one is entirely one of a kind due to the natural materials used in its manufacture. Beautiful in any location, over the years our customers have found many novel arrangements for displaying these pieces. These various methods are inspiring in their creativity, and add an extra dimension to our already highly customizable wall clocks.
Two clocks are better than one, especially when you use a little creativity. Coupling wall clocks can be done in a number of different ways. Two square clocks side by side look nice, but two diamonds look outstanding. This is because a square clock looks complete, solid, but a diamond clock has an inherent subconscious instability, a state of constant becoming, which is balanced by a second diamond.
Another way to use two clocks is to have them framing a window or doorway. They can either be aligned at the same horizon one on either side of the entryway, or one can be placed at the top right, while the other is placed at the middle or bottom left.
A triple alignment is very popular for the arrangement of our wall clocks. The human mind likes the number 3, it satisfies some inner need for completion. In decorative arrangements, a triad arrangement can be used to center the eye on the central element, or to draw the view of an arrangement out across a space.
The most obvious and simplest way to arrange three clocks is with 3 squares or 3 diamonds. Another alignment can be to square the center, leaving the two sides as diamonds, or vice versa. By choosing to have one clock as a different alignment than the other two, you are drawing the focus of the space to that item. This can be heightened further by choosing a different color for the offset piece.It is possible to align to square next to a third diamond, or vice versa, but this will create an off balanced look. This effect is best used when you want to point your decor towards something just beyond the wall clock arrangement, such as a centerpiece.
When creating wall clock arrangements it is possible to get really crazy and use two or three different colors, mixing and matching them against one another to create a truly impressive display. However it is important to remember that the stones used in creating these clocks are highly variable, and can contain a wealth of unique colors. Therefore it is important to choose basic colors which will match, and to try and avoid stones which will clash against one another. Many pictures are available on our website of each stone. Be certain to examine them carefully to determine the best arrangement for your setting. As always if you need help, you can contact the PebbleArt staff in a variety of ways.


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Brooke DuBose is Regional Director for Toole Design Group's Bay Area office. Brooke will be be presenting "A Planner's Handbook on Race and Equity: Strategies, Tools and Evaluation Metrics for Addressing Disparities" at Walk/Bike/Places 2018. Meet her in New Orleans this September 16-19! For more about the conference and to register click here.
While there's no handbook for addressing equity in cities, urban planners everywhere are paying closer attention to things like gentrification and affordable housing; cornerstone issues in the fight to break down long-time barriers to the shared prosperity cities are meant to represent. While historical redlining continues to shape today's communities, a new set of planning tools is improving accountability in re-shaping cities to truly be for everyone.
Brooke DuBose, Regional Director for Toole Design Group's Bay Area office will be a panelist in a session at Walk/Bike/Places aimed at addressing inequality. Toole Design Group is asking the tough questions — taking a closer look at everything from hiring practices to how community engagement reaches people differently. In her session, she will explore how planning professionals can take practical steps toward realizing the vision of more equitable communities.
Q: At Walk/Bike/Places, you will be part of a session on strategies, metrics, and tools that can help make transportation planning fairer in process and more equitable in outcomes. How has our field changed over the years when it comes to equity?
A: Toole Design Group's internal initiative on diversity and inclusion was started this past winter, and it originated with the president of Toole Design Group. One thing that's exciting is that it's coming from the top down, and we have representation on the committee from staff in each office. The first part is about training and information-sharing to get everyone on the same page. The initiative is largely focused on our internal practices as it relates to culture and recruiting practices. We're getting some baseline data on our organization and who our clients are in the communities we serve. That conversation is evolving, and in August we'll be delivering an internal action plan across the company that will address outcomes and measures of success. It'll be ready at Walk/Bike/Places, in terms of sharing big ideas that might be of interest to our peers and colleagues.
I've been doing work in equity and inclusion professionally for about 20 years now, and I have to say that it feels like a really exciting beginning for the industry to be having this conversation. In the country as a whole, the conversations around race, class, and gender have come to the forefront in some really challenging ways. It's exciting to see some openings in the conversation we haven't seen before. We're very much at the beginning in our industry, and there's a lot of work to do. I'm based in Oakland, and the DOT here and the City as a whole is doing phenomenal work in how we're addressing equity and holding the mirror up to ourselves. I see the work that they're doing in Oakland as a model for agencies and organizations around the country. In terms of private consulting firms, initiatives seem pretty internal.
From our end, we want to be really thoughtful about not making it into a marketing splash. We're thinking about the initiative as the starting point for tools and questions for our industry to use and think about. Our communication style needs to be re-thought, as well as our engagement and outreach — which is where you see most visibly the importance of accessibility in our work and materials. What do we mean when we say "best practices," and use Northern Europe examples for bikeable walkable spaces? We have staff in Canada and Madison, WI with communities that look very different from communities in Orlando or Texas. Folks are hungry to have the conversation and ready to be equipped with the necessary tools.
One thing I think is exciting about our session is that we're at the point where we don't have to talk in generalities and I think our session will be honest, and candid. We'll have concrete tools and measures for participants to come away with. We'll deliver the session at a 201 or 301 level, as opposed to a few years ago where things weren't as developed in the conversation. This conversation will go pretty deep!
Q: How has living and working in the Bay area influenced your understanding of equity?
A: Our clients here are really eager to think about equity in our work. We're about to start work with San Jose on a Bike Master Plan update. As part of that outreach, rather than Toole coming in as consultants, we're setting aside part of our contract to have local community-based organizations present it themselves. We're doing this in Oakland now — partnering with local organizations and translated our goals together, reconciled our goals. A lot of these organizations are tackling housing affordability and displacement, as well as policing and racial profiling, and these overlap with the work that we're doing.
We've spent a lot of time reframing our work to be less about mode share targets and more about access to resources that people need. We're pivoting towards a focus on the community rather than purely through a lens of transportation. We're also paying these organizations for their time rather than asking them to volunteer, which is an important precedent.
Q: Do you have any success stories of projects that have addressed "issues such as gentrification, affordable housing, and police enforcement," keeping true to values of equity and accessibility?
A: Here in the Bay Area, we have Bike Share For All, with a whole outreach program about addressing equity with Ford GoBikes. A lot of it in the beginning comes down to the right partnerships, with good communication. So much of it comes down to the look and feel, the brand and message of our work — for the Oakland Bike Master Plan, the outreach materials received feedback around not being tailored to communities of color. There's been a lot of work completely scrapping materials and towards reflecting the communities with whom we're trying to engage. At recent events, the City had a whole display dedicated to displacement and capturing how people have experienced it, especially as it relates to transportation. Senior officials in the City government came to speak about what they're doing to address these issues, and be accountable to the folks they're serving. I've never really seen that in our field before — but we made space and time for that. It's been really successful and received positive feedback.
Q: What are some of the tools you'll be examining in your Walk/Bike/Places session?
A: We'll provide a suit of organizational tools, starting with what questions we have to ask ourselves. It doesn't always start with recruiting inclusively; there's a lot that comes before that. We think of it in terms of: "How can we make our organization more equitable and accessible and inviting?" There are concrete tools, like equity frameworks with metrics of success, like we've used in Oakland. There are materials for public engagement, with examples of how to address enforcement challenges in the policing element, for example, around Vision Zero. What I'm really excited to share are the successes and challenges and lessons learned.
Q: Which Walk/Bike/Places session(s) are you looking forward to attending? See attached.
A: I'm excited about the mobile workshops in New Orleans!
Q: Do you have any special connection to New Orleans? Do you have a New Orleans story? If not, is there something about this host city that you are looking forward to seeing/experiencing?
A: My main connection is long road trips in college to see jazz shows. So I'm excited to come back (on foot and by bike!) to talk about equity and inclusion, and to learn about how New Orleans is tackling these challenges there. It's one of the most dynamic cities in the U.S. and I couldn't be more excited!
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Understanding cancer
There are many different types of cancers, which behave in different ways. This is why the experience of having cancer is not the same for everyone.
This section gives you some basic information about:
- how cancers start and spread
- how changes to genes can cause cancers
- the effect of risk factors
- how to understand cancer statistics you may come across.
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text:
The high level
OVERVIEW page content to the topics RH, NSE, YME, GUT until end of 2017 are summaried in
March 27, 2017
Jan 8, 2015
Oct., 2017
The definition of the alternative entire Zeta function is built on the Hilbert transformed Gauss-Weierstrass function to take advantage of one of its properties, that each Hilbert transformed function has vanishing constant Fourier term.
The alternative entire Zeta function representation enables an alternative Riemann power series expansion as described in (EdH) 1.8. The Riemann series expansion is the baseline to define the Li criterion and power series representation of related functions. As tan(...)/(...) has no zeros in the critical stripe, the power series representation of the alternatively proposed entire Zeta function provides a new baseline to verify the Li criterion.
The Li criterion is related to the Berry-Keating conjecture (the physical interpretation of the Hilbert-Polya conjecture), which is about eigenvalues of self adjoint operators. In this context we emphasis a second property of the Hilbert transformation operator H, i.e. the commutator operator (xH-Hx)(g) vanishes, in case the function or distribution g has a vanishing constant Fourier term. We mention in this context, that the wave function of the ground state of the harmonic quantum oscillator is given by the Gauss-Weierstrass function, which builds the other side of the (unfortunate) "coin", that the quantum mechanics ladder operators are non hermitean in the standard L(2) domain framework. In the ground state energy section we propose a less regular Hilbert space domain H(-b) of alternative ladder operators and corresponding wave functions of their corresponding ground states (also in the sense of the above) to take advantage of the two Hilbert transformation properties above. The extended domain enables the definition of modified ladder operators in a way, that they now can incorporate a continuous spectrum on the complementary closed subspace domain (H(-b)-H(0), whereby the projection onto the standard L(2) Hilbert space generates the above two L(2)-wave functions of their ground state.
The central new technical element is a change in the underlying Hilbert space framework, i.e. the standard L(2)-Hilbert space framework is replaced by the distributional Hilbert space H(-1/2). This has two immediate consequences
The new framework is proposed to be applied for the other two Millenium problems in scope of this Homepage, i.e. the NSE Serrin gap (note that the "pressure" and the "energy density" do have same unit of measure) and the YME mass gap problems.
B. The alternative Ei(x)-function, Farey series and the Goldbach conjectures
Two central concepts in the proposed Kummer function based Zeta function theory are
- an appropriate distributional framework for Ramanujan's generalized distributional Fourier series representation of cot(x) with its relationship to the -ln(2sin(x))-function (e.g. lemmata 2.4, 3.3, lemma H4, supporting lemmata 44-47, opportunity lemmata O5-7, O22, O27, O37, note O7)
- an alternative Ei(x) function (and its corresponding alternative li(x)-function) defined by the special Kummer function F(1/2,3/2,x) (e.g. lemmata K2, CF1, S7) with identical convergence behavior as Ei(x), e.g. remark 2.3
The zeros of F(1/2,3/2,z) (whereby Re(z)>1/2, note O5, lemma A4) enable the definition of a corresponding Hilbert scale framework in line with the domain of the generalized distributional Fourier series representation of the cot(x)-function. This framework is proposed to be applied to answer both Goldbach conjectures positively, whereby the modified Farey series (not building on Weyl sums) builds a central concept; we note that Vinogradov's solution concept provides the required estimates for the major arcs, while the corresponding minor arcs estimates (based on Weyl sums) are not sufficient to prove both Goldbach conjectures; the fundamental issue for the minor arcs estimates is the fact that there is no information taken into account from the Goldbach problem itself; Vinograd's minor arcs estimates are purely based on Weyl sums properties, i.e they are valid independently from the to be solved problem and, at the same time, jeopardizing Vinograd's solution idea.
Regarding the above the following references (Nachrichten der Gesellschaft der Wissenschaften zu Göttingen) are appended:
1928, p. 21-24,
C. Transcendental numbers and Kummer functions
D. A Whittaker function based characterization of the alternative Ei(x) function
With respect to the supporting lemma S15 (note O1) we note that corresponding Whittaker functions (and their corresponding relationships to the erf(x)-function) provide a characterization of the alternative Ei(x)-function in the form
M(z) * N(z) = x * F(1/2,3/2,z)
whereby M(z) resp. N(z) denote the Whittaker functions with the parameters (l,m)=(1/4,1/4) resp. (l,m)=(-1/4,-1/4).
E. Music melodies and Ramanujan's generalized distributional Fourier series domain
Music and mathematics might be seen as two different sides of the same coin; and "yes", there is such a coin which is about the music melodies; those lie exactly between the red (Brownian motion) and the white (derivative of the Brownian motion) noise resp. its motion domain lies exactly between the two integer scaled Hilbert space domains of the red and the white noise: